AffordableHousing.com has launched new accessibility and language tools designed to better support renters searching and applying for and housing online.

Visitors to the site will now see a circular accessibility icon in the bottom-left corner of the screen. This tool allows renters to personalize their browsing experience based on their individual needs—including selecting from more than 60 languages and enabling accessibility support.

Supporting Language Access

Language access is essential in ensuring equitable access to housing opportunities. With this update, renters can choose their preferred language before:

• Searching for available housing
• Reviewing eligibility requirements
• Completing applications
• Applying for waiting lists

This helps reduce confusion, improve comprehension, and create a more confident application experience, particularly for households whose primary language is not English.

Accessibility Features That Empower Users

In addition to language selection, renters can adjust settings to improve usability, including:

• Larger text and spacing adjustments
• Enhanced color contrast
• Screen reader functionality
• Clearer link highlighting and other navigation assistance

These features allow users to tailor the platform to their visual, cognitive, or mobility needs.

Alignment with Accessibility Standards

This enhancement supports broader alignment with recognized accessibility standards, including the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). While accessibility compliance involves multiple factors and ongoing efforts, these tools represent an important step in improving inclusive access across the platform.

AffordableHousing.com remains committed to continuous accessibility improvements to better serve Housing Agencies and the diverse communities they support.

Resources for Agency Partners

To help Agencies communicate this update to their communities, we’ve prepared a renter-facing email template that partners are welcome to use or adapt.

Download Renter Accessibility Email Template

If you have questions about these updates or would like additional information, our team is happy to connect.

Contact us.