Changes to garage and parking fields in Flex system begin Tuesday, 6/18

Several MLS changes relating to garages and parking fields will go into effect Tuesday, June 18, 2024, the result of decisions made last year by MichRIC, which provides MLS services for WMLAR.  

The changes were made to allow the MLS to better align with overall industry standards, provide more clarity in listing information and streamline data management for system users. 

What’s changing?  

Previously, the “Garage” and “Garage Type” fields were managed under specific categories. Now, as part of the ongoing efforts to align with RESO compliance and improve user experience, these fields will undergo restructuring: 

1. Garage Y/N Field: This field, indicating the presence of a garage, will be relocated to the Main Fields group. It will remain a required field. 

2. Garage Spaces Field: Currently nested under “Garage Type,” this will become a separate, open-text numerical field within the Main Fields group. It will only become active (and required) if “Garage” is selected as “Yes.” 

Addition of “Parking Features” Field 

Alongside these changes, a new “Parking Features” field will be introduced in the details tab. This field is designed to provide a comprehensive view of parking amenities associated with properties. Key aspects of this new field include: 

• Type: Multi-select pick list. 
• Options: Various attributes such as Additional Parking, Attached, Carport, Converted Garage, Detached, Garage Door Opener, Garage Faces Front, Garage Faces Rear, Garage Faces Side, Heated Garage, Permit Required, and Tandem. 

Transition Plan 

To facilitate a smooth transition existing data in the current fields will be migrated to their new locations. This process ensures continuity and avoids data loss.