Low riskdisability

Can you say "walking distance" in a real estate listing?

A low-risk phrase, but some Fair Housing guides advise stating the actual distance instead.

Why it gets flagged

"Walking distance" assumes that readers can and want to walk, which can read as a preference about disability. It is also vague: a ten-minute walk means something different to everyone.

A measured distance ("0.3 miles to the park") or "close to" is clearer for every buyer and sidesteps the question entirely.

Instead of

Located within walking distance to shops, restaurants and the park.

Write

Located close to shops, restaurants and the park.

What to say instead

  • 0.3 miles to the park
  • close to shops and restaurants
  • a short drive to downtown

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Related phrases

7 phrases to stop using in listings

A one-page guide with the neutral wording to use instead.

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General information, not legal advice. Fair Housing rules, MLS rules and local law vary; your broker and an attorney are the authorities. The phrase check is rule-based and cannot catch everything.