Helping MLSs Navigate Natural Disasters: Supporting Communities in Times of Crisis

Jan 17, 2025 Dusty Jostes

Natural disasters disrupt every facet of life, but in some cases, the need for housing becomes an immediate and pressing concern. Fires, hurricanes, and other catastrophes displace families, leaving them scrambling for temporary shelter. In the case of the recent, devastating fires in Southern California, countless residents now face urgent questions: Where will they live? How can they find shelter?

In collaboration with local real estate professionals, MLSs and their technology providers are uniquely positioned to play a pivotal and swift role in facilitating housing solutions during these crises.

The Fire Relief Rentals Solution

In response to the recent fires in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, FBS quickly partnered with affected MLSs to create a new “Fire Relief Rentals” property type within Flexmls. This tool allows agents and residents to identify housing options specifically available to displaced families, helping them navigate this challenging time.

This concept has roots in FBS’s past. In 2017, during the aftermath of the Thomas Fire, we collaborated with Ventura County Coastal Association of REALTORS® to introduce a similar property type. Each new disaster presents unique technical and logistical challenges. For example, implementing the Fire Relief Rentals for CRMLS during the Mountain Fire took about a week to complete, highlighting the technical and logistical challenges involved. Despite these hurdles, FBS’s dedication to quick action ensures solutions are delivered when they’re needed most.

For this latest effort, the Fire Relief Rentals property type was expanded to support residents and agents across multiple MLSs, including Santa Barbara, where dual-membership agents and displaced residents could access these critical resources.

We are always grateful to work with Ani Pollack, MLS Director at Santa Barbara Association of REALTORS® and MLS.  She cares deeply for her community and members and it always shines through.

The Power of Collaboration

The temporary Fire Relief Rentals property type offers flexibility that traditional listings often lack. Homeowners with properties for sale can list them as temporary rentals, landlords can make long-term rentals available for short-term use, and individuals can even offer spare rooms to help displaced families. While these listings may not always be comprehensive, they provide an invaluable bridge for families in need.

This effort underscores the strength of collaboration. MLSs identify local needs, while FBS provides the technical expertise to create timely, practical solutions. Together, we make a real difference for communities and real estate professionals during times of crisis.

How You Can Help

Whether through technical tools like Fire Relief Rentals or by contributing to community efforts, every action counts. There are many ways to help, including donating to organizations providing disaster relief in Southern California. Contributions can go a long way in helping families recover and rebuild their lives. Here are a few organizations:

Our Deepest Condolences

We extend our sympathies to all affected by these recent tragedies. With employee-owners spread across the nation, we see firsthand the hardships caused by disasters and the resilience required to overcome them.

Natural disasters highlight the vital role MLSs play in their communities. They are far more than tools for real estate—they are lifelines. At FBS, we’re proud to stand alongside our MLS partners, offering swift and thorough solutions, compassion, and support when it’s needed most. Those are all attributes that run deeply through our roots as a company of employee owners.