Finding the right home can be a challenge for anyone, but if you are living with disabilities, the challenge is even greater.
Accessible homes can be hard to come by, but they are out there. And if you can’t find one with everything you need, find a house that you can customize specifically for your wants and needs. Here Jennifer Cloud, owner of Prominus presents a few things to look for if you need a customized home to fit your requirements.
Be Clear About What You Want
If you are in the market for an accessible home, then you should have a pretty accurate wishlist as to what it is you’re looking for. Therefore, make a list of what the negotiables versus the non-negotiables are so that you can sift through what’s available online. Some real estate search engines allow you to filter for accessible features, so use that feature when available. As always, realtors can help tremendously with your search, so don’t be hesitant to reach out if you feel like you have too much on your wishlist, and you don’t know where to begin.
Know How Much Home You Can Afford
You’ll have to look at your budget to see how much home you can afford. Also, if you plan on making upgrades to the property, this will have to be factored into the equation too. How much you can qualify for will encompass much more than just affordability. Your lender will be looking into your credit score, your income, and how much you want to borrow before giving you a mortgage based on these factors.
With all this to consider, you might find that the accessible home you desire will be too far out of your price range and you might have to opt for an as-is home, which is often a more affordable option. With an as-is home, you can customize it according to your preference, using the money saved from purchasing a property that needs improvement. Always have your property inspected by a property inspector to ensure that you aren’t wasting your money on a home that is going to cost too much to repair in the end.
If you need help navigating the legal aspects of your sale (especially with an as-is property), contact the specialists at Prominus. They have a variety of professionals who can support you with the legal, design, and construction aspects of your purchase.
Modifications You May Want to Consider
Depending on your needs, there are several different modifications you may need to consider:
- Ramps in the place of stairs if you use a wheelchair.
- More bathrooms in and around the home, so you don’t have to travel far to get there.
- Speaking of bathrooms, you’ll probably be looking for bathroom-friendly upgrades such as a raised toilet, handrails in the shower, non-slip flooring, and a seat in the shower.
- An open plan setup to make getting around that much easier.
- Levers and switches should be at an acceptable height so that one doesn’t have to stretch too far up. This includes cabinets, countertops, and faucets, which should be within easy reach, too.
You can look for design inspiration at nursing homes in your area. They are designed with accessibility and ease of use in mind, so you may discover home modifications that you want to include in your redesign. Look for nearby facilities and arrange for tours to see your options.
Ensure that Your Move is Hassle-Free
When the time comes to move, try to make it as hassle-free as possible by choosing movers with experience in moving assistive devices. Asking for assistance from friends and loved ones should also help you feel more secure that all will be alright with this new adjustment in your life.
Find the Perfect Home for You
Looking for an accessible home will probably take a bit more research than usual. However, you’re also more likely to find a home that will be right up your alley in terms of your budget if you choose and qualify for the appropriate mortgage.
Author: Carolyn Russo | Image via Pexels
