Searching for your dream home can be challenging, especially if you require a home with accessibility features. Whether you have mobility, joint, or sensory impairments, having a home that accommodates your needs is essential. It’s helpful to consider which features an accessible home must have, what modifications you can make later, and how much you can afford to spend.
This guide on how to find an accessible home, written by guest blogger Suzanne Tanner from Able Safety, gives you ideas on how to prepare for every step of the house-hunting process.
Which accessibility features to consider
Before you begin house hunting, it helps to make a list of accessibility features you will need to live comfortably and independently in your new home. These will depend on your unique situation and level of disability, so think about features you rely on in your daily life or accommodations your current home lacks.
If you have mobility issues, ramp access, grab bars, and wide doorways make it easier for you to move around your home, while low countertops and closet rods help keep everything in reach. Lever door handles and fixtures can boost your independence if you have severe arthritis or joint issues affecting your ability to use traditional knobs.
In addition to design features, The Mighty recommends investing in smart home devices to help you control temperature, lighting, entertainment volume, and more. If you need additional accommodations, you can complete future modifications to include them.
What modifications to make
You might have difficulty finding a property that meets all of your criteria, but factoring in affordable renovations might expand your options. While renovating a kitchen or bathroom for accessibility is often expensive and time-consuming, you can complete these updates without turning your home into a worksite:
- Installing ramps
- Replacing door knobs with levers
- Installing grab bars
- Widening doors
- Installing low-vision lighting
Many of these modifications are budget-friendly and take a short time to complete. When determining which features you can afford to add later, you should consider the cost, in both time and money, for each renovation. Understanding what you want a house to offer and what you can update later will allow you to create a clear and reasonable budget.
You can also give your kitchen a little creative flair by decorating the space above your fridge. Since you likely won’t use that space for daily items due to inaccessibility, have someone help you add some faux greenery, baskets, or classic cookbooks to add some personality.
If you plan to start and run a home-based business, you’ll want to consider those needs in addition to your daily living accommodations. Starting a business can be a great way to stay busy and earn some extra income. It might even allow you to spend a little more on a home that better meets your needs.
When to consider buying an as-is property
If you are struggling to find an accessible home that has the features you need at the price point you can afford, consider purchasing a property listed as-is. The benefits are that you will get a home for a lot less than the average listing price and that you will be able to make the structural changes you need.
However, as-is properties come with at least one major problem, like a leaking roof or cracked foundation. If you are seriously considering purchasing an as-is home, be sure to work with a real estate agent and an attorney who are familiar with these kinds of properties to ensure you don’t get in over your head.
How to determine your budget
Once you know what to look for in a home, Wells Fargo points out that you should determine how much you can afford to invest. Purchasing a home can be a long and complex process, and it might involve selling your current home or applying for a mortgage. Being prepared and managing your expectations can help reduce stress throughout the process.
A helpful way to calculate how much you can afford to spend on your future home is by researching home prices in your area. Once you have an idea of the cost, figure out the monthly payments. After your initial down payment, you are responsible for paying the mortgage amount each month for the length of your loan, so your income must be able to support the added financial responsibility.
When applying for your mortgage, ensure your finances are in order, your income is secure, and your debt is manageable. You could get denied a loan if you have poor credit, unstable employment, or a history of debt mismanagement.
Find the right accessible home for your needs
House-hunting can be exciting and stressful, and if you have specific accessibility requirements, it might be hard to find what you’re looking for in a new home. Understand your needs and create a list of criteria, including features you can add through renovations. When determining your budget, research mortgages to ensure you find a home that meets both your accessibility and financial needs.
Check out Suzanne Tanner’s other guest blog 6 disabled-friendly fitness options to keep fit and healthy.
If you would like me to be a guest blogger and/or you would like to feature as a guest blogger on my blog, please contact me.
Also, check out other Guest Blogs on Rock For Disability.
