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Wheelchair Accessible House-Hunting: Tips for Those Combing the Market

Submitted by JamesChisholm on Sat, 01/18/2020 - 06:46.

By Patrick Young
Ableusa.info | patrick@ableusa.info

Many thanks to Patrick Young of Able USA for writing this guest post. Check out their website and great resources at www.ableUSA.info

The real estate market is a world in itself, and it can be a slow and time-consuming realm to

navigate. Add in the fact that you’re on the hunt for an accessible home, and you may find that

the pressure starts to build. The truth is, other than adding those necessary updates specific to

your disability, the path to a new home is the same as everyone else. Here’s how to navigate it.

Consider What Makes It Accessible

An accessible home won’t look the same way for everyone, and yours will be unique to you. So,

think about which features will best help you. A single-story home should be at the top of the list

so that stairs aren’t an issue. But if a two-story is the dream, look for those with a bedroom,

bathroom, and utility room on the first floor. Other areas of consideration might be widened

doorways for mobility equipment, lower counters, or a zero-step entry shower/tub. If you’re

hearing or vision impaired, updates to consider are additional lighting, color-contrasting flooring

and textures, and added security measures such as a fire/carbon monoxide detector that

doesn’t rely on sound. Accessibility can be added with your own smart home features as well
such as a voice command device like the Amazon Echo or an app that lets you control the

security system, locks, lights, thermostat, etc.

Don’t Forget About Your Current Home

Before you get caught up in the search, don’t forget about your current home, especially if

you’re selling it. It will be helpful to not only start that process, but you should also get an idea of

how much money you’ll make from the sale to go toward the cost of the new home. You can

easily get an idea of your home’s worth using an online PennyMac home value estimator.

Although not as accurate as an appraisal, it’s a number worth knowing.

Work with a Housing Counselor

The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides house

counseling for those looking to buy a home. It’s free of charge, and they provide assistance with

mortgage applications, loans, and budgeting, in addition to instant access to local housing

resources. They are both an advocate and an advisor, so you always have someone in your

corner who truly wants to help you. In fact, you’ll have several people on your team, including a

real estate agent, home inspector, and lawyer, so build your team and rely on them.

Start Packing Early

Once you’re serious about buying a new home, it never hurts to get a jumpstart on the packing

process. You’ll need to clean up and de-clutter your home for all those home showings anyway,

so consider using a storage container, which allows you to pack at your own pace, until you’re

ready for the big move. Once moving day arrives, a transport company ensures it gets delivered

to your new home. Go ahead and move out those bigger furniture pieces to really showcase the

space, pack up all the storage spaces including cabinets, drawers, closets, and under the bed,

and leave only the necessities. Use this opportunity to sort through items and determine what

can be donated, sold, or tossed so that you can make room for the new in your new home.

A Moving Company Is a Must

You probably have family members and friends that would be more than willing to help you

move, but when you factor in valuables and those huge pieces of bulky, awkward furniture, a

professional mover makes more sense. Not only do they have the experience, but they can also

get it done in far fewer trips. Most importantly, it’s a lot safer and far less stressful. Check out

the local movers in your area, and be sure to read the reviews.

House hunting and moving are exciting, but it’s also a lot of hard work. As someone who is

combing the market for an accessible home, you’ve got an extra piece to factor into the

equation. Thankfully, finding a home and making it accessible isn’t that hard at all.

Sacramento Home Inspections, Inc.

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Wheelchair Accessible House-Hunting: Tips for Those Combing the Market