GUEST BLOG POST! We are honored to have a guest for our blog. This post was written by Tanya Lee, founder of AbilityVillage.
Hunting for the perfect house can be a stressful task, and when you have specific needs to take into consideration, it can be even more of a challenge to find the perfect fit. Whether you are a senior who is looking to downsize or you are living with a disability and need a house that will afford you both safety and comfort, there are several things to add to the list when you’re ready to think about your needs. Keep in mind, however, that if it’s too difficult to find a home that already has everything you need, you can always make some modifications, and you may even be able to get grants or special funding to do it. Here’s how to get started with your search.
Get Organized
If you’re a first-time homebuyer, there are several things you’ll want to do before you start looking for a house. Checking your credit score is imperative, as this affects your ability to get a home loan. Fortunately, there are several helpful apps on the market these days that will allow you to check it without lowering the number. Additionally, you should also get any pieces of important paperwork together that you may need for your loan, including all your financial documents, and create a realistic budget. Finally, you’ll need a qualified real estate agent who will help you find the home of your dreams at the right price.
Safety First
When you’re looking at homes, it’s crucial to think about your safety and comfort above all else. If you like the layout but the floors are uneven, that’s a potential fall hazard that shouldn’t be ignored. Even if you feel you can safely navigate the home now, you’ll need to think about what your needs will be in the future. A stepless home, for example, is a great way to go if you need accessibility, and ideally, the countertops will be at the right height for you. A kitchen with an open floor plan will allow for easy navigation using medical equipment.
Research Modifications
There are several modifications that can be done to a home that will help you stay comfortable and prevent injuries, and while some of them can be pricey, they don’t have to be. Adding a shower seat or grab bar, using rubber mats to keep the floors from becoming slippery, painting the walls contrasting colors, and replacing door knobs with easy-to-grab handles or levers are all great ways to make your home safer and more accessible without breaking the bank. Bigger projects may require more funding, but you can check online to see if your state provides financial assistance for seniors or individuals with disabilities.
Don’t Forget About the Neighborhood
It’s important not to forget about the community when you’re looking at homes. You might find what seems to be the perfect house, but if it’s in an area that is far away from the places you frequent or doesn’t have senior or disabled-friendly shops and restaurants, it may be time to look somewhere else. Consider, as well, whether the home is in a neighborhood with an HOA, as there will be fees associated with those services.
Finding the right accessible home for your needs can take some time, so start your search as early as possible and get help from an experienced real estate agent. Think carefully about your budget and how you can make the most of it; compare prices in your preferred neighborhood by looking online to see what others have sold for. With some thoughtful choices, you can nail down the home of your dreams in no time.
About the author:
Tanya Lee created AbilityVillage after watching her younger brother Charlie overcome obstacles associated with cerebral palsy. She wants to make the world a more accessible place for everyone.
