House Hunting Fundamentals for People With Disabilities

Housing is one of the most critical factors in the quality of life for people with disabilities. According to the National Council on Disability, nonelderly people with disabilities account for more than half of the US population living in long-term poverty.

Homeownership can provide stability and a sense of independence, but for people with disabilities, the process of finding and buying a home can be daunting. Below, Aufgang Architects discusses a few things you can do to make the process easier.

Look Into Homes in Your Area

When researching accessible homes in your area, look for features like wheelchair ramps, first-floor bedrooms and bathrooms, wider doorways, and grab bars in the bathroom. Consider what modifications you might need to make the home work for you; for example, if you use a wheelchair, you might need to widen doorways or install an elevator. If you work from home, ensure that you have a home office space or a room that can be converted to serve that purpose. Good lighting is key.

Also, prices in your area will help you shape a budget. You’ll notice cost discrepancies among neighborhoods, and seeing the big picture of prices will help you choose the appropriate areas to dedicate your research. Don’t spend too much time researching properties that are too expensive or lack adaptability.

As you look at homes, consider what transportation options are available. If you don’t have a car, does the home have good public transportation access? Are there sidewalks and curb cuts so you can get around easily? Think about anything that can make your daily life easier and more comfortable.

It’s also a good idea to assess accessible rental options during this time. You may not find your ideal property in your allotted timeframe, so you’ll want to be familiar with fallback options if you have a relocation deadline.

Seek Pre-Approval

Get pre-approved for a mortgage so you know what kind of down payment and monthly premium you can pay. Pre-approval will also work in your favor when it comes to negotiating the sale price of a home. Lenders will assess your credit history, income, and job security to determine how much you can borrow. Be sure to compare mortgage offers from different lenders to get the best deal.

Talk to a Housing Counselor

If you’re unsure where to start, talk to a housing counselor. They can help you understand your rights under the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing based on disability. They can also help you find accessible homes in your area and connect you with resources to help you pay for a down payment or modifications to a home. The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides a list of approved housing counseling agencies across the country.

Think About Your Future Needs

As you look for a home, think about your future needs. If you’re a younger person with a disability, you might not need an accessible home now, but you may want to consider buying a home that could be easily modified in the future. For example, you could easily add a wheelchair ramp or widen doorways in a home with a first-floor bedroom and bathroom.

If you’re an older person with a disability, you might want to think about moving to a community that has accessible features and services like transportation, shopping, and recreation. Such communities are often called “age-restricted” or “55+” communities, and they can help residents maintain a healthy social life while living independently.

Hire Professionals Along the Way

When it comes to finding and buying a home, it can be helpful to have professionals on your side. Real estate agents know the market and can help you find the right home for your needs. They can also help with the negotiation process and guide you through the entire buying process.

Moving companies can help make the moving process easier and less stressful. They can help pack and move your belongings, as well as set up your new home. Moving companies often have experience working with people with disabilities, so they can help ensure your move is as smooth as possible.

The process of finding and buying a home can be challenging for anyone, but it can be particularly daunting for people with disabilities. However, by researching and knowing what to look for, comparing mortgages, and following these other tips, you can find a home that allows you to thrive. Homeownership is within reach, especially when you enlist the help of others!

For architectural design and a host of other services including interior design, feasibility studies, and code compliance, visit Aufgang Architects today!