For most Americans, finding the ideal home is a very long and grueling process. There are numerous things to consider, from the location to the price to the amenities to the school district. And when you have an impairment, ensuring that the home is accessible is one of the imperative factors to account for when house hunting. So here are some tips from Let Your Space BLOOM to guide you on your way to the perfect home.
Finding an Accessible Home
If you've decided to relocate but you have no idea where to start to find an accessible home, you may feel a bit confused and lost. In case you're about to start house hunting, following these strategies will help you find, buy and modify — if needed — the right place for you.
List All Your Needs
When house hunting, you need to make a list of all your needs and wants so you know what to look for in a property and what might break the deal. People with mobility disabilities should look for a home with no steps and an open floor plan, as well as outside ramps if available. If you've found a place that might be ideal for you and you like it a lot, but something doesn't work in it, you can buy it and make a few modifications after completing the paperwork. Some remodeling options include accessible landscapes, ramps or lifts, durable flooring, and perhaps smart home technology to ease your days.
Again, it's not unusual for homes to require some modification, even with a thorough hunt. Bathrooms, for instance, often need to be upgraded. So if that’s the case, your best bet is to search Angi for “plumber near me” and browse their handy ratings and reviews to find a local professional to get the job done.
Set a Budget
Setting up a budget is a fantastic way to pin down the scope of choices. A budget will help you figure out the limit of how much you can afford and will also help you consider what you might need to spend for modification costs. You also have a number of different ways to fund your purchase, such as loans and grants. For example, you may wish to apply for FHA if you plan to make a down payment of less than 20%. An FHA loan is also ideal for buyers who don't meet the credit history requirements that come with a conventional loan.
Do the Necessary Research in Your Area
House hunting will require a lot of research on your part. Start by checking accessible homes in your area with the neighborhood that is most appealing to you first. If you have kids, consider the school districts as well and the proximity to hospitals and stores.
By working with a realtor who has experience in helping other clients find accessible places, you can visit various properties to find the one that attracts you the most and fits your needs best. Don't forget to have your credit reports in a good state and apply for a mortgage or a special loan in time to ensure you get pre-approved by the time you want to buy.
Don't Forget the Value of the Location
As mentioned above, location is imperative because it helps decide your home's appreciation, value, and resale potential. Still, it's not just that — an accessible home is not just one that is accessible on the inside, but it also makes a variety of other things more available. The location can make or break the deal — it can make you comfortable or uneasy. You need to think about what you need to be close to, how your transportation method matches that, and then take all this into account when house hunting.
Knowing What to Do Eases the House Hunt
Finding a home to fit your needs will allow you to stay and feel safe and comfortable for many years, so you'll want to ensure that the house you'd like to buy has everything you need before purchasing it. If you need to modify it, look into local contractors and other help you need, including an architect or an interior designer. Having a good plan in place will help you find the right home for you and your needs.
Let Your Space BLOOM offers hands-on organizing, move preparation, unpacking, downsizing, rightsizing and everything in between. Call (443) 595-6704. A special thank you to Bret Engel for this amazing guest blog post.
