Perhaps you’ve always dreamed about owning your own home, but you worry that your disability will mean that this goal is out of your reach. Or maybe you’re preparing to retire, and you want to ensure you can spend your golden years in a home with all the accessibility features you may need in the future, but you’re finding that most homes are not designed for senior buyers with limited mobility.
Finding an accessible home can be a challenge. But by working with Lou Realty Group and having the right approach, you can close on that ideal accessible home. These tips will help home buyers with disabilities navigate their local real estate markets and modify their homes as needed.
Budget and Financing
You may have concerns about financing the purchase of any accessible home. Yes, you will need to work out your budget (home sales in St. Louis averaged $191K last month) and get pre-approved for a mortgage, but if you have a disability, you might also be able to qualify for outside assistance.
If you are a veteran, see if you are eligible for a VA Housing Grant. Other home buyers may want to inquire about the Section 504 Home Repair Program to pay for future modifications.
Find the Right Property
Next, it’s time to connect with a realtor. The seasoned and skilled real estate agents at Lou Realty Group will provide exceptional service and have the expertise to put you in the right home.
If you were hoping to view homes that were constructed with accessibility in mind, you may be disappointed because finding a home like this on the market is rare. Instead, your agent can help you find homes that can be easily modified. Basically, you’re looking for a home with plenty of potential in a neighborhood where you could see yourself living for years to come.
Install Safe Flooring
After closing on your new home, you may have a long list of remodeling projects that need to be completed before you move in. Start by hiring contractors to install safe flooring. This project should be first on your to-do list! Having wood flooring in your home will make it easier for you to use a mobility aid without risking injury. You’ll also spend less time and money maintaining and cleaning your wood floors. Bonus: Installing wood floors can even boost your home’s value.
How much will it cost to install new wood floors? The final estimate will depend on a variety of factors, including materials, necessary furniture removal, subfloor repairs, and the cost of removing and disposing of your old flooring.
Remodeling Rooms
Once you have proper flooring laid down, you can move on to other accessibility remodeling projects. For instance, you will likely want to purchase appliances for your kitchen that are compliant with the Americans With Disabilities Act. To prepare your bathroom, Disability Horizons suggests adding grab rails next to your toilet and a seat in your shower. And if you need a ramp for your entryway, WSR Solutions recommends hiring professionals to install a durable model to ensure safe usage.
When finding an accessible home is your top priority, house hunting can be a frustrating process. Thankfully, there are resources available to help home buyers with disabilities. Before you know it, you’ll be holding the keys to a home that you can easily modify to make every room safe and accessible!
Written by Guest Blogger: Patrick Young