What To Look For In A Home When You Have A Disability

Regardless of the type of disability, shopping for a home is challenging. Most houses are not equipped to accommodate walkers, wheelchairs, or even crutches. It can seem like you will never find a home you can live in comfortably.

While there are some things you cannot overlook in a house. For example, wheelchair-bound homebuyers will probably want to forego a two-story home. However, you can also take advantage of some budget-friendly construction projects to make your new house fit your unique needs.

Exterior Ramps

The steps leading up to the front door look great from the street. The only problem is easy accessibility. Anyone having issues walking or supporting themselves upright understands even a couple of steps can be daunting.

Installing an exterior ramp makes it easier to get to your front door. It also isn’t going to take away from the home’s curb appeal. Using treated lumber for the ramp is one option. If you want something more permanent, build a concrete ramp. It’s a project you or a professional can tackle on the weekend, and the cost fits most budgets. Don’t forget to place a few seasonal container plants by the ramp. It will help it blend in with the landscaping and home’s design.

Non-Carpeted Flooring

Carpeting is standard in homes, but it can restrict movement. You can always take the carpeting out, after closing on the home and install tile or hardwood. Vinyl flooring is another option, and it’s typically less expensive.

Not all houses have carpeting in every room. You may want to consider purchasing a home with limited or zero carpets. It will save you time and money in the long run. You can also always add area rugs and runners in areas you want to have a little carpeting.

Countertop Height

Finding a home with lower countertops is possible, but chances are it’s a project to add to your list. It’s also a good idea to check the height of the appliances and see if there is room for a wheelchair to fit by the sink.

Lowering the countertops is less expensive than replacing them. All of the materials are present, you are only removing some of the height. One aspect to consider is cabinet space. Lowering the counters often means you are losing some of the area’s storage space.

Removing the cabinets underneath the sink allows for wheelchair access. Don’t forget about the bathrooms. It’s not only the kitchen cabinets that may require lowering.

Garage Access

A ramp in the garage may not be necessary, but you will need space to move around. Homes with two-car garages allow you to park a vehicle and easily navigate the space. While you can add on to an existing garage, it comes at an expense. You may also require permits and approval from the neighborhood’s HOA.

It can also mean limiting what you store in the garage, however, you can find kits that allow you to keep your tools in the garage and out of the way. When storage is still an issue, consider investing in an inexpensive backyard tool shed.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount in your new home. It’s a good idea to invest in smoke and carbon dioxide detectors. Alarm systems and external cameras are also recommended.

Smart home security systems are relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and give you access to emergency personnel.

Finding a home to accommodate your disability is challenging. Chances are you will need to make some modifications. Working with a licensed realtor will simplify the process and make it easier for you to find the ideal home.