Easy Living: Advice for Accessible House Hunting

Jul 05, 2022

When it comes to accessible housing, it’s important to be informed. Whether you’re a senior citizen, a veteran or someone with a disability, research is key for ensuring that your move is straightforward and cost-efficient. Here are some things to consider.

Home Buying

Before you can even begin the process of searching for an accessible property, you need to ensure you have all the correct documentation. This means gathering together proof of income or housing/disability benefits, to prove your viability as a tenant. You may find that you need assistance funding a move — if this is the case, you can look into nonprofit and federal programs via the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or apply for help with Volunteers of America who develop affordable housing across the nation, including those with accessibility issues.


Your physical requirements will play an important part in deciding
what kind of accessible housing is right for you. You may need wheelchair-friendly doorways, ramps, grab bars, reinforced walls, or even properties with smart technology installed so that you can control lighting and other features whilst sitting down. Before reaching out to a realtor, be sure to carry out plenty of research into the local market to ascertain whether properties in Clermont and its surrounds offer the right features and whether now is a smart time to buy. Once you’re ready, reach out to the Brown Home Group to begin the home buying process.


You will likely be purchasing your home with the
aid of a mortgage. A mortgage is a loan for the purpose of purchasing real estate, and there are a variety of mortgage products available for buyers of different qualifications. Each mortgage will have its own term and rate, which dictate the payoff timely and cost. Your lender will be happy to walk you through the process of mortgage qualification.

Modifications

Sometimes, it makes more financial and logistical sense to move into a non-accessible property and install modifications yourself. The viability of this option will again depend upon the nature of your disabilities, but in some circumstances, it can prove to be more affordable and won’t inconvenience you. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) may even offer a tax break on modifications that are bracketed under medical expenses and that exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income. Alternatively, you could look into federal or non-profit home repair grants designed specifically to help those in your situation.


It’s important to acquaint yourself with the many available options for home modifications. In the last few years, disability assistance has come a long way with consistent flooring, glides, stairlifts, rubber-backed rugs, and supplementary light systems all benefitting from leaps in design and technology. Some of these, however, encompass the home structure itself and cannot be installed easily — in cases such as these, you may need the assistance of a construction company that will take your physical conditions into account.

Moving In

The process of moving can prove costly and you’ll need to budget early so you can afford a moving company. This is (hopefully) a one-time event and so it’s important to read plenty of online reviews and look at the available options in your local area to ensure you get the exact right organization. A good moving company is worth its money and can be the difference between a chaotic, stressful process or one that feels organized and systematic.


Once you’ve found someone to do the lifting, it’s time to handle the rest of things from your end. This can mean sorting through possessions, packing, and preparing any pets for travel. It can be daunting to move to a new location but a good way to think about it is as an exciting new chapter in your life. After all, you’re aiming to move into a more comfortable, accessible space.


Searching for an accessible home is a unique process and one that requires plenty of research. Make sure you know yourself and the market before you commit to any major decisions.

The Brown Home Group @ Keller Williams Advantage II have been working hard. Each of our full-time, licensed Realtors are committed to reaching your goals of selling your home for top dollar or purchasing your dream home. For more information, please visit our website or contact us today!

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