How to Find an Accessible Home Without Too Much Hassle.

How to Find an Accessible Home Without Too Much Hassle

The housing market can be limited if you’re looking for something that meets your needs for accessibility and mobility. That shouldn’t be the case with all the houses, condos, and duplexes out there, but when there aren’t that many accessible homes, you often get left out in the cold — and that can be frustrating.

Before that situation becomes a reality, learn how to find a home without all the hassle, which begins by taking stock of your financial situation, then looking in the right places, before finalizing your move. Here’s a guide to help you through that lengthy process.

Set a Budget

It’s not as hard as it seems to find the upper limit you should pay for a home, at least not if you follow Dave Ramsey’s advice. The finance and real estate guru lays it all out in five steps, beginning with adding your income then subtracting your monthly expenses. Bear in mind that you’ll need cash for modifications, as not all accessible homes are the same.

Cut Your Expenses

That figure on your bank statement? If it’s not enough to cover a down payment, as well as modifications, you’ll have to get serious about saving. There are many ways to trim the fat, such as dining in, shopping with a list, using coupons, cutting cable —  the list goes on.

Raise Your Credit Score

It’s crucial to make yourself as attractive to lenders as possible. Of course, it all comes down to that money you’ve saved, which can also be used to pay off outstanding loans and boost your credit score. Set up payment reminders for your bills and take a chunk out of that student debt, for starters. This process will take time, so be patient!

Find a Good Agent

Once you’re in the right place financially, it’s time to start hunting. Let a real estate agent be your guide, rather than risk doing it on your own. These skilled professionals have helped hundreds of buyers before, visited thousands of open houses, and talked to all the lenders in the area. They’ll likely have some much-needed insight when it comes to your needs.

Be Mindful of Homes Sold As-Is

To ensure a solid investment, cast a wary eye toward as-is homes. While some only require moderate fixes, others may have deeper damage like a faulty roof, structural issues, mold problems or even a broken HVAC. Your agent will be able to guide you here and help you determine whether to make an offer or move one.

Know What to Look For

No matter how smart the agent is, you’re the best judge when it comes to whether a dwelling is suitable or not. Keep an eye out for favorable features such as a lack of stairs, wide doorways, and low countertops in the kitchen and bathroom. These will allow you to move about freely and go about your daily tasks with ease.

Consider Renovations

Regardless of whether you find an as-is home that needs nominal work or a home that just needs modifications, keep in mind as long as you’re willing to make the right modifications. That brings you back to your budget and how much you can spend on building ramps and installing non-slip flooring.

Kit It Out

Living comfortably in your new home requires some new appliances, including a washing machine and refrigerator that are easy to use with your disability. Finding the right models, at the right price, takes a bit of research, but you can do the bulk of that online.

Feel better about finding a suitable home? You should, as long as you’re willing to get to work. Now, open up a spreadsheet and start budgeting. The ideal property is not going to buy itself!

Image via Pexels
Text via Patrick Young