House-hunting is generally a pleasurable exercise, but it can also be fraught with challenges. Those looking to provide for their very specific accessibility needs — such as seniors and persons with disabilities — can attest to these challenges. This is because homes fitted with accessibility features are not exactly a dime a dozen, which limits the search significantly. Add in other parameters, like location and budget, and the field narrows further. It’s important to know exactly what you’re looking for to find an accessible home that suits your unique needs. Your first step in this journey is to connect with an expert agent from the BrownDaniel Group; with their assistance, and by following some of the tips below, you’ll have an easier time finding the perfect (or almost perfect) Atlanta home.
Look for Accessibility Fixtures
As you survey local listings, keep in mind that when it comes to looking for accessible homes, fixtures are among the first things you should look out for. Ideally, these features should be designed around your disability or limitation. But unless you’re building a home from scratch or renovating an existing one, this normally isn’t the case.
However, that doesn’t mean you’re unlikely to find what you need. At the most basic level, a well-appointed accessible home will already be fitted with grab bars in strategic areas of the bathroom, as well as non-slip flooring and maybe even a shower seat or a raised toilet. The kitchen is another area that you’ll want to zero in on. At the very least, it should have lowered countertops, a side-hinged microwave and oven also mounted lower, and knee space under the cooktop and prep areas to accommodate those who are wheelchair-bound.
Assess Space and Layout
Space is another significant consideration. This is especially important to those confined to a wheelchair, as you need room to maneuver. Look out for wide hallways and entryways that can comfortably accommodate a wheelchair or walker. A home with an open layout is also a good prospect, as this makes it easier to get around. If the home is furnished, also take stock of hazards (or the lack of them) and assess how easily you can fix that situation.
Of course, a single-level home is more than ideal, as it removes the obstacle of having to move between floors. However, a multilevel home works well, too, when fitted with ramps or chairlifts (installing a chairlift typically costs $3,000 – $4,000). If such features aren’t available, it’s also a good idea to get the lay of the land in advance to assess if a potential addition or modification is structurally possible.
Don’t Ignore Flooring
Lastly, it’s easy enough to overlook it, but flooring is also a vital part of an accessible home. Realistically, carpeting just won’t work, as it can make it hard for a wheelchair to travel; plus, it can potentially be a trip or fall hazard. Something like wood flooring is definitely more preferable.
In many cases, a perfectly accessible home can be had with the simple addition of wood flooring, so consider stripping off the carpeting and have the floors modified. Such a surface not only makes the house more navigable when you’re in a wheelchair, but cleaning and maintenance are also relatively easy. Best of all, it can drive up the home’s value. Ultimately, finding the right accessible home for you will require determination and an open mind, as well as a good eye for potential. But when you keep a firm handle on the features that you must have and the ones you can always add later, then you’re in a better position to end up with a home that’s unequivocally yours. Now that’s something to look forward to
Are you thinking about buying a home in Atlanta? A professional with the BrownDaniel Group can help you find the right property for your needs! Send us a message or give us a call today! 770-630-5430