For the millions of Americans who are living with a disability, it can be difficult to find the right home to meet their physical needs. Whether that includes widened doorways to allow for wheelchairs or a step-in shower that will help prevent falls, there are many things for individuals who are living with a disability to think about. Not only do you want a home that will be comfortable for you now, you want something that will sustain you and keep you safe in the future, no matter what your abilities are.

That’s why it’s so important to have a good plan in place when looking for an accessible home and to know exactly what you need. It’s also imperative to know your rights as an individual with a disability and to understand what sort of assistance you qualify for if you’re unable to find a new home that meets your needs and choose, instead, to modify your existing house.

For some great tips on how to get started, keep reading.

Know Your Rights

It’s so important to know what your rights are when it comes to buying a home, especially if you’re worried that your disability might interfere in some way with the house-hunting process. The federal government has established several laws and administrations for the sole purpose of protecting your rights as a disabled homebuyer. No matter the nature of your disability, you cannot be discriminated against when it comes to looking at or purchasing a home.

Location Is Key

Buying a home is a big investment, so it’s important to figure out how much you can afford before beginning the home-buying process. It’s also important to start by looking for homes in the best area for you. If you need something close to your doctor or family members, begin your search in nearby neighborhoods so that you can stay in close proximity. Think about your budget and stick to it; you don’t want to commit to something you won’t be able to afford.

Check Specific Listings

Many realty websites give you the ability to look for specific details, such as an accessible home with wheelchair ramps, so take advantage of these when you can. Many newer homes offer barrier-free layouts that allow you to move around without hindrance; be as specific as possible when checking for accessible listings.

Think About Funding

If finding an accessible home proves too difficult in the area you’re looking in, consider making modifications to your current place of residence. These can get pricey depending on whether they require a contractor and the materials needed, so you’ll want to check out all your funding options first. You may qualify for federal assistance; go here for more information on how to get help with paying for your home modifications.

Think About Your Future Needs

Your home shouldn’t just take care of you now; it should be safe and comfortable for you down the road, as well. This means you’ll have to think about what your future needs will be and make changes accordingly. In many cases, these are DIY projects, such as adding a grab bar and non-slip mat to the bathtub or replacing door knobs with easy-to-grasp handles.

Finding or creating an accessible home can be a big job, so it’s important to remember to ask for help when you need it. Do some research before making any decisions, and don’t hesitate to call in a pro to help out with the big jobs. It’s always better to spend a little more to do the job right than it is to try it yourself with no experience and cause damage or add to the cost.

Article provided by Medina Jones at Accessiville.org.