 |
When you’re on the hunt for your dream home, it can be easy to expect perfection. Of course, you want a house that’s move-in ready with abundant curb appeal and a great neighborhood — but this might be hard to find if you’re seeking a home with accessibility features. That’s why Vascular Institute of Chattanooga has outlined some home accessibility features that should definitely be on your list.
Financing Your Dream Home
Researching mortgages is the best way to get an accurate idea of how much you can afford to spend on your home. Different lenders will offer different terms, but all will calculate your eligibility based on criteria such as your credit, your income, and your debt-to-income ratio. Once a lender issues a preapproval letter, you’ll know your budget, and you can search in a neighborhood for homes in your price range.
1. An Outdoor Ramp
According to statistics, around 25 million people use a wheelchair to assist with daily tasks. For these people, ramps are an essential tool that allows access to buildings — including homes. Unfortunately, though, only a small fraction of homes come with ramps already installed. Installing a ramp can cost between $1,000 to $2,800, so it may be possible to add one to the home you choose.
2. A Walk-In Shower
Walk-in showers are yet another important accessibility feature for anybody who may face mobility issues. Much like ramps, though, they are not a common feature in most homes. Installing one can offer many benefits, though, including additional space, easier cleaning, and a variety of aesthetic options.
3. A Stair Climbing Aid
Many people with disabilities prefer to buy a home that doesn’t have stairs. If you happen to find the perfect home that meets all of your other needs, though, stairs shouldn’t stand in the way of your dream house. Indeed, you may be able to find a home that has a stair climbing aid, or you can install one yourself.
4. Smooth Flooring Materials
Many people overlook flooring when they’re assessing the overall accessibility of a home. Flooring is arguably just as important as the other features on this list, though, as it will majorly impact your ability to move throughout your home. Carpets, rugs, and other textured floor materials can hinder mobility — especially for wheelchairs. Hardwood, tile, and vinyl, on the other hand, offer a smooth surface that minimizes friction.
Electrical Upgrades
When adding accessibility equipment to your home, you may find that outlets and switches need to be repositioned, nontraditional switches installed, or specialty fixtures added to ensure everything is functional and easy to use. Handling these electrical modifications can be complex, so it’s important to tap into expert assistance. With the help of a home maintenance and repair app, you can easily connect with electrician help to ensure the job is done safely and efficiently. This ensures that your home adapts to your needs while maintaining proper electrical standards.
Keeping up with Important Documents
When embarking on a home accessibility upgrade, maintaining organized files and documents is essential. Proper organization ensures that important information, such as blueprints, contracts, and receipts, can be easily located when needed. A well-structured filing system also helps streamline the renovation process, saving time and reducing stress. Additionally, keeping documents organized facilitates effective communication with contractors, suppliers, and healthcare professionals involved in the accessibility upgrade.
Make Your New House a Home
Making your new house feel like home involves adding personal touches that reflect your style and promote comfort. One effective way to breathe life into your space is by incorporating indoor plants. Not only do they add a splash of greenery and freshness, but they also enhance air quality, bringing a sense of tranquility to your home.
Everybody dreams of finding the perfect house that they’ll live in forever. For house hunters with disabilities, though, the perfect house may require some upgrades and modifications. Luckily, after researching mortgages, you’ll know what your budget is, and you can adjust it to account for any necessary renovations.
For a guiding partner in your fight against vascular disease, contact Vascular Institute of Chattanooga today!
