How to Find a House That Meets Your Needs Today and Tomorrow

It’s a common theme these days: No longer do you need five acres of lawn to mow and three extra rooms upstairs. With Baby Boomersgetting older, it’s no wonder thataccessible housesare trending the way they are. When a home has accessibility features, it makes all the difference in the world. From wider doorways to accommodate wheelchairs to grab bars in the bathroom, more homes are being designed with accessibility in mind. However, the question remains: How do you find these homes, especially that one that’s perfect for you? Read on for house hunting advice as you search for your home sweet accessible home.  

Identify Your Needs

What features do you need to live a safe and happy life in your home? Go to every room of your current house and ask yourself what works and doesn’t work. Write down everything you can think of that would make your life easier. When you’ve finished with the inside, consider the outside, including the location of your current house. Would life be easier if you lived within walking distance to town or closer to your grandkids? Would you give anything for raised garden bedsso you wouldn’t have to stoop over to indulge in your favorite hobby? Write it all down!  

Find an Experienced Realtor

The best gift you can give yourself is to work with a realtorwho has experience with clients looking for accessible homes. Interview several until you find one who truly understands your needs. Be sure to ask for references and do your homework. You’ll want to provide him or her with your list of needs, as well as your budget. An experienced realtor will know the scene in your area, be well versed in your rights, and will also be able to put you in touch with contractors who can install accessibility features such as wheelchair rampsif necessary.

Familiarize Yourself with Accessibility Features

If you’re new to the world of accessible homes, you’ll be amazed at all the options available. Below are some of the most popular features found in the most user-friendly homes:

• Smooth floors to accommodate mobility devices and eliminate trip hazards. 
  
  
• Doorways that are wide enough for wheelchairs. 
  
  
• Ramps, handrails, and grab bars where needed. 
  
  
• Countertops, light switches, and thermostats low enough to reach from a wheelchair. 
  
  
• Curbless showers and/or step-in bathtubs that include weight-bearing handrails. Seats in the shower are also recommended, as well as movable shower heads. Higher toilets are always a plus too. 

Along with these accessible features are accessibility technologiessuch as voice-command systems that control everything from your lights to your locks. With so many features and services, aging in place has never been more desirable. You can do all your grocery shopping online and have it delivered that day with a service like Shipt, or you can call for an Uberto take you anywhere you want to go at any time.

For those with pets, there are dog-walking apps, and you don’t even have to worry about the health and safety issues concerning pet hair anymore! Did you know that the best way to reduce pet hair in your home is to change your air filters on a regular basis? There are now air filter subscription servicesto help you keep filters on hand at all times.

Good for you taking this first step to find a home that meets your needs. Between accessible homes and so many services that make life easier, you may never need a “retirement home” or assisted living. Having a home that works for you will not only improve the quality of your life right now, but it will protect your health, finances, and level of independence down the road. Happy house hunting, and happy living in this new chapter of your life. 

Looking to know more about what is happening in your community? MyTownGurus.com is your solution. From local events, reviews, recipes, homeowner tips, and more, My Town Gurus has you covered. The Official Real Estate Town Guru for your town has been selected because they know your town better than anyone else. Looking to buy or sell? Choose your Official Town Guru by going to MyTownGurus.com and finding your town or call 609-412-7235. No one knows everything happening in your town like the Town Guru!