Blog Stories Shopping for ADA accessible homes

Shopping for ADA accessible homes

By Alyssa Starelli, March 29, 2023

Shopping for a home is an exciting but often overwhelming process, especially for persons with disabilities. From finding a home that is accessible to navigating the purchasing process, there are many challenges that can make the experience difficult. However, with the right preparation and knowledge, it is possible to make the process of shopping for a home easier and more enjoyable. In this blog post, we will explore some tips for helping people with accessibility needs shop for a home.

  1. Identify your needs and preferences

Before beginning your search for a home, it is important to identify your specific needs and preferences. This includes factors such as the level of accessibility you require, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you need, and the location of the home. By having a clear idea of what you are looking for, you can narrow down your search and save time and energy.

  1. Look for accessible features

When shopping for a home, it is important to look for features that will make the home more accessible. This includes features such as step-free entrances, wide doorways and hallways, accessible bathrooms, and adjustable counters and cabinets. Some other features that may be important include accessible parking, ramps or lifts, and grab bars or handrails.

  1. Consider the location

The location of the home is also an important factor to consider. People with disabilities may want to consider living in a community that has accessible public transportation, medical facilities, and other resources. Additionally, it is important to consider the proximity of the home to family, friends, and other support systems.

  1. Work with a real estate agent who specializes in accessible homes

When shopping for a home, it is important to work with a real estate agent who has experience working with people with disabilities. These agents will be familiar with the specific needs and preferences of this population and will be able to help you find homes that meet your requirements. They may also be able to provide information about local resources and services that can help make the home buying process easier.

  1. Research financing options

Financing a home can be challenging for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for Americans with disabilities. However, there are a variety of financing options available that can help make the process easier. Some options to consider include grants and loans specifically designed for people with disabilities, as well as traditional mortgage options.

In conclusion, shopping for a home can be challenging, but it is possible for those with disabilities to find a home that meets their needs and preferences. By identifying your needs and preferences, looking for accessible features, considering the location, working with a specialized real estate agent, and researching financing options, you can make the home buying process easier and more enjoyable. Written Using Chat GPT Mar 14 Version.

If you’re seeking a Realtor with experience helping people find accessible homes, please give me a call! Alyssa Starelli, 503-888-1362

Alyssa Starelli

Broker | OR

She/Her

A Portland native, Alyssa started her real estate career in the chaotic market of 2005, and quickly realized she reveled in matching particular clients with their perfect home, no matter how unusual. She then began specializing in mid-century properties - both Modern and Modest. More recently, she has included what she calls "Period-Perfect" homes to her repertoire. Her goal in this is to seek out those hard-to-find, unremodeled original homes of all eras. When I started in real estate, I realized there was a market for ranch homes, from Mid-Century Modern to the more modest Daylight Ranch, but few REALTORS® willing to service it. I started highlighting these 'Picks of the Week' on my website, introducing enthusiasts to the full gamut of midcentury houses of Portland. In 2006, I founded the Mid-Century Modern League in order to educate the public about the importance of preserving these gems. Today I continue to focus on Mid-Mod, but have added vintage, mostly unremodeled houses of earlier eras, which I call 'Period-Perfect', because they have interest to clients and are under-serviced too. Frankly, I enjoy seeking out any unusual or original elements a client might be interested in, it's a challenge to rise to." As Founder of the Mid-century Modern League, Alyssa is considered an authority in the local mid-century architecture scene, and is especially proud to include the Editors of Atomic Ranch Magazine in her past-client list. Often quoted in news and radio, she has been able to bring additional interest to her business, listings, and client's homes - many of which have been featured in magazines such as Atomic Ranch, Oregon Home, The Oregonian and also included on several local home tours. With a background in marketing, and an eye for the unique, Alyssa really enjoys buying and selling properties whose interesting features may be overlooked by other realtors, even (or especially) if those features aren't mentioned in the listing. As a hobby, Alyssa has issued herself a challenge to walk every residential street of Portland proper and document the best architecture specimens of each neighborhood. There are about 3500 square miles of Portland, and it's a big feat. By the time she finishes, she will have seen every house in Portland with her own eyes! You can follow her walks on her blog Portland-by-Foot. http://portlandbyfoot.blogspot.com/ When off duty, you can find Alyssa at estate sales, honky tonks, her friend's cattle ranch, or seeking out ghost towns, roadtripping to the Oregon high-desert. A music fanatic and semi-retired booker/manager, Alyssa is heavily immersed in the western swing, old-school country, and rockabilly music scene, and you'll often find her out at shows, dancing, maybe even sharing her favorites on the radio. Alyssa Starelli alyssa@livingroomre.com 503-888-1362 www.aly-star.com
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  • T: 503-888-1362
  • F: 503-961-8224
  • alyssa@livingroomre.com

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