Homeownership Help For Persons With Disabilities
source="bf32fc9332b4d6799af68f94f0315ba1.jpg"
(NAPSI)—According to a recent U.S. Census report, 19 percent of the population identifies as having a disability.
If you or someone you care about is ever among them, a survey by Harris Poll may intrigue you. That’s because it found a strong desire among homebuyers with special needs for real estate sales associates who are trained in, and knowledgeable about, accessible housing. Among active homebuyers who either have disabilities or live with someone who does, one in four indicated it’s absolutely essential their real estate professional is knowledgeable about accessible housing.
<strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">The Problem<o:p></o:p></strong>
The survey also revealed about half have a difficult time finding a home that fits their family’s unique needs. It also found most home-buyers with disabilities rated the average real estate professional’s knowledge of accessible housing with a grade level of “C” or below.
<strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">An Answer<o:p></o:p></strong>
To meet the demand, the CENTURY 21 System offers its independent brokers and affiliated agents a “Persons With Disabilities Learning Program.” It provides access to information and resources on accessible housing and universal design for persons with disabilities. It’s a part of the company’s long-standing relationship with Easter Seals, the leading nonprofit provider of services for individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, physical disabilities and other special needs.
<strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Helpful Hints<o:p></o:p></strong>
Whatever your abilities, before deciding on a house, it’s wise to consider your lifestyle, current and anticipated housing needs, and budget. Create a prioritized list of features you want in your new home. Finding the right house involves striking a balance between your “must-haves” and your “nice-to-haves.”
For example, if you love to cook, you’ll appreciate a well-equipped kitchen. If you’re into gardening, you’ll want a yard. If a home office is a must, you’ll need room for adequate work space. If you have several cars, you may require a large garage.
Next, think about what you might need in the future, and how long you are likely to live in this particular home. If you’re newly married, you might not be concerned with a school district right now, but you could be in a few years. If you have aging parents, you may want to look at homes that offer living arrangements that could accommodate them as well.
<strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Learn More<o:p></o:p></strong>
For further information about resources for persons with disabilities, call the Easter Seals Community <span class="SpellE">OneSource</span> hotline, (866) 423-4981. Real estate professionals who have taken the C21 “Persons With Disabilities Learning Program” can be found at <a href="http://www.century21.com/">www.century21.com</a>.
On the Net:<a href="http://www.napsnet.com">North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.(NAPSI)</a>