There is a pressing need for a strong accessible housing market. Since looking for a house that accommodates all your needs can often be very challenging, it’s easy to make mistakes that can cost you — literally. Here’s what not to do when looking for accessible housing.
Forgetting to Get Pre-Approved
Getting pre-approved for house hunting should be the first thing you do before you start looking for a house. According to NerdWallet, being pre-approved can give you an advantage over other possible buyers and show that you’re a serious buyer.
During the pre-approval process, a potential lender will get your credit report. If your credit score isn’t good enough for a loan that’s within your budget, there are a few important things you can do to raise it. First, don’t open any new credit cards. Second, pay off any outstanding debts you may have. This might mean putting off house hunting, but it will be best for your finances. And remember: It takes time to improve a credit score, so be patient with the process.
Not Identifying Your Needs
In the quest to look for a house, it’s easy to get so caught up in the idea of homeownership that you forget to highlight your most important needs. You can waste time and money by forgetting, so write down what you’re looking for, which might include wide doorways, ramps, big hallways, or non-slip floors. It also can help you identify where modifications will be available. Additionally, you should research the average sale price of homes in the area to help you decide whether you can afford to live there.
Trying to Find the Perfect House
Don’t reject a house just because it doesn’t have everything you’re looking for. Some modifications will be less costly, so if possible, try to find a house that will require less expensive alterations. You may not be able to find a perfect house, but identifying red flags can help guide your search. Before making a purchase, hire a home inspector (which typically costs $278 - $391) who will help you understand which fixes are available and which ones aren’t. For example, the inspector might find signs that your roof needs repairing (major repairs generally cost $1,000 - $3,000), such as damaged or missing shingles due to tree branches or wildlife.
Not Researching the Neighborhood
A good neighborhood is just as important as the house itself. Talking to the neighbors before you buy a home is a straightforward and easy way to learn about the safety and accessibility of a particular neighborhood. It’s also a good way to identify the atmosphere and see if your neighborhood offers a friendly environment.
Buying at the Wrong Time
If you want to save a lot of money, then look to buy during off-peak times. The peak buying season is during the summer when people have the time (and the good weather) for packing up their items and moving. Winter is a great time to buy a house at a good price since there are fewer buyers and less competition.
Hunting Without an Agent
You can look for houses on your own, but an agent can help you find an excellent home that meets your needs. They’ll guide you through the paperwork and take care of the searching. Make sure you choose an agent who has experience in the particular area you are looking at. Some agents have a lot of experience with accessible homes and people who have special needs, so ask for referrals to see who can help you.
In some areas, the demand for accessible housing exceeds availability, so it’s important to know what to do when you’re searching. Improve your credit score, hire an agent who knows what they’re doing, and be patient. It’s not going to be easy, but it will ultimately be worth it.