Take 5
Detecting if a Property Has Been Adapted for Accessibility
With Steve Wright
TRT: 4m 8s
Video Transcription

Steve Wright directly addresses camera:  When listing a property, it's important to spot accessible spaces so that you are educated on how the property can be used. I'm Steve Wright of Steve Wright Communications in Miami. I began my career as a reporter in Ohio covering urban planning and the built environment.

Over time, I recognized how the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA transformed the landscape, making spaces more accessible for everyone. For the past two decades, much of my journalism and urban planning work has been focused on this subject.

Let's take five minutes to talk about how you can identify properties that have been retrofitted for individuals with disabilities. When selling homes, it's crucial to understand and recognize modifications made to accommodate people with disabilities. Not only does this knowledge expand your market, but it also positions you as a compassionate and informed agent. By knowing what to look for,

you can better serve people with specific accessibility needs. A key area to inspect is the kitchen. Check if the kitchen layout allows for easy maneuvering. Are the doorways wide enough? Ideally, doorways should be 36in wide, though 32in can suffice for a wheelchair. This is a simple check. You do it with a tape measure or a yardstick. No need for a contractor. For two story homes,

it's essential to have a bathroom on the ground floor. This feature is invaluable for individuals with mobility issues who might struggle with the stairs. Additionally, examine the bathrooms. Are they equipped with grab bars? Whether the walk in showers provide enough space for wheelchair access. Look for spaces on the ground floor that could be converted into a living suite.

For instance, a family room or a Florida room can be repurposed to accommodate someone with mobility challenges. This flexibility can be significant selling point for potential buyers.

In Florida, many properties feature pools, particularly in condominium buildings. Check if the pool has a lift or a walk in entry. Ensure the pool lift is functional and not neglected.

When dealing with multifamily buildings, examine the parking situation. Are there van with parking spaces available? Is the route from the parking lot to the building entrance accessible? This can make a big difference for someone who uses a wheelchair or other mobility aids.

Assess the front entrance of the home. Is there enough space to build a gently graded ramp? Whether concrete, plywood or metal, a ramp can significantly enhance accessibility. Look for potential in the property's layout to accommodate such additions. Remember, not all modifications require significant renovations. Simple changes, such as replacing door knobs with lever handles, can make a home more accessible.

Show homeowners and potential buyers how easy the updates can be. Many solutions like baths benches are readily available online or at your local store. They don't even require professional installation. The National Association of Home Builders offers a Certified Aging in Place specialist program. It's called CAPS. Partnering with a CAPS professional can provide valuable insights into retrofitting homes to making them more accessible.

Whether dealing with new builds, existing homes, or retrofits. Having a CAPS expert on your team is beneficial.

Awareness is key when selling homes that are accessible or can be made accessible. It's not just about the home's interior. Consider the community's proximity to accessible amenities like parks, libraries and shops, as they can be a strong selling point. 1 in 4 people will experience some level of disability in their lifetime.

By being knowledgeable and proactive, you can better serve a significant proportion of the population. Let's strive to create inclusive communities where everyone can thrive.