Finding the Perfect Home for You and Your Wheelchair

Buying a home is always difficult and stressful but when you have to find the perfect home for you and your wheelchair the difficulties increase. It may take some time to find the ideal property, but when you do all your efforts will be rewarded. You’ll have the independence and the excitement that comes with moving into a new house that will soon be your brand new home sweet home.

Location and Accessibility

It’s a good idea to think about what you need from the property before you begin looking. Create a long list and include the locations you’re interested in most. Think about what is important about the location – does it need to have shops close by, easy transportation links and other services such as hair dressers and doctors.  Once you have decided what areas you’ll be happy to move to it’s time to think about the property and what it must provide you with.

Remember that you probably won’t be able to find the right house that will already be kitted out with everything you need. That should never put you off buying a property if you fall in love with it. Go to every viewing with an open mind and take someone with you who will be able to access any areas you are currently unable to due to the lack of any accessibility features.

Positives to Look For

Before you rule out a property entirely find ways to make it work for you. Some important areas to focus on include:

• Designating parking – If you drive it is important that you will have a parking space that is close to your home, if not right outside it. You don’t want to spend several minutes driving up and down the road looking for the ideal spot. A parking space that gives you the room to get in and out of your vehicle and your chair will be a definite positive. If the property is lacking a space but it has a front garden you could look into paving it over and using it for your car instead.
• Worktops – Consider how much surface space you have for any kitchen aids you’ll be using and for appliances. Think about how you’ll be able to lower the work surfaces if needs be or raise the floor to make the kitchen more usable.
• Entrances and exits – Doorways can cause problems, even when you are only viewing the property. If you suspect you won’t be able to get inside the property you are viewing ask the estate agents if they could provide a portable ramp or consider taking your own.  Don’t let small doorways and steps stop you from considering buying a house. You can always widen the doors, add ramps and rails and improve the material used on pathways.

Moving on to a Better Future

If you use a Kørestol don’t let that hold you back from finding your perfect property. Make the house work for you and look for solutions you can introduce into the home to ensure you will be independent and comfortable.