Tips to Help Your Disabled Access Apartment Search

No matter where you live, you need to be comfortable and able to easily maneuver and get in and out. People with disabilities must be particularly mindful of the housing option they look into. There are programs in place that make sure accessibility issues are also always addressed. Many disabled access apartments cater specifically to people with limited mobility or other disabilities.

Here's how you can start looking for the housing that will help you out.

1. Research government programs for housing for people with disabilities

Your first move needs to be looking into government programs that make accommodations for people with disabilities. The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers housing placements and other resources for people living with disabilities. You should apply for their programs and find out what resources they can offer to help you get a disabled access apartment.

2. Start taking tours of disabled access apartments

Seeing is believing, so go through some listings and book tours. It won't take long to gauge whether the property management company takes the needs of disabled people seriously or not. If their entire property is easy to maneuver and has clear signage posted, this bodes well for the kind of living experience you can come to expect.

Be sure that you pay close attention to the layout of any apartment as well. The floor plans should be conducive to maneuvering in wheelchairs or other accessibility devices. Make sure that there is plenty of bright lighting and switches that are easy to reach.

Aside from accessibility concerns, make sure that the apartment is also somewhere that you'd want to live. The grounds should be lush and vibrant. The apartment community should be secure and somewhere that residents can comfortably feel at home. Consider the amount that you'll be paying each month in rent and whether you'll get your money's worth in this community.

3. Make sure that they have management that is always willing to make upgrades

The property manager will be the real dealbreaker. If you're staying somewhere that has disabled accessibility, you need a manager that is willing to maintain the rental and quickly address repairs. Choose a company that is open to suggestions and always looking for ways to better accommodate its residents.

People with disability needs have to consider a lot of factors when looking for housing. These tips teach you how to find the right community to call home.