Making Real Estate Accessible for Everyone: Working for Clients with Disabilities

Good real estate agents know how to work with a diverse client base. Often this means working with people of different ages, cultures, and income levels. Occasionally, you also need to work with buyers who have special needs such as mobility issues and other medical concerns.

These buyers may have a number of pre-existing conditions that limit not only their health and independence, but also the amount of income they have coming in. There are special financial and physical considerations to be aware of, so it's imperative that real estate agents know how to meet the needs of these buyers with sensitivity and respect, and to find their clients the home that's right for them.

Understand their needs:

Because every buyer has a unique set of needs that must be accommodated, it's important to get to know your client well, and to fully understand what issues might come up in the home buying process. Do they depend on a mobility device to get around? If so, you need to look for houses with doorways and hallways that are wide enough to fit wheelchairs and walkers.

Do they have limited strength and flexibility? Then you need to find a home that will require very little yard maintenance. A condo might be the best option for someone who has difficulty moving around, as they won't have to worry about keeping up the yard or doing structural repairs and such. The properties you choose to show your clients must be manageable for them, so be aware of their needs before you start your search.

Do your buyers need to be near services such as doctors, banks, and grocery stores? If so, then you should look for properties that are either very close to these amenities, or are located on a bus route. Buyers with disabilities need to be able to run errands and get to appointments with ease and independence. Showing your buyer a house in the country won't meet their long term needs, as they'll have to depend on someone else to drive them into town. Services they require on a regular basis should be close at hand so that they can come and go as needed.

Ask yourself: why do they want to buy a home?

Like other people who decide to enter the real estate market, buyers with disabilities are looking for a way to build equity and gain some financial independence. Because many buyers with disabilities have lived in institutions, group homes, or with their families, it can be very empowering to finally have something of their own. Buying a home will also enable these buyers to leave something behind for their loved ones when they pass away, which is another very important reason to buy a home.

Freedom and independence are two of the most powerful motivators for home buyers with disabilities, as up till now they've had to live according to the rules of other people, whether it's their families or their caregivers. By having a home of their own, they are able to assert their independence and make decisions for themselves. This is a powerful moment in any adult's life, so it's important to remember when dealing with your clients. You need to understand their reasons to wanting a house of their own so that you can better assist them in finding just the right one.

Can they afford to buy a home?

You will need to look into financial assistance that is available for buyers with disabilities, as well as find out how much income your buyers are already receiving. In some cases there is a limit to how much money a person can receive in income or aid, before losing their disability benefits. It's a good idea for you to be well-versed in this area so you can better advise your client. You will also want to have your client pre-approved for a home loan before you start house shopping. Knowing ahead of time about their financial situation and any red tape you'll encounter will make the buying process much quicker and easier for everyone involved.

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