Home ownership is within reach for people with disabilities
People with physical or mental disabilities face a number of hurdles in becoming home owners, but these setbacks can be overcome, said Teresa Grossi, director for the Center on Community Living and Careers (CCLC) at the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community at Indiana University Bloomington. Financial constraints, home design issues and uninformed attitudes can be barriers to home ownership for people with disabilities.
People with physical or mental disabilities can overcome setbacks and ultimately become home owners.
"Americans with disabilities often have to live in other people's brick and mortar in order to have access to the services they need, but many people would prefer to live alone," Grossi said. Independent housing can be just as convenient as group living for people with disabilities. "It just takes some planning and creative thinking to get started."
Grossi suggests the following steps for homebuyers with disabilities:
Make use of consultant services. "A home ownership counselor can help you get your financial house in order and find access to other means of support," Grossi said. There are a number of state and private programs to assist homebuyers with disabilities.
- Start a nest egg, no matter how small. "Even $500 is a good start. We suggest saving up $1,500 if possible," Grossi said. Closing and inspection costs, and retrofitting for access will require some investment.
- Before you buy, bring an occupational therapist who understands your needs to the home to determine what changes to the structure will be necessary. Each person's needs are unique, but common features to look for are at least one entrance that is level with the ground, an open floor plan and larger bathrooms and kitchens.
- Start thinking ahead about medical needs and in-home assistance. If you use Medicaid you may be placed on a waiting list for in-home care. Inquire about potential services as early as possible.
The CCLC houses the Back Home in Indiana Alliance, which assists Hoosiers with disabilities in obtaining affordable and accessible housing. For more information, visit the Center on Community Living and Careers at http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/cclc/.
