Helpful Moving Tips for the Disabled Homebuyer

The internet definitely has no shortage of moving tips – a quick search will reveal page after page of results. However, how many of these are catered specifically to disabled homebuyers? Unfortunately, the answer is not very many. As a person with a disability, you are a homebuyer just like everyone else, but your situation is different, as moving often requires a little bit of modification to be carried out successfully. Rather than scour the internet for an article pertaining to you, read this one for some helpful moving tips.

Plan Ahead for Assistance

A move requires lots of small pieces before it will all come together, so to avoid feeling overwhelmed, create a moving timeline. This is a simple way to keep track of the tasks you have already completed, as well as the ones you may need some assistance with. For example, if you have a disability that impacts your mobility, you’ll likely need assistance with packing and moving, while someone who is vision-impaired may need help sorting and packing boxes, staging the home, cleaning, etc.

Don’t Forget to Stage Your Home

Selling your home and moving at the same time puts you in a situation where you not only have to focus on moving out, but setting up your old home in a way that will attract a buyer. This can be accomplished through staging. When it comes to staging your home, it involves a lot more than cleaning. You’ll need to declutter, depersonalize, and make small repairs/updates such as upgrading cabinetry hardware, painting the walls, and adding curb appeal. Use staging as a chance to get ahead of the game by packing away unnecessary clutter and big furniture that makes your home appear smaller than it actually is. If you don’t have a humble abode to store it in, consider using a self-storage unit. The average price of a self-storage unit in San Diego is $112.15, and can be used before, during, and after the move to save space. If you can’t afford another bill, check around with friends or neighbors to see if they have space to spare.

Hire Moving Help

For your safety, as well as the safety of your belongings, it is best to hire moving help. Before you settle on a mover, be sure you have done your research to find the most reputable moving company. Get quotes from at least three different movers, and make sure they come to your home to get the most accurate estimate. If you have special equipment that will need to be moved, don’t be afraid to ask about their experience with disabled customers and the steps they will take to ensure your items aren’t damaged during loading, transit, or unloading.

Research Financial Assistance

Moving is an exciting experience, but it can get a little pricey, especially if you have limited income or are trying to stick to a budget. Be sure to do your homework and look into possible grants that you may qualify for. For example, if you are unexpectedly displaced from your home, you may qualify for relocation assistance through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Another option to explore is the Housing Industry Foundation, which offers a grant of up to $2,500 to be used for moving-related expenses such as rent, utilities, etc. Explore local resources as well such as religious organizations, non-profits, and state agencies.

Ensure Your New Home Meets Your Needs

Any and all accessibility needs should be addressed prior to moving in for your well-being and safety. Once your offer has been accepted on a home, do a walkthrough and determine what areas will need to be modified. For example, you may need to adjust cabinet heights, widen doorways, or install ramps/chair lifts. Have someone accompany you through your home as a second pair of eyes. They may notice a potential hazard that you don’t, such as haphazard cords or sharp counter edges. Don’t forget to locate healthcare services in the area, as well as post an accessible list with the locations and emergency contact numbers.

Moving is a lot of hard work, but it isn’t impossible. Take advantage of moving and financial resources, and plan ahead for the move by creating a timeline and making the necessary accessibility adjustments to your new home. Ultimately, the key is to take your time, ask for help, and enjoy the ride.