Accessible Home in Asheville

Disability and Aging: How to Find an Accessible Home in Asheville  

Choosing a home is an important step for your family no matter what stage of life you’re in. But when you need additional accommodations to live comfortably day to day, it can be a challenge to find a home that suits your needs. There is an underserved market here in Asheville and we want to work with the community to find resources for individuals living with disabilities and those who are aging in place. While these populations may have different overall needs, there is quite a bit of cross over. Let’s explore some of the ways to find an accessible home or renovate a home to fit your life.  

Resources for Disabled Adults and Children in Asheville 

Before we dig into details, here are some links to resources in the Asheville area. These are available for individuals with disabilities as well as parents of children with disabilities.  

• DisAbility Partners: This organization provides pathways to independent living.  
• Arc of Buncombe County: A resource for parents of children with developmental or intellectual disabilities.  
• North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities: This state-wide resource offers links to additional services.  
• Home Advisor Disability Services Listing: For contractors and more, visit this list.  
• Disability Access Project at Pisgah Legal Services: A service to ensure that low-income community members have access to resources.  

Options for Renovating an Existing Home 

While there might be a few gems around the Asheville area already outfitted as an accessible home, it’s hard to tell whether or not they would be available when you need them. For most homebuyers, renovating an existing home to be more accessible for yourself or your child will be the best solution, but not always the easiest.  

Honestly, we could research the subject for years and not be able to provide you with all the details you need. We were able to find this resource that offers a lot of information to help you plan your renovation to an accessible home.  

The most important note we pulled from this was the recommendation of a Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) through the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). While it’s not required, it can help you narrow down your options and get the resources you need in place for you or your children to live comfortably.  

What is Aging in Place?  

Another aspect of accessibility revolves around aging. We’ve written about it a little before and there is a lot of information around the concept of aging in place. But if you are choosing to stay in your home as you age, you may need some additional accommodations to ensure your safety and comfort. A home renovation before you need these solutions is the best way to guarantee the experience you want as you age in place.  

To learn more about your options for buying the right home or renovating and existing home, contact us today.