Making Basic Accessibility Modifications Before Sale

What Are Basic Accessibility Modifications?

They are non-invasive changes that improve the functionality and comfort of a home-without requiring major renovation. These may include:

• Installing grab bars in bathrooms

• Adding handrails to entry steps or stairs

• Replacing round door knobs with lever handles

• Adding temporary threshold ramps or no-step entries

• Improving lighting in hallways or entrances

• Widening walkways by moving furniture or adjusting layouts

These upgrades are not meant to turn a home into a medical facility. They are designed to remove the small obstacles that could make potential buyers hesitate-or walk away.

Why This Solution Might Work for You

If your property is in a competitive market or has features that could feel outdated or unsafe to certain buyers, accessibility improvements can give you an edge. They're not about luxury. They're about livability. And for many buyers, especially those supporting aging parents or dealing with physical limitations, livability is the deciding factor.

Making a few thoughtful modifications might allow your home to:

• Appeal to more buyers (especially older adults or multigenerational households)

• Sell faster by reducing visible friction points

• Signal that the home has been maintained and cared for

• Avoid price reductions due to perceived future renovation needs

And for sellers under financial pressure, one of the greatest advantages is emotional: less time on the market means less uncertainty, and potentially a quicker path to financial relief.

But There Are Trade-Offs

No solution is one-size-fits-all. Making accessibility modifications still requires a small upfront investment, even if you're only installing grab bars or updating hardware. For some homeowners already under stress, any extra cost can feel like too much.

It's also worth noting that not all buyers are looking for accessibility, so there's no guarantee it will boost your sale price. The goal here is more about removing barriers to a smooth sale, not dramatically increasing property value.

If your home is severely outdated or damaged in other ways (such as mold, fire, or structural issues), accessibility modifications may not be the priority. In those cases, a broader strategy-like an as-is sale-may be more appropriate.

Who This Solution Helps Most

This strategy is especially useful for homeowners who:

• Are preparing to sell due to a health issue, caregiving need, or aging family situation

• Have a home that is mostly functional but has a few "problem areas" (stairs, bathrooms, narrow hallways)

• Need to sell but can afford a limited investment in order to support a faster or cleaner transaction

• Are not looking for major renovations, but want to show buyers that the home is adaptable

Support Where It Matters

While KING COUNTY REAL ESTATE HELP does not provide contractor referrals or handle accessibility work directly, supported households may use our website to check for available local professionals who specialize in low-cost, basic accessibility installations.

These resources are available only through the online tools and guidance pages on our website, and are intended for households experiencing economic hardship, health-related challenges, or other qualifying life transitions.

A Simple Step Toward a Smarter Sale

Accessibility isn't a gimmick. It's a signal-to buyers, to families, to anyone walking through your front door-that this home is practical, thoughtful, and ready. When your goal is to sell with less stress and fewer delays, small improvements can make a big difference.

For more guidance, visit our Resource Center and learn which strategies best fit your situation. All materials are available online-at no cost and with no registration required.

KING COUNTY REAL ESTATE HELP Clear guidance. No pressure. Just smart choices when life demands them.