Do accessibility modifications hurt resale value?

Approximately 75% of people assume that home modifications hurt the resale value of a home, but this is not always the case. In fact, some modifications, especially if they are done in a style that matches well with the home, can have a positive impact on the resale value.

How much do modifications hurt or help your resale value?
The truth is it's not possible to put an exact value on specific modifications because a number of factors have influence, including the style of home, its location and the target buyer demographic. However, one way to help manage this positive or negative swing is the implementation of the principle of Universal Design.

Universal Design refers to a home design that is safe and usable for people of all ages and abilities, including those with disabilities. Universal Design is built into the home's basic design, rather than added as an afterthought. This means that Universal Design elements work with the home's architecture. But if your home is already built, you can still incorporate the concepts of Universal Design to the changes you plan to make. Some features of a Universal Design home include:

• Safe and accessible bathrooms
• Lever door and faucet handles
• Non-slip surfaces in the bathroom
• No steps at entrances
• Maximum rise of 1/2 inches at thresholds
• Minimum of 5 feet by 5 feet at entrance doors on both sides
• Proper lighting for entry doors
• Ground floor bedroom, bath, and laundry
• Room for installation of a platform lift near stairs
• Contrasting colors between floor and trim or different floors that require different navigation
• Avoidance of glossy surfaces

Overall, these types of changes do not significantly affect the aesthetic of the home, and as such do not hurt its resale value. Studies have shown that Universal Design modifications can, in fact, help your home's resale value.

If you'd like to explore how to incorporate Universal Design into your home to improve accessibility, please give us a call at 541-767-1611. Fort Rock Construction has been serving homeowners in Eugene, Springfield and the surrounding areas since 2001.