Home modification vs home remodel: What's the difference?

by THE CUOMO TEAM Kimberly Cuomo 09/26/2022

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A home modification is a specific type of remodel or renovation meant to help increase accessibility and safety in your home. There are many types of home modifications including addition of ramps, elevators and handrails. 

Here are some more facts about home modifications to help you understand the basics:

What is home modification?

Home modifications are made for individuals with disabilities to meet specific requirements under the Americans With Disabilities Act, or ADA. 

While ADA regulations primarily apply to businesses and public properties, home modification helps elders and people with disabilities live independently or in safe conditions.

How a home modification works

The scope and cost of a home modification depends on the individual property and resident's needs. For example, you could install safety bars on the walls in the bathroom for a few hundred dollars over thousands installing a wheelchair accessible shower.

Depending on the size of the project, financing options are available. 

The American Housing and Home Remodeling Association is the largest resource in the country offering education, training, courses and support. You may also be able to obtain a special renovation loan to cover the expense of your changes.

Evaluating your needs

Before any home improvement changes, consider all of your needs room by room. Some changes are simple, like adjusting the height of furniture and shelving. 

However, if you have an older home with narrow doorways and stairwells, making them accessible is a much larger project to plan for.

Budgeting for home modifications

A clear understanding of your particular accessibility needs will be the best place to begin when budgeting for home modifications. To get started, you can consult the ADA's official guidelines for accessible design. 

Once you have an idea of the cost associated with your project, contact a professional contractor for a quote.

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Some contractors may offer reduced rates for qualifying elders and people with disabilities. You can also apply for a home renovation assistance loan through various lenders to fund your improvements.

About the Author
Author

THE CUOMO TEAM Kimberly Cuomo

The Cuomo Team - 25 years experience serving South Florida's Real Estate needs!

Specializing in Residential and Commercial Real Estate Services - 

 Kim Cuomo brings a 25 year wealth of experience and passion to the world of real estate, having dedicated over two decades to serving clients across the vibrant landscapes of South Florida. With a background as a paralegal, Kim's transition into real estate was not just a career change, but a discovery of her true calling. Her deep-rooted love for the industry is evident in the personalized, hands-on approach she adopts with each client, ensuring they feel valued and supported through every step of their journey.

Whether navigating the complexities of a first-time home purchase or orchestrating the sale of a luxurious $30 million estate, Kim's expertise spans the full spectrum of residential and commercial real estate. Her reach extends across Palm Beach County, Martin County, St. Lucie County, Broward County, and Miami-Dade County, offering a comprehensive understanding of the unique markets within each area.

Kim Cuomo's dedication to excellence and her ability to forge meaningful connections with clients make her not just an agent, but a trusted advisor and friend in one of the most significant transactions of their lives. Her commitment to providing exceptional service is unwavering, making her a standout professional in the South Florida real estate scene. 

The Cuomo Team has several agents, so that someone is always available to assist you with any of your real estate needs any time 7 days a week! Kim's husband, John, a retired firefighter from the Town of Palm Beach, works in the Commercial Division. Kim's son Matthew Cuomo works on the team, along with her daughter in law, Tasianna Cuomo. and Christine Cuomo Georgeou, her sister in law. 

You can contact Kim directly anytime at 561-339-3002, and she will be happy to assist you with any of your real estate needs! She looks forward to hearing from you!