Finding an affordable, livable apartment can take some effort. And it can seem even more difficult when you're searching for handicap-accessible apartments. But there's good news. USA

If you know a few things going in — which features you're looking for, where and how to look, which questions to ask and what to expect from the application process, plus what rights you have and restrictions you might encounter — the process of finding handicap-accessible apartments gets easier.

1. Prepare your list of “must-have" accessibility features

Before you start looking, make a checklist of accessibility features that are essential to you, plus others that would be simply “nice to have." These features usually fall into a few categories:

• External accommodations: Accessible parking spaces, ramps, handrails, enhanced lighting, etc.
• Common area access: Widened entryways and hallways, automatic doors, ADA-compliant elevators, etc.
• Floorplan accommodations: Wider doorjambs and hallways, flat or low-rise thresholds, roll-in sinks and showers, etc.
• Control adjustments: Location of electrical switches and outlets to be within reach, lever-style door handles, Braille or tactile panels near controls, etc.
• Amenities: Pools, fitness centers, lounge areas, etc.

From low counters and hardwood floors to automatic doors and multiple elevators, not every place will offer every accessible feature. You might be able to make some small modifications yourself — like swapping out doorknobs for lever-style handles or adding grab bars in the bathroom. However, other items might be dealbreakers.

So start with a list of what matters most to you. There are elements that most accessible apartments share. We'll walk you through the details and more features to look for in the search steps below.

2. Search online for handicap-accessible apartments

Whether you want a one-bedroom in an apartment building or a townhome with an elevator, online is the easiest place to start searching.

Nonprofits and government agencies offer help in finding, applying for and paying for ADA-compliant housing. However, they might not have the most updated information on apartments, as real estate markets change quickly and constantly. To see listings for helpful nonprofit and government agencies, go to the More Resources section at the end.

Apartment search sites often yield more options and provide greater specificity about available features. Specialized searches can save time by letting you filter through the features you want. A typical search results screen might look like the one below.

Most searches begin with inputting your desired city, type of property, number of bedrooms and rent prices. But that could give you hundreds of results. To narrow the list, look for additional filtering options.

The above information is from Christy Clawson from wondermoms.org sent to me on Sat 12/06/2021