What’s In The Box?
Would you like to see what I have in my box? Well, this isn’t my box, but another property viewing! This property came up near my current location a couple of months ago, and after the viewing, I left with mixed feelings despite it being a really lovely property. The property market is still pretty difficult to navigate as a first-time buyer, but searching is all part of the process of finding the perfect property.
Property Viewing
As always, please share your property-searching stories by commenting below or reaching out to the following email: info@buildmyaccessiblehome.co.uk. I enjoy hearing your stories and look forward to sharing them here on the blog. The stories don’t have to be about accessibility; they can be about property renovations and your journeys onto the property ladder!
I should also highlight that I’ve written this in first-person based on another person’s perspective because I’m not always able to get into the property to view them… This is often the case with most, if not all properties I’ve booked viewings with, there are a lot of barriers disabled people face when viewing properties.
Good Drive but Sleep Slope!
On arrival, I was greeted by many flying insects on a warm sunny afternoon, thanks to the plants at the front of the property. The front of the property had a spacious drive with a small ramped area down towards the property.
Sadly with the gradient of the ramp, I started thinking of how I could turn the steep ramp into something much safer. The steep gradient already has me worried since the plot of land around it didn’t look too large either, limiting the possibilities with the property.
We’re Living in a Box!
On entering the property, the size rooms were much smaller than what was shown on Rightmove or as anticipated, highlighting again how easy it is to make things look bigger with a camera lens.
To add, the hallways were tight, the doorways were small and the bathroom was even smaller than a box. While a small cosy space would be ideal for most people looking for a downsizing opportunity, it wasn’t ideal for me due to there being very limited space on the inside.
Modern Features
On a positive note, I was impressed by the modern features and overall well-maintained condition of the bungalow. It’s evident that the owners have put love and attention into keeping the property up-to-date and in excellent shape. All these elements made this property feel cosy and nice to be in, especially as there would be no work required when moving unless you didn’t like the colour of paint the previous owners used.
Near Home Sweet Home
The location of the property also was a positive point of this property. Being local to my current home meant that I would doors away from my family. When it comes to disability and support, it’s always reassuring to have people like family nearby, especially in case of emergencies where PAs and carers are unavailable.
However, the distance from home was somewhat ruined by my disappointment with the size in comparison to the price of the property. While I understand the value of location and modern features, the overall space in and around the property left me with what I felt was a tiny box, especially considering the financial investment required to purchase this property.
A Lovely and Cosy Box
In conclusion, today’s property was a well-maintained, modern living space with the added benefit of a convenient location which made this a lovely and cosy property. However, the steep slope and limited space of the property/plot, coupled with a steep price didn’t quite cut it this time around in terms of accessibility and possibility. Will I ever find my blank canvas property to turn into my masterpiece?