A house is the biggest investment you will probably ever make in your life, so you should hold on to it for as long as you possibly can. However, what if your gorgeous two or three story home suddenly becomes inaccessible to you or a loved one? Does this mean you have to sell it in favor of buying a single story house? In the past, this would be your only choice. But today, you have options. If you can’t get up and down stairs, then here are several options to consider before giving up your dream home.

 

Stairlift

Stairlifts are ideal for those people that can still get around fairly well on flat ground, but can’t quite manage the stairs safely. They come equipped with a swivel seat to make getting on and off more convenient, and many models can be folded up against the wall for storage. They run on batteries so that there are no worries if there is a loss of electricity. The battery recharges itself whenever the chair is not in use. These stairlifts can carry weights up to 300 lbs. and they come in a variety of fabrics and styles to fit any décor of your home.

Wheelchair lift

These are considerably larger than stairlifts because they are designed to carry both the person and his/her wheelchair. These come with many optional features. Some have under-platform obstruction sensors, emergency stop switches, anti-slip flooring, and handrails. They can be in a shaft or open aired. There are several platform layouts to choose from, depending on your specific needs, with a choice of up to three doors on each one. Most wheelchair lifts are vertical, much like an elevator. However, if your house simply can’t accommodate a lift, you can build a wheelchair incline lift. These go over your existing staircase, and can even go around turns and bends. The platform and arms can be folded for normal stairway access, and it comes in over 180 color choices to blend perfectly into any home.

Elevator

Elevators are the most expensive way of accessing multiple level homes. These can be used by people with disabilities, or they could just be a unique addition to your house. Some people install them because it actually adds market value to your home. So not only are the layers of your home accessible to everyone that enters, but when it comes time to sell, you can actually make a profit on it. They run on a hydraulic system which is quieter than a refrigerator and it can make anywhere between two and five stops. These have a 1,000 pound capacity for a number of guests, and a wheelchair if so equipped. They come standard with a back up battery so you will not be stranded if the power happens to go out. These too look great in any home since they come in a large variety of finishes.

So if you or a loved one are unable to get up and down the stairs in your home in a safe manner, these are some alternatives you may want to consider before going through the hassle and trauma of selling your home. Professionals will come to your home and can install these devices in a matter of hours. It is a quick and easy alternative and a great way to enhance your home for your loved one.