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Discover how MLK's fair housing legacy shapes today's fight for disability-accessible homes. Expert realtor Vince Bruce shares insider tips on navigating real estate with disabilities, fair housing laws, and affordable housing solutions in 2025. Learn how MLK's fight for fair housing continues through modern advocacy for disability-accessible home ownership and rental opportunities.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: THE EVOLUTION OF FAIR HOUSING

• How MLK's housing advocacy shapes modern disability rights
• Understanding Fair Housing vs. ADA in private residences
• Latest updates on NAR commission structures (2025)

NAVIGATING REAL ESTATE WITH DISABILITIES

• Expert tips for finding disability-friendly realtors
• Key questions to ask during your housing search
• Understanding universal design in home buying

INSIDE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY CHANGES

• New commission structures affecting specialized services
• Affordable housing solutions including ADUs
• Working with disability-focused housing organizations

EXPERT INSIGHTS FROM: Vincent "Bruce" Brusio

• Licensed Coldwell Banker Realtor
• Helping Hand Foundation CEO
• Disability Housing Advocate
• Special Needs Parent

ESSENTIAL RESOURCES: QUICK CONTACT:

• Vince Brusio: 410-948-9857
• Website: realitywithvince.com and https://carrollcf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/creae/fund?funit_id=2881 

REFERENCED ORGANIZATIONS:

• Maryland Inclusive Housing
• Department of Justice Real Estate Updates
• Accessible Dwelling Unit Programs

For transcript, click here. 
#DisabilityHousing #FairHousingRights #AccessibleHomes #RealEstate2024 #UniversalDesign #DisabilityRights #MLKLegacy #HousingEquity

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Unlock the secrets to transformative nonprofit fundraising with our special guest, Cami Baker, on Accessibility is Home Podcast. Imagine the potential of real estate donations to revolutionize the way nonprofits, including those dedicated to the disability community, receive financial support. Cami shares valuable insights on how property owners can enjoy significant tax benefits by donating real estate, thus maximizing the funds available for charitable causes. You'll also learn how this innovative approach simplifies the fundraising process and opens up new avenues beyond traditional monetary donations.

Ever thought about the impact of donating a multimillion-dollar property to a cause you care about? Cami brings real-life examples to the table, like a $33 million house gifted to the American Cancer Society, illustrating the monumental difference such contributions can make. We emphasize the importance of educating your supporters through newsletters and event promotions, thereby increasing awareness about the power of real estate donations. Additionally, we discuss how accessible homes can continue to serve the disability community if these homes are included in the charitable real estate process, ensuring these properties make a lasting impact.

Cami outlines a five-step roadmap for mastering this niche, allowing realtors to retain their full commission while contributing meaningfully to disability organizations fundraising . Learn how properties like a $10 million office building or a $5 million hotel can be donated, benefiting both the donors and the nonprofits.  You will learn that no matter where the donated real estate is located, the proceeds can benefit any disability nonprofit organization. Making a perfect episode to celebrate Disability Pride Month and the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disability. 

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Can real estate truly revolutionize accessibility and independence for all? We invite you to listen to our inspiring conversation with Gretchen Kingma and Tiffany Dill, founders of Empowered Homes and Custom Joy. These remarkable occupational therapists turned entrepreneurs share their unique journeys from traditional therapy roles to becoming pioneers in accessible housing solutions. Hear how Gretchen, motivated by high rehospitalization rates among her patients, transitioned into real estate, and how Tiffany's passion for home design led to the founding of Custom Joy.  They also discuss the misconceptions around ADA standards in residential settings and emphasize the Universal Design Ready (UDR) criteria with its real-world applications in real estate.
Together, they provide invaluable insights into integrating healthcare perspectives into real estate to enhance accessibility and independence.
 
 Learn about the challenges realtors face when advising clients with disabilities and  explore strategies to attract investors to accessible housing projects, showcasing design elements that boost functionality and safety.  We highlight the profound impact of proactive planning and universal design in creating inclusive living spaces, particularly for families coping with serious health issues. Through personal stories and expert advice, we reveal how these designs enhance family togetherness and address the challenges of assisted living facilities. By providing collective experiences and resources, we strive to improve accessibility and raise the standard for disability-inclusive housing, ensuring a more accommodating environment for everyone.

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Ever wondered the role of a  Life Care Planner has to make a home truly accessible ? Join me, Angela Fox, as we unravel the complexities of real estate and accessible living with insights from my guests, Danielle Reed and Foncio Smith. They bring a unique blend of medical and building expertise to the table, sharing their personal and professional journey in transforming residential spaces into havens of comfort and independence for those with spinal cord injuries through their company: Accessible Suites in Georgia. 

This episode weaves through the financial and emotional intricacies of customizing homes for unique needs, like the transformative power of aquatic therapy for a client with balance issues. Dive into a riveting conversation about the long-term cost benefits of such tailored home modifications, and how they can uplift not only the property value but also the very essence of quality living. We shine a light on the often-overlooked emotional significance of these changes, revealing why seeing beyond the price tag can redefine the independence and joy of individuals with disabilities.

Concluding with a critical gaze into the maze that is the insurance and healthcare system, we dissect the formidable barriers faced when securing necessary equipment and adaptations for accessible living. The dialogue expands to encompass the practical realities of home renovation from standing frames to stair lifts, and choosing contractors experienced in disability design. Our guests and I aim to empower you with the knowledge and advocacy tools needed to imagine a world where accessibility is woven into the fabric of every community. It is a perfect episode for national Tell Your Story Day. 

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Traveling can be challenging if you are disabled because of  inaccessible short term rentals. But through the help of disabled homeowners and "Becoming Rentable," that will change!  In honor of Accessibility Is Home podcast  winning the Sonic Bloom Pioneer Award, to pioneers are interviewed - Angela Fox and Lorraine Woodward. Lorraine Woodward is the visionary behind Becoming Rentable, who's reshaping the travel landscape to accommodate everyone's needs. Our conversation orbits around the often-overlooked necessities that make a world of difference—think driveways you can actually navigate and doorways that welcome any guest, no matter their mobility challenges. This episode unveils the 43 meticulously cataloged features that Lorraine's platform offers, ensuring that every adventure is accessible and every traveler can find their perfect stay.

Shifting away from the travel norms, we confront the stark reality of the limited accessible rental market, especially as the baby boomer generation sails toward retirement. Lorraine and I dissect the hurdles in amassing a more inclusive property inventory and the certification process that not only raises the bar but also raises awareness. We also shed light on the crucial role of insurance and safety in this evolving industry, narrating tales that will move and motivate you. From the heartwarming story of Gideon's family to the potential for Becoming Rentable's expansion, we're showcasing how these rentable spaces are becoming memory makers for families seeking autonomy in their travels.

As we wrap up, I point you towards a beacon of hope and guidance for making properties more welcoming for everyone. At BecomingRentable.com, you'll find a treasure trove of advice on creating a space that speaks the language of accessibility, while my own platform, HorizontalHouses.com, serves up resources for those in the disability community taking the leap into homeownership. We're building a network where shared experiences are the currency that enriches us all, and I invite you to contribute your voice. Get ready to be part of a movement that's not just changing the way we vacation but altering the landscape of home and heart.

A special note from the host, Angela Fox, wanting to thank her listeners for making Accessibility Is Home podcast the first Sonic Bloom Pioneer Award Winner!

For transcript, click here.

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I teamed up with Griffin Benton from the Maryland Building Industry Association for a heart-to-heart on the Universal Design and Visitability for Housing Act that's revolutionizing homes in Prince George's County, Maryland. We're marking International Day of Acceptance for Disability by celebrating the strides in inclusivity this legislation promises. Griffin provides an insider's view of the industry's initial hesitations and the ultimate community benefits envisioned. We also navigate the resources available for those adapting to the evolving housing landscape, thanks to organizations like the National Association of Home Builders.

As we anticipate the 2026 mandate transforming housing accessibility standards, our dialogue unpacks the act's details such as zero-step entries and wider doorways. These features signal a future where every home welcomes people with disabilities, aligning with the "visitability" and "universal design" movements. We evaluate the practical implications for homeowners and builders, considering the challenges of waivers and administrative hurdles. Our conversation underscores the importance of such foresight to minimize future retrofitting expenses, crafting an inclusive environment from the ground up.

Finally, we delve into the broader themes of disability and homeownership. I share my own journey, reflecting on the varied economic backgrounds within the disability community that are often overlooked in real estate. We shed light on the significant yet diverse minority that is people with disabilities and their aspirations for homeownership. From appraisals that reflect the value of universal design to the long-term vision for adaptable, aesthetically pleasing homes, this episode is a tribute to the pursuit of an inclusive society. Join us as we champion a future where every door is open, and every room is a space for all.

For transcript click here. 

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What happens when an architectural enthusiast, world traveler, and disability advocate merges her passion with her profession? Meet Leslie Davis, who has spent the past 20 years coordinating disability services and making the world a more accessible place during her international travels.  After being diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome, she transformed her personal experience with disability into a mission of educating and assisting businesses in becoming more accessible across the globe. As the chairperson of the city's Council for Community Accessibility, she sheds light on her inspiring journey of adapting to traveling with a disability.

Imagine living in a world where every new building is barrier-free. That's a reality in Hungary since 2005, thanks to their law requiring accessibility in all new structures. But, is that kind of legislation feasible or even beneficial in the US? Let's delve into that discussion and also discover how a German woman is transforming her town, one Lego-built ramp at a time. The conversation then takes a turn towards the intersection of accessibility and historic preservation, proving that modifications for accessibility can indeed be aesthetically pleasing.

From a conversation about a German woman named Goldman that creates lego ramps that blend seamlessly into any environment, to the story of an ancient Greek temple built with a ramp, this episode is a refreshing exploration of the world of accessibility and a perfect episode to mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3rd).  You'll be left marveling at how ancient civilizations valued accessibility and the potential for modern-day home modifications. Tune in, be inspired, and take away some special codes to get discounted wheelchair bag and wheelchair ramp.  #IDPwD2023  #Disability #realestate #housing #podcasting

Mrs. Davis international travel blog, click here.

Transcript, click here.

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This week, we take you on an enlightening journey through the world of accessibility and home design for individuals with dementia and Neurodivergent disabilities. Jonathan Katz  joins us to untangle the complexities of accessible design in kitchens and bathrooms. Together, we dig deep into the innovative solutions that can improve usability in the kitchen - from induction stoves to smart fridges.

How often do we think about the dimensions of our refrigerators? Probably not as often as we should. Listen in as Jonathan highlights the disadvantages of most current refrigerator designs, and how shallower and wider fridges could better serve those who struggle with remembering what's in their fridge. We then pivot our discussion towards accessible housing and the remarkable history of disability in Jewish tradition. Jonathan shares riveting insights about how this influences perspectives on food and the crucial role accessible public restrooms play in religious inclusion.

As we move towards the latter part of our conversation, the focus shifts to creating dementia-friendly spaces at home. Jonathan guides us through a plethora of home design features, from slip-resistant surfaces in bathrooms to the merits of single-story homes. We also explore how community design elements can provide additional benefits and how accessible housing expands options for those with disabilities. Wrapping up, Jonathan leaves us with invaluable resources for those looking to age in place or create a dementia-friendly home. Don't let this engaging discussion pass you by - join us as we bridge the gap between accessibility and home design! Below are a few of the discussed resource. More on blog on www.horizontalhouses.com

Resources: Safe and Neurospicy, Flavors of Diaspora, Work on dementia-friendly planning, Unf**k Your Habitat (for cleaning), Crip Up the Kitchen by Jules Sherred, Color Taste Texture by Matt Broberg-Moffitt, Food52’s Interview with Maegan Blau, Samantha Bigleri, AARP Livability Index, Dementia Friendly America

For transcript, click here.

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For National Disability Employment Awareness Month, join us for an enlightening conversation with Adith Thummalapalli, an ingenious engineer with a disability who guides us through the complex maze of housing accessibility. We examine the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act Section 504, and the Fair Housing Act, spotlighting their shortcomings when it comes to private residences. Aditha and I challenge the concept of "barrier-free" and argue against the necessity of door thresholds, showcasing how modern advances render these obstacles needless for individuals in wheelchairs.

In the second segment of our discussion, we champion the incorporation of accessibility in housing design. Discover how a simple tweak like introducing sliding pocket doors or gradual inclines can revolutionize a home's accessibility. Hear the inspiring story of a housing developer who took the initiative to include these features in their floor plans. As we draw the curtains on this episode, we turn to accessible home ownership for people with disabilities. Learn how resources like HorizontalHouses.com can aid you in this journey and why it's imperative to voice your accessibility requirements. We underline the significance of connecting with the disability community, sharing collective experiences, and raising the standard for disability home ownership. Tune in as we navigate these intricate pathways, aiming to make every house a home for all.

Click here for Transcript

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Learn how the state of Maryland is one of the best states for disability homeownership.  Intrigued? Join me, Angela Fox, in this insightful discussion as we debunk the conventional reliance on the HUD 203K Rehab Loan and spotlight the unique benefits and flexibility of the Home Ability loan program. This isn't just about borrowing up to 95% of a home's value or the deferred zero-interest rate loan for closing costs, it's about broadening horizons and championing inclusivity in housing for the disability community at the state level. We'll also be delving into the significance of the Rehabilitation Act, a cornerstone civil rights act that has been instrumental in enforcing accessibility in federal programs and resources as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.

But that's not all. As we navigate through the maze of property tax credits, we'll explore the potential of the Design for Life program to incentivize housing developers to build accessible homes. We'll also bring into focus the bold mandate of the Universal Design Housing Act in Prince George's County and its target of making 50% of private housing accessible by 2026. How crucial is an inclusive universal design workgroup comprising individuals with vast experience in accessible housing and an understanding of the intersectionality of different disabilities? We'll answer this and more. You won't want to miss this comprehensive conversation that underscores why Maryland is a beacon of hope in housing accessibility for people with disabilities.

Click here for the transcript

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