The Overlooked Goldmine in Property Value
Here's a powerful fact: over 42.5 million Americans live with a disability, according to the CDC. That’s nearly 1 in 4 adults. And when disaster strikes—whether fire, flood, or another insured loss—these individuals need temporary homes that support their needs. But here’s the kicker: accessibility features don’t just help them—they raise your property’s marketability and value. As a Sinistar host, you’re not chasing weekend tourists. You’re offering stability to families and individuals in transition. Add accessible features, and you’ll tap into a wider, underserved guest pool—all while adding meaningful social impact to your rental strategy.
Why Accessibility Features Matter to Modern Guests
Accessibility is for more than just people with permanent disabilities. Think: aging parents, new moms with strollers, guests recovering from surgery. And increasingly, insurance adjusters and corporate housing clients are prioritizing accessible rentals for their policyholders and employees. The demand is growing—and landlords who lean in are reaping the rewards. Accessibility upgrades make your space easier to navigate and more comfortable for everyone. They also lead to better guest satisfaction, longer stays, and fewer questions during booking. In the U.S. rental market, it’s one of the smartest ways to stand out while doing genuine good.
5 High-Impact Accessibility Features
1. Step-Free Entryways and Ramps
No stairs at the entrance? That’s huge. It helps guests with wheelchairs, walkers, strollers, or rolling suitcases. If you’ve got a step-free entry or ramp—even if it wasn’t installed for accessibility—highlight it in your listing.
2. Wider Doorways and Hallways
Doorways 32" wide or more make a big difference, especially for wheelchairs and walkers. But even for everyday guests, wider spaces feel more open and easier to move through. Add those specs to your listing if you’ve got them.
3. Accessible Bathroom Fixtures
Walk-in showers, grab bars, handheld showerheads, and lever faucets aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential for some guests. You might already have one or two of these features. Make sure they’re front and center in your photos and description.
4. Smart Home Features
Smart locks, remote thermostats, voice-activated lighting—these upgrades improve accessibility and add wow factor. For guests with limited mobility or those who value convenience, smart tech makes the home more functional and welcoming.
5. Lever-Style Door Handles and Rocker Light Switches
They may seem like small touches, but they matter. Lever handles and rocker switches are easier for everyone to use—especially seniors or guests with arthritis. They’re low-cost, high-impact upgrades that boost usability and appeal.
Bonus Tip: You Might Already Have Accessibility Features
A surprising number of U.S. homes already include accessible elements—whether by design or accident. That ground-floor suite? Step-free. That open-concept kitchen? Wheelchair-friendly. The key is to identify what you already have and describe it clearly. Use keywords like “no steps,” “walk-in shower,” “extra-wide hallway,” or “accessible bathroom” in your listing to improve visibility on search platforms and match with guests who need those features most.
How to Start Improving Your Property Today
Start with a simple accessibility walk-through. Look at your property as a guest might: are there obstacles? Are the light switches reachable? Can someone using a walker get into the bathroom? Then, make strategic upgrades—many cost under $100 and can make a big difference. When you list your home with Sinistar, we’ll help ensure your property is guest-ready, accessible, and visible to insurers looking for inclusive housing options.
Ready to Reach More Guests?
Make your property more inclusive, comfortable, and valuable.
List with Sinistar to showcase your home’s accessibility features and help people rebuild with dignity.
Accessibility isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a choice that welcomes more guests, increases rental value, and truly sets your space apart.
For more tips on how to improve your space, view The Essential Host Guide: Host Tips to Help Property Owners Improve Their Spaces.