by Robert T. Nash
posted May 14, 2006
) Photo by Robert T. Nash New "wheelchair friendly" home built by Chuck Harrison in Southland Pointe |
"I was reading an article on the Internet about the unique obstacles faced by the handicapped," said Chuck Harrison.
"I had money I needed to re-invest, so I did some research and quickly determined that very few homes are being built locally to meet the needs of those who use a wheelchair."
Mr. Harrison, who has over 35 years experience as a real estate investor and landlord, bought two building lots in Southland Pointe, a small upscale Middle Valley neighborhood.
He said he started with a basic set of plans and made adjustments as needed to accommodate wheelchair users. He also sought local advice.
"I contacted Danny Curvin of the Siskin Foundation for advice," Mr. Harrison said.
"He uses a wheelchair, and made some very helpful common sense suggestions, like adding a fully-paved sidewalk running from the driveway to the backyard patio."
The first home is located at 7069 Homestead Circle. The handsome two-story home with three-bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths features approximately 2,600 square feet of interior living space.
Mr. Harrison said a ramp is planned to provide access from the attached garage, and the ground floor incorporates numerous "handi-capable" features.
"It's mostly subtle details like extra-wide doorjambs, slightly lowered bath and kitchen countertops, and more space to accommodate a wheelchair's turning radius," Mr. Harrison said.
"The master suite is on the main floor, and the master bath features and extra-large shower with lowered controls and multiple spray heads. Even the wardrobe closet is large enough for a wheelchair to comfortably maneuver in, and there is no carpet used on the ground floor."
The soaring greatroom and site-finished hardwood floors are especially attractive, and the home is built to the highest standards. Additional details to improve function include lowered light switches, raised electrical outlets and pull-out storage shelving.
"Most of the changes are relatively minor, but they really make all the difference," Mr. Harrison said.
Mr. Harrison said the second floor, which is not currently wheelchair accessible, offers living space for a caretaker, adult children or extended family.
"There's also a fully finished bonus room over the garage, and significant rough-finished expansion space upstairs," he said. "It's perfect for storage, or could easily be trimmed out for use as an office or playroom."
Mr. Harrisons's second "handi-capable" home is located nearby on Lot 14 of Courtland Drive, the main street in Southland Pointe.
It is nearing completion, incorporates many of the same accessibility features, and is likewise built to the same high standards as the first.
"We really have stretched out to make everything the best of the best on both of these homes," Mr. Harrison said.
"The backyard retaining walls alone cost over $10,000 for each home. There is absolutely nothing 'bargain basement' about these homes."
Southland Pointe features community sidewalks, lighted mailboxes and underground utilities. Homes currently for sale in the neighborhood are priced as high as $419,000.
Mr. Harrison said he plans to retain ownership of both of his new homes for now to reap tax benefits. He hopes to rent them for $2,000 per month each, and has retained Waldorf Property Management to find suitable tenants.
"Middle Valley has a reputation for being a great place to live," he said, adding, "And these homes are something relatively new to this area.
"I've really put a lot of time, money and effort into them. It will be interesting to see how the market responds."
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