James Bovey, Head of Property Finding
This week we’ve been reading this article by Ben Townsend, in it he concludes that “a period in rented accommodation may not just be a temporary stopgap. It may be an important staging post on the road to finding suitable accommodation that will last them for the rest of their life.” And we couldn’t agree more. For our clients, rental properties are an essential bridge that help them to feel comfortable, whilst finding their new forever homes.
From Crisis to Comfort: How Rental Properties Bridge the Gap to Forever Homes
A rental property offers our clients a short- to mid-term solution, serving as a bridge between their incident and the eventual transition into their “forever home.” Each client’s housing needs vary, influenced by factors such as the type of disability, family dynamics, and personal expectations. What is clear, however, is that following their incident, their current home is no longer a viable option. Many clients are unable to be discharged from the hospital until suitable accommodation is found. Others may end up living in temporary arrangements, such as a living room, without access to basic facilities like bathing. This results in a loss of privacy and independence. In such situations, speed is crucial.
The primary purpose of a rental property is to provide a comfortable, accessible living space that meets the client’s immediate needs. It helps restore a sense of normality to their life and allows them to receive necessary care while they await their permanent home. For families, it can also offer the opportunity to reunite after potentially extended separations. While a rental property may not be the ultimate solution, it serves as a vital starting point and provides clients with valuable insights into what their future home will need to offer. For instance, they can evaluate layout considerations, accessibility features, and how these align with their daily routines.
Each year, we successfully secure dozens of rental properties for clients with various backgrounds and acquired disabilities. While most clients are eager to find rental accommodations, some may initially resist for various reasons, such as emotional attachment to their previous home or fear of change. However, in our experience, once clients settle into their rental homes, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Not only does the rental property offer them a greater degree of independence, but it also allows them to assess what works for their needs—and what doesn’t. This valuable process helps them better understand the specific requirements of their future home.
Living in unsuitable conditions can often lead to extreme distress, causing clients to make rushed decisions, such as purchasing an ill-suited property. Securing a rental property, although not a permanent solution, can alleviate immediate stress and give clients the time and space needed to make informed, thoughtful decisions about their long-term housing options. Ultimately, renting provides them with both practical and emotional relief while ensuring the best possible outcome for their future.
There was so much I could write about on this topic, so there will be a Part Two on this from me soon. In that, we’ll delve into the practicalities of securing the right rental property. From navigating the fast-moving market and identifying compromises to negotiating with landlords and understanding tenancy procedures, I’ll explore the essential steps to ensure a smooth transition into a rental home.
James Bovey,
PLG Consultants, 15 January 2025
Reference
Stewarts/ Ben Townsend – https://www.stewartslaw.com/news/immediate-housing-needs-for-serious-injury-patients/?utm_campaign=5c87fd10292b9100010001d9&utm_content=6776bca81a3c71000109e7f6&utm_medium=smarpshare&utm_source=linkedin
