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. Support the showClick for: Feedback Survey Facebook Linkden www.horizontalhouses.comAccessibilityishome@gmail.com