Property Experts Launch Scotland’s First Accessible Housing Estate Agency – Scottish Business News

Property experts Sarah Baum and Michael Connolly have joined forces to launch Scotland’s first estate agency specializing in accessible homes.

Based in Edinburgh, Accessible Housing Scotland (AHS) aims to transform the property market by focusing on individuals with various accessibility requirements, whether due to age, hidden or physical disabilities, or other mobility needs.

AHS offers services to help clients purchase, sell, or adapt homes to meet their specific requirements, ensuring accessible housing is seamlessly integrated into the market.

AHS covers Edinburgh, the Lothians, and the Scottish Borders and is set to reshape the way people sell, purchase, and modify homes to meet their specific needs.

The pioneering agency will also redefine how accessible properties are marketed and perceived, emphasising their features as enhancements for a better living experience.

Sarah Baum brings 20 years of sector experience to the new business. She started out in renovations and co-founded Ralph Hendrie Legal and, more recently, Monarch Legal in Scotland’s capital, where she served as Property Director.

“We feel there is a gap in the market for affordable, accessible homes, and what we offer will be very helpful to people,” she said.

Michael Connolly, formerly with McEwan Fraser Legal, Ralph Hendrie Legal, and Monarch Legal, brings firsthand experience of family members facing physical accessibility issues, giving him a deep understanding of the challenges in finding appropriate accommodation.

“We have already spoken to lots of clients who are struggling to find the right kind of home, and it’s rewarding to be in a position to help them,” he said.

“These homes don’t have to be carbon copies of each other just because they require accessibility enhancements; they can be modern, stylish, and unique, enhancing independence for all.

“Each person’s requirements are personal to them, and our mission is to empower individuals to find their dream homes, regardless of mobility challenges.”

Sarah added, “We are here to chat with people, provide options, and help them from the start of the process to finish.

“To make things as simple and stress-free for the client as possible, we will arrange things face-to-face with the architects, planners, builders, etc., so the client doesn’t have to get involved in what can be a daunting prospect.”

“AHS is passionate about creating accessible living spaces for its clients and is committed to breaking down barriers and promoting inclusive housing solutions.

“It’s by far the most exciting venture I have taken on,” Sarah concluded.