Home Ownership for Individuals with Disabilities

Abstract

Owning one's own home has long been a core value in the United States, and in recent years, Americans with disabilities have become increasingly interested in pursuing home ownership. A sample of 148 underwriters rated the probability that an applicant with a disability would be approved for a residential mortgage. Mailed applicant scenarios were randomized across type of disability (physical or developmental), intensity of supports (live-in or occasional), and source of income (earnings or public benefits). Type of disability alone was statistically significant, with approval more likely for the applicant with a physical disability. Respondents also provided explanations of their decision rationale, and these narratives were analyzed qualitatively. Implications for understanding the mortgage application process and for helping individuals with disabilities enter the housing market are discussed.