AUTISM FRIENDLY HOMES

REAL ESTATE AND DESIGN

When my family moved from Florida to Utah, I experienced firsthand the challenges of relocating with a loved one on the autism spectrum. I’m an autism sibling and a guardian to my sister, Angie. It was during this transition that I realized there was a significant gap in the real estate industry – one that failed to address the unique needs of autism families when moving from home to home.

Navigating the move to Utah brought about a multitude of challenges. Not only did I have to learn new guardianship rules in a new state, but I also had to discover new resources and support systems for Angie. The process was overwhelming and filled with uncertainty.

However, it was through this experience that I found my purpose. I knew there had to be a better way for autism families to move without the stress and guesswork. Drawing from my personal journey, I made it my mission to fill this gap and provide specialized support for families like mine.

Travelling all around the world.

BUYING AN AUTISM FRIENDLY HOME?

REAL ESTATE CONSULTATIONS (IN UTAH AND OUT-OF-STATE)

I offer comprehensive consultations that take out the stress and guesswork of moving with a child on the autism spectrum. Here’s what we’ll cover during our session:

5 CATEGORIES OF AN AUTISM FRIENDLY HOME

1. Lifestage: We’ll discuss where your family is at right now and where you’re headed. Whether you’re a growing family, transitioning to a new phase, or seeking a more accommodating environment for your child with autism, understanding your life stage is crucial in finding a home that fits perfectly.

2. Safety: Safety is paramount, especially when it comes to creating a comfortable environment for your family. We’ll explore homes with features like fenced yards, secure windows and doors, and sensory-friendly spaces to ensure a safe and secure living environment for everyone.

3. Location: Location is about more than just where your house is – it’s about the community surrounding it. We’ll delve into neighborhoods that offer the amenities and resources your family needs, such as proximity to schools with inclusive programs, access to therapy services, and recreational facilities that cater to diverse needs.

4. Community Resources: In addition to location, we’ll explore the resources available within your community. From support groups and advocacy organizations to specialized healthcare providers and recreational programs, we’ll ensure you’re connected to a network of support that understands and embraces your family’s unique journey.

5. Layout: The layout of your home can significantly impact daily life. We’ll discuss home features and layout considerations that accommodate the sensory needs and preferences of individuals on the autism spectrum. Whether it’s an open floor plan for easy supervision or designated quiet spaces for relaxation, we’ll work together to find a layout that meets your family’s needs.

Additionally, you’ll receive a guide that you can use with your realtor, outlining specific home characteristics to look for in each of these categories. This guide will help ensure that you and your realtor are on the same page throughout the home buying process

HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT:

Step 1: Book a 1-hr virtual consultation
Step 2: After our consultation, I create a plan for your realtor, multi-disciplinary team and your family to follow in what to look for in your Autism Friendly Home
Step 3: We schedule a 30-minute virtual consultation with your realtor to go over the plan to support your home search with them
Step 4: An email is sent out to your child’s teachers, therapists and anyone else in their multi-disciplinary team of how they can support the home buying/selling and moving process.
Step 5: Celebrate! You just moved into your home!

We will work collaboratively to involve your child’s multi-disciplinary team during the move, ensuring that

My consultations not only provide expert guidance on finding the perfect home but also offer a clear plan for navigating the move with your child’s needs in mind. Whether you’re moving within the same state or across the country, I’m here to ensure that your family’s transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

FAQ:
Do you work as a real estate agent in Utah? I am currently only offering consultations for families wanting to make a move with Autism. My significant other, Kristopher Bowen, is a licensed real estate broker and has over 20 years of experience. We work with clients collaboratively to offer a team approach to our clients unique needs, including moving with Autism. Kristopher and I have been working together for over 4 years and continue to be a team that serves our clients at an exceptional level. We can discuss an interview for you to have with Kristopher for your real estate needs! I am not just saying this because he is my significant other, but every client that has ever worked with him has been a repeat client for many years.

I don’t have a real estate agent yet, would you be able to refer someone out-of-state? Yes, Kristopher and I have a great network of referral partners around the country. We would be happy to connect you to an agent we like, know and trust to help you move into your Autism Friendly Home.

Design

Consultation Services for Interior Design Firms

Are you an interior design firm looking to create spaces that cater to the unique needs of individuals with autism? I’m Natalie Castro, an Autism Home Specialist with years of experience in designing autism-friendly environments that promote comfort, independence, and well-being. 

Why Hire Me?

My personal journey as an autism sibling and professional experience in pediatric therapy have given me a unique perspective on the importance of sensory-friendly and supportive spaces. I understand the intricacies of how environment impacts individuals with autism, and I bring this expertise to every project.

What I Offer

• Expert Consultation: I provide in-depth consultations tailored to your specific project needs, ensuring that your designs are not only beautiful but also functional and inclusive for those with autism.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: I collaborate with a child’s therapy team, including occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and special education teachers, to ensure that every aspect of the design supports developmental goals and therapeutic needs.
• Custom Solutions: From sensory-friendly bedrooms to calming communal areas, I offer custom solutions that cater to the unique sensory and communication needs of individuals with autism.
• Builder Collaboration: I also work closely with builders to incorporate autism-friendly features into the structural design, ensuring that every project is inclusive from the ground up.

What You’ll Gain

• Enhanced Client Satisfaction: Create spaces that truly meet the needs of families with autism, leading to higher client satisfaction and repeat business.
• Innovative Designs: Stand out in the market with innovative, autism-friendly designs that showcase your firm’s commitment to inclusivity and thoughtful design.
• Professional Expertise: Gain access to my wealth of knowledge and experience in autism-friendly design, providing you with a competitive edge in the industry.

Let’s Work Together

Transform your projects and make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals with autism. Contact me today to discuss how we can collaborate on creating inclusive, supportive, and beautiful spaces.