Homebuyers with special needs report a strong desire to work with a real estate sales associate who is trained in and knowledgeable about accessible housing.

The results are part of Century 21’s “Persons with Disabilities Home Buying Survey,” which reveals insights to the real estate industry on accessible housing.

Eighty-three percent of buyers surveyed said that having a real estate professional who is familiar with accessible housing would be beneficial to them, while one in four – or 25 percent – said it is absolutely essential for their real estate professional to be knowledgeable about accessible housing.

What’s more, one in five of buyers surveyed say that not having access to adequately trained real estate professionals poses a challenge in their housing search.

“This survey shows that there is a critical need for real estate professionals to understand the particular needs and unique challenges faced by homebuyers who have disabilities or live with someone who does,” said Rick Davidson, president and chief executive officer of Century 21 Real Estate LLC.

Nearly half – 49 percent – of about 500 buyers surveyed who either have a disability or live with someone who does say they have had a difficult time finding a home that fits their family’s needs.

About 19 percent of the U.S. population identifies as having a disability, according to U.S. Census data.

Century 21 is developing a Special Agent Learning Program to provide its agents with information and learning resources on the topic of accessible housing and universal design for people with disabilities.