Why a Stairlift from USA Medical Supply Is a Smarter Choice Than Selling Your Home for a Single-Story House

April 17 2025, by Richard Spafford, 21 min reading time

One of the most compelling reasons to choose a stairlift over moving is the significant cost difference. Let’s break down the financial aspects of both options, using realistic estimates and insights from USA Medical Supply’s expertise.

Cost of Installing a Stairlift

The cost of a stairlift depends on factors like the type of staircase (straight or curved), the model, and any additional features (e.g., power swivel seats, folding rails). Here’s a detailed look at stairlift pricing:

Straight Stairlifts: For a standard straight staircase, a new stairlift typically costs between $2,500 and $8,000, including professional installation. At USA Medical Supply, we offer competitive pricing and used stairliftsstarting at $1,500, with a prorated warranty and guaranteed 1-year warranty on service and parts.
Curved Stairlifts: Curved or complex staircases require custom-built rails, increasing the cost to $11,000 and up, depending on the configuration. However, USA Medical Supply’s experts can sometimes recommend two straight stairlifts for staircases with landings, potentially saving thousands compared to a single curved model.
Rental Options: For short-term needs, USA Medical Supply offers stairlift rentals starting at $200–$500 per month, with maintenance and service included. Our rent-to-own option allows 100% of rental payments to apply toward a purchase after three months.
Additional Costs: Maintenance costs are minimal, typically $100–$200 per year, and electricity usage is low, averaging $10–$20 annually. Battery replacements every 3–5 years cost $70–$150.
Financing and Grants: USA Medical Supply offers financing starting at $59.25/month for qualified buyers. Additionally, if you’re registered disabled or have a chronic condition, you may qualify for VAT exemptions or Disabled Facilities Grants to offset costs.

At USA Medical Supply, our free in-home assessments ensure you get an accurate quote tailored to your staircase and needs. Our experts evaluate your home, discuss your mobility requirements, and recommend the most cost-effective solution—whether it’s a new, used, or rental stairlift. With no obligation, you can explore your options risk-free. Call (413) 733-7843 or text (413) 200-4191 to schedule your assessment today.

Cost of Selling Your Home and Moving to a Single-Story House

Selling your home and purchasing a single-story house involves a complex web of expenses, many of which are significantly higher than the cost of a stairlift. Here’s a breakdown of the key costs, based on national averages in the U.S. as of 2025:

1. Selling Your Current Home

Real Estate Agent Commissions: Typically 5–6% of the sale price. For a $400,000 home, this equates to $20,000–$24,000.
Closing Costs: Sellers pay 1–3% of the sale price, including title fees, transfer taxes, and attorney fees, averaging $4,000–$12,000 for a $400,000 home.
Home Repairs and Staging: To attract buyers, you may need to invest in repairs, updates, or staging, costing $5,000–$20,000 or more, depending on the home’s condition.
Capital Gains Taxes: If your home has appreciated significantly, you may owe taxes on the profit (minus exemptions, e.g., $250,000 for singles, $500,000 for married couples). For example, a $200,000 taxable gain at a 15% rate could cost $30,000.

Total Estimated Cost to Sell: $29,000–$86,000 for a $400,000 home, not including taxes or major renovations.

2. Purchasing a Single-Story Home

Home Price: Single-story homes are in high demand, especially among seniors, often driving up prices. The median home price in the U.S. in 2025 is approximately $412,300, but single-story homes in desirable areas can cost $450,000–$600,000 or more, depending on location.
Down Payment: Typically 5–20% of the purchase price. For a $500,000 home, this is $25,000–$100,000.
Closing Costs: Buyers pay 2–5% of the purchase price, including lender fees, title insurance, and appraisals, averaging $10,000–$25,000 for a $500,000 home.
Property Taxes and Insurance: Annual property taxes average 1–2% of the home’s value (e.g., $5,000–$10,000for a $500,000 home), and homeowners insurance costs $1,000–$3,000 per year.
Mortgage Payments: If financing, a 30-year mortgage for a $400,000 loan at a 6.5% interest rate results in monthly payments of approximately $2,528, totaling $910,080 over the loan term.

Total Upfront Cost to Buy: $36,000–$128,000, plus ongoing mortgage, tax, and insurance expenses.

3. Moving and Transition Costs

Moving Services: Professional movers charge $1,000–$5,000 for a local move, and $5,000–$15,000 for a long-distance move, depending on the volume of belongings and distance.
Packing and Storage: Packing supplies and temporary storage can cost $500–$2,000.
Home Modifications: Even single-story homes may require accessibility upgrades like ramps, grab bars, or bathroom modifications, costing $2,000–$10,000 or more.
Furniture and Decor: Adapting to a new home often involves purchasing new furniture or decor to fit the space, averaging $5,000–$15,000.

Total Moving Costs: $8,500–$42,000, excluding ongoing homeownership expenses.

4. Hidden Financial Costs

Market Risks: Selling in a buyer’s market or during economic downturns may result in a lower sale price, reducing your budget for a new home.
Time on Market: Homes can take 30–90 days or more to sell, during which you’ll continue paying your current mortgage, taxes, and utilities (e.g., $2,000–$5,000/month).
Temporary Housing: If your home sells before you find a new one, you may need temporary housing, costing $2,000–$5,000/month for rentals or hotels.

Total Estimated Cost to Sell and Move: $73,500–$256,000 upfront, plus ongoing mortgage payments, taxes, and potential losses from market timing.

Financial Comparison Summary

Stairlift Cost: $1,500–$11,000 (one-time, with minimal ongoing costs) or $200–$500/month for rentals.
Selling and Moving Cost: $73,500–$256,000 upfront, plus $2,000–$5,000/month in ongoing homeownership expenses.

Even at the high end, a curved stairlift from USA Medical Supply costs a fraction of the price of selling and moving. For example, a $11,000 curved stairlift is less than 15% of the low-end cost of relocating ($73,500). Over time, the savings are even more pronounced, as a stairlift has low maintenance costs, while a new home involves continuous expenses like mortgages and taxes. Plus, with USA Medical Supply’s financing options and free assessments, you can spread the cost of a stairlift over time or ensure you’re getting the most affordable solution for your home.

Practical Advantages of a Stairlift

Beyond cost, stairlifts offer practical benefits that make them a more convenient and immediate solution compared to moving. Here’s why a stairlift from USA Medical Supply is the practical choice:

1. Immediate Safety and Accessibility

A stairlift provides instant relief from the dangers of navigating stairs. Falls are a leading cause of injury among seniors, with over 3 million emergency room visits annually due to falls in the U.S. A stairlift eliminates this risk by allowing you to glide safely between floors. Installation typically takes less than a day, meaning you can enjoy safer mobility almost immediately. In contrast, selling and moving can take months, leaving you vulnerable to falls in the meantime.

At USA Medical Supply, our free in-home assessments ensure your stairlift is tailored to your staircase and mobility needs. Our experts evaluate factors like staircase width, user weight, and physical abilities to recommend the best model, such as the Pinnacle SL600HD with a 600-pound capacity for enhanced stability.

2. Minimal Disruption to Your Home

Stairlifts are installed directly onto your staircase, not your walls, so there’s no need for major renovations. Whether your stairs are wood, concrete, or carpeted, USA Medical Supply’s certified technicians can install a stairlift without damaging your home. Removal is equally straightforward, with minimal impact on your staircase—perfect if you later decide to sell or repurpose the lift.

Moving, however, involves significant disruption. Packing, sorting belongings, and coordinating logistics can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Once in a new home, you may still need modifications like ramps or widened doorways, which can cost thousands and require weeks of construction.

3. Customization for Any Staircase

USA Medical Supply offers stairlifts for virtually any staircase configuration:

Straight Stairlifts: Ideal for standard staircases, with models like the Pinnacle SL300 (300-pound capacity) that operate smoothly even during power outages.
Curved Stairlifts: Custom-built for staircases with turns or landings, ensuring seamless travel across multiple floors.
Outdoor Stairlifts: Weather-resistant models for exterior steps, perfect for accessing porches or gardens.
Narrow or Spiral Stairs: Our experts can recommend compact or specialized models to fit challenging staircases.

During your free assessment, our team measures your staircase and discusses your needs to ensure a perfect fit. We carry top brands like Bruno, Harmar, and Access BDD, known for durability and advanced features like swivel seats and remote controls.

4. Flexibility for Short- or Long-Term Needs

Not sure how long you’ll need a stairlift? USA Medical Supply offers rental options for temporary situations, such as post-surgery recovery, with the flexibility to purchase later. Our rent-to-own program applies 100% of your rental payments toward the purchase price, making it a cost-effective way to test a stairlift. For long-term use, a new or used stairlift can last up to 10 years with proper maintenance, providing a durable solution without the commitment of moving.

Moving, by contrast, is a permanent decision. If your mobility needs change or you decide a single-story home isn’t ideal, reversing the move is costly and time-consuming.

5. Ongoing Support and Maintenance

USA Medical Supply provides in-house installation, service, and maintenance, ensuring your stairlift remains reliable. Our 1-year warranty on service and parts for used stairlifts and comprehensive warranties for new models give you peace of mind. If issues arise, our West Springfield, MA-based team is just a call away at (413) 733-7843.

A new home, however, may come with unforeseen maintenance costs, such as repairs, landscaping, or accessibility upgrades, which can add thousands to your annual expenses.

Emotional and Lifestyle Benefits of Staying in Your Home

The financial and practical advantages of a stairlift are clear, but the emotional and lifestyle benefits of staying in your home are equally significant. Moving to a single-story house often means leaving behind a place filled with memories, community ties, and personal comfort. Here’s why a stairlift helps you preserve what matters most:

1. Maintaining Emotional Connections

Your home is more than just a building—it’s where you’ve built a life. From family gatherings to quiet moments in your favorite chair, your home holds irreplaceable memories. Selling your home can feel like letting go of a part of yourself, especially if you’ve lived there for decades. A stairlift allows you to stay in the home you love, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, and neighbors.

At USA Medical Supply, we understand the emotional weight of this decision. Our free in-home assessments are conducted with empathy, focusing on your comfort and independence. We’ll work with you to find a stairlift that blends seamlessly into your home, preserving its aesthetic and your connection to it.

2. Preserving Community and Routine

Your neighborhood is part of your identity—whether it’s chatting with neighbors, visiting local shops, or attending community events. Moving to a new area can disrupt these connections, leading to feelings of isolation, especially for seniors. Staying in your home with a stairlift keeps your routine intact, helping you stay active and engaged in your community.

3. Reducing Stress and Fatigue

Moving is one of life’s most stressful events, involving packing, decluttering, and navigating the real estate market. For seniors or those with mobility challenges, the physical and emotional toll can be overwhelming. A stairlift, installed in a matter of hours, eliminates this stress. You can focus on enjoying your home rather than worrying about logistics.

4. Empowering Independence

A stairlift restores your ability to access every floor of your home, giving you back your independence. Whether it’s reaching your upstairs bedroom or basement laundry room, a stairlift ensures you can move freely without relying on others. This empowerment boosts confidence and quality of life, unlike moving, which may require adjusting to a new layout or community.

5. Energy for What Matters

Climbing stairs can be exhausting, leaving you with less energy for activities you enjoy, like gardening, socializing, or hobbies. A stairlift conserves your energy, allowing you to focus on what brings you joy. As one USA Medical Supply customer shared, “My stairlift gave me my house back—and the energy to keep up with my grandkids!”

Long-Term Considerations: Stairlifts vs. Moving

When planning for the future, it’s essential to consider how your decision will impact your finances, health, and lifestyle over time. Here’s how stairlifts and moving compare in the long term:

Stairlifts: A Cost-Effective, Flexible Solution

Lifespan: A new stairlift can last up to 10 years, and used models often provide 5–7 years of reliable service with proper maintenance.
Resale Value: If you no longer need your stairlift, USA Medical Supply may buy it back, depending on its age and condition, or you can sell it to a specialist firm for $200–$500.
Home Value: Stairlifts have a neutral impact on home value. They’re easily removable, leaving no significant damage, and can be a selling point for buyers with mobility needs.
Adaptability: If your mobility needs change, USA Medical Supply can adjust or upgrade your stairlift, ensuring it continues to meet your requirements.

Moving: High Costs and Uncertainty

Ongoing Expenses: A new home comes with continuous costs, including mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance, which can total $20,000–$50,000 annually depending on the home’s value and location.
Market Risks: If you need to sell the new home later (e.g., to move to assisted living), market fluctuations could result in a loss, especially if single-story homes lose demand.
Health Changes: A single-story home may not fully address future mobility needs. For example, you may still need ramps, lifts, or in-home care, negating the initial benefits of moving.
Emotional Adjustment: Adjusting to a new home and community can take years, and for seniors, this transition can impact mental health and well-being.

By choosing a stairlift, you avoid these uncertainties while maintaining the flexibility to adapt your home as your needs evolve. USA Medical Supply’s in-house service team ensures your stairlift remains functional, and our financing options make it easy to plan for the long term.

Why Choose USA Medical Supply?

At USA Medical Supply, we’re not just a retailer—we’re your partner in regaining independence. Our comprehensive, in-house services set us apart, making the process of getting a stairlift seamless and stress-free. Here’s what you can expect when you choose us:

1. Free In-Home Assessments

Every staircase and user is unique, which is why we offer free, no-obligation in-home assessments. Our certified consultants visit your home to:

Measure your staircase for a precise fit.
Assess your mobility needs, including weight capacity and physical abilities.
Recommend the best stairlift model, whether straight, curved, or outdoor.
Provide a transparent quote with no hidden fees.

To schedule your free assessment, call (413) 733-7843 or text (413) 200-4191. Our West Springfield, MA showroom is also open for you to test-ride top brands like Bruno and Harmar.

2. Expert In-House Installation

We never outsource installation. Our trained technicians handle every step, ensuring your stairlift is installed safely and correctly in less than a day. We follow strict safety standards, and our installations are backed by a 1-year warranty on service and parts for used stairlifts and comprehensive warranties for new models.

3. Top-Quality Brands

We carry industry-leading stairlifts from Bruno, Harmar, and Access BDD, known for:

Durability: Built to last up to 10 years with minimal maintenance.
Safety Features: Swivel seats, safety belts, and obstruction sensors.
Comfort: Ergonomic seats and smooth operation.
Power Backup: Battery-powered models like the Pinnacle SL600 provide up to 60 cycles during outages.

4. Flexible Options

New Stairlifts: Starting at $2,500 for straight models, with financing available.
Used Stairlifts: Save over $1,000 with our certified refurbished models, backed by a prorated warranty.
Rentals: Starting at $200/month, with a rent-to-own option.
Buyback Program: We may purchase your stairlift back if it’s in good condition, helping you recoup some costs.

5. Ongoing Support

Our in-house service team provides maintenance, repairs, and support to keep your stairlift running smoothly. We’re just a phone call away at (413) 733-7843, ensuring you never feel stranded.

6. Community Trust

Based in West Springfield, MA, USA Medical Supply is New England’s #1 rated supplier of stairlifts, CPAP machines, mobility equipment, and more. Our commitment to customer care and quality has earned us a loyal customer base. Visit our showroom at 1779 Riverdale Street, West Springfield, MA 01089, or email us at info@usamedicalsupply.com to experience the USA Medical Supply difference.

Addressing Common Concerns About Stairlifts

You may have questions or hesitations about installing a stairlift. Here, we address common concerns to help you feel confident in your decision:

1. Will a Stairlift Fit My Staircase?

Yes! USA Medical Supply’s stairlifts are designed for virtually any staircase, including narrow, curved, or spiral stairs. Our free in-home assessments confirm fitment, and our compact models, like the Pinnacle SL300, work in tight spaces.

2. Is a Stairlift Safe?

Absolutely. Our stairlifts feature safety belts, swivel seats, obstruction sensors, and battery backups to ensure safe operation, even during power outages. Professional installation by our certified technicians guarantees reliability.

3. Can I Afford a Stairlift?

With prices starting at $1,500 for used models, financing at $59.25/month, and potential grants, stairlifts are affordable for most budgets. Our free assessments provide transparent pricing, and our rental options offer flexibility for short-term needs.

4. Will a Stairlift Damage My Home?

No. Stairlifts are installed on the stair treads, not walls, and removal leaves minimal marks, often hidden by carpet pile. Our technicians ensure a clean, non-invasive installation.

5. What If I Don’t Need It Forever?

USA Medical Supply’s rental and buyback programs provide flexibility. If you no longer need the stairlift, we may purchase it back, or you can sell it to a specialist firm.

Real Stories: How Stairlifts Changed Lives

At USA Medical Supply, we’ve helped countless customers regain their independence with stairlifts. Here are two real-life examples:

Mary, 78, Springfield, MA: “After my knee surgery, I couldn’t climb the stairs to my bedroom. I thought I’d have to sell my home of 40 years. USA Medical Supply’s free assessment showed me a used straight stairlift was all I needed. It cost $2,000, and now I’m back in my bedroom, surrounded by my memories. The installation was done in a few hours, and the team was so kind!”
John, 65, Hartford, CT: “My curved staircase made me think a stairlift would be too expensive. USA Medical Supply recommended two straight stairlifts instead, saving me $5,000 compared to a curved model. I rented for three months to try it out, then bought it with my rental payments applied. I’m staying in my home, and I couldn’t be happier.”

These stories highlight the affordability, flexibility, and emotional benefits of choosing a stairlift over moving. Let us help you write your own success story—schedule your free assessment today at (413) 733-7843.

Alternatives to Stairlifts and Moving

While stairlifts and moving are the primary options, other solutions exist. Here’s how they compare:

Home Renovations: Adding a first-floor bathroom or bedroom can cost $50,000–$100,000, far more than a stairlift, and requires weeks of construction.
Residential Elevators: These cost $20,000–$50,000 and require significant space and structural changes, making them less practical for most homes.
Assisted Living: The average cost of assisted living is $3,628/month ($43,536/year), far exceeding the one-time cost of a stairlift.
In-Home Care: Hiring aides to assist with stairs or daily tasks costs $4,000–$6,000/month, making stairlifts a more economical long-term solution.

None of these alternatives match the affordability, speed, or simplicity of a stairlift from USA Medical Supply. Our free assessments help you explore all options to find the best fit for your needs and budget.

Tips for Choosing the Right Stairlift

To ensure you get the perfect stairlift, follow these tips from USA Medical Supply’s experts:

Schedule a Free Assessment: Our consultants evaluate your staircase and mobility needs to recommend the best model. Call (413) 733-7843 to book yours.
Consider Your Budget: Decide between new, used, or rental options. Our financing and rent-to-own programsmake stairlifts accessible.
Test Before You Buy: Visit our West Springfield showroom to try top brands like Bruno and Harmar.
Check for Grants: Ask about Disabled Facilities Grants or VAT exemptions to reduce costs.
Plan for Maintenance: Choose a provider like USA Medical Supply with in-house service to keep your stairlift in top condition.

Final Thoughts: Choose Freedom with USA Medical Supply

When faced with the challenge of navigating stairs, the decision to install a stairlift or sell your home for a single-story house is deeply personal. However, the evidence is clear: a stairlift from USA Medical Supply is a smarter, cheaper, and less disruptive solution. With costs starting at $1,500, compared to $73,500–$256,000 for selling and moving, a stairlift saves you tens of thousands while preserving your home, memories, and independence. Our free in-home assessments, expert installation, and top-quality brands like Bruno and Harmar ensure you get a reliable, tailored solution that fits your needs and budget.

Don’t let stairs limit your life. Take the first step toward freedom by contacting USA Medical Supply today. Call (413) 733-7843, text (413) 200-4191, or visit our showroom at 1779 Riverdale Street, West Springfield, MA 01089. Let us help you stay in the home you love—safely, comfortably, and affordably.

Ready to explore your options? Schedule your FREE in-home assessment now and discover why USA Medical Supply is New England’s #1 choice for stairlifts!