Few agents, lenders, or brokers can communicate in sign language, forcing reliance on interpreters who may not always be provided. On top of that, closing documents are full of legal jargon. Without clear, accessible communication, deaf/HoH clients risk signing documents they don’t fully understand. In some scenarios, interpreters aren’t offered at all, or those provided aren’t trained in legal terminology as to their qualifications. The process is often rushed. Without accommodations like interpreters, CART captioning, or written explanations, the deaf and HOH can feel pressured to sign quickly without clarity. Then, there are side conversations between lenders, agents, and attorneys who may exclude the deaf/HoH client(s), undermining their participation and trust. With AI today, many e-signature platforms, remote notary systems, and lender portals aren’t designed with accessibility in mind (limited captioning, no video relay integration, etc.). Or worse, some professionals may see accommodations as an “inconvenience” rather than a right, creating friction and distrust at the table, in their lack of empathy. In this episode, Angelina Carleton speaks with Maria Gallucci about growing up with two deaf parents and helping them buy their first home at age 12. As a CODA (child of a deaf adult), Maria learned the weight that the deaf and HOH (hard of hearing) carry as well as how to read facial expressions, body language, lips from a distance and a room. Tune in to hear how Maria’s experiences are changing the residential real estate industry and how you too can bridge the gap between the deaf/HOH with the hearing communities. Plus, how Maria’s core values not only feed her soul but her legacy plan as well! - Maria serves on boards for Rocky Mountain Deaf School, DOVE, and Colorado Association of the Deaf. Her motto "just try" reflects her belief that meaningful connection starts with one small step. Her debut book Raised in Silence is both a love letter to the Deaf & Hard of Hearing community and a guide for bridging communication gaps. Learn more at: https://www.compass.com/agents/maria-gallucci/ and https://bit.ly/mariagallucci. - At Legacy Planning©, we work with rising entrepreneurs, wealth creators, and family stewards who are ready to turn their success into lasting contribution. Our co-active coaching and advisory services help you clarify what truly matters—beyond balance sheets and the four corners of a document. We guide you in aligning your values, relationships, and influence into a living legacy you can lead with confidence today, and pass on with intention tomorrow. Whether you're navigating a personal transition, succession planning, or seeking deeper meaning after financial success, we provide the structure and space to ask life's most important question: What will you leave in the hearts and hands of others? Because legacy isn’t what you leave behind—It’s how you show up now. - Looking for a meaningful gift for the visionary in your life? Give the gift of clarity, purpose, and legacy with a personalized coaching session from Design Your Legacy©. Perfect for birthdays, milestones, or major life transitions—this gift card opens the door to deeper impact and intentional living. www.angelinacarleton.com/gift-card Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/design-your-legacy-life-lessons--6631446/support.
