Norman, who doesn't use speech to communicate, is a warm, gregarious person who enjoys a full social life. Although Norman became involved in a community life and made many friends, there were disadvantages to apartment living. Norman, with the help of his brother ( who is also Norman's guardian), his support team, and the project coordinator, found a house which was easily made accessible, had a large yard with suitable garden space, and was located in a friendly neighborhood.
Norman was pre-qualified for a $70,000 mortgage based on an agency budget which served as his income verification. His planning team used community resources such as church groups to find appropriate homes for Norman to see. Norman communicated his feelings about the homes he viewed by facial expression and finger gestures. Norman wanted to be close to social activities, transportation, and his weekly Bible study class, but his team found that homes with Norman's price range sold quickly. Homes that were affordable were either too remote or required extensive remodeling to be made accessible.
Norman had to expand the geographical area he would consider. Because the appraisal of the home he ultimately chose was only slightly over the purchase price, therefore lowering the loan-to-value ration, and because the rehabilitation and repairs cost over $10,000, Norman needed approximately $16,000 to close on his home. Because of the flexibility of the funds provided by the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority, he was able to access these funds, build a ramp, and attach a deck to his three bedroom ranch.
Norman now has barbecues with his neighbors and can visit his mother, who lives in a nearby nursing home. Frequently, Norman hosts parties, has joined a church nearer his home, and is installing a lift system in his house which will make him less depend upon the schedules of other people. Norman often host visitors interested in the project, including last year, Eunice Kennedy Shriver.
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