My Multiple Sclerosis Home

Hi! My name is Diane Mitts. I am 53 years old and I have Multiple Sclerosis. I was diagnosed in 2008 and am blessed to still be able to work! For the last four years, I have worked full-time for Sweetser Mental Health as a Crisis Stabilization Counselor in Lewiston, Maine.

As we all know, the housing market is impossible. I have rented and lived in a 3rd-floor apartment in Lewiston for almost three years. My MS has progressed (slowly, YAY!!), but my ability to carry laundry, groceries, (even myself) up to the third floor has gotten bad!! I looked for a lower-level apartment, but that was a laugh. I couldn't find a one BR apartment in my range or in a safe neighborhood.

I don't qualify for Lewiston housing because I "am alone and make too much money" (REALLY?) I don't qualify for disabled housing because I have a job and am unwilling to quit working to get a handout.

With this in mind, I worked hard to clean up and raise my credit score. I tried for and was pre-approved for an FHA loan. YAY!! I looked at several houses in my range. Every time though, I was WAY outbid, or the place went "under contract" before I had a chance.

I recently found one in my range, put in an offer, and... IT WAS ACCEPTED!!!!

I'm SOOOO excited, but I'm scared silly too! The attached picture is the place. It's one level living, so no more third floor!! It has a ramp that would help with access for me, and the grab rails would help with my MS dizziness inside the house.

I managed to get my $1000 "earnest money" but was told I need a water test and HUD inspection. I also need the HUD appraisal. Then of course, there's the down payment and closing costs....

I'm WORKING on it, honest I am. Once I have it, I'll be able to make the payments. It's just that I thought I'd have time to get money together, and this has been so FAST, and more things need paying than I knew about. I am trying to raise $7,500. I tried to take some money out of my 403b, but was told no. I can't do all these starting payments and still keep my monthly payments paid. (car, phone, insurance, electric...)

ANY help would be SOOOO appreciated!!!! Thank you.... Diane