In March 2021, Penni Alper and her son Harrison Gross set out to find progressive housing solutions for local communities and individuals with intellectual or developmental disorders (“IDD”). As an attorney, Penni has represented the largest lenders in the United States and has spent the last 30 years developing national programs supporting those with IDD. Harrison, who holds a business degree from Washington University in St. Louis and a J.D. from Emory Law, is a licensed attorney and real estate broker specializing in IDD housing models. Penni’s son and Harrison’s brother Sam Gross has Autism, and they have firsthand knowledge of the challenges that individuals face on the path to independence.
Aimed at enhancing the five spheres of development (Social, Physical, Emotional, Cerebral, and Sensitivity), Penni and Harrison formed SPECS Developments LLC to provide housing opportunities and specialized services to allow their clients to thrive. Within roughly one year of formation, SPECS Developments acquired and fully occupied three newly constructed rental properties in Atlanta and one four unit apartment complex in Clayton Missouri. In 2024, SPECS expanded to an additional property in East Atlanta Village. In 2025, Harrison Gross took over SPECS as the sole owner, while Penni Alper still serves the company in an advisory role.
Whether you or a loved one would like to begin the journey towards independence, SPECS Developments LLC can support you every step of the way.