Resources
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Forging Mutual Futures – Co-operative…
This study by the Centre for Urban & Regional Studies explores the potential of housing cooperatives and mutual models to address these issues in the UK. It reviews past cooperative housing efforts, identifies factors affecting their success and sustainability, and assesses the potential of expanding these models to provide affordable, sustainable housing solutions.Read More
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How-To Guide: Starting a Housing…
The Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada guide provides a step-by-step approach to starting a housing cooperative. Key stages include organizing a core group, establishing a vision, understanding co-op housing legislation, choosing a model, seeking support, and working with consultants.Read More
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International measures to channel investment…
This Western Australian Government report reviews Austria's financing model for affordable housing, focusing on limited-profit housing associations and Housing Construction Convertible Bonds (HCCBs). Austria’s model leverages low-interest loans, subsidies, and private investment to keep housing costs down. The report recommends Australia explore similar strategies to enhance affordable housing through stable subsidies, support for low-income access, and competitive land development.Read More
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The 13-story beige brick building in Manhattan's Midtown East neighborhood, owned by a #cooperative, is unique due to its residents electrifying its heating and cooling system.
Meet one of NYC’s first housing co-ops to electrify heating and…
ow.ly
The 1962 building hit its emissions reduction targets well ahead of Local Law 97's first reporting deadline on May 1. Here’s how.
What does sustainable living really look like in action?![]()
Across the world, housing cooperatives are proving that practical, community-driven solutions work.![]()
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They’re cutting energy use, installing renewables, managing waste smarter, and turning shared land into productive gardens. These aren’t pipe dreams—they’re real-world examples of people improving how we live together.![]()
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Sustainability here isn’t a buzzword—it’s a way of building stronger, fairer, more resilient communities.![]()
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Want to see how? Take a look at how co-ops are doing it right. www.housinginternational.coop/sustainability-in-housing-coops/![]()
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#CooperativeHousing #SustainableLiving #CommunitySolutions #IYC25 #GreenFuture
E-bulletins
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Spring 2024
The Spring 2024 newsletter highlights the significant benefits of community gardens within housing cooperatives around the globe. They provide a wide array of advantages including fostering community bonding, promoting mental well-being, providing access to fresh produce, and supporting sustainable practices. We also provide updates on a few CHI Initiatives such as the CHI Board meeting in Berlin, the legal research initiative on housing cooperative law and more....Read More
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December 2023 E-bulletin
Read about CHI's first interview in the pilot phase of the International Legal Research Analysis Initiative (ILRAI), the International Financing of Young Housing Cooperatives in Central and Eastern Europe workshop, the latest Coop Conversations podcast episode with ROC USA, a summary of Victoria Falls Housing Coop in Zimbabwe and more....Read More
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November 2023 E-bulletin
Our November newsletter is here! Discover more about our upcoming legal research project, our participation in the Global Innovation Coop Summit, a profile of re-elected board member Mike Duru and much more! Read More
What is a Housing Cooperative?
What is Cooperative Housing?
Housing cooperatives are jointly-owned, democratically-controlled enterprises designed to meet the common economic, social, and cultural needs of their members.
Why Become a Member of Cooperative Housing International?
CHI is a mutually supportive community of cooperative housing federations and associations in over 70 countries. Join Cooperative Housing International (CHI) and become part of the international cooperative movement.
How Housing Co-ops are Mitigating Climate Change
Environmental protection and good business practices go hand in hand. Housing cooperatives around the world are leading the way with sustainability initiatives.
Housing Co-ops for Sustainability
Co-op housing communities worldwide are building a more sustainable future by working towards meeting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This blueprint sets out targets for achieving a more equitable and sustainable future.
What's the Legal Framework of Cooperative Housing?
A cooperative is a legal entity owned and democratically controlled by its members.
How Do Housing Co-ops Keep Rent Affordable?
Cooperative housing is designed to keep housing affordable and operates on a non-profit basis.
How Does Cooperative Housing Compare with Other Models?
When you join a housing co-op, you become part of a democratic community. You join a housing co-op by purchasing shares of the co-op that owns the property. As a member of a co-op, you’re an indirect owner.
Benefits of Cooperative Housing
Housing co-ops welcome many different people, including those of different cultural backgrounds, diversities, and income levels. Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting their policies and making decisions.
Who is Cooperative Housing for?
Cooperative housing is great for people who want to take an active role in their community. Everyone is welcome in cooperative housing. Some co-ops are focused on providing housing for lower-income individuals, some are family-oriented, others are focused on seniors.
How Do I Start a Housing Co-op?
So, you want to start a housing cooperative? Where do you begin? First, gather your core group of members and define your goals. Then decide which co-op model is best for you. Different models are available depending on the country you are in.
Advantages of Being Part of the Wider Global Movement
Tap into a worldwide support network, accessing news, research, global best practices, education, expertise, and advice. Not to mention being part of a community of over 3 million cooperatives representing over 1 billion members!