Applying for Co-ops

A housing co-op is different than other forms of affordable housing. Here is some basic information about co-op housing.

• Co-ops are collectively owned by the members. You become a member upon moving into the co-op.
• You will be required to pay a monthly housing charge to the co-op, but you do not own your unit.
• Co-ops are governed by the members of the co-op. Each co-op holds an annual general meeting (AGM) and elects a board of directors from its membership to help govern the co-op. Along with volunteer committees, the board oversees the management of the co-op.
• Members are required to participate in their co-op. Members participate by joining one of the co-op’s volunteer committees, attending meetings and supporting the operations of the co-op.
• Because co-ops are a form of affordable housing, housing subsidies may be available to some members. There is process for qualifying and not all members are eligible to receive a housing subsidy.

If you are thinking about applying to a co-op, please first consider whether or not you are prepared to give some volunteer time to the co-op.

For more information about co-ops check out CHF Canada’s web page or go to directly to http://www.chfc.ca/eng/chf/about_1_1.htm