Housing cooperatives are jointly-owned, democratically-controlled enterprises designed to meet the common economic, social, and cultural needs of their members.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Cooperative housing is designed to keep housing affordable and operates on a non-profit basis.

A cooperative is a legal entity owned and democratically controlled by its members.

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.

Environmental protection and good business practices go hand in hand. Housing cooperatives around the world are leading the way with sustainability initiatives.

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.

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!