What are the financial benefits of co-housing?
Other than the social interaction, other benefits of co-housing are financial and environmental. The cost of a home in a co-housing community can be significantly less that standard housing for a number of reasons. Typically, since the community is planned from the ground up, being “green” is top of mind. Shared space, resources, and infrastructure mean lower costs.
Smaller homes mean less upkeep and heating/cooling costs. Include the latest in insulation, triple-paned windows and materials and the cost savings can be significant. Because of the “green” techniques some communities are utilizing, only an estimated fifty dollars per month will be spent on heating and cooling per family.
What needs does co-housing meet?
Subsistence: Efficient homes with passive solar; access to garden produce; lots of home offices.
Protection: There are always meals, medical advice, and other support for those who are sick.
Affection: Good friends a one-minute walk away; many parties and celebrations.
Understanding: Skills and perspectives gained from neighbors, directly and via email and bulletin boards.
Participation: Each neighbor is a neighborhood citizen, making decisions about common property.
Leisure: Gardening, playing music, and sharing community meals are some leisure activities.
Creation: Neighbors co-design new landscaping, aesthetic features, and celebrations.
Identity: Strengths, passions and accomplishments are respected by neighbors.
Freedom: Each person “has a piece of the truth” and can safely express dissent and approval.
