If you want to live in cohousing (senior or intergenerational), is it better to join an existing community or try to develop one from the ground up? While the answer may seem obvious in terms of which is easier, people who are attracted to cohousing “often want to be part of creating the dream,” says Jim Leach, founder of Silver Sage Village Senior Cohousing in Boulder, CO. “But if you really want to lower the financial risk, the best thing you can do is buy into a community that’s already established or nearing completion,” he says.

A 2022 article published on Kiplinger.com, “Retirees: Cohousing is Growing. Is it Right for You?” by Susan J. Wells talks about some of the requirements and risks of developing a cohousing community. It advises retirees who are looking at cohousing to take the time to understand and vet communities that interest them. Following are some things to focus on.

• Understand what cohousing is. You can get good information right here on cohousing.org
• Explore before you make decisions. Cohousing communities vary in size, location (e.g., whether urban, small town or rural), design, cost, governance, and participation expectations. You can request a site tour to get a feel for a community and have a chance to ask questions. Then, if you’re really interested, there may be other steps you can take, such as getting on the community’s waiting list. That may allow you to attend some community events, learn how the community works and get to know people.
• Learn about the financial and legal structure. Ask to see the community’s bylaws and other documents. Ask questions about the budget, capital reserves, and financial institutions used. How are monthly homeowner dues determined?
• Ask about the project’s developer, architect and construction company. Get a sense of the expertise and experience of the various players. It’s also helpful to know the skill sets of the community’s founders and residents.
• Find out what kind of orientation is provided to buyers. Does the information mesh with your expectations? Are there any surprises? Make sure to ask questions about anything that’s not clear.
• Understand how the community is managed. What is the governance structure, and what are the participation expectations? How often do community members meet to discuss business and make decisions? Does the community have a guiding set of values?
• Who are the players? Find out about the community’s history, founders and some of the key members. Does the feel of the community fit for you?

The article this information is based is worth reading, because it’s a fairly in-depth look at the benefits and challenges of creating cohousing communities.

Upcoming events

July 20 — Seniors in Cohousing Q&A, an informal facilitated conversation for those who are interested in senior cohousing and/or senior living in intergenerational cohousing; 10 a.m. MST; repeats on the 20^th of each month; register here. Once registered, you’ll receive an email before the meeting with a link to join the call on Zoom.

August 10 — The Commons, a free monthly gathering for the cohousing curious and experts, too; 10 a.m. MST; repeats on the 10^th of each month; register here.

Nov. 2 — A Gathering on Collaborative Neighborhoods in Sacramento, CA. Start thinking about it now! A CohoUS regional conference “exploring innovative and people-powered ways to live in community.” Two days of tours before the conference — stay tuned for details soon.

CohoUS offers many live and on-demand courses on a wide range of topic related to cohousing. Peruse them here.

The Foundation for Intentional Community (FIC) also offers a range of on-demand and rerun online courses. Check them out here

Find out about becoming a CohoUS member here.

See the CohoUs mission and vision statement here.