What Makes a Co-House a Co-Home?

“I’ve built more and more trust in our capacity for creative problem solving. It’s very easy to get into a position where you feel like there are two options: I get what I want or I don’t get what I want. This group is really great at figuring out: Is there a third option that we haven’t thought about? The more you trust that we can do that as a group, the less scary it feels to voice a need that isn’t being addressed, to say that you need something different than the solution being put forward. Because you have increasing trust that we’ll figure something out together.”

Early in 2018, six friends pooled their resources, bought a house together in Toronto, and formed a small intentional community. A little over a year later, producer Chris and I went there to learn about their approach to creating a harmonious and supportive home. We toured the house and heard some renovation stories, then sat down to hear their reflections on living in community. You’ll hear about some of their strategies for getting to know each other (like “financial nudity”); how they resolve disagreements over things like whether to put in a new powder room; and what they believe is behind their success so far. There’s no magic formula, but there is a lot of insight on how to really get along with people, strengthen relationships, and have fun along the way.

Featuring Clarens Commons housemates Sabrina (who you may remember from episode 3!), Karim, Mandy, Val, and Alex.

Show Notes.

In Ontario, DUCA offers a “More Together” mortgage that allows for co-ownership by up to 6 people.

“It’s like a little Tool Library!”

The VICE article.

Tess Kawlinowski’s front page Toronto Star article on Clarens Commons.

“Barring a Station Eleven-type scenario”

Further articles and online resources passed along by Karim:

NOW Toronto: “Can't Afford a House in Toronto? Buy with a Friend” by Joanne Penhale.

PBS Newshour: “Cohousing communities help prevent social isolation”.

Video: Bianca Heyming, “Intentional Communities — 50% Less Hippie Than You'd Expect” from TEDxCardiff-by-the-Sea.

Canadian Cohousing Network.

The Cohousing Association of the United States.

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