FAQs | Ravens Crossing Coho

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cohousing?

Cohousing (without a hyphen) is NOT, as many erroneously believe, Co-op housing where you don't own your unit. Ravens Crossing Cohousing is governed by the Strata Property Act in B.C. Legally it is a strata corporation, you can buy and own your unit. Practically, it is a neighbourhood concept that combines privately owned condo dwellings with smaller footprints AND shared resources, such as all the common spaces and amenities that are available to the residents.

Ravens Crossing Cohousing is a condo building that has a purpose designed environment, which encourages and invites everyone to contribute to and participate in activities that enhance community and connections. Cohousing strives to create a sense of a village, where neighbours know and support one another.

For more information, check out our resources page.

What makes Cohousing work?

Cohousing requires 3 key ingredients - social connections, effective management and communication, and efficient operation and maintenance.

Successful Cohousing requires good administration, financial and property management AND the social aspects of doing things together to build connections and relationships. Intentional community living relies on sharing leadership and responsibilities, communicating effectively and recognizing that all contribute to the health and wealth of the community.

It doesn't mean all is rosy all the time. Like any group, there will be differences and disagreements. One common guiding principle of Cohousing is that we agree to find ways to reach consensus, that you can live with a decision even though you may not agree 100%.

How are strata fees determined?

A hybrid formula is used at RCC to determine the strata fees for a unit. It is based on the size of a unit and equal entitlement (1/35). Strata fees are used to cover routine maintenance and operation of our property, and some utilities (e.g. local area network, hot water, etc.). Of course, the strata fees will fluctuate depending on the annual budget. Although RCC is only a few years old, our Contingency Reserve Fund is very healthy.

Is living in a Cohousing cheaper than normal condos?

Cohousing is not subsidized in Canada. Like a regular strata, units are sold and purchased at market values. In general, savings will come from shared resources or bulk buy. Often times, savings may come from recycled items, where an item may not be needed by a neighbour, its owner may offer it to the community at large on a first come first serve basis.

How many units are at RCC?

There are 35 units, ranging from 1, 2 to 3 bedrooms, some with dens and 2 bathrooms. They are all single floor, meaning no stairs! All units have south-facing patios or balconies, except for 3 units that have north-facing balconies.

How many parking spaces would I be entitled to?

One underground parking space is assigned to a unit, if required for the resident's own vehicle. Parking spaces are common property. Your parking space location can be changed upon annual review, depending on various needs, such as accessibility, EV charging, etc.

Are pets allowed?

Yes, each unit is allowed up to 2 small pets. Pets are NOT allowed to linger or stay in common spaces. You can pass through with your leashed pet in common spaces. You are responsible for cleaning up after your pets and pay for possible damage done in common spaces.

Is there EV charging on site?

Yes, the building is wired with EV charging for up to 10 EVs at this time. If you have an EV, you will be assigned to a parking spot where electrical outlet is available. EV charging capacity can be expanded in the future if needed. You can install a fast charger at your own expense assuming there is an available parking space and installation is compliant with the bylaws, protocols, and electrical requirement.

What is the difference between Cohousing and other condos?

What is unique about Cohousing living is that you are invited and encouraged to live and support your neighbours, get to know them, socialize with them, use your talents, skills and knowledge to contribute to taking care of our common spaces and resources. We learn together, socialize together and grow together as a community. Building these relationships makes Cohousing a unique and desirable neighbourhood concept.

Who looks after the building and infrastructure?

RCC has a property management company that helps with our Annual General Meetings, Special General Meetings and some financial services. Regular and routine building maintenance and gardening are currently undertaken, for the most part, by our able and talented residents, with help from outside contracted expertise as required (e.g. elevator maintenance, heat pump specialist, etc.). This helps to keep our strata fee lower.

Where did Cohousing come from?

Originally started in Denmark about 50 years ago, it was introduced to North America by the architect team, Charles Durrett and Kathryn McCamant, who published their book "Cohousing: A Contemporary Approach to Housing Ourselves" (1988). Cohousing is an alternative community development model where residents participate in the planning, development and construction of the structure and infrastructure, and after move-in, the operations of the community as a whole. The concept of Cohousing is gaining popularity in many countries. In B.C. alone, there are more than 10 such communities, and there are many more across Canada with some in the forming or development stages.

What opportunities can I get involved in to build community?

A big part of Cohousing is to make connections with your neighbours. Depending on your skills, talents, interests and availability, there are many ways to contribute to and participate in building community. Here are only but a few examples of activities, not exhaustive:

Common Meals - volunteer to help shop, prepare and cook a meal, or help with set up and clean up.
Gardening - rake leaves, mow the lawns, weeding, vegetable garden planting and caring, maintain gardening equipment and structures.
Snow Team - help with snow shovelling, reduce iciness on our side walks, exposed stairs and paths, and common property.

Maintenance - organize outside window washing, annual heat pump checks, cleaning outdoor areas, work bees.
Safety & Security - monthly fire alarm tests, Block Watch, nightly security checks and lock up.
Social and Fun Activities - movies and games nights, concerts, celebrations, exercises, outings.