WHAT IS POLITICS? 16.1 – A Realistic Solution to the Forever Housing Crisis (make it happen!)
Dec 16, 2025
The discussion tackles innovative solutions to the housing crisis, emphasizing the power of no-equity cooperatives. A real-life example showcases affordable living conditions in Montreal, presenting a model that can be replicated. Barriers like high land costs and financing options are tackled, proposing a government role in funding co-ops. Ideas like converting rentals into co-ops and managing inflation through government strategies highlight the practicality of these solutions. Ultimately, it's a call to action for communities to embrace cooperative housing.
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Artist Living In Deeply Affordable Unit
- Khosrow lives in a two-bedroom in Plateau Mont Royal and pays $435–$600 per month for a unit valued at market rent around $1,750.
- Daniel uses this real example to show no-equity co-ops deliver deep affordability in desirable neighborhoods.
How No-Equity Co‑ops Actually Work
- No-equity housing cooperatives give residents owner-like control without equity or resale profit.
- The cooperative itself legally owns buildings and members manage and fund operations collectively.
Use Public Seed Capital, Repaid By Members
- Get government to front initial capital because tenants lack down payments to buy or build co-ops.
- Make the program revenue-neutral by repaying the state through members' monthly fees over time.