Co-operative

Co-operatives are voluntary associations in which members pursue a common goal and operate a business together. In the real estate context, there are building co-operatives or housing co-operatives, who take care of the construction and maintenance of affordable housing for their members. The rental prices for members are generally lower than for regular apartments.

To obtain a co-operative apartment, a member must buy shares instead of paying a deposit. This makes them part-owners of the co-operative, and they also receive profit distributions if the co-operative earns money. However, the focus is solely on the common welfare of the members.