Cohousing

So I'm listening to this radio show talk about the benefits of this new idea called "cohousing" And as the program goes on, and people are describing what it is, I think to myself, its a freakin "HOA" Looks like so many HOA's have a bad rap, developers are trying to sell people on the idea of "cohousing" which is the same thing, with the same problems, etc, etc.

Best part about the show is they allowed call-ins. A former owner of in the cohousing development, who used to help run meetings, and was very involved answered the question: I know you moved, but would you buy into another cohousing community again? He answered "No" Too many issues with people.

I laughed so hard.

You can find a description of cohousing here

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cohousing

where you would find

"Cohousing differs from standard condominium development and master-planned subdivisions because the development is designed by, or with considerable input from, its future residents. The design process invariably emphasizes consciously fostering social relationships among its residents."

and

"A non-hierarchical structure employing a consensus decision-making model is common in managing cohousing."

This sort of thing may not appeal to many. However I do not believe it is correct to equate it with an HOA or condominium. There is a certain flavor of 1960s idealism which seems to be quite out of step with America today.