Many potential members ask about our investment process, so let’s pull back the curtain on how we evaluate and make investment decisions in our club.
Step 1: Initial Screening Every potential investment starts with basic criteria: location within the Lower Mainland, alignment with cohousing principles, and preliminary financial viability. This initial screening happens in our Investment Circle, where members with relevant expertise review opportunities.
Step 2: Deep Dive Projects that pass initial screening move to comprehensive analysis. We examine:
- Financial projections and assumptions
- Development timeline and risks
- Community aspects and social impact
- Environmental considerations
- Legal and regulatory requirements
Step 3: Member Review
The full membership receives detailed information packages and participates in structured discussions. We use our sociocratic process to ensure all questions and concerns are addressed thoroughly.
Step 4: Decision and Implementation Once we reach consent on an investment, we move efficiently to implement our decision, with clear accountability and regular progress updates to all members.
This systematic approach, combined with our collective expertise, helps us make sound investments while managing risk effectively.