Small projects
This section provides guidance for very small collaborative housing redevelopments for two to four households. Most typically, they could be conversions of a single family dwelling or redevelopments of adjacent single dwelling blocks.
What’s unique about these projects?
These projects avoid some of the complexities of larger projects, but experience their own unique challenges. The financing and planning issues will differ, and they’re likely to be driven ‘hands on’ by residents rather than by teams of experts.
What are the challenges?
With the exception of ‘granny flat’ development, small-scale collaborative housing is not yet common in Australia and this brings a few challenges, particularly in terms of development approval, financing and navigating the legal issues around ownership. As planning authorities and banks become more familiar with it, the hope it is will become easier as there are many benefits it could deliver.
Here is an overview of how to make a small project happen:
Acquire Land
A member of your group may own land, as in the case of downsizers who want to redevelop the family home. Alternatively you may be a small group searching for property to buy together. Whatever the scenario, here are some key issues to consider. Learn more.
Secure finance
Whether you’re converting a property you own or buying property to develop in conjunction with other households, you’ll most likely need to secure finance. There are a number of issues to be aware of first. Learn more.
Know the legalities
Before you redevelop your home as collaborative housing or co-buy a site to redevelop with others, understand the legal implications. This page highlights some potential implications for personal finances and explores various options for setting up property ownership rights. Learn more.
Find a designer
It’s always advisable to seek the advice of a qualified designer or architect. Collaborative housing on a small block requires an additional dimension of skill, so it becomes even more important to find the right professional. Learn more.
Get development approval
It’s important to understand the planning legislation that applies to your site and whether it enables the type of development you want to create.. Learn more.
Agree on management
You’re just a few households who probably know each other well, but you need agreement on how you’ll make decisions, manage your small community and deal with conflict. Learn more.
Getting along
Prepare your group for the complexities of collaboration when they join, and know what to do when issues do arise. Learn more.