Laurel Nueces & Halstead Co-Ops

College Houses offers cooperative student housing in Austin, Texas, providing an affordable and community-driven living experience for students. The co-op model empowers residents, as they not only have a say in the house's policies and environment but also participate in decisions regarding rent payments through a democratic process. This unique structure aims to foster a sense of ownership and engagement among members, ultimately enhancing their experience in a campus community. The organization operates seven distinct co-op communities, each tailored to different living preferences and needs. These include shared-style co-ops, which feature private or double bedrooms, shared bathrooms, and communal kitchens often equipped with meal plans. Conversely, apartment-style co-ops offer private bedrooms and bathrooms along with shared kitchenettes, though without a meal plan. The average workload for residents is about four hours per week for shared-style and two hours for apartment-style units, which contributes to maintaining the community's operations and facilities. College Houses is committed to providing affordable housing options, particularly for students eligible for Income Verified (IV) spaces, designed for individuals earning below 50% of the median family income in the area. Members qualifying for IV spaces receive numerous benefits, including reduced rent and parking passes. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance housing affordability through programs such as the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) Density Bonus Program in Austin, which encourages developers to increase housing supply while maintaining affordability for low- and moderate-income renters. The application process for College Houses is straightforward and designed to be accessible, with no upfront commitment required until a lease is signed. Interested students can apply online, where they can choose preferred houses, receive updates during the application process, and expect a lease offer to be processed within a couple of days. This streamlined approach facilitates a sense of community and connectivity among residents, as they select from unique houses that match their preferences and circumstances. In summary, College Houses presents students with a cooperative living option that is not only affordable but also promotes a democratic environment. Through resident involvement, transparency in financial matters, and flexible accommodations, students can find a welcoming community that caters to their needs during their academic journey in Austin.