Methodology
How We Work
Shared living projects fail in the "messy middle"—the gap between the dream and the keys. Here is exactly how we bridge that gap.
1
Phase 1
Feasibility & Truth-Finding
1-2 Months
Before we draw a single line, we determine if your dream is legally and financially possible.
Key Deliverable
The Feasibility Report: A clear Go/No-Go recommendation and roadmap.
Common Pitfall
"Falling in love with a piece of land before checking if the Conservation Authority will let you build on it."
Our Role
Your Role
What We Handle
- Analyze municipal zoning bylaws specifically for multi-unit potential.
- Assess servicing capacity (septic/well/hydro) to prevent costly surprises.
- Create a 'Rough Order of Magnitude' budget including soft costs.
- Facilitate the 'Money Talk' to align the group on financial contribution.
What You Need To Do
- Gather your group and have the initial 'are we serious?' conversation.
- Collect financial documents to determine liquid cash vs. borrowing power.
- Be honest about your 'non-negotiables' (privacy needs, pet peeves).
- Provide site info (if you own land) or target regions (if you don't).
We act as the quarterback for the entire project. / You provide the vision and the decisions.
2
Phase 2
Design & Legal Structure
4-6 Months
We design the buildings and the legal agreements in parallel, so they actually match.
Key Deliverable
Architectural Plans & Signed Co-Ownership Agreement.
Common Pitfall
"Designing a massive compound first, then realizing the bank won't finance it because it looks like a commercial resort."
Our Role
Your Role
What We Handle
- Manage the architectural design process (schematics to design development).
- Coordinate with lawyers to draft the Co-Ownership Agreement.
- Model 'Exit Strategies' (valuation formulas) for future scenarios.
- Balance the budget against the wish-list (Value Engineering).
What You Need To Do
- Make lifestyle decisions (e.g., 'Do we really need two full kitchens?').
- Review and sign legal agreements.
- Select finishes and materials (with our guidance).
- Attend bi-weekly design review meetings.
We act as the quarterback. / You provide the vision.
Approvals & Red Tape
3-12 Months
We fight the bureaucracy so you don't have to. Deliverable: The Building Permit (The Green Light).
Construction & Governance
12-18 Months
We build the physical house while helping you build the 'social house'. Deliverable: Occupancy Permit & Keys to your new life.
Why The "Standard Way" Fails
Most people try to build a village using a process designed for a single-family home. Here is why that doesn't work.
The Traditional Path
- 1Buy land firstOften realizing later it's not zoned for multiple units.
- 2Hire an ArchitectThey design a beautiful building that you can't get financing for.
- 3Call a Lawyer at the endTrying to "paper over" disagreements that have already started.
The SharedRoots Path
- 1Feasibility & Finance FirstWe prove the numbers work before you buy or build.
- 2Integrated DesignLegal structure and Architecture are designed together.
- 3Relationship GovernanceWe build the systems for how you'll live together, not just the walls.
Ready to see where you stand?
You don't need to have this entire roadmap figured out. You just need to take Step 1.
Book a Feasibility Call