Affordable Housing. Forever.
Community Land Trusts (CLTs) separate land from housing, keeping homes 40-50% below market in perpetuity. No speculation. No flipping. Just secure, affordable shelter for generations.
Housing price increase since 1979 vs. 40% wage growth
Below market forever in CLT homes
Foreclosures in Burlington CLT during 2008 crisis
What is a Community Land Trust?
A Community Land Trust (CLT) is a nonprofit that owns land and leases it to residents at affordable rates. You buy the house (or co-op shares), but the land stays in the trust forever—capping resale prices and ensuring perpetual affordability.
How it works: CLT buys land ($300K) via grants/bonds → You buy house only ($200K vs. $800K market) → Monthly lease fee $50-150 → When you sell, CLT caps your profit to keep next buyer's price affordable.
Traditional Housing (Speculation)
- ✗Prices rise 350% while wages stagnate
- ✗Billionaires flip homes for profit
- ✗Families priced out every generation
- ✗Foreclosures during recessions
CLT Housing (Permanence)
- 40-50% below market forever
- No speculation or flipping
- Affordable for next generation too
- Zero foreclosures (proven track record)
How to Launch a Community Land Trust
Build Coalition (Months 1-3)
Partner with tenant unions, housing advocates, churches, and local chapters. Need 20-30 core organizers.
Key allies: ACORN, co-op housing federations, municipal councillors
Incorporate Nonprofit (Months 4-6)
File as nonprofit corporation (federally or provincially). Draft bylaws ensuring community control, resale formulas, and democratic governance.
Secure Land (Months 6-18)
Request municipal land donations (surplus schools, parking lots). Crowdfund via community bonds. Apply for CMHC grants or speculation tax revenue.
Funding sources: Municipal donations, community bonds ($100-$5K/investor), vacancy tax revenue
Build or Convert Housing (Months 18-36)
Partner with co-op housing developers or convert existing buildings. Use fast-track zoning for social housing. Aim for 50-100 units in first phase.
“I bought my CLT home in Burlington for $180K when market rate was $450K. 15 years later, market's at $800K, but I'm still paying my affordable mortgage. My kids will inherit this security.”
— Maria T., Burlington
Burlington CLT resident since 2009
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I actually own my CLT home?
Yes. You own the house (or co-op shares) and can mortgage, renovate, and live in it like any homeowner. You lease the land from the CLT for $50-150/month, which covers property taxes.
Can I sell my CLT home and make a profit?
Yes, but capped. Most CLTs let you keep 25% of appreciation. Example: You buy for $200K, sell for $300K → You get $225K ($200K + 25% of $100K gain). This keeps next buyer's price affordable.
How is this different from co-op housing?
Co-ops are resident-owned buildings (you buy shares, not property). CLTs own land and lease to individuals/co-ops/nonprofits. Many CLTs partner with housing co-ops for maximum affordability.
Where do CLTs get funding to buy land?
• Municipal land donations (surplus public land)
• Community bonds (residents invest $100-$5K)
• CMHC co-investment grants
• Speculation/vacancy tax revenue
• Philanthropic foundations
Are there CLTs in Canada already?
Yes! Vancouver Community Land Trust, Cooper Institute (PEI), and dozens of co-op land trusts. Burlington, Vermont (just across the border) has the longest-running model—565 homes, zero foreclosures since 1984.
How long does it take to start a CLT?
18-36 months from coalition to first homes. Burlington took 3 years (1984-1987). Vancouver CLT launched in 2019, secured first land in 2021. Faster if your city donates land upfront.
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