Title

Determining the Utility of Neighborhood Landlord Cooperatives

Author

Ronda Dunham, Concordia University, St. Paul

Date

2001

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Chairperson (Advisor 1)

Dr. Kimora Kachelmyer

Reader (Advisor 2)

Todd Patton

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to discover the utility of neighborhood landlord cooperatives. Original research was gathered through a quantitative survey with minimal opportunities to add qualitative responses. The survey was given to landlords in the Twin Cities who rent no more than four units and live in the same building. Landlords were asked about tools or formal processes they currently use, their understanding of legal obligations and their opinions related to the landlords role as a leader in the community they live and rent in. The survey also asked if a landlord cooperative or a barter network for landlord services would be useful. Over 90% of the landlords indicated they would be interested in a landlord cooperative and 86% would participate in a barter network. The specific services desired were legal advice, tool exchange and repair resources. Respondents were closely divided when asked if a landlord should be an active leader in their community. It was determined that the most beneficial cooperative would allow participants to be relatively inactive but still give them access to needed resources. The first neighborhood cooperative would be started in Northeast Minneapolis in an effort to meet the overall needs of the landlord and the community.

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