How the Paths Work
Pathway to Equity advances three clear paths that show how permanent affordability and resident ownership are implemented across different property types and starting conditions.
In some contexts, resident ownership may include associated non-residential spaces—such as ground-floor commercial, community-serving, or productive uses—where control directly supports long-term residential stability.
Each path applies the same core principles through different development and ownership contexts.
PATH 1
New Construction
CLT + Cooperative
When does this apply?
When new housing is being developed from the ground up and long-term affordability and resident ownership are goals from the start.
Who initiates it?
A mission-aligned developer, public agency, or nonprofit partner—often in response to organized community advocacy—working with Pathway to Equity during pre-development.
What changes for residents?
Residents move in as stable tenants and, through good standing, transition into cooperative ownership with real governance power.
PATH 2
Adaptive Reuse
CLT + Cooperative
When does this apply?
When existing buildings face the loss of affordability due to expiring covenants, sale, or redevelopment pressure.
Who initiates it?
Nonprofits, public partners, or tenant groups—often organizing in response to expiring affordability, sale, or redevelopment pressure—seeking to preserve affordability and prevent displacement.
What changes for residents?
Tenants gain long-term security and a pathway to shared ownership, with the opportunity to participate in governance rather than remain perpetual renters.
PATH 3
Direct Ownership
CLT + Condos, Townhomes, Homes, or Farms
When does this apply?
When households or cooperatives are ready for direct ownership on CLT land—including small-lot homes, townhomes, condos, or agricultural parcels—or when post-disaster rebuilding gaps would otherwise force displacement or speculative sale, and long-term community stewardship is needed to keep owners in place.
Who initiates it?
Individual buyers or cooperatives, often working with land trusts, public partners, or recovery programs to structure resale-restricted ownership.
What changes for residents?
Residents own their homes or improvements directly, while the land remains in CLT stewardship—preventing speculation and preserving affordability for future generations.
Shared Principles
Permanent affordability, resident ownership, and accountable stewardship guide every project—applied differently depending on property conditions.
