Finances

The homesteader will have more well rounded wealth: some in land, in home, in skills, and in connection.

Values

Value

Values

Value

Values

Value

Values

Value

Values

Value

Get the Balance Right

Over the years, we’ve said no to real estate investors that want maximum density, and we’ve been rejected by prospective tenants who chose a lower pad price elsewhere only to return later with horror stories of false promises and cut corners.

We’ve worked hard to find a model that is both accessible and representative of real costs, while factoring in upfront the practical tools and nice-to-haves that are on everyone’s wish lists.

In full transparency, this is the price of admission (see here for a reputable comparable) – anchored by each of our four core values. Cheaper than most MLS listings, faster than bare land opportunities, better kitted than any backyard setup, and rich with opportunities for social well-being.

Permaculture

Joining Fee

$10,000 per household

This initial nonrefundable fee is a down-payment on the Resilient Infrastructure Levy (RIL), which goes towards long-lead utilities work (e.g. transformer, well). The Joining Fee indicates your serious interest in moving to Big Calm and let's you pick your favourite pad.

Resilience

Infrastructure

Wheels: +$15,000
Foundation: +$35,000

This nonrefundable RIL goes towards the purchase and installation of the shared solar array, backup batteries, gravity-fed fire suppression cistern, geothermal loop and core DwellDock sheds, as well as the permitting and helical piles for Foundation units.

Community

Membership

$500 per adult

This is the one-time, redeemable cooperative membership fee.
The co-op will later determine a monthly operating fee – likely around $500 – that covers taxes, insurance, common utilities, and funds for contingencies and special projects.

Cooperative

Equity

Wheels: $125,000
Foundation: $175,000

This amount represents your 1/10th share in Big Calm – including land title and access to all of its permaculture delights, resilient infrastructure, and community amenities. With some stipulations, it may be bequeathed or sold when the time comes to leave.

Disclaimer: This is not yet an offering for sale. Any such offer can only be made after filing a disclosure statement.

House Financing

Pro-built tiny houses typically cost between ~$100k - $350k. Some builders, such as Mint, Minimaliste, and Teacup, offer financing for their models. More generally, nearby StellerVista Credit Union is openly supportive of tiny house living – contact Devon Solberg at 1-866-960-6666 to discuss chattel financing options.

Equity Buy-in

As an option for younger members or those living in their equity, our plan is for the co-op to offer VTB (vendor takeback) financing on the last $50k of your equity buy-in; a favourable interest rate paid monthly to the co-op for up to 6 years. This reduces the upfront equity purchase to $75k. Let us know when we meet if this may be helpful for you.