Co-op Housing

The Co-Op Advantage

In a time when expensive 'luxury' apartments seem to be popping up on every corner, our member-run, democratic cooperatives have never been so important. Our residents are all equal parts of the whole, allowing our communities to take the shape their members envision. Residents are given the opportunity to join the Board of Directors, which is the governing body of the community.


We’re all here to learn. When you’re in school it is great to be engaged in community. There is no better way to participate in community than joining a cooperative, where everyone has a voice and everyone is valued. There is no obligation to be involved but many growth and leadership opportunities await for those who choose to step forward.

Common Questions About Co-Ops

  • What is Co-Op Housing?

    Co-op housing is member-controlled housing. Residents who live here are members, not “tenants”. Every year the membership elects a board of directors that governs the co-op. The board makes decisions regarding budget planning and building improvements in addition to planning social and cultural events for co-op members. Everyone can participate!

  • Will I be forced to do chores/maintenance or participate in activities?

    Because you live in your own apartment, there are no shared chores nor are you expected to do your own maintenance. In addition, although co-op residents are encouraged to get involved in co-op activities, you are not forced to participate if you don’t want to. The experience is what you make it!

  • How are rents so low compared to other apartments in the area?

    Housing co-ops operate at cost and only raise rents enough to cover operating expenses each year. This leads to lower rents. 

  • This sounds too good to be true - what's the catch?

    There is no catch! Co-op housing is a great alternative for people who have grown tired of the traditional landlord-tenant relationship and/or would like quality, close-to-campus housing without breaking the bank. Riverton Community Housing, as the management company, works directly with each board of directors to make sure the needs of the co-op and its members are met. If you have more questions about what it’s like to live in a housing co-op, please contact us.

    To learn more about co-ops, visit http://strongertogether.coop/food-coops/co-op-faqs-and-facts


  • What is the advantage to living in a co-op?

    The cooperative housing model engages members to cultivate a voice in operations, gain leadership experience and advocate for a stronger community.

Other Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the difference between Change of Occupancy and Sublet process?

    Change of Occupancy Process – This is the process Riverton uses when a qualified applicant replaces a current resident on their current lease. This process is also used to add additional roommates to a lease or to release current roommates from their lease.



    Sublet Process – This is the process Riverton uses when a qualified applicant temporarily resides in an apartment/unit. This process is used when a current residents leaves the apartment/unit temporarily, but returns and fulfills the remainder of the lease (i.e. a resident studying abroad for a semester).


    Both processes required applicants to complete the application and be approved prior to moving in/moving out.

  • When is the leasing season for Riverton Co-ops?

    Chateau- Chateau's leasing season begins normally around early Spring, with many leases and move ins beginning June 1st. Chateau residents are on a 12 month lease and then continue on to month to month leases. Their notice to vacate period is 58 days. 


    Fourth Street pre-leasing starts in November/December as the notice period is 240 days.  

     Brook Ave pre-leasing starts in December/January as the notice period is 180 days.  

    Cole Avenue Townhomes pre-leasing starts in June as the notice period is 90 days.

    Franklin, Marcy Park and Marshall Ave Co-op notice period is 58 days so we know our full availability for Fall/Winter by June.


     Leasing for these properties can be sporadic due to the varying notice periods, but the majority of our leasing season begins in late fall and late winter.




  • How do I access the residential portal?

    You should have received an email from Appfolio our new property management software.  If you did not receive it, please email office@riverton.org

  • Do you rent by the room?

    No, we do not rent by the room. All listed rents are the cost for the apartment, not per person or per room. We also do not offer roommate placement.

  • Where do I apply?

    Please use the "Contact Us" form in the area provided on this website. 



  • How much is the security deposit?

    Studios and 1BRs: $500

    2BRs: $750

    3BRs and 4BRs: $1000

    *Extra deposit may be requested at discretion of management if any requirements of Statement of Rental Policy Criteria are not met. Security deposit amounts are per apartment, not per person. 

  • How many people can live in an apartment?

    • Cole Townhomes: 2-bedrooms up to four people; 3-bedrooms up to five people.
    • Brook and Fourth Street Co-op: Studios & 1-bedrooms: up to two people; 2-bedrooms: up to four people; 3-bedrooms: up to five people.
    • All other buildings: Studios & 1-bedrooms: up to two people; 2 through 4-bedrooms: up to four people.

  • Do I have to be a student of the UofM?

    No, you do not need to be a student at the UofM to lease from Riverton Community Housing.