Exploring Organizational Form in the Affordable Rental Housing Sector: A Comparative Case Study

In this study, we explore whether organizational form matters in the affordable rental housing sector. Using a comparative case study design and the theory of the non-profit firm, we look at two third sector organizations (a zero equity co-operative and a community-based non-profit) and a for-profit located in a Canadian province. We examine the expertise of the development teams, the resources harnessed to build the housing, the organizations’ missions, and the involvement of those living in the housing in its development and management. The two third sector organizations had less knowledge of housing construction and were able to harness in-kind contributions compared to the for-profit, and also pursued social missions, including supporting other organizations and sharing their experiences related to housing construction. The zero equity co-operative featured greater resident involvement in the development phase and the management of the housing compared to both the community-based non-profit and the for-profit.

Publication Date: 
2015
Publisher(s): 
hannon School of Business, Cape Breton University
Location: 
Canada