One of the aims of the Co-op is to provide access to affordable housing. This is supported by Hometown Foundation. It is anticipated that the majority of housing in Owenstown will be affordable. Many homes will be sold at below market value with the Co-op holding an equity stake through its land ownership.
Buildings will be constructed from low-cost local materials and the scale of the project will also help keep down costs.
To meet the sustainable objectives, preference will be given to ‘low’ technology features such as high insulation, solar thermal power and heat recovery but individual homeowners and businesses will be able to add further renewable or efficiency features if they wish.
As part of the development of the town, homesteading will be fostered through the release of plots for self building, commissioned from local contractors or partially completed houses built for or by the Co-op for final fit out.