Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: Proposal: Market Study/Co-­‐Housing - feedback would be appreciated

[Sharon Villines (sharon]

On May 28, 2014, at 3:24 PM, Liz Ryan Cole <lizryancole [at] me.com> wrote:

> I am writing now because the developer we are working with (as a consultant) 
> has recommended we conduct a market study. 

We had a market study done a few years ago on the renovation of a theater. Not 
housing but my point is that it included a ton of information about all the 
theaters in DC, who goes to theater and arts events. A complete demographic 
analysis, etc. 

The person specialized in theaters and did studies for cities and theater 
owners all across North America. He and his staff spent two days in town 
interviewing city officials, theater owners foundations, actors, musicians, 
dancers, movie directors. Every category you can think of. The rest of the work 
was done from his offices in New York.

He projected population growth for the next 5-10 years. Income levels. It was a 
trove of information that would acquaint you with all the issues of real estate 
planning. Interview people and find someone who understands the new 
neighborhood movement. It isn't a secret. Lots of people are talking about it. 
If the person is worth their salt they will look up all the statistics on 
cohousing and new neighborhood movements. And call the principles of a sample 
of communities.

If you can find the right person, I think it might be very helpful and suggest 
many ideas.

Sharon
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Sharon Villines, Washington DC
"Giving back is the best marketing." Scott Harrison