Rethinking value: insights from a scoping literature review of the principles and benefits of housing co-operatives

Current debates in housing research and policy often emphasise financial attributes, however housing systems also embody diverse social and environmental values. To advance a holistic understanding of economic and non-economic values, this study examines housing co-operatives, which are collectively managed forms of housing driven by coherent systems of principles. Using Arksey & O’Malley’s structured approach and PRISMA guidelines, 68 peer-reviewed articles were synthesised to explore co-operative housing values from the dual perspectives of principles and benefits. Findings reveal that co-operative values underpin democratic decision-making, economic contributions, and sustainability practices, resulting in positive outcomes such as social solidarity and environmental stewardship. Housing co-operatives, therefore, exemplify values promoting democratic participation, collective action, and sustainability. These insights offer lessons for prevailing housing models, suggesting a need to reconsider how value in housing is understood, researched, and pursued, moving beyond financial metrics to embrace broader principles and benefits.