Several years ago, Grand Junction residents Paul and Brenda Hyde were ready for a change. They wanted a home that required less upkeep without giving up their independence. They weren’t alone.

Elaine Murray was living on Mackinac Island, Michigan, and considering a move to Grand Junction to be closer to her daughters. 

Bonnie Harris and her husband were also looking to downsize.

But they found limited options.

Traditional retirement communities often came with high costs and ongoing maintenance. Independent living communities, with structured meals and services, didn’t appeal to these active seniors. They wanted a community where they could live among their peers and avoid the burdens of homeownership, all without breaking the bank. 

They found it at Village Cooperative of Grand Junction.

Built for residents 62 and older, the development at 621 26 1/2 Road includes 62 units, a parking garage, fitness room, shared spaces and on-site maintenance. 

The biggest advantage was affordability. As a co-op, prices ranged from the low $100,000s to the low $200,000s—far less than a typical condo or house—and monthly costs were low enough to fit within a fixed income.

WHAT IS COOPERATIVE LIVING?

A cooperative is a not-for-profit corporation owned and operated by its members. Each member purchases an equity share and pays a monthly fee that helps cover maintenance, management, common areas and grounds. That structure helps keep costs lower while giving residents many of the tax benefits of homeownership. 

“We have a board of directors made up of residents, and we all have a say in what happens in our community,” said resident Paul Hyde. 

“I love it here. We’ve made so many friends,” said Brenda Hyde, 86. “We couldn’t be happier.”

The building includes a secure entrance, shared spaces, reading areas, an exercise room, garden plots and a heated garage with a dedicated car wash bay. A well-equipped workshop in the garage gives residents access to tools and space for projects or hobbies.

 

 Residents can reserve the full kitchen and spacious dining area for gatherings including family reunions. A guest suite is available for rent when family comes to visit.

“We don’t serve meals like an independent living community,” said Brenda. “But we do use the kitchen when we have parties or potlucks.”

LESS UPKEEP, MORE LIVING

Bonnie Harris said the maintenance-free lifestyle has been a relief, not only for her but for her family.

“Our kids are glad we’re here,” said Harris, 83. “They know we’re not doing things we shouldn’t, like getting on ladders. We have so many friends here, and we look out for each other.”

Residents can participate in a range of activities, from guest speakers and classes to book clubs, travel groups and weekly social gatherings.

Jim and Karen Carr moved from Thornton in 2023 after joining the waiting list years earlier.

“We got on the list as soon as we heard about it,” said Jim. “We really love it here. It reminds me how many good people there are today.”