Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why does the coop maintain a Wait List?
A. The cooperative maintains a wait list for individuals and couples that want to purchase a share in the cooperative soon or in the future. The reservation process is the first part of becoming an owner at Vintage Cooperative of Ankeny. When a unit becomes available the cooperative contacts those on the wait list in order of priority. Once all applicants have been given the opportunity to purchase and have waived the right to purchase, the unit goes on the open market. Declining does not remove or change your position on the list. Your name will remain in priority order for future interest. By joining the wait list an individual or couple can improve their odds when a unit becomes available. Becoming a future member requires a $300.00 refundable deposit. If you do not wish to retain this reservation priority, your deposit is fully refundable upon written request.
Q. What is the typical electric bill?
A. Based on Mid-American Energy budget billing the average bill would be between $45 and $60 per month. The size and location of a co-op home impacts the electric usage.
Q. Are phone jacks available if I want a land line?
A. Phone jacks are present in the living areas, bedrooms and dens. Century Link will bill you separately if you desire landline service. Most members rely on cell phones.
Q. What are the Pet policies?
A. Weight restriction for dogs is 35 lbs., unless otherwise approved by the Board of Directors. Dogs must be fully mature and housebroken. No more than two (2) cats or one (1) dog or one (1) dog and (1) cat will be allowed per unit. A pet deposit of $300.00 will be required for each dog or cat.
Q. Are there problems with noise?
A. Complaints about Noise rarely, if ever, occur. The building was designed to mitigate noise. It has materials on upper floors to deaden sound below. Residents on the upper floors have carpeted flooring in all areas except bathrooms and kitchens to reduce noise. There are insulated walls between units to further combat sound.
Q. Can I make modifications to co-op home?
A. Members can make some structural modifications to units with board of director approval. There are some modifications you can have performed without board approval. Items like adding or removing a ceiling fans, painting walls , or changing countertop would be examples.
Q. What Services and Utilities are covered by the Monthly Maintenance Fee?
A. The Monthly Maintenance Fee covers the following utility and service items: Water/Sewer, Natural Gas for Heat, Direct TV, Garbage/Recycling, and 100MB Internet. In addition the fee covers the cost to repair appliances and maintain the units HVAC system.