The Vintage Cooperative of Ankeny began its eighth year of operation in January of 2025. As the members of the housing cooperative have aged, so have the facilities. During the time span, needs and wishes have arisen to add enhancements, replace appliances, and make repairs to the communal areas and individual homes.
When members wish to add enhancements, they will assess interest and request donations to the Cooperatives “Thankful Fund” to finance them. If a member has an appliance that quits working or has an issue in their home that requires repair, they may submit a maintenance request. The monthly maintenance fee covers the costs for replacement or repair. It is also possible for a member to want an upgrade feature to their home, done at their expense.
Examples of improvements:
The Cooperative did not have a pool table when it opened. The “Thankful Fund” has financed a pool table, furniture, and art for the Fireside Lounge. Another big enhancement was the installation of a large screen television and sound system for entertainment purposes. A more recent addition was the Rowing Machine to the Fitness Room. The Thankful Fund automated the basement/garage hinged door. The Thankful Fund is currently looking for a new project.
Maintenance of the Common Areas and Member Homes
Sometimes things need cleaning or replacing. Over time the elevator carpeting became stained and worn requiring extra work for the housekeeper. The carpet was replaced with vinyl flooring due to its lower maintenance requirements and greater durability.
One of the security features of the cooperative’s main entry vestibule is a Door King entry panel that opens the front door based on a code or by calling a member that can let you in. This model uses a cellular connection rather than an old plain telephone line. It replaced a unit that failed. In the case of an appliance if the cost to repair is comparable to buying new the Cooperative can replace an item like a clothes dryer.
Can a member buy a home upgrade at their own expense?
The answer is yes. A member wanted a microwave oven with an air fryer feature built in. After permission, the members purchased and arranged installation. An occasional option exercised is an upgraded refrigerator.
If you are interested in learning more about owning a cooperative home call the Cooperative’s Office at 515-205-6360 and arrange a tour with the office manager. Vintage Cooperative is located at the corner of 1250 SW Magazine Rd and SW Westview Drive, near the Theaters on Magazine Rd in Ankeny.