Understanding co-ops can help you make the best home-buying decision

By Dean CottrillDean Cottrill is president of the Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Mid-Atlantic region. If you’ve been in the market for a home in the Washington, D.C. area, chances are you’ve run across some listings for co-ops. It’s also possible that, like many people, you might not be exactly sure what a co-op is – which may have turned you away from considering them. The good news is that co-ops are fairly easy to understand, and taking a minute to learn about them can help you feel more comfortable with all of your housing options so you can make the best buying decision.