Who We Are
Better Futures Housing Trust (BFHT) acquires, develops and stewards co-ops and community-led housing and spaces. Our team of skilled industry leaders are aligned with our purpose and focused on creating and advocating for inclusive communities that members and residents are proud to call home. BFHT is a social-purpose non-profit organization fostering diverse and sustainable communities and initiatives for today and tomorrow.
Our History
BFHT began as an idea after observing that the ‘missing middle’ – individuals and families with good incomes could not afford to buy homes in B.C.’s urban areas.
To get the missing middle quickly integrated to communities, BFHT believes that modifying existing housing stock is the fastest way. BFHT has been working with municipalities throughout British Columbia to quickly enhance our goals through promoting the creation of, and optimizing existing land density frameworks.
The Better Futures Housing Team and Goals
BFHT employs a committed team of professionals, including development professionals and those with expertise in housing operations, maintenance, accounting and administration to support our mission.
We explicitly work with the municipalities directly so that our projects meet local needs, whether by upgrading existing housing in partnership with resident communities or providing new homes. We anticipate that some sites will also include business, community and special purpose (eg farming) spaces. The aim is to foster inclusive communities that members and residents are proud to call home.
Tim Bramwell
Tim is a serial entrepreneur living and working in the Vancouver area for over 35 years. He is the founder or partner in several businesses, primarily in the technology sector.
In his personal life, Tim has worked with numerous service groups assisting children and teenagers. Tim also has extensive experience in the on-going operations of housing co-operatives, and currently is president of the housing co-operative where he lives with his loving partner.
Tim helped form Better Futures Housing Trust when his three sons commented that no one in their generation expected to live in any urban area in B.C. due to high costs and the instability of renting. Through BFHT, Tim seeks concrete ways for all urban areas to affordable and vibrant for all its residents.
Karyn Zuidinga
Tim is a serial entrepreneur living and working in the Vancouver area for over 35 years. He is the founder or partner in several businesses, primarily in the technology sector.
In his personal life, Tim has worked with numerous service groups assisting children and teenagers. Tim also has extensive experience in the on-going operations of housing co-operatives, and currently is president of the housing co-operative where he lives with his loving partner.
Tim helped form Left Coast Housing Trust when his three sons commented that no one in their generation expected to live in any urban area in B.C. due to high costs and the instability of renting. Through LCHT, Tim seeks concrete ways for all urban areas to affordable and vibrant for all its residents.
Our Mission
Better Futures Housing Trust will be a leader and valued community partner by creating affordable housing for middle income families in British Columbia.
Our Vision
Better Futures Housing Trust will ensure the availability of affordable housing for individuals and families that have minimal opportunities to otherwise afford a home.
Our Values
Integrity
We are fair, honest, ethical, accountable and transparent in all dealings.
Dignity
We enhance the dignity/safety and self-respect of every person we house
Community Partnerships
We actively participate in relevant partnerships.
Sustainability
We manage and use our resources wisely and make decisions based on their long-term implications.
Innovation
We are creative in our thought processes, open to possibilities and continuously seek new opportunities to create better homes and communities