Some families are trading Metro Vancouver for a quieter, more affordable life in Chilliwack, which is seeing a surge in growth. Thatgrowth is causing local challenges, including higher property tax, increased traffic and land pressure as the demand for housing increases.

Heidi Woodley's dream of owning a charming two-bedroom cottagein the Horseshoe Bay area of West Vancouverone of Canada's most expensive municipalities came true with the help of a dozen strangers and the concept of co-ownership.

With rents and housing prices soaring across Canada,splitting a mortgage with several family members or moving into a smaller home in your parents' backyard are two ways families can cutcosts and supporteach other.