QUALITY OF LIFE OF EXPATRIATES IN RELATION TO THE ACCOMMODATION NEEDS IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

Aim of research is to access the quality of life of expatriates in relation to their accommodation needs. This dissertation has examined the aspects that are most likely to affect the expatriates accommodation selection, their overall accommodation satisfaction with their present dwelling, the demographic, socio-economic characteristics and housing situation of expatriates that are likely to influence their satisfaction and lastly the aspects of accommodation that are most important to the different type of householders namely private apartments/condominiums, landed properties and HDB flats. The analysis shows that both types of expatriate have different preferences, expectations and levels of satisfaction with regard to their accommodation needs. All expatriates, has ranked the following 6 aspects of accommodation in order of importance, adequacy of shopping facilities, proximity to shopping facilities, proximity to local transport and infrastructure, housing condition, public safety and physical environment. For all expatriates, they are currently dissatisfied with the following: availability of international schools, open-patio/garden yard, cost of housing, design and layout, proximity to leisure and recreation, proximity to shopping facilities. The one-way ANOVA is used to identify the socio-economic, demographic characteristics and present housing situation that significantly influence the expatriate's perception of their quality of life in relation to their accommodation needs. Asian expatriates that have more than one child, with higher gross monthly household incomes, living in private housing and staying in the east or central area, were generally more satisfied. Non-Asians with higher gross monthly income, living in private housing and staying in the east or central area were generally more satisfied.