HOUSING LOCATION CHOICE

Abstract

The recent economic downturn has seen resale flats becoming more affordable. Since they provide the advantage of allowing applicants to move in earlier than new flats, there has been a drastic increase in resale flats transactions. These flats spread all over Singapore and not just from any specific location. This study examines the various considerations households based on when choosing the location of their house. In addition, the study also seeks to examine whether proximity to work is the major factor households base their decision on. Based on a survey for the households who have bought resale flats, the socio-economic and socio-demographic characteristics of these households have proven to have significant influence on their location choice. A detailed study is made to examine which characteristic has more influence on a particular location-related factor. In addition, it is found that proximity to work is not the major factor that households base their decisions on when choosing the location of their house. Using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), the empirical evidence identifies the factors that may affect location choice and how different households response to them differently. This study seeks to provide insights to aid both the authorities and planners in formulating their planning policies and strategies.