A housing preferences study (The Housing We’d Choose) has recently been completed to estimate current and future levels of demand for different dwelling typologies and locations.

Research First were commissioned and surveyed a representative sample of 770 respondents between 9 September and 23 October 2019, with quotas set to ensure age, gender and geographic coverage. 

The survey had two key components. The first was a series of questions about the features that respondents would like if looking for a new home and the level of importance they placed on these features as part of the purchasing decision.

The second component was based on the trade-offs that households would make when faced with budget constraints. Based on their financial situation (household income, debts and assets), respondents were presented with a series of dwelling options that matched their affordability profile, living arrangements and housing preferences. 

At each stage the respondent was shown four options and they were asked to select their preference. At the end of four rounds, respondents were shown their four selected options in order to make a final selection.

Survey results were presented by household type and age so that they could be combined with population and demographic trends to calculate future housing preferences. 

Results of the housing preferences study show that there is still a predisposition towards standalone housing, particularly in younger couples and households with children. However, over 40% of older people living alone or with a partner would choose to live in an attached dwelling, such as a duplex, townhouse, or apartment. As these are the demographic groups that are projected to increase, it has a significant impact on future housing demand.

A comparison of preferred housing with Dunedin’s existing housing stock shows that even before considering future growth and demographic trends, there are too many standalone houses and too few attached homes than needed to align with the preferences of Dunedin’s current population.

The results from this work will help inform Variation 2 (Residential development capacity) to the 2GP, as well as other projects across Council.