DETERMINANTS OF INTENTION TO INHABIT ECO-FRIENDLY HOMES IN MALAYSIA

Abstract

Malaysian housing developers are weighing the costs and benefits of building environmentally-sensitive homes out of concern that the market may not be receptive to such homes. This study aims to examine the determinants of inhabiting intentions of potential homebuyers toward eco-friendly homes. Using a case study of Nusajaya Iskandar Malaysia, a series of quantitative analysis was used to examine homebuyers' intentions to inhabit eco-friendly homes. The results for the survey revealed that a favorable attitude toward eco-friendly homes, high control in the ability to purchase eco-friendly homes, and the self-identification of green consumerism were statistically significant determinants of intention to inhabit such homes. Social referents' opinion relating to eco-friendly homes, however, was not significantly related to inhabiting intentions. Additionally, households of gated-guarded and detached dwellings, higher income and educational attainment, and housing costs were significantly related to the intention of acquiring eco-friendly homes.