A multi-dimensional scale for measuring residential satisfaction (rs) in mass housing projects

Abstract

This study examines the residential satisfaction (RS) in state mass housing projects sponsored and developed by the Turkish government. A total of 80 residents were surveyed. Participants were the householders of 1-bedroom 1-bathroom; 2-bedroom 1-bathroom and 3-bedroom 1-bathroom apartments in a settlement designed and constructed by the Turkish Housing Development Administration for the employees of the Turkish National Police. Since similar schemes are still being constructed in large quantities all over the country, the results of this study could provide guidance and affect quality control for future developments. The model was based on three variables: (1) overall residential satisfaction, (2) general residential satisfaction and (3) resident and residency characteristics. The study first identified the issues that the residents had expressed satisfaction and dissatisfaction with their accommodation; these issues were then prioritized and the problematic features that needed improvement were thereby highlighted. Regression analyses were carried out to diagnose the overall satisfaction items that had a significant impact on the residents’ general satisfaction. Finally, the variables of residence such as length of residence and unit size were examined to determine their effects on residential satisfaction. Through this methodology, the role of each individual issue in determining residential satisfaction was examined (demographic characteristics and items of overall satisfaction) to provide reliable information to guide future designs for these types of mass housing developments.