Housing Preferences Survey for Starters
What was the reason for your graduation research?
The reason for my graduation research was the increasing demand for affordable housing for starters in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, an urgent issue due to the tightness of the housing market. Developer AM Zeeland wants to respond to this, but lacked sufficient insight into the financial capacity and specific housing preferences of this target group within their available budget. My research aimed to gain a better understanding of the needs of starters, so that more homes can be realized that actually match their housing wishes and financial possibilities, thereby strengthening the development strategies of AM Zeeland.
How did you approach the research?
For this research, I applied a mixed-methods approach. By combining both qualitative and quantitative methods, I obtained an integrated picture of the financial possibilities and housing preferences of starters in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen. The research consisted of desk research and field research, during which I collected data through a survey and interviews with both end users and industry experts. In this way, I was able to gain a versatile and in-depth understanding of the situation.
Were you satisfied with the number of starters who participated in the research?
Yes, I was very satisfied with the response. More than 280 young people between the ages of 18 and 35 with a connection to Zeeuws-Vlaanderen completed the survey. This high response was partly due to the excellent cooperation with Rootzz and OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen, with whom I developed and distributed the survey. This provided a solid foundation for the research and made the results representative of the target group.
What are the main conclusions from the research?
The main conclusions from the research are that starters are mainly looking for owner-occupied homes in the price range between 200,000 and 300,000 euros. In addition, they indicate that they are willing to spend a maximum of 1,250 euros per month on housing costs. The preferred type of home is a ground-level house with two to three bedrooms. It also appears that 85% of starters are willing to invest significantly in an energy-efficient home, with an average investment of 15,000 euros.
Were there any surprising findings from the research? If so, which ones?
Yes, a surprising finding was that as many as 81% of starters are not aware of the starter loan and the possibilities it offers. This indicates that there is still much to be gained in terms of providing information to young people about their financing options. In addition, it turned out that 59% of respondents feel that important amenities are missing in the region, with accessibility and mobility often mentioned as bottlenecks.
Will there be any follow-up to the results? If so, in what way?
Yes, the results of this research have been shared with various stakeholders in the region. Based on these findings, these parties can take targeted actions.
You also live in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen yourself. Why do you think a starter should buy or rent a house in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen?
In my opinion, everyone should make that choice for themselves; it depends on your preferences. However, Zeeuws-Vlaanderen offers starters a unique combination of high-quality and affordable housing, such as THE One, which is being developed in Othene. This is something that is often hard to find in other parts of the Netherlands. Moreover, there is a strong sense of community and plenty of opportunities to build a pleasant living environment, both for families and for young professionals. The quality of life in this region is high, with plenty of room for personal development and social interaction.
Do you have any tips for OnbegrensdZeeuwsVlaanderen and Rootzz Zeeuws-Vlaanderen to enthuse starters about Zeeuws-Vlaanderen?
One tip would be to create more awareness about the financial benefits for starters, such as the starter loan and the possibility of an extra mortgage amount for homes with a good energy label (up to €40,000 for A++++). I also recommend engaging with companies and educational institutions to increase career opportunities, educational options, and internships. This can help reduce the number of young people leaving the region for study or work. Finally, I think expanding digital networks and workplaces, such as co-working spaces, can be attractive for young professionals who are looking for more flexibility in their work.
