The team of researchers from the School of Business team is investigating preferences for residential housing in the NSW-Victorian Border cities. The results will be used by the housing and development industry, local councils and the Border community to make better decisions concerning housing.

CSU research project manager, Mr Ian Coghlan said that the research will also improve the understanding of trends in preferences for housing and land and identify factors that affect building growth in Albury and Wodonga.

Local and national interest in home mortgage rates and in magazines and television shows on homes and home improvements highlight the importance placed on the family home. “This research aims to tap into this interest,” said Mr Coghlan.

Part of the study will consist of a telephone survey of residents in Albury-Wodonga over the next two weeks. The questions will relate to the local housing and land market.

Research team member Daniel Murphy stressed the importance of public involvement in the survey. 
“The telephone survey is deliberately short to allow respondents to complete it as soon as possible. We know people lead busy lives, however this study will provide vital information for the future planning of residential development on the Border,” Mr Murphy said.

Information from these interviews will be combined with the results of in-depth interviews and focus group discussions that have already been held with local residents and key people in the local housing and real estate market. A separate mail survey will also be sent to local people currently in the local building industry.
A report on the results of the study will be finalised by the end of July 2002.