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Influences on Dwelling Size in Australia
Conference paper   Open access   Peer reviewed

Influences on Dwelling Size in Australia

Anna McKinlay, Claudia Baldwin and Nicholas J Stevens
Proceedings of the 22nd Annual Pacific Rim Real Estate Society Conference
Annual Pacific Rim Real Estate Society Conference, 22nd (Sunshine Coast, Australia, 17-Jan-2016–20-Jan-2016)
Pacific Rim Real Estate Society (P R R E S)
2016
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Abstract

Commercial Services dwelling size housing motivation
Problem/Purpose: "I'd much rather have a caravan in the hills, than a mansion in the slums" is the chorus line from the Crowded House song 'Mansion in the Slums' (Finn 1988): but is that the truth for most Australians? The reality is we buy, build and expand to have big houses as close as practical to the city. While a lot of research looks at the urban, suburban and rural debate, the size of our houses and apartments across Australian have been increasing. Originality/value: Often in literature on housing, size is a factor in the variables but it is rarely the focus. This research focuses on the factors that determine dwelling size and the influences behind those choices. Findings: A home does not just provide shelter for our family; it is storage for our possessions, it expresses our desired social status and offers a sense of financial security. These aspects of life are changing and our houses are increasing to accommodate them. Design/methodology/approach: An examination of the literature on role of the home to identify how changes to that role is impacting the size dimension. Social Implications: The social implications are that the continued increase of dwelling size is not sustainable. A balance needs to be found between a comfortable lifestyle and one that is affordable long term. Research limitations/implications: This research focuses on Australia's dominant dwelling form - the owner-occupied detached house. By looking at the perceived preferred model it is anticipated that learnt lessons can then be applied to other forms.

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