The Profile of Portuguese People when Choosing an Apartment

Abstract It is important to study and to know the determining factors of the housing purchase business, as this is often the greatest business deal in a family’s life. The purpose of this study is to identify the profile of the Portuguese regarding the determining factors when searching for apartments to acquire. The methodology used is based on a questionnaire that analyzes the determining factors in the choice of apartments to acquire and the sociodemographic profile of Portuguese people looking for an apartment. The sample consisted of 646 individuals who were looking for an apartment in different regions of Continental Portugal. The determining factors in the choice of apartments have quite adequate levels of validity and reliability, and four dimensions are obtained: negative externalities, positive externalities, a business located on the ground floor and rational interest in proximity to public services. Cluster analysis results show the formation of five clusters, classifying individuals into a generic cluster, urban business cluster, urban services cluster, urban citizens cluster and elitist cluster. This study is expected to contribute to increasing scientific knowledge on the topic and to help real estate developers better match their clients’ preferences.