Housing On The Move In Western Australia

Western Australia (WA), Australia's largest state geographically and home to approximately 2.4 million people is one of the nation's economic powerhouses, provides a large amount of the nation's mineral and energy exports, as well as strong agricultural, construction and manufacturing industries.

As with any significant national centre such as WA, the housing industry is an extremely important aspect of its function and productivity.

Real estate in Perth and other parts of WA is set to experience a period of change as many citizens are considering or planning to move house.

In a media release from Housing Institute Australia (HIA), an estimate of 491,000 adults in Western Australia have indicated in a survey (conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics) that they are planning to move homes in the next three years.

The purpose of the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2012 Housing Motivations and Intentions Survey was to gather information about current and future housing intentions, so that housing and real estate forecasts can be made.

“Most Western Australians would like to live in a separate house, with 73 per cent of those planning to move within WA in the next three years preferring a separate home to a townhouse, flat, unit, or apartment," said ABS director of WA State and territory statistical services, David Waymouth.

"Home ownership is also important, with 65 per cent of Western Australians who plan to move within WA over the next three years showing a preference to own their home rather than rent," he added.

It is of note that only nine per cent of those planning to move wanted to move interstate or overseas - the vast majority planned to remain in WA. Many of those planning to move had not lived in their current home for many years.

Survey respondents were also asked what kind of factors influenced their decisions.

"When choosing their future home, just under half of future movers within WA said appearance and layout were factors influencing their decision. A better quality residence was important to 44 per cent," said Mr Waymouth.

Other important factors included familiarity with an area, close to family and friends, and access to facilities and services.

Priorities were reflected in the age of respondents, with senior households were more likely to desire a smaller house, and to consider geographical locations such as a beach, hills or river as a part of their decision.