Consumer behavior and housing market dynamics: evidence from metropolitan housing markets

Purpose This study aims to identify the determinants of housing purchase intention by integrating consumer behavior theories with empirical evidence from the Turkish housing market. With a particular focus on Ankara and other major metropolitan cities, the research seeks to clarify how financial conditions, spatial comfort, design aesthetics, construction quality, location and environmental amenities shape consumers’ decisions to purchase a home. Design/methodology/approach A structured survey was administered to 463 participants, and the data set was analyzed using descriptive statistics, reliability tests, independent samples t-tests and analysis of variance to evaluate the relationships between demographic variables, current housing characteristics and purchase intention. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to assess the predictive power of financial, spatial, design, structural and locational factors on housing purchase intention. Findings The results indicate that although participants perceive financial conditions as the most important consideration, this factor does not have a statistically significant effect on housing purchase intention. Instead, design aesthetics, construction quality and location-related attributes emerge as significant predictors. Demographic variables show meaningful associations with purchase intention and price expectations. In addition, current housing characteristics such as tenure status, dwelling size, type and building age are linked to purchase preferences. These findings highlight the complex interplay between economic perceptions and behavioral factors in housing decision-making. Originality/value This study contributes to the housing and consumer behavior literature by empirically testing consumer theory within the context of the Turkish housing market, where behavioral factors may diverge from perceived economic priorities. The results provide actionable insights for policymakers, real estate developers and financial institutions regarding the multidimensional nature of housing purchase decisions.