Housing cost analysis in housing projects A comparative study between the Al-Mukhtar and Al-Sultan complexes in Najaf

Hussein Jawad; Zahraa Imad Hussain

Authors

Hussein Jawad Center of Urban and Regional Planning for Postgraduate Studies, University of Baghdad. https://orcid.org/0009-0007-9016-9334
Zahraa Imad Hussain Center of Urban and Regional Planning for Postgraduate Studies, University of Baghdad. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3849-5024

Keywords:

Housing Cost, Housing Projects, Housing Quality, Housing Pattern, Residential Density, Urban Location

Abstract

This research analyzes housing costs in organized housing projects as a multidimensional system that extends beyond the direct financial aspect to include spatial, service, and construction dimensions that collectively influence individuals' housing decisions. The research adopts a theoretical framework based on urban literature, urban housing market theories, spatial structure, and spatial rent theory to derive four key housing cost indicators: housing type, housing quality, connection to service networks, and housing density. This research applied this framework to a comparative study between the Al-Mukhtar and Al-Sultan housing complexes in Najaf Governorate, through spatial analysis, field surveys, and questionnaires administered to residents and experts. The results showed a clear difference in the actual cost of housing between the two complexes, primarily due to differences in urban location, construction quality, variety of housing options, energy performance levels, and varying levels of density and occupancy. The study revealed that the high cost of housing in some projects is not solely related to the initial unit price, but is also directly affected by long-term operating costs, construction quality, and the efficiency of service connections. The findings also emphasized the importance of adopting comprehensive planning indicators when evaluating housing projects, which contributes to improving individual housing decisions and enhancing the efficiency of future urban planning.

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