The relationships between valuers’ support systems for capturing property sustainability in Nigeria and their knowledge perceptions

Abstract

Purpose The aspects of sustainability are often not considered explicitly in property valuation. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the structural relationships between valuers’ support for integration of industrial sustainability into property valuation process in Nigeria and their knowledge perceptions about the potential sustainability benefits. Design/methodology/approach The paper compares the results of the respondents’ evaluation of the models and indicators for modelling the study population. Data were obtained from 267 real estate firms from three core Nigerian cities. The conceptual framework was developed and pattern matrices for factor indicators were extracted for the predictions and hypothesis testing using the partial least squares–structural equation modelling. Findings Perceived lowering of risks and cost savings are the significant predictors of the valuers’ support system (BLR→SUP (t=12.181); BCS→SUP (t=2.078)>1.196). The findings challenge the conceptual expectations as prospects of high building value, improved productivity gains and quality of life have no significant factor loadings. Moreover, potential improvement to the quality of life is not a significant mediator. Research limitations/implications Testing the knowledge-support systems in sustainability and property valuation could help bridge the knowledge gap in property sustainability studies. Practical implications This study presents evidence that can aid in decision making regarding public and private efforts to define sustainability knowledge requirements for the valuers and other stakeholders. Originality/value The current investigation finds that there is insufficient sustainability knowledge among the valuers. Thus, these analytical procedures can be used to predict sustainability scenarios at a global level.