Using the means-ends approach to understand the value of sustainability on the property market

Abstract

The paper explores the drivers of business organizations’ decisions to locate in sustainable office buildings. This study uses a Means-End Chain (MEC) analysis to investigate tenant decision-making processes in the commercial property market. Fundamental research question was to identify motivations of market participants when they choose to locate in a green buildings, whether they aim for economics benefits or intend to promote themselves as environmentally responsible. First part discusses existing literature referring to benefits of sustainable buildings as perceived by market participants. Next, the development of sustainable office market in Poland has been presented. Finally, the research data and method were discussed along with the findings of the research. The study revealed limited environmental awareness of real estate market participants in Poland. Cost effectiveness of the selected space and corporate image are the values that link their choices to sustainability of the office building.