Revealing Investor Perceptions: An Empirical Study into Residential Property Acquisition in Iskandar Data Center Zone, Malaysia

Iskandar Data Center Zone, a pivotal economic hub in Malaysia, provides a dynamic environment for investing in residential real estate.This study aims to identify the key determinants-the SGD/MYR exchange rate, conducive neighbourhood, return-based motivators, structural and design attributes, external economic and regulatory environment, and infrastructure and surrounding amenities-shaping investors' decisions within the region's property market.Data is collected through a survey of 202 valid responses.The findings reveal that SGD/MYR exchange rate, conducive neighbourhood, and return incentives all significantly impact home-buying decisions.In contrast, structural and design attributes, external economic and regulatory environment, infrastructure and surrounding amenities are found to be statistically insignificant.These insights offer critical value for stakeholders: developers and property firms can strategically leverage key factors, such as currency advantages, prime locations, and financial returns to refine their marketing attract investors; legislators and government should reevaluate the presentation and structure housing policies, like tax incentives, to better influence investor behaviour; and financial institutions can play pivotal role by offering data-driven insights and customised financial products that assist investors in managing portfolios within specific currency environments.