Analyzing the impact of traffic congestion on rental values of residential property: A case study of Kiwatule Parish in Nakawa Division, Kampala District

Abstract

Traffic congestion can be defined as a condition on road networks that results from increased road usage and is characterized by slower speeds, longer trip times, and increased vehicular queueing. It is caused by everyone on the road and actually has an impact on a property’s price but whether the impact is positive or negative depends on how far the property is from the Central Business District. The main objective of this study is to analyse the impact of traffic congestion on rental values of residential property in Kiwatule and evaluate the most effective strategies to help mitigate traffic congestion. Some specific objectives include: To identify the possible causes of traffic congestion in Kiwatule; To determine the effect of traffic congestion on residential properties in Kiwatule; To determine the absorption rate of residential properties in Kiwatule. The findings of this study will benefit the society, the administrators and the researcher. This research study employed a case study approach adopting both a quantitative and qualitative framework. A sample of 100 respondents was selected using Purposive Sampling technique. Systematic observation, Questionnaire and Interview schedules were the data collection tools employed and data was analyzed using Microsoft Word and Excel inform of graphs, tables and charts. The research revealed that there are other critical factors which influence rental values of residential properties and they include: location, supply and demand, population, interest rates aesthetics amenities, size and facilities, design, economic outlook and investment appraisal. It also showed that is the biggest challenge faced during traffic congestion. The researcher recommended measures that can be adopted to mitigate traffic congestion as well as rise the absorption rate of residential properties; these include: growing the tenant landlord relationship, strict enforcement of building regulations, installation of automated traffic lights and traffic signs at junctions and intersections, expansion of existing roads, construction of humps on existing roads, constant presence of traffic police on the road during peak hours and finally government bodies in charge of urban planning should be very strict and more organized especially with zoning.