Clayton Research approaches residential studies from an economic perspective, with a solid understanding of real estate markets, the land development process and the housing policy environment. Studies can range in scope from concise letters of opinion to detailed reports. Our in-depth market analyses are enhanced by the use of our in-house residential demand and buyer profile models.

Clayton Research can assess the market opportunity for developing new housing of all kinds on sites ranging from small infill properties to large-scale communities. In the context of the existing and expected market conditions in the applicable local market area, we identify the target buyer or renter groups, the expected demand arising from these groups and the positioning of the site relative to the existing and future competition, and recommend appropriate housing types, tenure, unit sizes, lot sizes, unit prices or rents and project amenities. Clayton Research has developed a particular expertise in studies for all forms of adult lifestyle housing.

Whether you are looking at new opportunities in your existing market(s) or entry into a new locale, Clayton Research can provide insights into short term and longer-term market trends and prospects. We begin by gaining a thorough understanding of the client’s needs and objectives and then provide the necessary information, analysis and strategic advice to enhance their decision-making. We work with you to identify the opportunities that fit best with your company’s business objectives.

Often, a developer or builder requires a residential analysis to be submitted in support of an application for a change in land use, change in density, and demolition of existing housing or conversion of units from rental to condominium. Clayton Research has prepared all types of reports for submission to all levels of government, including many studies of housing need for urban area boundary expansions. Clayton Research is well respected for these analyses having gained a thorough understanding of the key elements required for defensible submissions through its extensive work for both the private and public sectors.

Clayton Research conducts mail and telephone surveys related to existing and proposed development to gain insights into topics such as housing and community preferences, project design and customer satisfaction. These surveys can be stand-alone assignments or, as is often the case, a component of a larger market study. Focus groups are sometimes undertaken to gain additional insights into consumer response to proposed housing concepts. The firm has also been conducting the semi-annual PULSE survey of new homebuilders and renovators for the Canadian Home Builders’ Association since 1989.

In Canada’s mixed economy, the evolution of housing policy is a constant on both the public and private sector agendas. Through meaningful research and analysis, Clayton Research assists clients to evaluate proposed or existing policy options, and recommends changes where desirable. The firm works with industry associations, government and individual firms. It is widely respected for its broad perspective on policy issues -- and it has the credibility to get key messages heard.

Examples of the some residential assignments undertaken by Clayton Research are outlined below:

A large developer of condominium and rental apartments in western Canada was looking to enter the Greater Toronto Area market. After meeting with the client to discuss their business plan objectives, Clayton Research prepared a comprehensive analysis of recent condominium and rental apartment market trends, a market outlook for short to medium term demand, an assessment of the opportunities and constraints that would face the developer and an analysis of the particular market segments and geographic locations that would offer the best market opportunities taking into account the client’s business objectives.

Clayton Research has done ongoing work for the Ballantrae Golf and Country Club, a 900-unit adult lifestyle community currently under development and one of the most successful adult lifestyle communities in Ontario. We first prepared a market analysis for both internal use by the client and project team to help design the community and homes and also for submission to the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville in support of an official plan amendment to permit the development. A subsequent report was prepared in response to a peer review by another consultant. Most recently, an updated market analysis has been prepared in support of an application to allow the next phase to proceed.

The firm undertook analyses of the market potential for the development of condominium and/or rental apartments on two separate sites, one near downtown Halifax and the other in Bedford, on behalf of Atlantic Shopping Centres. The studies examined the target buyers/renters, potential absorption rates, recommended tenure, optimal building sizes, unit sizes, price and rent ranges, and in-suite and common area amenities.

Clayton Research has been conducting ongoing market research for this new community, which received the Project of the Year award in 1994 by the Ontario Home Builders Association. This work has included regular updates of the original demand analysis prepared by Clayton Research, a mail survey of potential buyers, analysis of potential for an adult lifestyle housing enclave within the community and participation in strategic planning sessions with the key decision-makers.

To gain a better understanding of the rental housing problems in Ontario, the Fair Rental Policy Organization (FRPO) commissioned Clayton Research to provide an independent examination of the rental housing market situation in Ontario and appropriate government initiatives for dealing with the key problems. The study focused on Ontario, the Greater Toronto Area and the rest of Ontario. It identified potential changes to taxation and other policies that could be considered by the federal, provincial and municipal levels of government.

Robert Feldgaier, Vice President, Residential Services, oversees the residential studies practice at Clayton Research. Mr. Feldgaier’s expertise has been gained through more than 10 years as a consultant, involved in a variety of assignments across Canada, and over 8 years with a large public real estate company. Frank A. Clayton, President, also has extensive background and experience in residential market structure. Read more about Robert Feldgaier, Frank A. Clayton and other senior staff members.