FACTORS AFFECTING INVESTORS’ INTENTION IN REIT INVESTMENT, EVIDENCE FROM MALAYSIA

Abstract

This study addresses the research problem of understanding the factors influencing investors’ intention to invest in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) in Malaysia. By examining the relationships between behavioural belief, attitudes towards behaviour, normative belief, normative attitude, control belief, perceived behavioural control and behavioural intention, the study aims to provide insights into investors’ behavioural intention in the context of REIT investments. A total of 150 responses was collected through a self-administered online survey questionnaire distributed via social media platforms from individuals aged 25 years old and above across Malaysia. The PLS-SEM was run for the measurement model and structural model of the study. The study found that behavioural belief, normative belief and control belief have a significant positive effect on attitude towards behaviour, normative attitude and perceived behavioural control, respectively. The relationship between perceived behavioural control and behavioural intention is significant. However, the relationship between attitude towards behaviour, normative attitude and behavioural intention is not significant. The findings contribute to a better understanding of investor behaviour in the context of REIT investment and can guide regulators, financial counsellors, and real estate professionals in developing targeted marketing strategies to promote REIT investment. The limitations of the research are the need for more comprehensive data, larger sample sizes, consideration of demographic factors, and the incorporation of qualitative methods to strengthen the research findings and provide a better understanding of the factors influencing investors' perceptions and intentions in the Malaysian REIT market.