Property price and anti-social behaviour: An empirical study of Northern Ireland

This study examines the impact of anti-social behaviour (ASB) on property prices. By analysing over 14,500 market transactions in Northern Ireland, we find that the prevalence of ASB within a neighbourhood exerts a direct and negative influence on house prices, albeit with diminishing effect at the margin. Furthermore, the dampening effects of ASB are more pronounced in districts characterised by higher population density, proximity to the capital city (Belfast), and lower property values. A thorough analysis of district-level data across a wide range of statistical indicators further indicates that the adverse impact of ASB on property prices is most acute in areas marked by social and economic deprivation, including factors such as income, employment, education, and access to services. Lastly, our submarket analysis suggests that the apartment sector and public housing are disproportionately affected by ASB in terms of price depreciation compared to other property types.