Sustainable Low-Income Housing: Examining Housing and Governance Issues in Isfahan Province

Abstract

This study aimed to identify and explain the governance dimensions influencing sustainable low-income housing and to develop an expert-based governance model for housing policy and planning in Isfahan Province. A qualitative study was conducted within a pragmatic and interpretivist framework. Data were collected through 12 in-depth expert interviews and 12 expert-consensus questionnaires. Participants were selected using purposive sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data were analyzed through thematic analysis, open, axial, and selective coding, followed by the Discrete Consensus Support Method. The findings revealed that governance in low-income housing is multidimensional and highly complex. Analysis generated 768 initial codes, 391 categories, and 95 major themes, which were consolidated into 12 core governance dimensions. The results indicated that weak governance knowledge, institutional fragmentation, lack of transparency and accountability, political interference, insufficient stakeholder participation, inadequate social evaluation mechanisms, and policy–implementation gaps are the primary causes of failure in low-income housing projects. Expert-consensus analysis further confirmed 75 key variables as valid components of the proposed governance framework, demonstrating an acceptable level of expert agreement and model robustness. The study demonstrates that the success of sustainable low-income housing programs depends not only on physical development but also on governance quality, institutional coordination, transparency, accountability, and meaningful stakeholder engagement. Strengthening governance structures and revising policy frameworks are therefore essential for achieving sustainable housing outcomes and improving the quality of life of low-income populations.