An embedding-based text classification approach for understanding micro-geographic housing dynamics

In this article, we introduce an approach for studying micro-geographic housing dynamics using an embedding-based, semi-supervised text classification approach on longitudinal, point-level property listing data. Based on the text used to describe properties for sale and a set of predefined classes and keywords, listings are classified according to their lifecycle of investment or disinvestment. The mixture of property types within 1 x 1 mile grid cells are then calculated and used as input in a clustering algorithm to develop a place-based classification that enables us to examine patterns of change over time. In a case study on Mecklenburg County, North Carolina using 158,253 real estate listings between 2001 and 2020, we demonstrate how this approach has the potential to further our understanding of housing and neighborhood dynamics by grounding our analysis in theoretical concepts around the housing lifecycle and its relationship to neighborhood change.