As part of an ongoing investigation to determine the locational behavior of single-family-housing residents on the metropolitan fringe, a pilot study was conducted which simulated residential choice by asking respondents to rate the economy, convenience, and desirability of rural housing descriptions relative to a standard suburban residence. Four factors were manipulated: (1) size and arrangement of lots within a development; (2) monthly mortgage payment; (3) distance from work and shopping; and (4) availability of public services. Thirteen people representing three subgroups of suburbanites, exurbanites, and precludeds made choices to the simulated suburban/rural housing preferences on rating scales and questionnaires. Analysis of the rating data showed that each factor by itself was an important determinate of the desirability, economy, and convenience ratings. Individual differences were found to be related to sociodemographic factors, previous housing history, and current and projected lifestyles. Further investigations were planned to apply the methodology to a group of consumers in the housing market, and thereby predict housing decisions and estimate the latent demand for alternative nonurban housing characteristics. (Author/JD)