Discover 9 Benefits of Condo Ownership in the Philippines

Condo ownership has risen in the Philippines in recent years due to the increasing demand for urban living, limited land availability in prime locations, and the convenience and benefits that condo living can offer.

Many Filipinos, particularly young professionals, and families, are now choosing to own a condo as their primary residence or investment property. The country’s booming real estate industry has also contributed to the growth of condo ownership, with developers building more high-rise residential buildings in key cities nationwide.

There are several benefits to owning a condo in the Philippines.

Prominent location

Condos are typically located in prime areas, such as in the city center or near business districts, making them convenient for work or leisure. Here are condominium complexes that are in prominent locations in Metro Manila.

• The Residences at Greenbelt – Located in Makati City, this upscale condo development is situated within the Greenbelt Complex, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
• One Roxas Triangle – Also located in Makati City, this luxury condo tower is at the heart of the city’s financial district, making it a prime location for business and leisure.
• The Shang Grand Tower – This high-end condo development is located in Mandaluyong City, just a few minutes away from Ortigas Center and Makati City.
• The Gramercy Residences – Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Century City in Makati, this condo tower boasts stunning views of the city skyline and is home to various shops and restaurants.
• The Trump Tower – This luxury condo development is in Century City, Makati, known for its high-end amenities and prime location. It is near the city’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Metro Manila is a densely populated region with heavy traffic congestion, making condo locations crucial. Residents of a condo in a prime location may have simpler access to key establishments such as offices, schools, hospitals, shopping malls, and other entertainment and leisure destinations.

Additionally, it can save them time and money on transportation expenses. In addition, condos in prominent locations typically offer a more vibrant and cosmopolitan lifestyle, with increased opportunities for socializing, networking, and cultural experiences. In a highly competitive real estate market like Metro Manila, owing to the possibility of property appreciation, owning a condo in a prominent location can also provide a greater return on investment.

Several amenities available

Many condos offer a wide range of amenities, such as swimming pools, gymnasiums, and 24-hour security, which can provide a comfortable and convenient lifestyle.

• Swimming pools – Most condo developments in the Philippines feature swimming pools, ranging from basic lap pools to elaborate infinity pools.
• Gyms and fitness centers – Many condos in the Philippines have fitness centers equipped with cardio machines, weights, and other equipment.
• Function rooms – Condos often have function rooms or multipurpose halls that residents can use for meetings, parties, or other events.
• Play areas for children – Some condo developments have play areas designed specifically for children, including outdoor playgrounds, indoor playrooms, and even kiddie pools.
• Jogging paths – Some condos have jogging paths that provide residents with a safe and convenient place to exercise.
• Gardens and landscaped areas – Many condos in the Philippines have landscaped gardens, courtyards, or green spaces that provide a relaxing respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.
• Movie theaters – Some high-end condos have movie theaters where residents can enjoy movies in the comfort of their buildings.
• Pet-friendly amenities – Condos in the Philippines often cater to pet owners by providing amenities such as pet parks, grooming stations, and even pet-friendly cafes.
• 24/7 Security – Condo living in the Philippines often includes 24/7 security, CCTV cameras, and access cards, ensuring residents’ safety and peace of mind.

Low maintenance

Condo ownership is low maintenance because many of the maintenance tasks associated with owning a house or lot are taken care of by the condo management or homeowners’ association.

This includes cleaning and maintaining common areas, landscaping, pest control, and even repairs and maintenance of building systems such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. Condo owners pay a monthly fee, called the association dues, which covers these maintenance costs.

Additionally, condos typically have smaller living spaces than houses, meaning there are fewer rooms and surfaces to clean and maintain. This is especially advantageous for busy professionals or those who don’t want to spend much time and effort on household chores. Finally, condos also have shared amenities and facilities, so owners do not need to maintain or repair these, further reducing their maintenance responsibilities.

High resale value

The high resale value of condo units in the Philippines is primarily due to the country’s robust real estate market, which has seen steady growth in recent years. Factors such as a growing economy, increasing urbanization, and a growing population have contributed to the demand for housing, including condos.

Additionally, owning a condo unit in a prime location in the Philippines can provide a better return on investment than other real estate types. This is because condos in prime locations often appreciate value faster due to their proximity to key establishments, such as commercial centers, transportation hubs, schools, and hospitals.

Furthermore, condos often have unique amenities and facilities that can increase their resale value. These include swimming pools, fitness centers, function rooms, and landscaped gardens, making them more attractive to buyers.

The low maintenance aspect of condo living in the Philippines is also a factor in the high resale value of condo units. Buyers are often willing to pay a premium for a property that requires less maintenance, which can translate to long-term cost savings. All these factors make condo ownership a wise investment option for those looking for a potentially lucrative return on investment.

Rental income opportunities

Several factors contribute to condominiums’ considerable rental income potential in the Philippines. Condominiums in the United States are typically situated in prime locations, which makes them appealing to tenants who want to reside close to offices, schools, and businesses. This indicates a high demand for condo rentals, which can result in consistent rental income for condo proprietors.

Second, condominiums in the Philippines frequently feature distinctive features and amenities, such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and function spaces. These amenities increase the desirability of the condos among tenants, who are prepared to pay a higher rent for access to these facilities.

Thirdly, the minimal maintenance aspect of condo living in the Philippines can also contribute to the potential for rental income. Maintenance and repair services are included in the monthly association fees in many condo developments, so tenants do not need to stress about these responsibilities. Tenants who desire a low-maintenance residence may find this feature appealing.

Lastly, the expanding economy and urbanization in the Philippines indicate that the demand for rental properties will likely remain high in the coming years. This presents a potentially lucrative opportunity for condo owners seeking passive income through unit rental.

These factors make condo ownership in the Philippines an attractive investment opportunity for those seeking rental income.

Various access to financing

Access to financing for condo ownership in the Philippines is a significant advantage for potential buyers. There are several ways to finance a condo purchase in the Philippines, including bank financing, in-house financing, and Pag-IBIG financing.

Bank financing is the most common way to finance a condo purchase in the Philippines. Most major banks in the country offer condo loans with competitive interest rates and flexible payment terms. This makes it easier for buyers to purchase a condo unit, even if they do not have enough cash.

• BDO (Banco de Oro) – BDO offers condo financing with competitive interest rates and flexible payment terms. They also have a pre-approved loan program that allows buyers to apply for a condo loan even before they find a property to purchase.
• Metrobank – Metrobank offers condo loans with a minimum loan amount of P500,000 and flexible payment terms of up to 25 years. They also have a pre-approved loan program that allows buyers to secure financing before finding a property.
• BPI (Bank of the Philippine Islands) – BPI offers condo loans with a minimum loan amount of P400,000 and repayment terms of up to 25 years. They also offer a free home insurance policy to protect the property from unexpected damages.
• Security Bank – Security Bank offers condo financing with competitive interest rates and flexible payment terms of up to 20 years. They also offer an online application process to make it more convenient for buyers.
• PNB (Philippine National Bank) – PNB offers condo loans with a minimum loan amount of P500,000 and flexible payment terms of up to 20 years. They also offer a pre-approved loan program that allows buyers to apply for financing before finding a property.

Pag-IBIG financing is offered by the Philippine government’s housing agency, the Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF). This program provides low-interest rates and flexible payment terms to eligible members, making purchasing a condo unit easier.

• End-User Financing Program – This program provides eligible Pag-IBIG members with financing for purchasing a fully developed condo unit in the Philippines. The loanable amount ranges from P100,000 to P6 million, with a repayment term of up to 30 years.
• Affordable Housing Program – This program provides eligible Pag-IBIG members with financing for purchasing a low-cost condo unit in the Philippines. The loanable amount ranges from P500,000 to P2 million, with a repayment term of up to 30 years.
• Condominium Housing Loan Program – This program provides eligible Pag-IBIG members with financing for purchasing a condo unit that is still in the pre-selling or construction phase. The loanable amount ranges from P500,000 to P6 million, with a repayment term of up to 30 years.
• Home Improvement Loan – This program provides eligible Pag-IBIG members with financing for renovating or improving their existing condo units. The loanable amount ranges from P100,000 to P2 million, with a repayment term of up to 15 years.

In-house financing is another option for condo buyers. The condo developer or seller offers this type of financing and may have more relaxed requirements than bank financing. In-house financing can be particularly advantageous for buyers who may not qualify for a bank loan.

Access to these financing options is a significant advantage for condo buyers in the Philippines. It means that they can purchase a condo unit even if they do not have enough cash, and they can choose a financing option that suits their budget and financial situation. This allows more people to enter the property market, own their homes, and build wealth through property ownership.

A sense of community

Community is one of the main benefits of condo ownership in the Philippines. When you own a condo, you become part of a community of people who share common interests, lifestyles, and living spaces.

• Social interaction – Condo living provides ample opportunities for interaction with neighbors with similar interests and hobbies. This can lead to new friendships and a sense of belonging.
• Support system – Condo communities can also provide a support system for needy residents. Neighbors can help each other with small tasks, like taking care of a pet or bringing in a package, and in more significant events, like natural disasters.
• Sense of identity – Condo communities often have a unique identity, which can create a sense of pride and belong among residents. This may come from the building’s architecture, location, or shared amenities.
• Cultural diversity – Condo communities often attract people from different backgrounds and cultures, providing a rich and diverse environment for residents to learn from and appreciate each other’s differences.
• Active lifestyle – Many condo communities have facilities for physical activities like swimming, basketball, or tennis and shared spaces for relaxation, like parks or gardens. These amenities can promote an active and healthy lifestyle among residents.
• Sense of responsibility – Living in a condo community can instill a sense of responsibility and accountability among residents. This is because everyone shares common spaces and facilities and is interested in maintaining and keeping them clean and functional.
• Events and activities – Condo communities often organize events and activities for residents, such as holiday parties and fitness classes. These events provide opportunities for residents to interact with each other and build a sense of community.

Better safety and security

Many condos have strict security measures, providing residents a safe and secure environment.

1. Security personnel – Most condo buildings have security personnel present 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They are trained to monitor the building and respond to emergencies, making residents feel safer and more secure.
2. CCTV cameras – Many condos have CCTV cameras installed in common areas, such as elevators, lobbies, and parking lots. This enhances security by allowing the security personnel to monitor the premises and quickly respond to suspicious activity.
3. Gated access – Condos are typically gated, which limits access to outsiders and helps to prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the building.
4. Intercom systems – Most condo units have an intercom system that allows residents to verify the identity of visitors before allowing them entry into the building.
5. Fire safety – Condos are required to comply with strict fire safety regulations, including the installation of sprinkler systems, smoke detectors, and fire alarms. This helps to prevent and quickly respond to any potential fire hazards.
6. Emergency response – In an emergency, condo buildings have emergency response protocols, including evacuation plans and designated emergency exits.

Overall, the safety and security measures in place in condo buildings provide a greater sense of peace of mind for residents, allowing them to live without the worry of potential security threats. Combining physical security measures and well-trained personnel ensures residents feel safe and secure in their homes.

Greater convenience

Condos often have easy access to public transportation, shopping centers, and other services, making running errands or getting around the city easy.

• Location – Condos are often located in prime areas, such as business districts or near public transportation, which can provide easier access to important destinations like work, school, and shopping centers.
• Security – As mentioned earlier, many condos have 24-hour security personnel and surveillance cameras, which can provide residents with a greater sense of security and peace of mind.
• Low maintenance – As also mentioned earlier, condos often have maintenance and cleaning services provided by the building management, which can be very convenient for busy residents who do not have the time or energy to do the upkeep themselves.
• Amenities – Condos often have shared amenities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and function rooms, which provide residents with facilities they can use for entertainment, relaxation, and events without having to leave the building.
• Services – Condos often have service providers on site or nearby, such as laundry services, convenience stores, and food establishments, which can provide added convenience for residents.
• Access to parking – Many condos provide parking spaces for residents, which can be very convenient in a city like Manila, where parking can be a challenge.
• Accessibility – Condos often have elevators and ramps that make it easier for residents with disabilities or mobility issues to navigate the building.

Conclusion

In conclusion, condo ownership in the Philippines offers numerous advantages and benefits, making it a desirable option for those searching for a comfortable and convenient living situation. From prime locations and shared amenities to low maintenance and security, condos offer a living experience that other housing types cannot match.

Condo ownership has become an increasingly popular option for individuals and families in the Philippines due to the availability of financing from reputable institutions and the potential for high resale and rental income. Therefore, if you’re searching for a hassle-free and comfortable living environment, condo ownership may be your best option.

It’s important to note that the benefits will vary depending on the condo’s location, the amenities and services it offers, and the development quality. It’s also important to consider the cost and fees associated with owning a condo, such as homeowners association fees, before deciding.