Can Freelancers Apply for Pag-IBIG Housing Loan in the Philippines?Whether you’re a self-employed professional or a Virtual Assistant in the Philippines, you may be wondering if Pag-IBIG can grant you a home loan. Perhaps you want to buy your first home after saving your earnings as a long-time freelancer, but it might not be enough to get a new house in cash. If that’s so, you can consider applying for a housing loan with these important steps Qualifications for Housing Loan The most important requirement when applying for a Pag-IBIG loan is that you’re an active member with at least two years of contributions. Other qualifications you need to meet or requirements for you to qualify are the following:
Steps for Pag-IBIG Loan Application Here’s the step-by-step guide when applying for the housing loan:
Final Thoughts Now you know that you may qualify for Pag-IBIG housing loan if you have regular income as a freelancer, complete documents, and enough patience to navigate the entire application process. It’s not impossible to get your dream house even if you are a virtual assistant or online worker on global freelancing platforms. You may start looking for your new home at REALS.PH for the latest property listings, including some modern house and lot in Baguio City and other big cities in the Philippines.
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Why Invest in Gokongwei’s RL Commercial REIT IncRobinsons Land Corp is eyeing to expand asset infusions after raising ₱7 billion thru private placement of RL Commercial REIT Inc. The aim is to make their real estate investment trust triple the size with local, international, and institutional investors. Read on to learn more about this REIT expansion by Gokongwei-led RLC and how to navigate this in the Philippine stock market. RLC Sells Common Shares RLC disclosed to the Philippine Stock Exchange that they’re selling RCR common shares worth ₱945.95 million, at ₱7.40 per share. They added that this transaction was supported by top-notch institutional, international, and local stock investors. Under the Secondary Block Trade Agreement, this block sale’s proceeds are expected to be settled before the end of January. Meanwhile, RLC’s 4.84% divestment is projected to raise the public ownership of RCR to 44.18% from the 39.34% current rate. As a result, this will give an 11% headroom for the sponsor and real estate investment trust asset swap. This deal follows the selling of one billion RL Commercial REIT shares for ₱7.75 billion in 2025 to aid the public float of the real estate investment trust. More Malls by RLC In 2025, the infusion of RLC’s nine new malls was approved by the SEC. These malls are worth ₱30.67 billion and are infused into RCR to triple the size of the REIT to ₱300 billion in the next three years. These asset infusions were accomplished through a swap transaction between property and shares, in which 3.83 billion RCR common shares were exchanged at ₱8 each. This will decrease the public float of RCR to 34.22%, but still above the 33.33% requirement for REITs. Seven more malls will be built in Luzon, while the other two malls will be in Visayas. These are, namely: Robinsons Magnolia in Quezon City, General Trias and Dasmarinas in Cavite, Santiago in Isabela, Malolos in Bulacan, Starmills in Pampanga, Cybergate in Cebu, and Tacloban in Leyte. The total gross leasable area for these properties is 324,107.75 square meters. The high occupancy rates of malls make RCR’s investment criteria consistent. In addition, the diversified tenant base of these malls contributes to the consistent occupancy rates. The infusion helped RCR’s portfolio size to increase by 1,151,915 square meters from 827,807 square meters – an increase of 39.15%. Moreover, it also gave birth to 38 commercial real estate assets with 17 office assets and 21 mall assets. Final Thoughts Now you can explore opportunities offered by RL Commercial REIT Inc in the stock market. Investing in REITs in the Philippines is one of the best ways to grow your money while enjoying the benefits of being an investor. You may visit REALS.PH, if you want to buy a new property or a luxury condominium in Baguio City. Our licensed real estate agents will walk you through the process and answer all your queries to make an informed choice.
Underrated Locations to Invest in Real Estate: What You Need to KnowBuying a property in the most coveted addresses in the Philippines may not be your cup of tea. If that’s so, there are great alternatives you can explore that offer excellent opportunities when it comes to growth potential and affordability. These underrated cities are home to residential lots and properties that just might grant your next investment fantasy. Check out the unique features that these underestimated locations offer to buyers. Why Invest Outside Metro Manila? While NCR may be a real estate hub, prices can easily deter buyers and investors. Not only that, the hustle and bustle of city life can be a negative deciding factor for those who want a slow-paced, more relaxed lifestyle. When you look beyond the usual locations, you can find surprising benefits, such as growing economies and higher ROI. Moreover, underrated cities can also offer more comfort as they tend to have less traffic and are closer to nature. Many Filipinos now crave a simpler and more peaceful life, especially in the provinces. On the other hand, there might be some risks in staying outside Manila, such as slower development and infrastructure limitations. Thorough planning, however, can mitigate these risks for buyers. Angeles City, Pampanga A growing real estate powerhouse in proximity to Manila is Angeles City in Pampanga. If you can’t stay any farther from the metro, this is the perfect option. This city is very accessible if you need to go to Manila for business or work. With its booming tourism, this strategic location provides excellent transportation services, culinary spots, and affordable residential lots. Bacolod City, Negros Occidental A booming economy, a friendly neighborhood, and a vibrant culture make Bacolod City another good alternative to Manila. The agriculture-based economy, such as sugar cane production, also helps in its growing market. There are colorful celebrations all year round that attract tourists, both local and foreign, every year. The promising real estate investment climate is backed by master-planned communities with secure premises. Iloilo City, Western Visayas If you’ve been to the City of Love, you’d probably say it’s indeed one of the most underrated cities in the Philippines. This unpopular real estate gem has a strong agricultural base, a healthy tourism sector, and great urban convenience. And if you’re into some amazing local food, you can find the best restaurants serving Pancit Molo and La Paz Batchoy around the city. In terms of real estate, there are plenty of residential lots to choose from, as well as more upscale properties in subdivisions. Final Thoughts Buying a property outside Metro Manila requires thoughtful research and planning to get the best option. Make sure to verify all information before signing the contract, and assess potential hazards within the location. If you want to explore more underrated locations where you can invest in a new house, check out REALS.PH for the latest property listings. You can find hidden gems such as rustic yet modern house and lot in Baguio City and other growing communities nationwide.
Recent Enacted Laws in Philippine Real Estate 2026There have been many significant changes that happened in real estate market in the Philippines. This is after the passage of new laws that aim to improve real estate investment transparency, taxation, and property valuation. For instance, the Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act was signed into law in 2024. In addition to RPVARA, let’s talk about the latest amendments in the real estate sector for your reference. RPVARA Key Provisions The RPVARA or Republic Act No. 12001 has the following provisions:
Condominium Act Amendments The Condominium Act or House Bill 10173 proposed some amendments to enact new rules, including redevelopment policies, condominium maintenance, and dissolution of struggling condo corporations. In addition, the key purposes are to improve housing resilience, ensure long-term sustainability for condo developers, and address issues of urban land scarcity. With the implementation of these new laws in the Philippine real estate market, investment opportunities are seen to increase, modernize property management systems, and improve tax compliance among property owners in the country. For anyone looking to invest in the local market, it’s important to understand these new changes to ensure profitable investments in the long run. Final Thoughts By staying updated with real estate news, you can make informed decisions before investing or buying a property in the Philippines. The Condominium Act amendments and RPVARA can help improve the overall condition of the real estate market, while these reforms make the systems more transparent and efficient. For real estate buyers and investors, keeping up-to-date with new policies is crucial in making choices. You may check out REALS.PH for our updated real property listings, including new properties for sale in Baguio City. We can assist you with the best options you exactly need for your new investment that is worth your money.
Things You’ll Regret Doing When Purchasing a HouseWhether you’re investing in a property for the first time or buying your second house, there are surprising mistakes that you can commit along the way. Not researching the location is one of them, but there are more if you’re not observant enough. So, what are these common mistakes that Filipinos commit when purchasing a new home in the Philippines? Read on to find out how to avoid them and ensure you’re investing in the right property. Not Reviewing Legal Documents When you skip the legal review, you’re putting yourself in trouble. It’s crucial to check the land title and other legal documents to make sure it’s clean and ready to transfer under your name. This is also to make sure the property has no encumbrances or other liabilities. You can verify this with the Land Registration Authority or the Bureau of Internal Revenue if there are any tax obligations. Not Planning the Budget More often than not, property buyers in the Philippines don’t really plan their budget well. As a result, they end up not completing the payment and selling it as “pasalo”, common for condominiums. It’s important to understand hidden fees and interest rates that may increase over time. Set a budget and stick to it so that you won’t be affected by unforeseen expenses. Overlooking Future Developments Perhaps, there are plans for future development in your area, such as new malls, transport links, and even the emergence of new business districts. These could all lead to higher property value, so don’t overlook the potential value appreciation of your investment. Anticipate this growth by researching any future development plans near you. Disregarding Hidden Charges If you think the only cost you need to settle is the selling price of the property, think again. There are additional costs when purchasing a house, including association fees, taxes, maintenance costs, and even insurance. Make sure to include these additional charges in your budget planning to avoid such unpleasant surprises. Not Visiting the Location Some locations are prone to flooding, and that’s why you should conduct your own research before buying a property. While this one seems so easy, a lot of buyers tend to miss checking whether the area is flood-prone or not. Then only discover the problem after moving into their new house. Spare your family from this disaster by asking around if the location is safe and free from flooding. Final Thoughts Now that you are aware of the most common mistakes that Filipino buyers often make when purchasing a house, you can avoid them and save yourself from future problems. Always do your due diligence before making a big purchase so you won’t regret it in the future. To start looking for a property to invest in, visit REALS.PH to see our exclusive listings, including some beautiful house and lot in Baguio City. Our real estate agents will help you find the exact design you want and even walk you through the entire buying process.
Luxury Homes of Filipino Billionaires: A House TourIt’s not every day that you get the opportunity to visit a luxury house of the ultra-rich. But today, we’ll give you a glimpse of the grand mansions of Filipino billionaires. Let’s dive into the luxury real estate market and see why these exclusive residences are so expensive that they define the exact opposite of the word ordinary. Philippine Luxury Real Estate In the Philippines, luxury real estate means big houses and a fancy lifestyle. It’s basically about world-class amenities, impeccable design, stunning views, and prime locations. Imagine infinity pools, lush greenery, top-notch security systems, smart technology, and even private beaches – this is the ordinary for the rich. Moreover, luxury real estate embodies exclusivity, sophistication, and privacy. For the ultra-rich, it’s a legacy and an investment at the same time. A luxury home is a statement piece that reveals the status of the owner, and can even increase the value of the property over time. Built in a prime location, wealth and prestige are so easy to spot. Luxury Real Estate Prime Locations In the luxury market, location is a special marker. There are certain areas in the Philippines where the rich and famous live. Some of the prime locations for luxury real properties are the following:
Why Luxury Estates Are So Expensive? Aside from prime location, there are exclusive features that set luxury homes apart from other properties. For instance, they have custom-built architectural design and meticulous interior detailing from the experts. Oftentimes, renowned interior designers and architects work on their construction projects. Some special features include imported materials, bespoke finishes, expansive windows, and high ceilings. Another unique feature of mansion houses is incorporating smart home technology into their entertainment and security systems. The purpose is to control everything using their smartphones while being able to monitor their homes from afar. This gives peace of mind and convenience as it makes things easier to manage, such as adjusting the lighting in the living room. And of course, nothing beats the luxury of top-of-the-line amenities, including a jacuzzi, home theater, spa room, equipped gym, and wine cellar. It’s like living in a five-star hotel with all the amenities you need in one place. From the outside, you’re going to see beautiful landscaping with functional outdoor space, such as an outdoor kitchen and a Zen garden. As for privacy, gated communities often have high walls, advanced surveillance systems, and security guards. Final Thoughts Living the dream yet? Now you have an idea of what it is to live like the billionaires you see in magazines. The luxury real estate market in the Philippines is all about projecting an image, having that exclusivity, achievement, and investment rolled into one stunning property. Check out REALS.PH, if you want to explore the latest property listings, including luxury condominiums in Baguio City and other highly coveted properties in prime locations nationwide.
Top 5 Most Luxurious Properties in Metro ManilaWhen it comes to unparalleled luxury and world-class amenities, owning a property in one of these exclusive subdivisions says a lot about someone’s status. Who wouldn’t want to live in a coveted address or in a high-rise haven in a prime location. But of course, this commands a massive price tag to acquire a prestigious real estate property in the Philippines. Let’s find out the top five most luxurious subdivisions only the wealthy can afford. 1. Forbes Park For Forbes Park in Makati City, exclusivity is the name of the game. You need to have PHP 400 million to PHP 3.5 billion to buy a property in this most prestigious subdivision in the country. This affluent village only holds the highest of standards, as mirrored in the residents living in this coveted address, not just in the Philippines but also in Asia. 2. Corinthian Gardens The price range to purchase a property in Corinthian Gardens is between PHP 300 million to PHP 1.2 billion. This luxurious subdivision offers both convenience and luxury for the wealthy families in the city. Truly an epitome of sophisticated living, this famous subdivision boasts beautifully built houses with breathtaking views surrounding the entire enclave. 3. Urdaneta Village Rich families looking for accessibility and privacy, and can afford PHP 352 million to PHP 925 million worth of house and lot, can find the perfect haven in Urdaneta Village. This combines sophistication and comfort at the heart of Makati. Another sanctuary for the affluent residents with world-class amenities and well-secured community. 4. Valle Verde With expansive living spaces, top-tier security, and exclusive amenities, Valle Verde stays competitive in terms of luxurious living and exclusivity. This prominent subdivision in Pasig caters to affluent families that seek a serene living environment. Here, you can also enjoy both tranquility and privacy, a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. 5. Ayala Alabang Village The gated community of Ayala Alabang Village is home to influential families in the country. The suburban luxury living offered by this exclusive subdivision makes it the perfect choice for those looking to enjoy tranquil surroundings and upscale living. With lush greenery and elegant houses within the premises, everything looks like a movie. Typical price range when buying a property here is between PHP 80 million to PHP 300 million. Final Thoughts Now you know where to go if you want to find the most luxurious properties in Metro Manila. Nothing beats the luxury and comfort offered by these exclusive gated communities in prime locations. Real estate is indeed an expensive investment to make, but it’s just a piece of cake for wealthy people. If you want to explore luxury condominiums in Baguio City, visit REALS.PH today, so our welcoming real estate agents can assist you. Now is the time to invest in a luxurious property that appreciates over time.
Computation of Real Estate Tax: 2026 Guide for FilipinosOwning a property in the Philippines comes with a lot of responsibilities. You need to process the title transfer, pay off your mortgage if you acquired the house through a loan, and settle your property taxes. It’s not a walk in the park, but if you know how to handle the processes and requirements, you’re good. In this article, you will learn how real property taxes are computed, so you’ll know how much you need to pay annually. Real Property Tax Explained Real property tax refers to the annual tax that every property owner should pay as imposed under the Local Government Code, sections 197 to 283. Municipal governments and local government units have the power to enforce the payment of real estate taxes. They are also authorized to appraise real properties inside their district. Moreover, these taxations and appraisals strictly follow tax rate limits and fair market value. LGUs use real property tax to raise funds so they can provide basic services to their public. If you don’t pay your real property tax, the government may put your property up for auction. Therefore, it’s important to understand how to compute your taxes and pay them on time. Calculating Your Real Property Tax If you want to know how much RPT you need to pay, here are the steps on how to compute the RPT rate:
Final Thoughts Now that you know how much RPT you should settle every year, you can protect your investment from government auction. You can pay RPT via installment basis or in full to avoid the hassle, especially during the scheduled payment of taxes. You can visit REALS.PH, if you have questions regarding these taxes. You can also find on the website our exclusive listings of luxury condos in Baguio City and other key cities in the Philippines.
How to Spot Cracks in Walls and Fix Them Like a ProOne of the most common issues that homeowners encounter is seeing cracks in their walls. While these lines are often not serious, they could affect the overall aesthetic of your home. Fixing these imperfections can also help address underlying issues. Therefore, it’s important to know what to do when you see cracks in your home with these simple yet proven tips from the experts. Determining the Cause of Cracks in Walls Before fixing the crack, identify the cause first, and then what type of crack it is. After identifying it, prepare the tools and materials to start repairing the cracks. Remember that there are different methods to repair hairline cracks in plaster walls and drywall. Assessing the situation is essential in determining what technique to use and how to properly address any structural issues. For instance, it may require patching, sealing, or re-plastering to fix cracks and ensure smooth and successful wall repair. To identify the cause, there are different factors that could trigger wall cracks. A common cause is the foundation itself due to structural problems. Check for any signs of compromised foundation, such as misaligned doors and uneven floors. Another potential issue that can cause cracks is water damage. It could be due to poor drainage, high humidity, or leaking pipes. Make sure to inspect your kitchen and bathroom with plumbing fixtures, where water damage could be leading to damaged walls. Other areas in the house that may also show signs of water damage include basements and garages. Identifying the Type of Wall Crack If you see wall cracks around your home, it’s important to assess the type of cracks so you’ll know how to approach them. The most common types of cracks in walls are vertical cracks, diagonal cracks, and hairline cracks. Each type has unique characteristics, so different methods should be used to fix underlying issues.
Final Thoughts By following these tips, you can easily determine what type of crack is in your wall and how to fix it. Depending on the wall crack, you can repair it on your own or consult an engineer to help you resolve the main issue. If you want to invest in a new property in Baguio City, now is the time to explore your options. Check out REALS.PH website and see our exclusive listings of condominiums and house-and-lot properties in the Philippines.
More Dynamic Market for Philippine Real Estate Expected in 2026This new year, rising regional hubs and the NCR real estate market remain active due to industrial expansion, retail resilience, residential opportunities, and office recovery according to Colliers Philippines. Their market outlook describes a dynamic market fueled by strategic investments, changing consumer behavior, and shifting demand. In this article, let’s see how Colliers envision the property market from 2026 to 2028. Upcoming Office Spaces In Metro Manila, Colliers anticipates around 350,000 sqm of newly-built office units to be delivered from 2026 to 2028. Compared to the completed office spaces between 2017 and 2019, this is only one-third of the 1.0 million sqm, as pre-COVID and offshore gaming peaked at this period. This new supply is expected to account for almost 60% by Quezon City, Ortigas Fringe, and the Bay Area. Outside Metro Manila, Pampanga, and Cebu are expected to comprise more than 50% of transactions. Moreover, the increase of flexible workspace providers in Bacolod, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, and Pampanga helps in decentralization. Office building landlords are encouraged to innovate their spaces to stay competitive against newer, greener, and more modernized offices. It will also help if they can offer flexible lease terms, including lower base rent, delayed rent escalation, or a rent-free period. For condominium units, Colliers expects 3,600 condos to be delivered annually from 2026 to 2028. They also expect developers to explore business opportunities in the Katipunan Area, C5 Corridor, and other Metro Manila peripheries. This is because central business districts now lack developable land amid soaring prices. New Retail Developments The retail sector is shifting to suburbia as new retail developments will take over outside Metro Manila. For instance, Rockwell Land Corporation is aiming to put up Power Plant Malls in Bacolod City and Angeles City. Meanwhile, Ayala Malls and SM Malls will launch more branches in Iloilo, Davao, Bacolod, and Cebu. For retailers in the food and beverage, beauty and wellness, and clothing and footwear industries, Colliers expects them to dominate malls in the coming months. In addition, international brands will continue to occupy bigger physical mall spaces in key cities nationwide. Major developers offer experiential spaces as well as sip-and-shop concepts to attract more mallgoers. Retail concepts are likely to remain popular according to Colliers, and Filipino customers will experience premium retail like what’s offered abroad. These fresh retail concepts will take up physical malls and contribute to greater mall space absorption across the country. Final Thoughts With the property market in the Philippines being seen as dynamic and booming this 2026, new office spaces and retail developments will be witnessed rising in key cities across the country. Business outside Metro Manila is also thriving, so expect a more competitive market in the coming years. You can check out REALS.PH for more exclusive listings of condominiums in Baguio City and other properties nationwide. Send us a message today and let our real estate agents help you.
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