Can You Evict an Informal Settler in Your Property Anytime? Many property owners in the Philippines experience having squatters occupying their land. Understandably so, they may want to evict them as they wish, but our laws do not allow this without due process. If you’re a landowner dealing with the same problem, it’s important to know your rights and what legal steps to take here. Read this guide to learn how you can legally remove informal settlers from your property. Do Squatters Have Rights? According to Philippine laws, informal settlers illegally occupying a private property are entitled to certain rights. Article 3, Sec. 1 of the 1987 Constitution protects these underprivileged and homeless citizens from immediate and forceful eviction. Therefore, you cannot simply kick out squatters from your land anytime you want because “no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process”. There’s a legal procedure that must be followed when evicting squatters from a private property. While they don’t have the right to occupy your land, but you cannot use force or kick them out without a court order. In addition, you cannot demolish their houses or cut their utility services such as water and electricity without proper notice. Especially, if they have been living in your property for a long time and they have no other housing options. Legal Ways to Evict Informal Settlers Through legal means, you have the right to reclaim your property. So without using force or threats, here are the steps you can take for the legal process of eviction:
It’s important not to destroy any structures or threaten squatters to avoid criminal or civil liabilities. Also, always legally document private negotiations and consult with your lawyer to properly handle the matter. Relocation Assistance from the Government The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development coordinates housing and relocation efforts with communities or municipalities nationwide. Settlers that are qualified for social housing will be given relocation assistance. It’s important that evicted squatters be provided with government support to ensure their families will still have a shelter, as basic human rights. Final Thoughts There’s always a legal way to expel squatters from your property to protect both your rights and avoid legal trouble. Evicting informal settlers requires patience, legal action, and sometimes government coordination to keep it peaceful and lawful. If you have questions regarding your property, please don’t hesitate to message us through our Facebook page. You may also register on REALS.PH website to list your property or check out our condominium in Baguio listings.
0 Comments
Converting 1BR Condominium to 2BR Unit for Airbnb in the Philippines Many Filipinos are now investing in condominium units for rental purposes. If you want an extra income, you can turn your condo into an Airbnb unit. Condo living in the Philippines is a smart way to live near your workplace. And for tourists, this is a more affordable way to rent a space than staying in hotels. So, how can you convert your one-bedroom unit into a two-bedroom space to accommodate more guests? More Affordable Condo Upgrade Aside from renting out your unit, you may be wondering why consider a condo conversion? Well, real estate prices in urban areas like Metro Manila and Cebu continue to rise. Instead of upgrading to a more expensive 2-bedroom condominium, you can just renovate your current unit to meet your growing space needs. This is cost-efficient as well as a smart move to increase your condo’s functionality and resale value. Ways to Convert a 1BR Condo to a 2BR So, you currently have a 1-bedroom condo and want to convert the unit into a 2-bedroom for Airbnb. You can simply build a wall and door to an open space, such as living room, to make an additional bedroom. After finding an unused area in your condo, you can hire a carpenter to install the drywall and cladding for a wall accent. Make sure to adjust the switches and outlets to accommodate the changes. Unlike a 1BR unit, you can enjoy more privacy by adding another bedroom. With two bedrooms, you can rent your condo for up to six people. The cost of materials and labor will depend on your budget, but normally, you may spend around Php 30,000 for this simple renovation. Make sure to hire a reliable contractor to do this project. Here’s a step-by-step guide to convert a 1BR condominium unit to a 2BR:
Final Thoughts If planned well and done properly, converting your 1-bedroom into a 2-bedroom unit can improve functionality, attract renters, and increase your condo’s market value. Just make sure to prepare the costing so you can stick to your budget while doing the condo renovation. You can check out our new condominiums in Baguio City exclusive listings. Our seasoned real estate agents can help you find what you need or sell your property via REALS.PH website.
What Filipinos Should Consider When Buying an Earthquake-Safe Condo Unit When buying a property in the Philippines, one of the most important factors to consider is earthquake safety. Our country is situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, so earthquakes are a part of our reality. This is why it’s crucial to buy a house or condo that is built to withstand even the strongest quake. So in this guide, you will learn how to choose an earthquake-free condominium unit, house and lot, or other real properties to secure your investment in the future. Why Earthquake Safety Matters in Real Estate A strong earthquake can damage buildings, compromise structural integrity, and reduce property value. Even newly built condos may be vulnerable if they are near active fault lines or unstable soil. As a responsible buyer or homeowner, it’s essential to consider geological safety when investing in real estate. To help with this, government agencies such as the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology provide tools like the FaultFinder and HazardHunterPH to assess earthquake risk in various areas of the Philippines. Some of the earthquake-safe cities include Davao City, Iloilo City, and Puerto Princesa. However, you can find quake-proof condominiums in Baguio City where you can safely invest. Factors to Look For in an Earthquake-Proof Property Here are the key factors to consider when buying a condominium or house that is safe from earthquakes:
Tips When Buying an Earthquake-Resistant Real Estate Make sure to check proximity to active faults using the PHIVOLCS free tools. The property should also follow the National Structural Code of the Philippines. You can ask for structural audit certificates, geotechnical reports, and an occupancy permit. Most importantly, choose developers with a track record in structural safety. Final Thoughts Investing in a home or condo with low risk for earthquake shocks is not just about property value, but also peace of mind. You may consider the materials used, methods applied, and the developer’s reputation before purchasing a condo. If you’re looking for an earthquake-proof condominium in Baguio City, you can visit REALS.PH website for exclusive listings.
Where to Invest in the Philippines for Flood-Free Real Properties Perhaps, you are wondering which areas in the Philippines are flood-free so you can safely invest in a real property. This is a critical factor to consider before buying a condominium unit or house and lot. A strategic location that is free from flooding is often the best option for a real estate investment. So which are the flood-proof properties that you can invest in? Let’s find out in this comprehensive list of flood-free cities for Filipino real estate investors and homebuyers. Mandaluyong City While Mandaluyong is located near bodies of water, this city is surprisingly safe from flooding due to its hills and peaks. For instance, you can get a real estate property in Plainview, Highway Hills, Wack-wack Greenhills, and even Ortigas Center. These are all smart investments because Mandaluyong is a well-known business district. Also, the city is accessible to major shopping malls in the Philippines such as the Podium and Megamall. Taguig City Thanks to the joint efforts of the city government, Taguig is considered flood-free zone in the Philippines. While it is situated nearby Laguna de Bay, there are floodgates as well as pumping stations to control floodwater. The city also implements contingency plans during typhoon season to ensure residents are safe from flooding. Some flood-proof zones to consider when buying a real property in Taguig are Bonifacio Global City, FTI, Santa Ana, and Napindan. Makati City When it comes to business, Makati is the prime location to be at. For that reason, the city mayor and local government work hand in hand to keep the key areas flood-free even during the rainy season. Some of the best locations in Makati for real property investments include Bel-Air, East Rembo, La Paz, Poblacion, and San Lorenzo. One of the high-end destinations in the city is Rockwell Center that takes drainage systems seriously. Pasay City Of course, we have Pasay City as another excellent choice for flood-free areas where you can purchase real properties. With major establishments located in the city including Newport City, Mall of Asia, and Ninoy Aquino International Airport, it is indeed a smart investment to get a property in this city. Some of the best areas that are free from the threat of Manila Bay floodwaters are Bay City, Newport City, Nichols, and Santa Clara Tagaytay City If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila, Tagaytay City is a perfect choice. Many Filipinos and even foreigners choose to settle in Tagaytay for many obvious reasons including nature and fresh air. A Tagaytay property can give you the luxury of slow mornings and beautiful views without the fear of being flooded. The city is at 610 meters above sea level, so you can enjoy cooler climate and flood-free real estate investment. Final Thoughts Investing in flood-free properties will pay you back big time in the future. With climate change that seems unstoppable, safety must be the top priority for homeowners. Whether you’re planning to get a retirement home or a family home for your loved ones, considering a flood-proof location should be part of the plan. You can visit REALS.PH for the latest condominium units in Baguio City, or list your property on the website so that our real estate agents can help you find a buyer!
Realty Installment Buyer Protection Act: How to Get a Refund Have you bought a property in the Philippines and then decided to stop paying the monthly dues for some reason? You’re not alone. There are many Filipinos who purchased condos and suddenly can no longer pay due to financial issues. Now, can you refund the payments in full and just move on? This is where the Maceda Law comes in. So, what is this Republic Act 6552 and how much refund are you entitled to receive? What Is the Maceda Law? The Maceda Law, also known as the Realty Buyer Protection Act or Republic Act 6552, was created to protect buyers against problematic contracts from sellers. In real estate, this law will give you the right to ask for a refund in case you don’t want to continue paying for your mortgage anymore. But this will be given under some conditions to ensure both parties are protected under the law. Conditions to Get a Refund from the Developer So, you’ve realized you can no longer afford to pay your condo installments. You can ask your developer for a refund. However, there are some conditions that you need to meet – and one of them is that you should have paid at least two years or 24 months for the property. If so, you are entitled for a 50% refund based on your cash-out. For example, if you have paid Php 1 million, then you can get a Php 500,000 refund whether the seller or developer likes it or not. But then again, you might be wondering if that 50% is the only amount you can refund. According to the Maceda Law, this can increase by 5% every year if you have paid more than five years of installments. The refund will be released 30 days upon receiving the duly notarized cancellation notice. Limits & Benefits of the Maceda Law for Refunds Unfortunately, RA 6552 is not applicable for mortgage sales. Meaning, once the property has been turned over to the end-user financing like Pag-IBIG or bank financing, this will no longer be covered by the law. If you fail to pay your financing company, the property will be foreclosed. Aside from mortgage sale, this is also not applicable to rent-to-own properties, commercial properties, and industrial lots that you want to purchase. Another benefit once you’ve paid more than two years of installments is that there’s no interest or penalties, while you can enjoy a grace period which is equivalent to one month per year in every five years. In other words, if it’s your due date today and you have paid for two years already, then you have 2-month grace period. But what if you did not reach two years of paying your installments? According to Maceda Law, you can’t request for a refund although you will be given a grace period. Let’s say today is your due date, then you will have two months or 60 days without penalty if ever you can’t pay today. If you still can’t pay after the grace period, the developer or seller will send you a notarized cancellation notice. You have one month to settle the balance, or the property will be forfeited. Final Thoughts Knowing your rights as a buyer can save you from headaches. But remember that you can only apply the Maceda Law for a refund under the given conditions. You may not get 100% of your payments, but you can still get at least 50% in case you decide to stop paying your monthly installments. Make sure to check out REALS.PH for the latest condominiums for sale in Baguio and other properties within the Philippines.
Warning Signs You’re Hiring the Wrong Contractor in the Philippines Hiring the right contractor is important in building your dream house for so many reasons. Construction in the Philippines can be a long and costly process, so you need a reliable contractor to avoid delays and wasted money. Whether you’re planning to build a new home or renovate your current space, make sure to recognize the early signs of a problematic contractor before it’s too late. Here are the top red flags to watch out for when hiring a Philippine contractor. No Valid PCAB License Legit contractors are accredited by the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board to ensure they meet specific standards in terms of technical expertise and competency. If they can’t provide you with a valid PCAB license, then it’s a major red flag. You can check their license online through the PCAB Portal. Just go to the PCAB regular license online verification section and search the ID or name of the firm. Verbal Agreements Only A reliable contractor will always provide a detailed written contract. If they avoid documentation or rely only on verbal agreements, it opens the door for disputes, unexpected charges, and unfinished projects. So, make sure to always ask for a contract that specifies the project scope, materials, timelines, payment terms, and penalties if expectations are not met. Demands for Large Upfront Payments The usual down payment for building contractors in the Philippines is 25% upon release of building permits. If your contractor demands a much higher amount before starting the actual construction, be more cautious. Scammers often disappear after collecting the money in advance. You might be surprised that even some Filipino celebrities have a fair share of horror stories with problematic contractors. Suspiciously Low Estimates Aside from not having a portfolio or references, dishonest contractors also offer quotes that are too good to be true. They often attract clients with low rates but later compromise on quality and add hidden charges. To avoid this, compare multiple bids and assess which contractor suits your preferences and has the credibility to meet your requirements. No Permits or Shortcut Offers All construction work in the Philippines requires building permits. If a contractor offers to skip these major requirements and other paperwork for a cheaper price, walk away. This can lead to legal trouble, demolition orders, and huge penalties from the local government. Always obtain the necessary permits when building a house to ensure all legal requirements are met. Final Thoughts Before hiring, you can search the contractor’s name on the PCAB website or social media forums to check if there are complaints against them. Protect your investment by doing proper research, verifying licenses, reviewing contracts, and trusting your instincts. Spot these warning signs early to avoid costly mistakes. If you’re looking for a house and lot in Baguio City or anywhere in the Philippines, just go to REALS.PH website. You can also list your property with us, and our real estate agents will sell it for you!
5 Issues You Might Experience When Constructing a House in the Philippines It’s a lifelong goal for many Filipinos to be able to build their dream home. But what if this dream turns into a nightmare because of unexpected costs and unreliable contractors? The construction process is not often smooth as many homeowners encounter some common problems while building their house. So what are the five most common issues you may face in home construction and how to avoid them. 1. Underestimated Budget One of the biggest issues in building a house in the Philippines is underestimating the cost of construction. Filipinos normally begin building with a fixed budget, unaware of the fluctuating material prices, labor costs, and hidden expenses including permits, architectural fees, and post-construction finishes. If you don’t plan and monitor costs, it’s easy to overspend by 20% or more. 2. Delays in Building Permit Securing a building permit from your local government unit can be time-consuming. You need multiple approvals from engineers, architects, and even barangay officials. If it’s your first time building a house, applying for these permits can lead to months of delay and slow progress. It’s good to seek professional help to navigate this process better and faster. 3. Contractor Challenges Perhaps, the most critical issue is dealing with unreliable contractors or unqualified workers. Some homeowners hire low-cost or kumpare contractors without checking licenses and credentials. This often leads to:
4. Lack of Skilled Labor Skilled construction workers in the Philippines are migrating abroad for better pay, leaving our construction industry with shortage of laborers. It may be harder to find reliable carpenters, electricians, and masons depending on your area. If your contractor hires inexperienced workers or those called kuyakoy, then the quality of your house may suffer. 5. Poor Planning and Design Skipping the design stage or not hiring a licensed architect can lead to costly changes in the middle of the building process. Poorly planned layout might waste space, affect natural ventilation, and worse, violate local building codes. Final Thoughts Building your dream home in the Philippines should not be another horror story, but an inspiring one for other homeowners. Prioritize proper planning, design, legal documentation, and trustworthy contractors to ensure quality building projects. Most importantly, monitor each stage of the construction process to prevent costly problems in the future. Visit REALS.PH today and see our exclusive listings of house and lot for sale in Baguio and other areas in the Philippines.
What If Your Name on the Land Title Is Misspelled? Have you ever experienced having a misspelled name on legal documents such as a land title? Perhaps, you just found out that your name on the land title has the wrong spelling. Don’t worry, because there is an easy way to correct an error on Philippine land titles. In this guide, you will learn how to correct a misspelled name on a property title in just a few steps, and the requirements you need to submit. How to Correct a Misspelled Name on a Land Title? So what if your name on the property title is misspelled? Even if it’s just one letter, it’s crucial to fix this error to guarantee your legal claim to the property. Here are the steps on how to correct the name in the title: Step 1: Go to the Register of Deeds office. This should be in the local branch where your property is located. For example, if your property is in Baguio City, you should visit the RD Baguio office. Step 2: Submit all required documents. You need to prepare all the requirements to process your request, such as:
Step 3: Pay the administrative fees. This is only minimal and not as expensive as other fees when processing a land title transfer. What is an administrative correction of title, or the administrative correction procedure for clerical errors? You need to file an application form or a letter-request under oath, including the wrong spelling, and supporting documents. Step 4: Wait for the issuance of the new title. At this point, you should wait until the release of the new title under your corrected spelling of your name. Remember that this is only applicable for clerical errors on the title. Meaning, there’s a simple mistake in spelling or a typographical error. Now, what if your full name is incorrect to the point you’re no longer recognizable as the owner of the title? There is another procedure for this, which may require a bit more tedious work. You can ask for legal advice to resolve this matter. Final Thoughts Sometimes, clerks commit simple mistakes when producing legal documents such as land titles. But don’t fret because you can easily fix this typographical error by submitting a few requirements and paying a minimal admin fee. If you have problems or questions regarding your real estate properties, you can contact us by simply messaging our REALS.PH Facebook page. You may also check out our website for exclusive listings of condominiums in Baguio City and other properties.
What Filipinos Should Know Before Building Their Own Home Are you planning to build a house soon? Perhaps, you’re an OFW who wants to secure your family’s future or a young professional looking to invest in real estate, building a home can be a daunting process. Without proper planning, it can be confusing as construction involves floor plans, building permits, and other paperwork. This is why many Filipinos choose to buy a house and lot from known developers to avoid such a tedious process. So, what exactly do you need to build a home here in the Philippines? What Type of Real Estate Do Most Filipinos Prefer? More Filipinos are now choosing house and lot packages or condominium units for investment and living purposes. Here are more reasons to consider investing in condos and other ready-to-use residential properties:
What You Need to Build a House in PH? If you’ve decided to build your own home instead of buying a condominium or residential unit in a subdivision, here are the major requirements you need to secure:
Why Build a House with a Real Estate Broker? A real estate broker doesn’t just sell properties; they can also guide you through the buying process from start to finish. For instance, a broker can help you find the right location for your goals and budget. You will also be assisted in completing legal requirements and other necessary documents. An established real estate agent can connect you with trusted architects and contractors. Moreover, real estate brokers in Baguio City can provide advice on bank loans or Pag-IBIG financing. They will provide you with market insights to help you make informed investment choices. Whether you’re buying or building a home, a broker ensures you don’t waste time and money. Final Thoughts If building a home seems complicated, you can always get the right help to make things easier. Avoid the long queues and numerous requirements by simply working with a licensed real estate broker from REALS.PH Corp. We will help you save time, avoid costly mistakes, gain expert advice, and enjoy peace of mind. Visit our exclusive listings for condominiums in Baguio to find the exact property you want to invest in.
5 Best Features Filipino Homeowners Look For in a New Home Whether you’re a Filipino homeowner planning to sell your house or a buyer on the lookout for a new home, knowing what features are most appealing in the Philippine market can give you an advantage. Today’s buyers are more discerning when it comes to design elements and upgrades that affect the price and marketability of a property. Let’s discuss the top five home features that make a property more appealing and sell faster in the Philippines. 1. Open Spaces and Natural Lighting Filipino homebuyers are increasingly drawn to homes that feel bright and airy. Open floor plans paired with large windows make any house feel bigger, cooler, and more inviting especially that we have a warm, tropical climate in the Philippines. If you’re selling your property, use light-colored paint and remove heavy drapes to reflect sunlight better. Remember that a fresh, well-lit home instantly feels more valuable to buyers. 2. Functional Outdoor Spaces Outdoor spaces like balconies, patios, pocket gardens, or rooftop terraces have become highly desirable for homebuyers nowadays. After the pandemic, Filipinos started appreciating open-air spaces for relaxation and privacy. In fact, even a small outdoor area can become a major selling point with the right setup, such as potted plants, outdoor furniture, and a mini herb garden. 3. Smart and Energy-Saving Features Many buyers are now prioritizing energy efficiency and home automation. Features like solar panels, LED lighting, CCTV cameras, motion-sensor lights, and smart locks make the home more secure and cost-effective in the long run. Therefore, highlighting these features in your property listing can be a huge advantage for potential buyers. 4. Covered and Secure Parking Space With the rise in car ownership in the Philippines, a home with dedicated parking is a great advantage for sellers. In congested urban areas, it can even add more value to any property. If your property has space for multiple vehicles or a gated driveway, make sure to emphasize this in your property description. 5.Updated Kitchens and Bathrooms Kitchens and bathrooms are often the most inspected parts of a home. A well-maintained kitchen with ample counter space, storage, and modern finishes makes a strong impression. Clean, tiled bathrooms with updated fixtures also add instant appeal for buyers. However, you don’t need to do a major renovation to achieve this. Even small upgrades, such as new faucets, cabinet handles, or regrouting tiles, can make a significant difference when selling a property. Final Thoughts If you’re preparing to sell your property or searching for a condominium to buy in the Philippines, these five features are worth considering. They improve the quality of life while increasing your property’s value, so it sells faster in today’s competitive real estate market. Whether you’re in Metro Manila, Cebu, Baguio City, or anywhere in the country, homes that offer comfort, functionality, and smart living features will always stand out. Check out our exclusive listings in Baguio for the perfect home that you’re looking for.
|
Archives
October 2025
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed
Hi! Welcome to our website. Having an agent/broker on your real estate search is a gift because with or without them the price of the property is always the same. They give you FREE SERVICE and only pure service. On your part, everything is to gain. Claim your gift now! :)
For the complete Property listings of REALS Corporation, click the button below:
Meet your Real Estate Broker Partner:
Roman Joe Anoso, RN, REB
Real estate Broker PRC license number: 19887
HLURB registration number: CAR-B-05/21-029
HLURB registration number: CAR-B-05/21-029
Baguio's top real estate broker Roman joe Anoso is grateful to serve you
Roman joe Anoso is a multi-awarded real estate broker, consistent Top #1 for 8 years to date.
Being recognized by the following companies:
Sta. Lucia Land, Inc.
- Overall Nationwide Top # 1 Real estate broker year 2024
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
- Real Estate Broker with the Highest sale for the year 2023
Suntrust Properties, Inc.
- Overall Nationwide Top # 1 Real estate broker year 2018
Vista Residences, Inc.
- Overall Nationwide Top # 1 Real estate broker year 2017
Goshen Land capital, inc.
- Overall Nationwide Top # 1 Real estate broker year 2011 to 2016
Being recognized by the following companies:
Sta. Lucia Land, Inc.
- Overall Nationwide Top # 1 Real estate broker year 2024
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
- Real Estate Broker with the Highest sale for the year 2023
Suntrust Properties, Inc.
- Overall Nationwide Top # 1 Real estate broker year 2018
Vista Residences, Inc.
- Overall Nationwide Top # 1 Real estate broker year 2017
Goshen Land capital, inc.
- Overall Nationwide Top # 1 Real estate broker year 2011 to 2016
PRC Licensed Real estate Broker Roman Joe Anoso
office address: REALS Corporation, Barangay Dontogan, Baguio city, 2600
personal: +63917-5645-863
viber/whatsapp: +63917-5645-863
add him on facebook (CLICK HERE)
office landline: 074-442-2353 (for clearer conversation)
email: [email protected]
skype: romankat2
website: www.realestatebaguio.com
personal: +63917-5645-863
viber/whatsapp: +63917-5645-863
add him on facebook (CLICK HERE)
office landline: 074-442-2353 (for clearer conversation)
email: [email protected]
skype: romankat2
website: www.realestatebaguio.com
