Feng Shui Tips for New Homebuyers in the PhilippinesOne of the most important milestones in your life is buying a home. However, this comes with making a lot of considerations, including the location and your budget. And to make it even more interesting, you might also want to consider the practice of Feng Shui to ensure a harmonious space for you and your family. So what does this ancient Chinese art have to do with purchasing a new home in the Philippines? What Is Feng Shui? Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese art practice that involves harmonizing occupants with their homes or surroundings. This is to help homebuyers ensure their new home maximizes their well-being, happiness, and good luck. There are important Feng Shui principles when choosing a home, including the interior elements, layout of the house, and its environment. All of these can help in balancing your living space. Choosing the Right Location The most important Feng Shui tip in the home-buying process is finding the right location for your new house. This art focuses on your home surroundings because it significantly affects the “chi” or overall flow of energy in your new property. So you want to choose a home where there is positive chi or energy. This is often characterized by well-maintained neighborhoods with a sense of community. The natural elements surrounding the house are also important in the application of Feng Shui. Properties near rivers or bodies of water are said to be beneficial because this element symbolizes abundance, as long as it’s not near your main entrance and the water flows gently. Generally, you want a home located in an environment with a good balance of natural elements. Creating a Balanced Flow The next thing you want to consider for a Feng Shui-friendly home is the design and layout of the house. For instance, the entryway should be open and welcoming so that the positive energy will enter the house freely. Make sure the front door is solid and well-lit, ideally facing your Feng Shui element such as water, earth, wood, fire, or metal. In terms of the layout, the house should have an overall balanced energy flow. There should be no odd shapes in the rooms that may disrupt the flow of chi. And since the living room is the center of social interaction, it should be centrally located and spacious. The kitchen design should promote health and prosperity, where the stove allows the cook to see the front door clearly. Final Thoughts Designing your home is more than just the physical structure; it’s also about creating a space where energy can flow positively. By practicing Feng Shui, you can maximize the positive chi and make your new home a harmonious living space for your loved ones. At REALS.PH, we may not be Feng Shui masters, but we can be your reliable real estate agent, helping you find the perfect home you need. Check out our listings online, including house and lot in Baguio City, for your next real estate investment.
0 Comments
How Peso Depreciation Affects the Real Estate Market in the PhilippinesThere are far-reaching implications when it comes to the depreciation of the Philippine peso, especially in the real estate market. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas explained that the weakening of the Philippine peso is mainly due to the strengthening of the U.S. dollar, and not because of internal economic weaknesses. In this article, let’s talk about the key effects of declining peso value in the real estate sector. Stronger Purchasing Power for OFWs With the exchange rate reaching almost Php 60 against the U.S. dollar, the significant effects of potential declines extend to investment decisions and buying power. While this has a huge impact on inflation, this also creates great opportunities for Overseas Filipino Workers and foreign investors as well. Filipinos who are earning dollars gain significant buying power in real estate, therefore, can expand their investment portfolio and purchase high-value properties at lower rates. This is why the Philippines remains an attractive location for foreign investors, especially in the commercial property and condominium sectors. Higher Costs for Building Materials A weakening peso means higher expenses for the construction and development sector. This is because many of the building materials used in property development are imported, hence they are priced in dollars or other foreign currencies. And this results in higher property prices for local investors, while foreign buyers enjoy affordability. However, this can slow down new developments and focus on high-end properties for foreign markets. Since a weaker peso can lead to inflation as well as high interest rates, it will become more expensive for local buyers to acquire new properties. In addition, this could lead to a slowdown in property transactions among domestic investors. This economic shift can also limit opportunities for Filipinos to own homes, and even harder to expand local businesses through real estate investments. More Stable Assets Despite the economic instability brought by the weakening peso, real estate is still a reliable option against inflation. In terms of market stability and investor confidence, property investments remain an effective way to curb rising prices. Over time, property values go up, so investors benefit from long-term security compared to other asset classes. Real estate remains stable amid currency fluctuations, a valuable investment during tough times. Some great locations to invest in properties include Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, and even Baguio City. Baguio is named the wealthiest city outside the National Capital Region, making it a strategic location for investors. Focusing on cities with booming infrastructure projects and business parks is a good place to start as they offer lucrative opportunities in the long run. Final Thoughts Monitoring the peso-dollar exchange rate is a good habit for many investors because it significantly affects investments and the affordability of properties. Despite the depreciation of the peso, Filipinos can still turn this into an opportunity in the real estate market. If you want to invest in luxury condominiums in Baguio City, feel free to visit REALS.PH website for our exclusive listings of different properties for sale in the Philippines.
How to Become a Successful Real Estate Agent: A Quick Guide for BeginnersAll career paths must lead to one thing, and that is success. But sometimes, it takes a few turns to find exactly what you want to do in life. If you want to try working as a real estate agent, you need to build some important habits to succeed and thrive in the industry. In this guide, you will learn how to become a successful real estate agent in the Philippines by simply doing these habits. Investing In Skills When you invest in yourself, you develop more skills that will level up your game in the long run. Think long-term so you can set and sustain your goals. You can listen to podcasts or research on your industry to find ways to improve yourself. The main objective is to become an expert in real estate and keep up with the changing demands of the market. Learning the Market Knowing the market like a local is important in attracting prospects and driving sales. If you’re a real estate agent in Baguio, you must be familiar with the neighborhoods in your area. This way, you can easily answer queries about the surrounding towns in the city. You must be knowledgeable about what has been sold recently or what is on the market that prospects may benefit from. Practicing Good Communication Ever wondered how you sound to potential buyers? Do mock calls with a friend pretending to listen to your listing presentation. You can also record your calls and criticize them constructively. Once you’ve pinpointed your flaws, practice to improve them. Also, make sure to plan your listing presentations to close deals successfully. Building a Large Network No man is an island, so make sure to connect with like-minded individuals and develop good relationships. Your past clients can refer you to new prospects and so on. If you can gather positive testimonials, then you can expand your network across the industry. Discuss ideas with them and explore new ways to elevate your business. Waking Up to a Routine What do you usually do first thing in the morning? That would affect how you spend the rest of the day. Therefore, make sure to build a morning habit that aligns with your goals. For instance, you can read a book or do some yoga to set the mood for the day. Starting your day with something productive will keep you going throughout your busy day. Final Thoughts These habits may be quick and simple, but they help you become a better person each day. The small things that you do actually define how you deal with bigger things. From good communication to building rapport with clients, it’s important that real estate agents know their customers in and out. If you want to check out some available house and lot in Baguio City, feel free to visit REALS.PH website for the best listings online.
Risks of Investing in Foreclosed Properties: Guide for First-Time HomebuyersBecause of the rising costs of houses in the Philippines, a lot of Filipinos are now opting for more practical ways to acquire properties. One way to find affordable homes is through foreclosed properties, often available at Pag-IBIG. These housing options have below-market prices, giving them the affordability that many homebuyers are looking for. Now, let’s weigh in the advantages and disadvantages of foreclosed homes so you can make informed buying decisions. What Is a Foreclosed Home? Before we delve deeper into the pros and cons, let’s define a foreclosed property first. It is a property that has been repossessed by the lender after the owner fails to pay the mortgage. To recover the loan balance, the property is sold again to interested buyers. Generally, banks don’t hold properties for longer periods, so these foreclosed properties are listed at lower prices for quick sales. Why Foreclosed Properties Are Attractive The beauty of foreclosed homes is that they’re practical and economical for those who want to save a huge chunk from their home budget. Whether in Metro Manila, Davao, or Cebu, property prices are only getting higher each year, so this is a great alternative for homebuyers with a tight budget. Foreclosed listings are currently focused on Bulacan, Cavite, and Rizal, where buyers can find beautiful homes at discounted rates. Pros of Foreclosed Real Estate
Cons of Buying Foreclosed Property
Simple Tips When Buying Foreclosures Make sure to inspect the house and assess the current condition before making a purchase. Verify the title as well, then compute the costs, including taxes, repairs, loan fees, and title transfer. You can consult an expert lawyer to help you with the legalities to avoid problems in the future. Also, know how to negotiate with the seller so you can get the best price. Final Thoughts If you’re ready to invest in a foreclosed home, remember to research thoroughly, consult a professional, and visit the property. With proper planning, you can make the most out of your money with a newly purchased home at a lower price. You can explore our exclusive listings at REALS.PH for the best properties, including preselling condominiums in Baguio City and other major cities nationwide.
Key Differences Between a Real Estate Agent and a BrokerWhether you’re looking to buy a house or sell your property, you may encounter a real estate agent or a broker. Both these licensed real estate professionals can help you with buying or selling an estate. However, there are some differences that make each profession unique from each other in terms of qualifications. So let’s talk about what makes a real estate agent different from a broker in the Philippines. What Is a Real Estate Professional Real estate professionals are licensed individuals who specialize in real estate marketing. They are Filipino citizens with a bachelor’s degree and good moral character. Every three years, they need to renew their licenses with the Professional Regulation Commission of the Philippines to continue practicing in the real estate field. Generally, we call someone who assists in any real estate transaction a real estate agent. While this is often correct, it’s important to know that a real estate agent has a specific function. Depending on the tasks they need to perform per client, agents charge different fees. Now, a real estate broker is another specialization with a different focus and job. Difference Between an Agent and a Broker To better understand what makes a real estate broker different from a real estate agent, let’s break down the qualifications and functions of each. A licensed real estate broker must register and obtain a license from the Professional Regulatory Board of Real Estate Service before they can buy, sell, lease, or exchange real property. On the other hand, a real estate agent or salesperson is simply an expert who works for a broker to conduct real estate transactions legally. Agents are also licensed to perform tasks such as assisting clients in purchasing a listing or processing rental properties. The main function is to connect sellers and buyers, where they can earn commissions. Requirements for Real Estate License An agent and a broker may hold different responsibilities and qualifications, but both require a real estate license to practice legally in the Philippines. Here are the requirements to obtain this license:
Final Thoughts Now that you know how a real estate agent and a broker are different in so many ways, it’s easier to differentiate the two in terms of functions. At REALS.PH, we work with established real estate agents to provide the best services as your most trusted real estate brokerage company in the north. Check our listings, including house and lot for sale in Baguio City, for your next property investment.
Common Mistakes Newbie Real Estate Investors Should AvoidOne of the most proven ways to build wealth in the Philippines is by investing in real estate. Perhaps, you’re here to know how to get started with real estate investments. The first thing you need to learn is to avoid the common mistakes many investors commit, so you can succeed in your new endeavor. Read on to understand how you can become a successful investor by avoiding these simple misconceptions in real estate investing. Not Doing Your Research Skipping research is a big no-no in the investment world. You must do your due diligence to understand the ins and outs of the market, including potential growth and property values. By focusing on these important aspects, you can make informed business decisions. You should study the development plans, property prices, market trends, and your local real estate market. Chasing Short-Term Gains The main focus in real estate investment is on long-term value instead of short-term profit. Keep in mind that the market often changes and is as volatile as the stock market. Therefore, it’s better to shift your focus to having a long-term strategy and investing in properties that increase in value over time. Overestimating Your Budget You need to define your financial goals before investing in real estate. Know how much you can afford and stick to your budget. Expect additional costs, including property taxes, loan interest, and maintenance along the way. The best way to keep up with your financial obligations is to create a realistic plan for all your investments. Disregarding Real Estate Legalities It’s so important to understand the legal aspects of real estate transactions, especially in the buying process. These include contract terms, zoning laws, refunds, and permits. Otherwise, you may end up paying fines, experience delays, and even lose your investment. You can consult a legal expert who specializes in real estate to review your contract or explain your options before investing or buying a property. Ignoring Your Exit Strategy Of course, if you know how to enter the real estate market, you should also understand when to sell a property. This is where a clear exit plan comes in. Before you invest, you must have a strategy for selling, including the perfect time to sell your properties. For example, you can sell your real property once it appreciates to the value you want. But don’t wait for too long; planning your exit early is the best way. Final Thoughts Real estate investments provide a great opportunity to earn big and build your wealth, if done the right way. So, do your homework, plan your exit, and thoroughly study all the legal aspects involved. Don’t hesitate to consult a legal expert if you need some advice. Just avoid all these mistakes to achieve your financial goal in the long run. If you want to invest in condominiums for sale in Baguio, log onto REALS.PH website to see our exclusive listings online
Is It Necessary to Get a Home Insurance for Filipino Homeowners?When it comes to financial protection, insurance products are the go-to solution for many Filipinos. Now, in the case of property owners, home insurance is important to have peace of mind despite the threat of earthquakes, typhoons, and other natural disasters. If you haven’t considered securing your home yet, read this article to understand why you should get a home insurance in the Philippines What Is A Homeowners Insurance? A home insurance or property insurance is mainly designed to provide protection for your house from natural risks. The coverage include damage to your property and important possessions inside it. Some insurance companies also provide liability coverage in case of an accident within your property. It’s crucial to understand what you exactly need from an insurance so you can choose what coverage is included in the product. Advantages of Home Insurance Policies While many Filipino homeowners still don’t think having a home insurance is essential, let’s tackle the benefits of insuring your property before a calamity hits.
Common Types of Home Insurance There are different home insurance policies to choose from, depending on your needs. They are designed based on the provider, coverage benefits, premiums, and other customization. Below are the most common types of property insurance:
Final Thoughts Securing your home in the Philippines is a smart move as it helps cover any damage incurred during fire and other natural calamities. The main purpose is to give you peace of mind knowing that a disaster can strike anytime. With an insured property, you get the most out of your investment without the worries of potential damage. The homes for sale in Baguio City that are listed on REALS.PH website are for you to explore. Let our real estate agents help you find a secured and insured home safe from all these risks.
PSA Names Baguio as Wealthiest City Outside Metropolitan ManilaAccording to the Philippine Statistics Authority’s latest report, Baguio is now the wealthiest city outside the National Capital Region. The PSA data showed that Baguio City overpowered other major cities in the Philippines based on total assets. Recent recognition solidifies the city’s reputation when it comes to economic growth in Northern Luzon. Let’s take a look at other key factors that made Baguio one of the most promising cities outside Mega Manila. Financial Growth Key Factors The financial growth of Baguio City is significantly driven by its growing tourism, services, and infrastructure investments by the city government, as well as the active businesses within the locality. Local officials recognized this big milestone and underscored the contribution of progress and resiliency in its economy amid challenges. Moreover, the local government also promised to continue inclusive development while ensuring that all residents will benefit from these economic gains. With Baguio’s 2024 economic performance finishing strong, the Summer Capital has topped seven Metro Manila localities with higher per capita income. It ranked first in overall Gross Domestic Product based on PSA data, with GDP per person of PHP 420,016 - the city is indeed cementing a major marker in the Philippine economic map. Now, more than being known for its temperate climate and rich cultural background, Benguet is becoming a force to be reckoned with in terms of financial growth. Consistent Economic Growth Back in 2022, this mountainous city also topped the list of richest provinces and cities beyond the NCR. Even Mayor Benjamin Magalong, one of the top-performing mayors in the country, said that the economy of Baguio is doing pretty well. The positive trends in GDP growth and other financial factors only lead to higher expectations; hence, consistency is key. With increasing MSMEs, higher collections from business permit fees, and tourist arrivals, sustainable development is highly attainable for Baguio. There are also initiatives for a smart city management plan to sustain the city’s good economic performance. And more importantly, the aim of achieving good governance also plays a vital role in the winning streak of Baguio in the financial playing field Final Thoughts It’s evident how Baguio stays consistent in growing its business sector and building a stronger economy for every local resident. The initiatives of the local government, along with proper resource management, help create a stable financial foundation for the city. As a rising lion in Northern Luzon, it’s exciting to see where Baguio City will be in the next 10 years. Will it surpass the leading cities in NCR? Only time will tell, but data shows it can.
If you want to invest in a new house and lot in Baguio City, you can go to REALS.PH website and find listings of beautiful properties for sale. As the leading brokerage company in the country’s Summer Capital, you can count on our real estate brokers to get the exact property you want to buy. How to Prepare Your Home and Other Properties for The Big One, 7.2-Magnitude EarthquakeLearn how The Big One could reshape the Philippine real estate market. Discover safe property zones, resilient housing options, and how to protect your investment from earthquake risks. For years, experts have warned about The Big One or a possible 7.2-magnitude earthquake along the West Valley Fault that could severely impact Metro Manila and nearby provinces. But beyond safety, few realize how such an event could reshape the Philippine real estate market. For Filipino homeowners, buyers, and investors, understanding this link between seismic risk and property value is now more important than ever. Location Safety Is the New Standard Real estate decisions used to revolve around price and convenience. Today, safety from natural hazards is a top priority. Properties near active fault lines are becoming less attractive, while low-risk locations in Bulacan, Pampanga, Cavite, and Laguna are seeing higher demand. Developers are even marketing earthquake-resilient townships built on stable ground. This is now a major selling point for cautious buyers looking for long-term security. Strong Structures, Stronger Investments When earthquakes strike, substandard buildings suffer the most, both structurally and financially. A property’s structural integrity now directly influences its value. Smart buyers check for engineering certifications, soil tests, and a developer’s construction record before investing. Condos and homes with earthquake-resistant designs not only protect lives but also hold better long-term resale potential. This makes them sounder investments in a risk-aware market. Insurance Is Now A Must-Have Despite the risks, many Filipinos still skip earthquake insurance. But as awareness grows, this is changing. Insurance coverage against seismic events protects not just the property but also creates financial stability. Developers are likewise adding resilient and eco-friendly designs, such as flexible foundations, reinforced columns, and sustainable materials, to future-proof their projects and attract informed buyers. Market Shift After The Big One Should The Big One happen, expect a realignment in real estate values. Metro Manila may experience short-term price drops in damaged or high-risk zones, while nearby provinces could see a rise in demand from displaced residents seeking safer homes. Investors who diversify into regional growth hubs like Clark, Pampanga, or Calamba, Laguna, could benefit from stronger appreciation over time. Disaster Preparedness Is Smart Ownership The Big One is not just a natural threat; it’s a wake-up call for property owners and buyers. Always check fault line maps, verify a property’s building compliance, and ensure your home is insured and structurally sound. In real estate, safety and sustainability are now the foundation of value. Filipinos have always been resilient, and it’s time our homes and investments reflect that strength. Final Thoughts Now you know how crucial it is to invest in an earthquake-ready property in the Philippines. Don’t risk your life by choosing an under-quality condominium or house in a subdivision. Visit REALS.PH today and see a great selection of premium homes and condos for sale in Baguio City and other parts of the Philippines. Talk to our real estate agents and find the ultimate earthquake-proof property in one of the safest cities in the Philippines.
Complete Guide for Filipinos in Purchasing a Lot-Only PropertyBuying a lot-only property? Learn how to check the title, zoning, access rights, and hidden costs before signing the contract. A vacant lot is like a blank canvas where you can draw your dream home and turn it into reality. However, buying land in the Philippines is not as simple as it seems. Many Filipino buyers overlook key details that may eventually lead to unexpected expenses and even legal problems. So, let’s uncover all the important factors before investing in a lot-only property and how to ensure you are sealing the right deal. Why Invest in Lot-Only Properties Perhaps, you’re wondering why buying land properties is so popular among Filipinos. Lot-only investment is attractive for many buyers because it offers freedom and flexibility. For instance, you can design your own house, expand later, or hold it as an investment for future use. They’re also generally cheaper upfront than house-and-lot packages. How to Check Lot-Only Property Titles Of course, you need to do your due diligence before buying any type of property in the Philippines. Here are the steps in verifying lot properties with clean titles ready for ownership transfer:
Final Thoughts Always conduct due diligence to ensure you’re on the right track, as mentioned in this brief guide. Check the title, verify land classification, and ensure there's legal access to the property. With all these proper measures, your lot investment will be a secure and valuable asset that you can benefit from for years to come. In case you’re also on the lookout for a new property, you can visit REALS.PH for the latest house and lot for sale in Baguio, as well as presale condominium units in the Philippines.
|
Archives
October 2025
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed