Filipinos are increasingly looking beyond the traditional condo for their dream homes. This article explores the exciting new real estate trends shaking up the Philippines, from innovative housing designs to sustainable living choices and the lure of the suburbs, offering a glimpse into the future of Filipino homes.
The Rise of Horizontal Developments
For years, condos were the go-to choice for many Filipinos, especially in bustling cities like Metro Manila. But now, people are craving more space, more greenery, and a quieter way of life. That’s where horizontal developments come in. These are basically subdivisions with houses rather than high-rise buildings. Think more yard space, more room for your family to grow, and a stronger sense of community.
One of the biggest reasons for their popularity is the desire for larger living spaces. While condos offer convenience and accessibility, they can sometimes feel cramped, particularly for families with children or those who simply prefer more room to move around. Horizontal developments address this by providing houses with multiple bedrooms, spacious living areas, and often, outdoor spaces like gardens or patios. Another factor is the perceived value for money. While condos are priced per square meter, houses offer land ownership, which is considered a valuable asset that can appreciate over time. This long-term investment potential makes horizontal developments attractive to many Filipino homebuyers.
Also, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly shifted priorities. With more people working from home, the need for dedicated workspaces and comfortable living environments became essential. Houses in horizontal developments offer the flexibility to create home offices, study areas, and recreational spaces, catering to the evolving needs of the modern Filipino lifestyle. Developments like those offered by Ayala Land and Camella Homes showcase the appeal of these types of living arrangements.
Farm Lots and Agrihoods: Back to Nature
Feeling stressed by city life? You’re not alone. More and more Filipinos are dreaming of escaping to the countryside and embracing agricultural living with farm lots and agrihoods. A farm lot is simply a piece of agricultural land that you can own, while an agrihood is a residential community built around a working farm or garden. In the Philippines, there are several farm lot communities cropping up, offering a more relaxed, self-sufficient lifestyle.
Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping, tending your own vegetable garden, and enjoying fresh, locally grown food. This is the allure of farm lots and agrihoods. They offer a chance to reconnect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. In a country rich in agricultural land, farm lots are not only appealing but also a practical way to invest. You can lease the land to farmers and earn passive income, or cultivate it yourself for a more hands-on approach.
Of course, this lifestyle isn’t for everyone. It requires a willingness to learn about farming, and a commitment to maintaining your property. The cost can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and amenities, but they are usually cheaper than landed property within Metro Manila. However, the payoff can be immense for those seeking a more meaningful and sustainable way of life. Consider provinces like Batangas, Cavite, and Laguna where several farm lot and agrihood properties are available. You may find options ranging from raw land ready for development to fully cultivated farms that offer immediate productivity.
Tiny Homes: Big on Style, Small on Footprint
Who says you need a huge house to live comfortably? The tiny house movement is gaining traction in the Philippines! A tiny house is exactly what it sounds like: a small, often mobile, house that maximizes space and minimizes environmental impact. This can be a great solution for young professionals, empty-nesters, or anyone looking to simplify their life and reduce their carbon footprint.
The appeal of tiny homes lies in their affordability, sustainability, portability, and freedom from unnecessary possessions. Building a tiny house can be considerably cheaper than buying a conventional house, freeing up your finances for other pursuits. Many are built using eco-friendly materials and designed to be energy-efficient, reducing their impact on the environment. Since many tiny homes are built on trailers, they can be moved from one location to another, giving you the freedom to explore different parts of the country. The average cost of a tiny house in the Philippines is around PHP 500,000 to PHP 1,500,000. This can differ depending on the size of the house, materials used, and level of customization you would like to add. Building a tiny home might sound intimidating, but there are several resources available in the Philippines to help get you started.
Living in a tiny house requires a certain mindset. You need to be comfortable with minimalism and willing to declutter your life. But for those who are looking for a simple, sustainable, and affordable housing solution, tiny homes offer a compelling alternative. Online communities and local builders specializing in tiny houses can offer valuable insights, design tips, and practical advice specific to the Philippine context. You can explore different tiny house designs, financing options and relevant construction permits you may need.
Co-living Spaces: Community and Convenience
Think of co-living spaces as a hybrid between dormitories and apartments. You get your own private room, but share common areas such as kitchens, living rooms, and sometimes even co-working spaces. This is particularly appealing to young professionals, students, and digital nomads who value community and convenience.
The main advantages of co-living spaces are affordability, convenience, and built-in community. Rent is typically lower than traditional apartment rentals, and utilities and amenities are often included. Co-living spaces offer a sense of community, providing opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, collaborate on projects, and share experiences. Many co-living spaces offer communal kitchens, lounges, work areas, laundry facilities, and outdoor spaces. Some even have gyms, swimming pools, and recreational areas. Many offer lease terms as short as one month, so it’s ideal for travellers, students, or people who move for work.
However, co-living spaces aren’t for everyone. If you value privacy and independence, you might find it challenging to share common areas with others. The cost of a bedspace in a co-living space in Makati, for example, averages from PHP 8,000 to PHP 15,000 per month, depending on the amenities, location, and room type. There are several co-living spaces that offer a variety of options, from all-female co-living spaces to pet-friendly spaces.
Smart Homes: Future is Here
Want to control your lights, thermostat, and security system with your smartphone? You can do that now with smart home technology! Smart homes are equipped with devices and systems that automate tasks, improve energy efficiency, and enhance security and comfort.
Follow us on LinkedIn!
Smart home technology offers numerous benefits, including increased convenience, energy savings, enhanced security, and improved accessibility. You can control appliances, lighting, and thermostats remotely, saving energy and reducing utility bills. Smart security systems, including cameras, door locks, and alarms, can help protect your home and family. Smart home technology can also make your home more accessible for people with disabilities or mobility issues. Popular smart home devices in the Philippines include smart lights, smart thermostats, smart security cameras, and smart door locks. These devices can be controlled through smartphone apps, voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa, or integrated into comprehensive smart home systems. Many real estate developers in the Philippines are now incorporating smart home technology into their projects, offering these features as standard or optional amenities. This can add value to your property and attract tech-savvy buyers.
The initial cost of setting up a smart home can be significant, especially if you choose to install a comprehensive system. However, you can start small by investing in a few key devices and gradually expand your system over time. There are also privacy concerns associated with smart home technology. It’s important to choose reputable brands that prioritize data security and user privacy. A wired smart home setup can cost you around PHP 75,000 or more for wiring, installation, and setting up the smart devices. While a wireless smart home setup costs you from PHP 20,000 to PHP 50,000. It really depends on the size of your house.
Sustainable Living: Eco-Friendly Homes
Worried about the environment? You can make a difference by choosing a sustainable home! Sustainable homes are designed and built to minimize their environmental impact, using eco-friendly materials, conserving energy and water, and promoting healthy indoor air quality.
There are many features that make a home sustainable, including solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, energy-efficient appliances, and eco-friendly building materials. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, reducing your reliance on fossil fuels. Rainwater harvesting systems collect rainwater for non-potable uses like irrigation and toilet flushing. Energy-efficient appliances consume less electricity, lowering your utility bills and reducing your carbon footprint. Sustainable building materials, such as bamboo, recycled wood, and eco-friendly concrete, minimize the environmental impact of construction. This is more than just a trend; it’s a responsibility that developers in the Philippines are increasingly embracing.
Living in a sustainable home can lower your utility bills, improve your health, and reduce your impact on the environment. It can also increase the value of your property, as more and more homebuyers are looking for eco-friendly homes. It costs around PHP 100,000 to PHP 500,000 or more to build a sustainable home in the Philippines; this includes costs for solar panels, rainwater harvesting, eco-friendly materials and construction. However, incentives and discounts are available for solar power and other sustainable home features. Be sure to check with your local government or energy provider so you can offset your initial investment, as well as save on long-term energy costs.
The Lure of the Suburbs: Work and Play
Tired of the traffic and pollution of the city? Consider moving to the suburbs! Suburbs offer a balance between city living and countryside living. You get more space, more peace and quiet, and a stronger sense of community, while still being relatively close to the city’s amenities and job opportunities.
The biggest advantages of suburban living are affordability, space, and a sense of community. House prices are generally lower in the suburbs than in the city, allowing you to get more for your money. Suburbs also offer larger lots and more spacious homes. Suburbs often have a stronger sense of community than cities, with more neighborhood events, parks, and recreational facilities. Infrastructure improvements such as new roads, hospitals, and schools have contributed to increased property values and improved living conditions in several suburban areas.
However, suburban living also has its drawbacks. Commuting to the city can be time-consuming and expensive, especially if you rely on public transportation. Suburbs may have fewer job opportunities and entertainment options than cities. The average prices for houses vary depending on location and property size. But it goes without saying that it’s more space at more affordable rates compared to purchasing homes in Metro Manila. Some well developed suburban cities are those in Calabarzon and Central Luzon. Property developers have expanded to these areas for horizontal housing projects.
Property Technology (PropTech): A Seamless Experience
Finding and managing properties is getting a whole lot easier thanks to Property Technology, or PropTech! PropTech refers to the use of technology to streamline and innovate various aspects of the real estate industry.
PropTech solutions range from online property listing platforms and virtual tours to digital mortgage applications and property management software. Online property listing platforms such as Lamudi and Zipmatch make it easier to search for properties, compare prices, and connect with real estate agents. It allows potential buyers to remotely view properties, saving time and effort. Digital mortgage applications streamline the loan application process, making it faster and more convenient to get approved. Property management software automates tasks such as rent collection, tenant screening, and maintenance requests, making it easier for landlords to manage their properties efficiently. Some real estate companies also utilize new technologies like drone technology for aerial views of properties, AI in property management tools and blockchain for secure and transparent property transactions.
PropTech is transforming the real estate industry, making it more efficient, transparent, and accessible. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative solutions that will further disrupt the way we buy, sell, rent, and manage properties.
FAQ Section
What are the benefits of living in a horizontal development compared to a condo?
Horizontal developments typically offer more space, larger yards, and a greater sense of privacy compared to condos. They also provide the opportunity for land ownership, which can be a valuable asset. However, they may require more maintenance and longer commutes to the city center.
How can I finance a tiny house in the Philippines?
Financing a tiny house can be challenging, as traditional mortgages may not be available. You may need to explore alternative financing options such as personal loans, construction loans, or microfinance. Some tiny house builders also offer financing options.
Is it expensive to build a sustainable home in the Philippines?
The initial cost of building a sustainable home can be higher than a conventional home, due to the use of eco-friendly materials and technologies. However, the long-term benefits, such as lower utility bills and improved health, can offset the initial cost. Government incentives and discounts are also available for certain sustainable home features.
Follow us on LinkedIn!
What are the considerations before moving to the suburbs?
Before moving to the suburbs, consider the commute time, transportation options, job opportunities, and amenities available in the area. Also, take into account the lifestyle you prefer, as suburban living tends to be more relaxed and community-oriented than city living.
How can I protect my privacy when using smart home devices?
Choose reputable brands that prioritize data security and user privacy. Review the privacy policies of the smart home devices you use and adjust the settings to limit data collection. Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication for your smart home accounts. Keep your smart home devices and software updated with the latest security patches.
Where can I find reliable information about real estate trends in the Philippines?
You can find reliable information about real estate trends from sources such as the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB), real estate industry associations like the Philippine Association of Real Estate Salespersons (PAREB) Inc., and reputable real estate news websites.
Your Next Move
The Philippine real estate landscape is evolving rapidly. From farm lots’ appeal to sustainable homes to the lure of the suburbs, there are more diverse choices than ever before. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or simply curious about the future of housing, now is the time to explore these emerging trends. Consider what lifestyle best suits you and your family, do your research, and don’t be afraid to consider alternatives to the usual condo living. The future of your dream home might be just around the corner—or waiting in a tiny house, agrihood, or even building your dream home in a suburban community!
Let’s start your journey today towards finding the perfect property that suits your needs and aspirations. Let us explore your future dream home!
References
- Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)
- Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB)
- Philippine Association of Real Estate Salespersons (PAREB) Inc.
- Lamudi Philippines
- Zipmatch
- Ayala Land
- Camella Homes
