Essensa East Forbes, located in the upscale Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig, Philippines, is known for its prime location and exclusive feel. But with its relatively fewer amenities compared to some of its neighbors, is it really worth the premium price tag? We’ll dive deep into what makes Essensa unique, its pros and cons, and whether it fits your lifestyle.
What Makes Essensa East Forbes Special?
First off, let’s talk about location. Essensa is right in the heart of BGC, specifically on Forbes Town Road. This puts you within walking distance of tons of restaurants, shops, and offices. Think about being able to grab coffee at a nearby cafe or walk to your office building – that’s the Essensa lifestyle. It’s near the Manila Golf and Country Club, which explains the East Forbes part of the name, hinting at the exclusive golf course nearby. This location is a big draw for those who want to be in the center of the action and enjoy the convenience of urban living. You are also close to places like Burgos Circle, which are known for vibrant nightlife and unique dining options.
The Price of Exclusivity: Condo Prices and HOA Dues
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the price. Essensa East Forbes isn’t cheap. You’re paying for the prime location and the prestige associated with the address. Expect to see prices starting around PHP 40 million and going up significantly depending on the size and floor level of the unit. For a larger unit with multiple bedrooms and a great view, you could easily be looking at PHP 80 million or more. Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and the actual prices can fluctuate depending on market conditions and the specific unit. HOA dues are also on the higher end compared to other condos in BGC, reflecting the building’s upkeep and security. You can generally expect to pay somewhere in the range of PHP 150 to PHP 200 per square meter per month. So, for a 200-square-meter unit, you’d be looking at PHP 30,000 to PHP 40,000 in monthly dues. This covers things like building maintenance, security, and upkeep of the common areas.
The high price point is often attributed to the low-density living that Essensa provides compared to some of the newer and taller buildings in BGC.
Unit Types and Sizes: Finding the Right Fit
Essensa offers a range of unit types to suit different needs. You’ll find everything from smaller two-bedroom units to spacious three and four-bedroom apartments. Some units even have balconies with amazing views of the city. The size of the units varies as well, with options ranging from around 150 square meters to over 300 square meters. This means there’s likely a unit size that will fit your needs, whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking for a luxurious retirement home. It’s a building that aims to provide a feeling of spaciousness and privacy, which is a big selling point for many buyers.
Rental Income Potential and Airbnb Feasibility
If you’re thinking about investing in an Essensa unit and renting it out, there’s definitely potential to generate income. BGC is a popular location for both short-term and long-term rentals, thanks to its proximity to business offices, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. Expect to see rental rates for Essensa units ranging from PHP 150,000 to PHP 300,000 per month, depending on the size and furnishings of the unit. However, it’s crucial to check with the building management about their policy on Airbnb and short-term rentals. Some condominiums in BGC have restrictions on short-term rentals to maintain the exclusivity and privacy of the building. Make sure you understand the rules before you invest, as violating the building’s policies could result in fines or other penalties. While BGC is very business-friendly, it is best to confirm the legality before starting any short-term rental business.
Limited Amenities: A Trade-Off?
This is where Essensa stands out – or perhaps doesn’t stand out – compared to newer developments. While many new condos in BGC boast an array of amenities like multiple swimming pools, gyms, game rooms, and even private theaters, Essensa’s amenities are more limited. You’ll typically find a swimming pool, a gym, and a function room. The focus is more on the prime location and the spaciousness of the units than on having a wide range of amenities. For some, this is a deal-breaker. They want a condo with all the bells and whistles. But for others, the limited amenities are a fair trade-off for the exclusivity, privacy, and prime location that Essensa offers. They prefer to venture outside the building for entertainment and recreation, taking advantage of all that BGC has to offer.
Safety and Security: A Top Priority
One thing Essensa East Forbes doesn’t skimp on is security. The building has 24/7 security personnel, CCTV cameras, and controlled access points. Residents can feel safe and secure knowing that their building is well-protected. This is a major selling point, especially in a busy urban area like BGC. Knowing that you and your family are safe is priceless. The building employs strict protocols to control who enters and exits the premises, providing peace of mind to its residents. This is further enhanced by the generally safe environment of BGC itself, which has a strong security presence and well-lit streets.
Walkability and Noise Levels: Living in the City
Living in Essensa East Forbes means living in the heart of BGC, which offers excellent walkability. You can easily walk to nearby restaurants, shops, and offices. This is a huge advantage if you prefer to avoid traffic and enjoy the convenience of having everything within walking distance. However, being in the center of the action also means that noise levels can be higher, especially during peak hours. Traffic noise and the sounds of the city can be noticeable, especially if your unit faces a busy street. If you’re sensitive to noise, you might want to consider a unit that’s located on a higher floor or away from the main road. However, most units in Essensa are designed with soundproofing in mind, which helps to minimize noise levels.
Connectivity to MRT, LRT, Highways, and Work Hubs
Essensa enjoys great connectivity to major transportation routes. It’s located near EDSA and C5, two of Metro Manila’s main highways, making it easy to get around by car. It is also quite accessible to the new BGC-Ortigas Link bridge, a road project that aims to reduce travel time between the BGC and Ortigas business districts. While there isn’t a direct MRT or LRT station right next to Essensa, you can easily access the stations via buses or taxis. The upcoming Metro Manila Subway, which will have stations in BGC, will further improve connectivity to other parts of the city. The convenient access to major transportation routes makes Essensa a great choice for those who need to commute to different parts of Metro Manila for work or leisure.
Nearby Schools, Malls, Hospitals, and Lifestyle Areas
One of the biggest advantages of living in Essensa is its proximity to essential amenities. There are several reputable schools nearby, including the British School Manila, International School Manila, and Colegio San Agustin. For shopping and dining, you’re spoiled for choice with malls like SM Aura Premier, Market! Market!, and Bonifacio High Street just a short walk or drive away. When it comes to healthcare, there are several hospitals and clinics in the area, including St. Luke’s Medical Center BGC. The area around Essensa is also known for its vibrant nightlife and dining scene, with countless
restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a fancy dinner, you’ll find plenty of options just steps from your door.
Flood and Earthquake Risk: Understanding the Concerns
Like many parts of Metro Manila, BGC is not entirely immune to flood risk. While the area has invested in drainage improvements, heavy rainfall can still cause localized flooding in some areas. It’s always a good idea to be aware of flood advisories and take precautions during heavy rains. In terms of earthquake risk, the Philippines is located in an active seismic zone, and BGC is no exception. While there is no specific fault line running directly underneath Essensa East Forbes, it’s essential to be aware of the general earthquake risk and ensure that the building has been built to withstand seismic activity. Modern buildings in BGC are typically built to code and designed to withstand earthquakes, but it’s always a good idea to do your own research and due diligence. BGC’s relatively high elevation compared to other parts of Metro Manila gives it certain advantages in terms of flood management.
Essensa East Forbes vs. the Competition
How does Essensa stack up against other luxury condos in BGC? Well, it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a modern building with a ton of amenities, there are plenty of newer developments in BGC that might be a better fit. However, if you prioritize location, spacious units, and a more exclusive and private feel, then Essensa might be the perfect choice. Some of the newer developments might have more impressive gyms or swimming pools, but they often come with smaller unit sizes and a more crowded feel. Essensa offers a sense of tranquility and exclusivity that’s hard to find in some of the newer, denser developments. Consider developments like Pacific Plaza Towers or One Serendra as alternatives, as they offer comparable price points and exclusivity, but may have different location perks or amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the average price of a unit at Essensa East Forbes? Prices vary depending on size and floor level, but expect to pay between PHP 40 million and PHP 80 million or more.
Follow us on LinkedIn!
Are pets allowed at Essensa East Forbes? Generally, yes, pets are allowed, but there may be restrictions on size and breed. Check with the building management for specific pet policies.
Is parking included with the units? Typically, units come with at least one parking slot, but additional slots may be available for purchase.
What are the monthly HOA dues? HOA dues range from PHP 150 to PHP 200 per square meter per month.
Is Essensa East Forbes a good investment? It can be a good investment, especially if you’re looking for a prime location and potential rental income. However, consider the high price tag and limited amenities compared to other options.
References
Bonifacio Global City Official Website
Lamudi Philippines
ZipMatch
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Manila Bulletin
Ready to experience the exclusive lifestyle of Essensa East Forbes? Contact a reputable real estate broker today to explore available units and discover if this prestigious address is the perfect fit for your needs and aspirations. Don’t just dream of living in BGC, make it a reality! See if the exclusivity outweighs the limited amenities for your specific taste. Your dream BGC home awaits!
Follow us on LinkedIn!
Discover more about the exclusive community features in Essensa East Forbes.
Explore the balance of exclusivity vs. isolation at this prime location.
Learn if luxury condos like this are worth the investment.
