Choosing between a furnished and unfurnished apartment in the Philippines can feel like a big decision. It’s not just about the furniture; it’s about your budget, lifestyle, and how long you plan to stay. This guide will walk you through the pros and cons of each option so you can make the smartest choice for your needs.
What’s the Difference Anyway?
Let’s start with the basics. A furnished apartment usually comes with essential furniture and appliances. Think bed, sofa, dining table, chairs, refrigerator, and maybe even a stove. Some might include extras like a TV, air conditioning, or even basic cookware and utensils. Now, the quality of the furniture can vary wildly. Some landlords offer brand-new, stylish pieces, while others might provide older, more basic items. Always ask for a detailed inventory list before you sign anything.
On the flip side, an unfurnished apartment is essentially a blank canvas. It might have basic fixtures like light fixtures and a toilet, but that’s usually it. You’re responsible for bringing in everything else, from your bed and sofa to your fridge and washing machine. Some Philippine apartments listed as “unfurnished” may include built-in cabinets or closets. Be extra diligent about checking what’s included, because “unfurnished” can mean different things to different people! It’s also worth considering the definition of ‘basic fixtures’. Does it include air conditioning? Window coverings? Ask, ask ask!
Cost Considerations: Upfront and Long-Term
Here’s where things get interesting. Furnished apartments almost always have a higher monthly rent. Makes sense, right? You’re paying for the convenience of having everything ready to go. The exact difference depends on the location, size, and quality of the furnishings, but expect to pay anywhere from PHP 2,000 to PHP 10,000 more per month for a furnished unit compared to a similar unfurnished one. This is, in many cases, the cost of convenience.
However, don’t just look at the monthly rent! With an unfurnished apartment, you have to factor in the huge upfront cost of buying furniture and appliances. A basic bedroom set (bed, mattress, side table, dresser) can easily cost PHP 20,000 – PHP 50,000. A decent refrigerator could set you back another PHP 15,000 – PHP 30,000. And a sofa? Another PHP 10,000 – PHP 25,000, at least. Suddenly, that lower monthly rent doesn’t seem so appealing.
There’s also the cost of transporting everything to your new place. Hiring movers or renting a truck can add hundreds or even thousands of pesos to your expenses. Then, you have the potential for repair costs. If the refrigerator breaks down in your furnished apartment, it’s usually the landlord’s responsibility to fix it (read your lease carefully to confirm!). But if it’s your own fridge in your unfurnished apartment? You’re footing the bill.
Another thing to think about is depreciation. Your furniture will lose value over time. When you eventually move out, you’ll likely sell it for less than you bought it for. With a furnished apartment, that depreciation cost is factored into the rent, and it’s the Landlord’s problem! According to financial advice from the Rappler, managing costs when renting must be accounted for, since the accumulated costs can strain your spending. Rappler shares tips on cost reduction when renting.
Moving and Convenience: Are you a Nomad or a Homebody?
Moving is stressful, no matter what. But moving into a furnished apartment is undeniably easier. You literally just need to bring your clothes, personal items, and maybe some kitchenware. No need to coordinate furniture deliveries, assemble flat-pack furniture, or spend hours scouring furniture stores.
If you’re someone who moves frequently – perhaps you’re a young professional taking up a short-term job, or an expat on a contract – a furnished apartment is often the best choice. The convenience of a ready-made home outweighs the higher rent, especially if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of buying and selling furniture every time you relocate.
On the other hand, if you value control over your living space and plan to stay put for a while, an unfurnished apartment allows you to create a home that truly reflects your personality. You can choose furniture that you love and that fits your specific needs and style. It’s also a great option if you already own furniture or have family members willing to donate items.
Think twice when a moving company gives you a very different estimate. It’s worth spending a little extra to protect your belongings. Always request several moving quotes.
Lease Terms and Flexibility
Lease terms are also important. In the Philippines, most apartment leases are for six months or a year. Short-term rentals (less than six months) are more common with furnished apartments, as they cater to travelers and temporary residents. If you only need a place for a few months, finding an unfurnished apartment with a short-term lease can be tricky.
Breaking a lease can be costly, regardless of whether you’re renting a furnished or unfurnished apartment. Be sure to read the lease agreement carefully and understand the penalties for early termination. Many landlords require one or two months’ rent as a penalty. When breaking a lease, it’s essential to understand the terms and conditions.
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Damage and Wear and Tear
This is a big one! When you rent a furnished apartment, you’re responsible for any damage to the furniture or appliances beyond normal wear and tear. A small stain on the sofa might be acceptable, but a large tear or a broken appliance will likely result in deductions from your security deposit. Always take photos and videos of the apartment’s condition when you move in, paying close attention to any existing damage. This will protect you from being unfairly charged for damage you didn’t cause.
With an unfurnished apartment, you’re responsible for the upkeep of your own furniture. You may have insurance to assist with this. While damages to the apartment structure will usually be the Landlord’s responsibility. Always carefully review your contacts for details on what is the responsibility of the tenant, and what’s included in the rent.
Hidden Costs: Beyond Rent and Furniture
Don’t forget to factor in the hidden costs! If you’re buying furniture for an unfurnished apartment, you’ll need to purchase things like curtains, lamps, rugs, and kitchen utensils. These seemingly small expenses can quickly add up.
With a furnished apartment, you might still need to buy some additional items to personalize the space. Maybe you want a specific type of pillow, a favorite painting, or a bookshelf to display your collection. These personal touches can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel in your new home. You might also need to invest in some additional storage solutions if the furnished apartment doesn’t have enough space for all your belongings.
Always ask the landlord exactly what is included in the rent, like association dues (common in condominiums) and parking fees. Some contracts may also include clauses about increases in rent each annual renewal. Get a full breakdown before you agree to anything.
Lifestyle and Personal Preference
Your lifestyle plays a big role in whether a furnished or unfurnished apartment is the right choice for you. Are you a minimalist who likes to keep things simple? A furnished apartment might be perfect. Are you a design enthusiast with a specific vision for your living space? An unfurnished apartment will give you the freedom to create your dream home.
Consider your personal preferences. Do you enjoy shopping for furniture and decorating? Or do you dread the thought of spending weekends in furniture stores? Are you particular about the style and quality of your furniture? Or are you happy with basic, functional pieces? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options.
Location also matters. Some areas in the Philippines – particularly those with a high concentration of expats or students – tend to have more furnished apartments available. If you’re moving to a less populated area, finding a furnished unit might be more challenging. Keep an eye out for newly built condo units. Developers commonly work with furniture stores to offer “move-in ready” packages.
Negotiating with the Landlord
Don’t be afraid to negotiate with the landlord! If you’re interested in a furnished apartment but don’t like some of the furniture, ask if they’re willing to remove certain items. Similarly, if you’re renting an unfurnished apartment, you might be able to negotiate for them to provide certain appliances or fixtures. Everything is up for discussion.
When negotiating, be polite and professional. Express your needs clearly and be willing to compromise. Remember that the landlord wants to rent their property, and they may be willing to work with you to make the deal happen. Be prepared to walk away if you can’t reach an agreement that works for both of you.
Always get any agreements in writing and have it signed and dated! It’s your only valid proof.
Finding the Right Apartment: Online and Offline Resources
So, where do you start your search? Thankfully, many online resources are available. Websites like Lamudi, Property24, and MyProperty list thousands of apartments for rent across the Philippines. You can filter your search by location, price, size, and whether it’s furnished or unfurnished. But also look for reviews of the landlord involved.
Don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth. Ask your friends, family, and colleagues if they know of any available apartments. Local Facebook groups and online forums can also be great resources. Drive around the areas you want to rent in; often, you’ll see “For Rent” signs on buildings that haven’t been listed on the rental websites yet. Visit the area at different times to get a sense of the neighborhood’s security, traffic, and noise levels.
Documenting Everything: The Importance of a Lease Agreement
Once you’ve found an apartment you like, it’s crucial to have a detailed lease agreement. This document outlines the terms and conditions of the rental, including the monthly rent, security deposit, lease duration, and responsibilities of both the landlord and tenant.
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Read the lease agreement carefully before signing it. Pay attention to clauses about repairs, maintenance, subletting, and termination of the lease. If you don’t understand something, ask the landlord to explain it. If the landlord won’t agree to changes to the lease, you can consult a legal professional. It’s worth the expense depending on your needs and personal circumstances.
Insist that everything is in writing. Verbal agreements are difficult to enforce in court. Take photos or videos of the apartment, especially any existing damage, before moving your belongings in. A lease agreement should protect all parties involved with clear conditions.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about renting furnished and unfurnished apartments in the Philippines:
What is a security deposit, and how much is it typically?
A security deposit is money paid to the landlord to cover any damages to the property beyond normal wear and tear. It’s usually equivalent to one or two months’ rent.
What happens to my security deposit when I move out?
If you leave the apartment in good condition, your landlord should return your security deposit, usually less any deductions for unpaid rent or damage that isn’t considered wear and tear.
What is considered “normal wear and tear”?
Normal wear and tear is the natural deterioration of the property over time due to normal use. Examples include fading paint, worn carpets, and minor scratches on the furniture. Damage caused by negligence or misuse is not considered normal wear and tear.
Can a landlord enter my apartment without my permission?
Generally, landlords need to give you reasonable notice (usually 24 hours) before entering your apartment, except in cases of emergency. The Landlord and Tenant Act of the Philippines gives a tenant the right of quiet enjoyment meaning your landlord interfering with your living space is not allowed. Again, be aware that there are no active tenant protections for landlords in The Philippines.
What should I do if my landlord doesn’t make necessary repairs?
Document all your attempts to contact the landlord and request the needed repairs in writing. Understand that there aren’t strict laws offering tenant protection, so you would either need to take it up with city hall or consult a legal professional for your individual situation.
What if I need to break my lease early?
Review your lease agreement carefully to understand the penalties for early termination. You may be required to pay one or two months’ rent as a penalty. Try negotiating with your landlord. You may be able to find a suitable replacement tenant to take over your lease.
Can I sublet my apartment?
Most leases do not allow subletting. Be sure to check the lease agreement, and get written confirmation the landlord allows subletting before doing so. Subletting without permission is a violation of your lease.
References
- Rappler – Managing Apartment/Condo Rent Costs: A Checklist
Ready to find your perfect apartment in the Philippines? Whether furnished or unfurnished best suits your individual needs, the right home is here for you. Start your apartment hunt equipped with these tips, and discover the ideal space to start a new chapter.
