When we say technology, the word we usually associate with it is convenience. Truly enough, the advent of technology has made doing things faster and easier.
That is especially true as well when it comes to the banking industry, particularly in digital banking. The benefits of digital banking are even amplified during the height of the pandemic when travel restrictions and limited physical interactions are implemented. People opted to go digital because it’s faster, safer and can be done inside the comfort of their homes. In fact, according to a BSP survey, 50% of the country’s adult population opened or owned a financial account last year.
Mobile banking and online payments have replaced traditional banking services. Digital banking platforms have started to emerge, ready to provide unparalleled digital banking services.
Let’s take a look at the state of digital banking in the Philippines.
Digitalization poses a positive outlook in the Philippines. As of writing, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has issued Certificates of Authority to six digital companies namely Tonik Digital Bank, Inc. (TONDB), Maya Bank Inc. (MAYA), Overseas Filipino Bank (OFBDB), UNObank, Inc. (UBI). The recent two additions are UnionDigital Bank Inc. (UDB) and GoTyme Bank Corporation (GTYME), which both received their COAs last July 12 and 29.
The issuance of COA means that these companies can now propel fully digital bank operations in the country. This is also BSP’s way to support the digitalization of retail payments in the country.
According to data, 1.4 million electronic transactions and financial services (valued at PHP845 billion) were conducted by digital banks as of June 2022.
Before we dive into the features of digital banking, let’s decipher first the difference between digital banking and online banking.
At first glance, these two might mean the same and could be used interchangeably. But there’s a significant difference that one should take note of.
Digital banking, in essence, is a large umbrella term that encompasses all of the banking activities done digitally or technologically. One example of that is online banking.
In simple terms, online banking is the digital version of your traditional banking services. You can check your account balances, conduct bill payments, or transfer funds and money through your online bank account.
Whereas digital banking spans beyond that. It aims to convert all banking processes, products, functions, and financial services like opening an account digitally. It eliminates a bank’s physical presence and the need for customers to visit a particular branch as all transactions and services are done electronically.
According to the World Bank, as mentioned in an article by SP Global, the Philippines ranks fourth with the highest remittances in the world, just trailing behind India, China, and Mexico. As every bank-related activity can be now done digitally, sending remittances to their family back here in the Philippines is easy as a breeze, regardless of the difference in time zones.
Through the use of mobile banking apps, OFWs can easily deposit checks or check their account balances without having the need to go to a bank or credit union branch. It is a huge time-saver and they can use that extra time to relax or catch up with their families back in the Philippines.
Aside from that, digital banking features cashless transactions, eliminating the need for OFWs to carry with them large sums of money wherever they go. Nowadays, a lot of financial institutions are introducing digital wallets and even virtual debit card which they can use to purchase necessities, even inside the comfort of their homes.
Digital banking platforms are equipped with features for maximum user experience and convenience. Aside from viewing statements of account, fund transfers, and bills payment, some digital banking platforms offer financial advice or even have a virtual assistant for easily accessible assistance whenever they have an inquiry.
Opening a savings account is also made easier thanks to digital banking so that OFWs can facilitate and prepare for their plans in the future.
Other digital banking solutions include an ATM locator feature, cashless ATM withdrawal, and budgeting and tracking tools. Banking facilities are also available even without internet data through SMS, USSD services, or phone calls.
More developments are coming in the way like automated saving tools and push notifications alerts whenever your balance is low. You can even activate a new credit or debit card via mobile app.
Digital banking platforms are also equipped with security features so that OFWs can feel safe and secure when conducting mobile and online banking transactions. For instance, a digital banking platform may require multi-factor authentication before someone can use their mobile app and open their online account.
Other security features include biometric authentication via fingerprint, voiceprint, or facial recognition. Some digital banks send you alerts whenever your account is logged in to an unregistered or unknown device.
Digital banking also gives OFWs the power to be in control of their finances. It allows them to manage their money real time through the help of their online tools and calculator features. And since digital banks operate 24/7, they can conduct banking tasks wherever they are, whenever they want, even outside regular banking hours.
Aside from the ease and convenience digital banking gives, it also allows you to be part of a bigger social or economic initiative.
In America, for instance, the digital bank UnitedBank has its OneTransaction campaign. This project aims at creating generational wealth for the Black Community and remove racial wealth gap.
Digital banking also has a more environmental-friendly approach as it promotes paperless transactions.
Through digital banking, the BSP aims to promote efficiency in the financial sector and for its services to be at par on a global level. It also aims to promote inclusive growth and encourage the unbanked population of the Philippines to dive into virtual banking.
Currently, a lot of Filipinos are unbanked because they lack supporting documents because either they are elderly, unemployed, or are working in the informal sector. Digital banking provides the unbanked and underbanked population to join the financial system and broaden their knowledge when it comes to managing their finances.
Digital banking also eradicates the problem or difficulty of building physical banks all across the Philippine archipelago, because as mentioned earlier, all banking activities can be done online.
It is worth noting that digital banking is not an ‘all-or-nothing situation.’ OFWs can enjoy the convenience of digitalization while they continue using their existing physical cards and withdrawing from ATM branches. This just implies that the financial sector here in the Philippines is open and is adapting to the latest trends, all for the benefit of the population.
Digital banking may sound intimidating at first, but as OFWs learn the ropes of it, they can be the best stewards of their hard-earned money. After, there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing your sweat and tears pay off in the end.
Deciding between wallpaper and paint adds life to your dull and plain walls is one thing, but deciding on a colour scheme to go with is another thing. Since interior walls are the biggest canvases in any property, you can go with painted walls or just put a textured wallpaper. It may seem easy to get distracted by all the pretty colors and wallpapers to choose from, but making a decision isn’t because both have pros and cons to a bunch of factors (and with all the ideas that you can get online, and we get that it’s the most overwhelming process).
Well, we’re here to make the decision process easier between choosing wall paints and wallpapers using the most common factors to help you decide what to cover your walls easier…and yet the best!
Your personal preference comes down to a showdown when it comes to a painted wall vs. a patterned wallpaper with lots of varieties to choose from. However, you’d want to give your home (and each of its rooms) a unique look, so this can be very challenging in choosing your wall coverings.
If you choose to buy some paint, you’ll have the upper hand as they have every color of the rainbow that you can think of. You can also mix some colors and find the perfect shade for you to paint on, creating a hundred (or a thousand) of stunning combinations and techniques that completely transform any home into a colorful Indian home!
There are also a variety of finishes to choose from such as matte, semi gloss, satin, and glossy to make your children’s rooms (and yours) stylish and up to date with the designs that you can come up with. But take note that it can be time consuming if you really want an intricate design, and it might take a while for you to choose paint colors that will look good for your living space. Either way, it could be a good DIY project for you to design and color all on your own!
Wall papers, on the other hand, also come in different colors, patterns, and designs from classy and elegant motifs to peppy contemporary ones, and they also come in different finishes such as vinyl, fabric, foil printed, embossed textures, suede, and many more!
You can find these in your local DIY store, but the only things you’ll be facing are limited imagination (since the design is already there) and there are very limited solid colors (especially when you’re looking for a specific color without worrying about applying a fresh coat of paint). But with modern digital printing, you can actually stick up your kid’s favorite cartoon characters or put up aesthetic wall stickers that you’ve been wanting, so it’s a win!
Wallpaper installation requires a professional interior designer for them to work on because it’s tacky, messy, and a costly job, and it can be a hassle for you to re-stick it if it’s in the wrong place or if it isn’t straight (especially if you’re unaware on how to install it). Sure it can take just a few minutes or hours, but you have to make sure it matches and aligns as you gently cover your walls with your existing wallpaper.
Otherwise, it can wear and tear easily and it can come off easier, making it even more of a hassle to buy the exact wallpaper or to redo the whole process just to replace the torn section with a bunch of new wall papers.
On the other hand, painting requires you to fill in any imperfections before you start painting. After the filler dries, you have to work your way through sandpaper to have smooth walls, and then add a coat of primer paint. Once it dries, then it’ll be time for you to paint.
Aside from that, freshly painted walls give off strong odors, so you might want to open the doors and windows (or have ceiling or stand fans) to ventilate the room and you also need to cover furniture and floor with some spare bedsheets or some plastic (especially if you have textured paint). But it’s one of the cheaper options if you want to get creative and have lots of preparation time; all you need is a well prepared surface.
When it comes to drying time, choosing between a wallpaper or paint is a question of how fast it dries, and we’re here to break it with you.
Even if you’re done with an intricate design or with painting your walls with many colours, it unfortunately takes days for a coat to be dried completely, along with fresh coats of paint to finish. Thus, it takes a single room a few weeks to be completely dry and you’re going to sacrifice some storage space before you can put back the furniture and move on to the next room. But it’s a straightforward job, and you don’t need to worry about having a professional do the work for you!
Installing wallpapers, however, take time and a level of expertise, but if you know how to go about it, you can finish putting wallpaper in your whole house within a day and put back all of your furniture once you’re done!
When it comes to moisture and maintenance, it’s no question why wallpapers are the quality choice for most homeowners, especially when they have no time to design the place. Wall papers last around 10 – 15 years if done and maintained properly without a replacement. However, it’s not immune to wear and tear, so any mishap will mean that you have to redo the whole pasting and stripping a new wallpaper, which is more time consuming compared to repainting.
On the other hand, good quality painted walls can last you up to five years when it’s finished well because it tends to flake and fade, especially in high traffic areas where sunlight, rain, storms, and other weather conditions that affect the paint’s condition. Hence, retouching and repainting every three years would be necessary to maintain the paint. Or maybe paint in light colors so that its durability will last (even with a damaged wall).
In other areas like bathrooms, dining rooms, and kitchens, it’s not a question that paint obviously fits the picture as it can repel moisture for your surfaces and it can also stand the wear and tear that a kitchen and a bathroom goes through, making it a versatile wall covering with minimal moisture exposure.
For wall papers, however, you can only use it in certain areas that are well-ventilated, small, and dry because it can peel off in moist areas, causing your bathroom to have more mildew and molds because it isn’t ventilated. In short: Your bathroom walls have to breathe too! So you have to be strategic in placing a wallpaper if you want your kitchen and bathroom to look nice.
Paints are one of the cheaper options, and it comes in many colours and shade, making your colour scheme all the more thrilling. Paint itself costs around P800 – P2000 a gallon, and it’s a go figure if you have the right shade for a new coat or the right colours to mix for an exquisite color combination to match your room aesthetic. The only downfall that you have to put up with is that you have to get the right tools and you have to redo the paint job if something goes wrong, which costs more than you can expect.
A roll of wallpaper can cost you around the same price as a gallon of paint, so it costs more even if you just choose wallpaper that’s simple for an entire section because it has a longer lifespan and it’s perfect for people who don’t want to redecorate and redo the whole room as removing existing wallpaper and putting on a new one can cost more than just having your room repainted.
Both wallpaper and paint are easy to put in, but when it comes to removing, wall papers won this one. For one, you can just remove it bit by bit if you choose a regular wallpaper whereas you can just strip the wallpaper at ease if you choose a peel – and – paste one. It also doesn’t damage walls and it’ll be good as new once you remove it.
On the other hand, removing paint can be a huge job because you have to buy the right tools to scrape and strip off the paint from the walls, then use sandpaper to smoothen it again. Then you have to do lots of cleaning once it’s done (and repaint a new coat again if you’re planning to redecorate it, making you go back to square one).
Whether you paint wallpaper on your new walls or just paste and plaster your new wallpaper, you create your own living space to be lively, colorful, vibrant, young, or to match according to the home aesthetic you’re going for. Whether you choose wallpaper or paint, it doesn’t matter how much the materials costs or how you envision your place to look like. How your place’s appearance looks like after it’s been painted or plastered with wallpaper, how to go about with maintenance when it lost its durability, and how to replace new ones after removing them matters.
If you want to go for versatility, practicality, and convenience, go for wall papers. When you want to go all out with your creativity and something that lasts long, go for some paint. But you also need to consider the other areas that you need to cover so that it won’t instantly ruin your place (and so that you save the hassle of replacing a new wall painting or wallpaper).
So, go get crazy with your imagination, get a can (or two) of paint or a roll of wallpaper, and let your creativity run wild to make your place unique and beautiful! Life is too short to have a dull wall, right?
Nothing beats the cool and crisp air blasting from the air conditioner, especially during the hot sweltering months of summer, or if you just want a nice, cool air fanning your face after a long day of work and commute.
As the cold air fills the room, you feel a rush of relief. But the smile on your face turns into a grimace as your nostrils are filled with an unpleasant smell.
Your air conditioning unit smells bad. And you might be wondering why.
In this article, we will look at the varying reasons behind a smelly air conditioner and the solutions you can do to resolve them.
An air conditioner that is clean and works properly shouldn’t emit a foul smell. If your air conditioner smells terrible and you hear whirring or noises that seem out-of-place, then there’s something not right with the unit.
Here are the common air conditioner smells and how you should treat them:
You might be wondering how come your air conditioner smells like exhaust fumes when it doesn’t have an engine like that of a car. Well, your AC might not be built for road adventure but it uses liquids or fluids that smell like exhaust fumes when heated.
And most likely, a refrigerant leak is the primary cause of that smell. A refrigerant is the main cooling agent of your air conditioning system. Not only that a refrigerant leak can impact the performance of your unit but it also releases harmful chemicals into the environment.
The most common type of refrigerant is Freon. Though almost odorless, you can still detect it through its faint sweet smell.
A Freon leak is potentially dangerous so it’s better to leave the hand work to HVAC professionals who will repair it in no time.
As a preventive measure, make sure that your house is well-ventilated, and might as well open your windows to let the smell out.
If your central air conditioner smells like rotten eggs, there are two possible reasons.
The first one is that there is a dead animal stuck in your HVAC system. Birds, insects, or rodents sometimes use your ductwork as a temporary shelter. Unfortunately, they get stuck in there and die.
As their dead body decays, they start to emit a foul stench that affects indoor air quality whenever you turn your air conditioner on. Not only that they make the air around you unpleasant but their carcass can also damage the components of your air conditioners.
One of the best preventive measures to avoid this scenario is to pest-proof your home. You can always call for a professional to help you eliminate the problem or you can locate the carcass and remove it yourself.
The second reason is something that homeowners should not turn a blind eye to. The smell of rotten eggs might equate to a natural gas leak, particularly, sulfur. Natural gas is completely odorless, but manufacturers are required to add mercaptan–a type of chemical that gives its distinct ‘rotten egg odor’ for easy detection of such leaks.
If your nose catches on that smell, follow these procedures:
Also called dirty sock syndrome and one of the most common air conditioner smell problems, a musty air conditioner smell is caused by the accumulation of water in the drain line. It could be also because of the filthy evaporator coil suffering from bacteria or mold buildup. Dirty filters also contribute to poor indoor air quality.
You do not want the smell of dirty socks to linger in the air for long, so it is better to call your heating and cooling company to immediately address the problem. It might call for a different type of repair if there is leakage in the drainage system.
Does the smell of stale cigarette smoke waft in the air when your turn on your air conditioning? There is one culprit for this: the smoker inside your house.
When someone smokes inside your house, the stench is absorbed in the evaporator coil and filter of your AC. When you turn your AC back on, the accumulated tobacco particles are released into the air once more, filling the room with that unpleasant cigarette stench.
To counter this, you need to keep your evaporator coil clean regularly, change the air filter every 30 to 60 days, and might as well start smoking outside.
An air conditioner that emits a vinegar-like odor might be due to the following reasons:
Simply buying air cleaners will alleviate this problem. The enzymes found in the cleaning products will remove the bad odor right. You might want to inspect your unit if the filter needs replacing.
Your air conditioner is composed of wires and other electrical components. If your air conditioner has a burning odor when you turn it on, chances are, the wires inside the unit are actually burning. Turn off your HVAC system and call your technician immediately.
Has it been a long time since you turned on the unit? The accumulated dust could also be the reason why your AC smells burnt. Burning smells caused by dust are temporary and aren’t something you should worry about.
But if the bad odor persists or returns and the unit starts to malfunction, it’s best to call your HVAC technician.
Even though your furry companion loves exploring around your home, it is very unlikely for your cat to pee on your air conditioner. Instead of blaming your pet for the bad stench, inspect your unit for forming molds and mildews.
Mycotoxins released by mold and bacteria growth are the ones responsible for the cat pee odor emanating from your air conditioning unit. You can get rid of the mildew using appropriate cleaning products or call a specialist to do it.
The best practice is to find out the reason first why your air conditioner emits a foul odor to know the appropriate solutions to take. Investigate first and make sure to turn off the main power before inspecting your unit to avoid electrical shocks.
Make sure that you’ve thoroughly read and understood the operating manual, have the right set of tools and have proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) before you DIY the repair. But, for best measure, just seek the help of professionals and technicians.
And while it is tempting to spray air fresheners or purifiers to cover the smell, it will only prolong the problem at hand. Delaying the repair might even damage your unit further, eventually causing you to buy a new one.
The next time you turn on your air conditioner and you smell something funny, you know what to do. Through this article, we hope that you have found solutions to counter the unpleasant air conditioner smell circulating inside your home. After all, you deserve that crisp, cool, and of course, sweet-smelling air fanning at your face.
Do you know why people treat land as a real estate investment? Because of its land value. Property owners make it a point to take care of their land to match up its market value (or to increase it even), and real estate investors go for property prices that are definitely worth their money to put up a real estate property from scratch. If you’re buying raw land to put up residential properties from scratch compared to buying a new real estate property, then we’d say it’s the most authentic way to develop and invest in the real estate sector as each land is unique to another.
If it’s your first time putting your land up for sale or for an investment and you don’t know how to do it, sit back and relax as we’re giving you the best tips that have been tried and tested by numerous landowners so that you’d know how to walk the land talk!
Price appreciation is when the property value increases its market value and land value. It works automatically and must be taken care of as it ages like fine wine (unless something bad happens to the land). The land market value in the Philippines depends on the location, development, accessibility, age, size and space, and building regulations, so you need to get in touch with your real estate agent to know how much your land value would cost over the years of maintaining and taking care of it.
Property investors prefer to buy or invest in land that is accessible to them as accessibility can be the greatest determiner in enjoying the property that you have. Most property owners are near to properties located in central districts and cities such as shopping malls, restaurants, convenience stores, medical facilities, schools, and many more that will affect your real estate values as well as their price appreciation. A property situated in a rural or remote area wouldn’t progress as much compared to a property that is located in a city center to a prospective buyer. You should also eye for your future land that is handled by an ingress/egress easement with the necessary utilities and don’t be overburdened with easements that serve as other parcels. As much as inadequate easement provisions would be every country’s problem, so is having too much of easement provisions.
Utility lines may be expensive to put in a vacant land, but it would affect property owners if their land value would get lower because they would benefit from running these as these investments would equate to adding 10% – 20% of the land value. Property prices usually go up in urban areas because they just hook it up and pay the hook up fee and it usually attracts potential buyers and real estate investors, making the property’s price go up as well as its land value. For property owners living in rural areas, this could take a bit of work and planning, and money as it is an investment for them. Other alternatives such as solar or wind power could work as well.
Your curb appeal basically means your land’s appearance, and improving that is a surefire win to increase its land value. It can be done with or without the landscaping company’s help. Lots of homeowners are able to complete these tasks in a nick of time, so you need to make a list and take a walk around to see what needs to be improved in your landscape to make sure it’s clutter and trash free premises, cleared bushes from overgrown foliage and weeds, pruned trees, hazard free, and secured from unused/unsafe wells or water sources so that it can not only experience price appreciation even more, but there’ll be more demand from potential buyers and investors that will chase after you for your land.
The most basic steps in improving your land value and landscape start by taking out the trash, junk, and anything toxic or harmful from your land as well as making sure that the soil quality is perfect by securing unused or unsafe water sources and by making sure to use natural fertilizer. You can also mow your grass and remove weeds and overgrown foliage so that your landscape will not only look clean and spotless, but it will also feel fresh and free to move around and smell the plants that are growing. After all, keeping yourself out of the grass is the best way to maintain that grassy freshness and improve its curb appeal. Not only that, but it also helps to have a better condition for your plants to grow better quality flowers, fruits, and vegetables!
Your real estate investment would definitely be an investment if you have trees (along with crops such as vegetables and root crops growing). Your farm land would not only bring instant cash, but it also adds property value, property appreciation, and curb appeal to the eyes. If you don’t have the capability to farm or plant trees, there are neighbors who operate a farm on a lease or shared basis, making it a double win for you and your neighbor!
On the other hand, you can choose to cut down trees that will only bring you diseases such as root rot, insect damage, parasite vegetation, dry weather stress, snow breakage, and many more if you own a timberland. All of these may leave the woods in a messy condition and would cause problems, but having a forest that can be managed promotes healthy tree growth, good wildlife habitat, and natural recreational use. Talk about stress free with fresh air and lots of sunlight to bask on!
A fence or a gate would make a great first impression to those who are interested in buying or investing in your land and it keeps the trespassers away. Installing fencing should depend on what you’ll use the land for. Fencing can accomplish many objectives at once and it can be used for different applications as a fence can define the parameters and boundaries of the land, contain livestock, or keep unwanted people and animals out. No matter what type of fencing you use, it should be well maintained and the maintenance cost and time factor should be considered when choosing it because it can be an investment for your land to be attractive and homey.
Adding additional homes, storage sheds, barns, and other structures can help you increase your property value, although this advice doesn’t apply to every land structure because the location, size, and space vary from one another. For example, you can’t add cattle and a fence to your vineyard, so you have to be specific on what you’ll be using the land for so that it can be beneficial for every person and animal alive for your current or future use.
As property prices get higher demand for more population counts, and so does the quality of the property that you’re maintaining if you’re planning to have it sold or invested to someone else. With proper planning, running utilities, the right construction materials, and a high demand while following zoning laws provide proof that a property owner is doing an excellent job of taking care of the land. There are various factors that are inevitable to some that affect property selling and investing, but others take advantage and get creative with how they can make use of the land they bought or invested because these are determined by those factors. Rest assured that taking care of your land and its value by following these tips will flourish it in the long run and it will be a key role in getting the people that are looking for a land for various purposes.
So, if you have a land that you’re planning to sell or to put up for an investment, then this is your sign to follow these tips and bring the cash flow in. After all, it’s another great passive income for you as a land owner and an investment for those who want to buy or invest in it.
The term “home improvement” is often associated with high costs. However, it’s not always the case. There are plenty of home improvement projects that you can undertake without breaking the bank. The key is to find small changes that can make a big impact. Going the DIY route can also help you cut down on costs.
Below are just a few suggestions on how you can give your home a fresh new look on a budget. Many of these can be accomplished after just a couple of months of saving; you can also take out a small cash loan if you want to hurry things up a little. Again, you don’t need a lot of money to make these home improvement ideas a reality:
Most people think of the indoors when it comes to home improvements. However, there are also plenty of simple outdoor projects that can transform your home. For example, you can update your front door by giving it a fresh coat of paint. Consider other colors beyond the usual cream or brown; instead, go for more striking ones like blue or red. Then, choose light or neutral colors for the walls to make the door stand out.
You can also update the front door’s hardware for additional impact. If your house has a classic design, brass or brass-looking knobs, knockers, and handles will look great. For more modern or contemporary styles, chrome accessories will work best.
One of the simplest ways to give your home a new look both inside and out is to paint the walls. What’s even better is that depending on the color, you can achieve different design goals. For example, using light or neutral shades will help bounce the light around a room. This creates an illusion of spaciousness. Meanwhile, darker colors make a space look smaller and thus create an intimate and cozy ambiance.
It’s also easier to learn how to do DIY painting. There are plenty of tutorial videos you can watch online, and the tools are easy to acquire. It can also be a great bonding experience with the family. Who knows, you might even discover a new hobby!
It’s expensive to replace your cabinets, drawers, and shelves. Besides, if you take good care of them, they’re probably still in good shape. That said, these furnishings are some of the most attention-grabbing ones in your home so it makes sense to revamp their looks.
An easy way to do this is to refinish cabinet and drawer doors using a variety of methods. Some examples include paint, wood stain, or tinted varnish. You can even use wallpaper if you like! You should also update the hardware like handles and drawer pulls, as well as the hinges.
If your home has limited space, you can make it seem bigger by using large rugs. This helps delineate different areas while adding points of visual interest.
In case you haven’t tried using rugs before, you can’t go wrong with simple designs and monochrome colors. These options will prevent the room from being “eaten” by the rug or carpet. Remember the fashion rule: you have to wear the dress and not the other way around. Stick with the classics, like geometric shapes or stripes. Then, when you start feeling more adventurous, you can go for bolder colors and patterns.
For a bit of dramatic flair, you can install new window treatments in your living room, home theater, or bedroom. Depending on the thickness and color of the fabric, you can make any space feel warmer, airier, or more elegant—whatever your design goals may be.
If you want something different, consider Roman shades with patterned fabric. They’re stylish but practical, giving you more space for creativity without sacrificing utility.
Moving your gaze up, you can update the look of your home by changing your light fixtures. A good candidate here would be your dining area, using pendant lights instead of chandeliers or traditional light bulbs. What’s great about pendant lights is that you can place them a little lower, which helps make a more intimate atmosphere.
For your living room, you can choose a more interesting centerpiece. Try a cluster of drop lights, or perhaps a futuristic-looking LED chandelier.
Last but not least, a quick way to revamp your home’s looks is to wall-mount your TV. You’ll be surprised by how different your space will look just by doing this simple redecorating task! Another benefit you’ll get to enjoy by wall-mounting your TV is that you’ll have more space for storage or even for more decorative options.
You can also wall-mount other furnishings, such as shelves, so you’ll have even more room to decorate.
As you can see, home improvement isn’t as expensive as you might think. With a little bit of patience and hard work, you can transform your home into a more beautiful, comfortable space.
A lot of Filipinos dream of owning their first apartment or house and lot. With today’s booming real estate opportunities, there are so many options to choose from.
Here at Vista Land International, we have a roster of affordable property listings from several locations across the country. Whether you’re looking for a place to live in Manila, Cebu, Davao and etc, we’ve got you covered. So contact our real estate agents today!
Vista Land International was primarily created to bring OFW closer to their dream of finally acquiring a home in the Philippines. And with the rising cost of living in the country, OFWs and their families are looking for ways to earn extra cash flow to support their daily needs. Luckily, you can also join the global network of Vista Land International as a real estate professional and earn a commission!
In the Philippines, digitalization for OFWs is finally pursued through the establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers or DMW.
Now, before you confuse the new department with POEA and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), let us clarify things first.
The newly created Department of Migrant Workers is the former Philippine Overseas Employment Agency.
By virtue of the Republic Act 1161 or the Department of Migrant Workers Act signed last December 30, 2021 by former President Rodrigo Duterte, the Department of Migrant Workers was created, established, and constituted with the primary purpose of protecting and promoting the welfare of our Filipinos overseas. The department is expected to become fully-operational in 2023 with their main headquarters located at Blas F. Ople Building in Mandaluyong City—yes the same POEA building.
Furthermore, the creation of DMW has consolidated all functions of the following seven (7) government agencies: the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA); the Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers’ Affairs (OUMWA) of the Department of Foreign Affairs; the International Labor Affairs Bureau (ILAB) and all Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) under DOLE; the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP); the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRC) under the OWWA, and the Office of the Social Welfare Attaché (OSWA) under the DSWD.
To give a better of this, let’s break down the functions of the seven agencies stated above:
The employees of these agencies will be absorbed by the new office.
The Department of Migrant Workers will oversee and facilitate the following programs for the migrant workers’ welfare:
Aside from promoting and protecting the welfare and rights of our OFWs and migrant Filipino workers, the DMW was also tasked by President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. to spearhead automated services and digitalization for OFWs.
What is digitalization for OFWs?
The DMW, through their partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) aims to streamline the processing of documents of OFWs and migrant Filipino workers.
Before you face the physical and emotional turmoil of working in a foreign land away from your loved one, you have to go through a long and tedious process going from one agency to another for submitting or signing necessary documents.
This is the scenario that the DMW hopes to eliminate through digitalization for OFWs. Through automation, the usual and minimum 3-month processing of documents will be cut short in just three weeks, a month maximum. With digitalization, the department foresees an ‘enhanced, efficient, and transparent services for OFWs.’
This also covers the renewal and obtaining of Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) for visiting and vacationing OFWs, which also takes one to two weeks before release.
In relation to the OEC, aside from the shortening of the processing period, Marcos also pushes for the digital format of OEC and possibly other related documents. “The DICT and the DMW will be working closely together so that the OEC will now be paperless. It can be stored on the worker’s phone, and there will be a corresponding digital solution at the immigration so that every international airport that we have in the country is now seamless,” DMW Secretary Susan Ople said.
Aside from streamlining the processing of documents, President Marcos also aims to revise the current OFW handbook, which has over 240 sections into a pamphlet to easier reading and understanding of OFWs’ rights.
“Aatasan din natin ang kagawaran na gawing simple ang kumplikadong handbook ng mga tuntunin at regulasyong para sa mga OFW, nang sa gayon ay maging maalwan ang mga transaksiyong may kinalaman sa kanilang pangingibang-bansa (We will also direct the department to make the complicated handbook for OFWs simple to help them understand the transactions for their foreign employment),” said Marcos in his speech at Batasan Complex last July 25th.
To aid our distressed OFWs and migrant Filipino workers, the One Repatriation Command Center was formed.
This command center serves as a helpdesk for our distressed OFWs and migrant Filipino workers, operating 24/7 so that our OFWs or their families can call anytime for assistance and help through their hotline 1-348.
“Para sa mga kababayan nating naiipit sa kaguluhan, inaabuso, at nanganganib ang buhay, ikinagagalak kong sa ilalim ng aking pamumuno, ay inilunsad ang One Repatriation Command Center or ORCC,” Marcos stated.
A lot of Filipinos dream of owning their first apartment or house and lot. With today’s booming real estate opportunities, there are so many options to choose from.
Here at Vistaland International, we have a roster of affordable property listings from several locations across the country. Whether you’re looking for a place to live in Manila, Cebu, Davao and etc, we’ve got you covered. So contact our real estate agents today!
Vistaland International was primarily created to bring OFW closer to their dream of finally acquiring a home in the Philippines. And with the rising cost of living in the country, OFWs and their families are looking for ways to earn extra cash flow to support their daily needs. Luckily, you can also join the global network of Vistaland International as a real estate professional and earn a commission!
Graduating season may be over with face-to-face classes starting, but that doesn’t mean job hunting can get harder than it already is. You get your diploma or your degree, now you can get any job you want! But have you considered having a career in the real estate field?
The real estate industry has a wide range of job opportunities whether you’re a fresh graduate or an experienced one who just wants to switch to a new career or to juggle both jobs at the same time as this can be a perfect side hustle for you to earn some quick cash. But what sets apart from the dream pay and “being your own boss” mindset is the training and experience that comes with it, even if you haven’t asked for the obstacles that come your way.
If you’re considering a career in the real estate industry, then here are some of the best paying jobs in real estate for you to consider before signing up. We understand everyone wants the benefits, but you’d want to grab a pen and some paper (or your notes app) so that you don’t miss out on the details on these real estate careers.
Most real estate companies constantly hire real estate professionals such as real estate agents so that they can close deals and walk you through the process of buying residential and commercial properties. Real estate agents and real estate brokers are often entwined with each other because their job descriptions are a bit similar to each other as they represent a buyer or a seller, but to give you an idea on which real estate agent you’re going to be, there are two kinds of real estate agents: A buyer’s agent and a listing agent.
A buyer’s agent specializes in assisting buyers in the process of buying properties (or looking for a property in general) while a listing agent specializes in representing sellers by assisting them in closing deals and negotiating. While listing agents can also work as buyer’s agents, they don’t work on the same transactions (not unless you’re in a deal between close friends or family members).
They don’t have a fixed salary, but they are based on commissions on the sales they make, and this is the perfect side hustle for even someone who has a high school diploma! Most real estate agents earn around 2.5% – 3% commission of the home sale price, so landing on a property with a massive sale price, and you’ll see why being a real estate agent is the most in-demand of all real estate careers. All you need is some training, passing a test, and a license to practice under the supervision of a real estate broker, and you’re good to go in.
Salary Range: Many real estate agents earn around a median of P2,710,979.71 – P4,771,470.10 as of May 2021.
Okay, real estate brokers are like real estate agents because they act like real estate agents who manage the buyer and the seller (kind of like a middleman), but they also make sure that real estate transactions follow all the applicable laws and they’re required to guarantee that all the paperwork is complete and correct and to make sure those escrow accounts and other funds are handled appropriately.
All real estate agents have to work for real estate brokers in a brokerage firm as becoming a real estate broker requires you to have a second license after becoming a real estate agent, more studying, and a stringer test to see if that real estate agent will be eligible to become a real estate broker. Some people want brokers with a bachelor’s degree, while it’s okay to have a high school diploma and some pre-licensed courses.
We suggest that you should associate with brokers who work for experienced brokers in a brokerage firm that follows the real estate law. After all, managed brokers have their own real estate companies eventually.
Salary Range: They earn around P2,877,053.01 – P4,079,438.73 on average, although you need to get another license to become a real estate broker.
If your parents made you choose to become a doctor or a lawyer, you would have to say that you’re going to become a real estate lawyer because being a lawyer is one of the most lucrative jobs you’ll have and you’ll know the long list of real estate laws (and loopholes) so that you can assist with legal and contractual details surrounding a home sale. In short, they either represent the buyers or the sellers to review real estate contracts, review real estate documents of the other parties, and they make the transaction on your side.
The only downside for people who want to become real estate attorneys is that they have to undergo a special process for a special license as well as passing the bar exam. They can also close the deal in case the real estate agent is absent.
Salary Range: They earn around P5,375,573.02 – P7,129,721.57 depending on how experienced they are in handling cases.
Real estate appraisers give an estimated figure of how much the property is and they inspect properties, whether it’s commercial property or industrial property. They’re like home inspectors in a way because they make sure that the property is in tip-top shape before they turn it over to the new property owner. They also can set some values for property tax purposes, set compensations in cases of domain and seizures, and assist potential buyers, property owners, sellers, and renters in negotiations. This information can be used by potential investors to assess whether it can be a real estate investment or not. Beginner appraisers can work for general appraisers, and they can work on their own once they get their certificate.
Salary Range: Real estate appraisers have an average annual salary of P3,294,399.83 – P4,444,322.30 depending on how accurate they set their values and on how good they are at inspecting.
When a person opts to have a mortgage, then they turn to a mortgage loan officer. Mortgage loan officers basically help you to choose the right loan for your needs and they also act like a Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO). You simply state what your financial situation is and the property you want, and they’ll be the ones to explore different loan options and then present the best options for home buyers before making a real estate transaction. Many real estate jobs require you to have a license and some sort of national accreditation, and this one is no different. But with the right certificates, it’s no wonder that it’s another best paying job in the real estate industry.
Salary Range: A typical Mortgage Loan Officer earns around P3,560,086.29 – P8,573,808.95, making it one of the highest paying real estate jobs in the industry.
Real estate managers are also referred to as property managers in some cases because they manage properties that belong to investors and they take care and maintain industrial properties and office buildings to their property values and they also make sure that they maintain their resale value by operating smoothly to maintain the condition of that industrial property. They’re usually paid a percentage from the rents they generate and collect and this is the person that people hire when they don’t have time to do an overall of the property. You only need a high school diploma (or a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent), and you’re good to go in keeping a property’s condition!
Salary Range: Real estate managers (or property managers) earn an average salary of P3,351,132.03 – P3,805,776.06 depending on how good you are in property management.
Compliance specialists or compliance officers typically work for a commercial sector, and they’re in charge of ensuring that all transactions are legal and they can also conduct official audits if a company is under investigation as they are experts in local regulations.
Salary Range: A typical compliance specialist earns around P4,642,154.80 on an average annual salary.
Real estate clerks don’t really need special licenses unlike most real estate jobs, but they need relevant experiences. They maintain records, handle paperwork, and other administrative responsibilities for real estate brokerages.
Salary Range: They earn a median salary of P1,595,242.20 on average.
A property accountant oversees the financial side of real estate transactions and ensures that a real estate company’s books are in order. They can work in any sector from residential to industrial properties and they can even work on leases and rentals.
Salary Range: They usually earn around P3,697,816.36 on an average annual salary.
Working in the real estate industry sounds dreamy at first, especially when it comes to how much they earn and how they’re able to travel a lot to live a life of luxury. It’s a job opportunity to be able to deal with real estate properties and real estate investments as well as keep up with recent trends in the real estate market.
But if you want to shift your career path to the real estate business, you have to know what you’re signing up for with various real estate positions along with their primary duties lined up for you. But we guarantee you that the rewards and returns are greater, no matter what real estate job you’re in because, in the end, you’ll learn a lot in the long run while working in a real estate company.
So if this is your sign to get a real estate job, turn your job alerts on, read the job description, and be on board to the real estate field! It may be hard at first, but it’ll be beneficial once you choose the right real estate job for you.
Public and private schools have finally started face to face classes after almost two years of online learning for the 2022 – 2023 academic year in the Philippines. The Department of Education (DepEd) has released the guidelines for this school year with its commitment to the resumption of 5 days of in-person classes under the DepEd Order No. 034 series of 2022, which has been signed by Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Z. Duterte many Mondays back.
The school year has started last (August 22) and will end on July 7, 2023, and there will be 203 school days unless it’s determined by further implementations just in case there are changes in the school calendar because of unforeseen circumstances that may affect this set up.
As things are going back to normal, there are also a lot of downsides. One might be when students are mentally lagged and burnt out because they’re used to having online classes at home. Another would be blended learning, where more schools have limited in person classes, and they would assign batches to have an alternative learning system and go to school at the same time (which can be pretty confusing for some, and we understand the struggle).
If you’re excited to go back to school but still anxious about how you’re going to be safe, we’ve got your back as here are some of the things that you need to know about going back to school plus some tips on how you can practice safety protocols to get yourself back on track with the basic education while being safe.
With more schools leaning towards the hybrid learning setup and face to face classes all over the Philippines, it’s safe to say that more public and private schools have reopened to welcome students, teachers, and other school personnel on campus after adapting to the new normal and having numerous lockdowns and alert levels that have shaped the education system. Here are some of the policies that were emphasized in the DepEd Order No. 034:
This policy allows learners to go to school whether they’re vaccinated or not. According to DepEd spokesperson Michael Poa, only 19% of students are fully vaccinated while 92% of teachers and other school personnel are fully boosted, resulting in a low vaccination rate for students because COVID – 19 immunization isn’t needed before they go to school and it isn’t mandatory as a far cry from the requirement during the time of President Duterte and DepEd secretary Leonor Briones. But DepEd is also rolling out a counseling program along with mobile vaccination centers this school year to encourage parents, students, teachers, and other school personnel to get vaccinated.
The only downside to this is that there would be physical distance as there are still safety protocols to follow, resulting that they wouldn’t normally do things together like eating lunch together and sitting next to each other.
Students will be excused from in-person classes if they have flu-like symptoms, but the downside is that schools won’t be responsible for students or personnel who are positive with COVID – 19.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has sent around 23,000 personnel nationwide to make sure students and school staff are safe. NCR Police Office Spokesperson PLt. Col. Dexter Versola mentioned that around 9,700 police officers have been sent out to all parts of Metro Manila, and there aren’t any incidents so far during the first day.
Versola also said that assistance desks and transportation hubs were set outside of school buildings such as The Last Mile Schools program, which provides students more options for commuting with over 11,000 buses, jeepneys, and UV Express FX vehicles betting on non – EDSA routes, which started last Monday. But the only flip side about it is the usual congested roads with around 436,000 vehicles per day compared to the pre-pandemic volume, which is approximately 405,000 vehicles, making traffic more difficult to maintain (especially during rush hours) according to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).
We’re pretty sure that with face classes resumption comes a lot of contact, and we’re also sure that a lot of schools and universities have their own safety health protocols and back to school health tips. But a mask is a common denominator whether you’re vaccinated or not when you’re interacting with other students and when you’re having class in classrooms again.
It used to be something that makes us look cool, but face masks are a need right now, especially when you’re going back to school. Bring an extra one (or two) in your bags and keep it on at all times (and change them from time to time).
Aside from following the school’s health guidelines, it’s a must that we should keep the campus (and ourselves) COVID – free, and having your own hygiene kit helps to make your school and home in minimizing the spread of the virus!
You should have some alcohol, wipes, soap, and some extra face masks in your hygiene kit, and make sure all of your things, lunch tables, chairs, and other equipment are sanitized. Go to your nearest water and sanitation facilities before and after school so that you’re not only following health protocols, but you’re also safe and sanitized!
Although they aren’t required in going back to school, you should still think of getting yourself vaccinated and boosted to your nearest vaccination site to have extra protection (and peace of mind) from COVID – 19 before your school starts this month. Vaccination drives and sites are still up and running, so you should get some vaccine or booster doses in your local barangays, malls, and respective schools and universities soon.
It’s tempting to hug your friends after having online classes for a while, but waving at each other, bowing, or giving air hugs also encourages everyone to be friendly and respectful while saving yourself (and your friends) from COVID – 19 for the meantime. Not only that, it gives off warm and friendly vibes while social distancing and it minimizes contact with people who may or may not have the virus. We know you want to hug them, but save them until the pandemic ends so that you can get free hugs minus the virus itself.
Trust us when we say that online learning and self learning modules are draining, especially when mental health is on the line and it affects your attendance as well as your attention span, causing you to burn out.
Being mentally prepared can be a bit challenging, but it’s going to be worth it when you have mental rest and when you surround yourself with genuine positivity, a support system, healthy coping mechanisms such as breathing fresh air, and genuine love and appreciation. But you need to take it a step at a time in order for you to be mentally prepared, so take as much time as you need. Go take a walk. Deactivate social media accounts if you need to.
There’s a silver lining in the midst of the pandemic, and that’s what the pandemic has shown us. We know that many parents are finding ways to make learning fun, especially if it involves children. The pandemic has shown us what we’re missing out on while we’re so busy with our normal lives during the pre-pandemic period and to be more creative in getting the basic education the students need. Then there’s the pilot implementation of the limited face to face classes to try out whether it’s safe to have physical classes or not. And here we are: We’re slowly going back to normal with hybrid setups and on-site classes after almost two years of online learning.
Many parents are still quite anxious about how this will turn out, but you don’t have to worry when you read and follow these preparation for face to face classes tips as they’ll make your kids safe and sound while protecting themselves from the virus and enjoying seeing their friends and having physical classes again. Rest assured that online learning will be an alternative learning system when things can go wrong, but you can’t go wrong with going back to an actual school, right? So be physically (and mentally) prepared to take on anything that the school has to offer!
Aside from house and lots and condominiums, raw land is also a significant investment that can help you achieve financial independence and boost your overall portfolio. Buying vacant land is a simple, straightforward, and flexible investment that lets you build your dream home from scratch and incorporate your personal taste when it comes to house design and structure.
Buying raw land can sound daunting at first, especially if you are new to the real estate field. However, with the right knowledge and guidance from experts will help you become successful in your investment, especially here in the Philippines!
Read on through this article to find out more!
One of the important parts of land purchase– or any other forms of real estate transactions for that matter– are the documents that you need to submit in order to push through with the sale. Let’s look at the five documents you usually need when buying land in the Philippines.
The last thing you want to encounter is to find yourself caught up in between parties arguing about the ownership of the land–this scenario doesn’t happen only in movies. Before anything else, verify who is the rightful owner of the land you are trying to purchase and make sure you only do transactions with that person.
To do this, you can request for a copy of Title Certificate at the Registry of Deeds, so that you can compare the details and information indicated on it with the copy you obtain from the seller.
It pays a lot to be meticulous, especially when doing real estate transactions. The next thing you should do after land ownership verification is to check all the necessary documents if they are legitimate or not. You could be dealing with forged documents all this time!
You could ask for the help of a surveyor to help you check the legitimacy of the documents presented. Make sure that the description indicated in the land title is the exact match of the land being sold.
Aside from the land title, there are also other aspects you need to put your keen eye on such as:
We’ve said this countless times in a lot of our articles, and we’re going to say it even once more: location. Regardless of the reason why you’re purchasing land, the location should be on top of your checklist.
If you’re buying land for residential purposes, then it should be located in an area near commercial districts, business hubs, schools, churches, and recreational parks for easier access to your basic needs and entertainment, just like a masterplanned community.
If you’re trying to build a business, then you shouldn’t purchase land away from your potential customers. In fact, you should be capitalizing on central business districts and commercial strips.
Road access isn’t a common problem when you purchase land within urban areas or central business districts but the same thing cannot be said when buying rural land.
For instance, if the location of the land isn’t accessible via major road networks, it might have poor access to the city water or sewage. This calls for an alternative such as a septic system which serves as an additional cost on the buyer’s part.
As a land buyer, make sure that your property is near major roads for easier access and convenience.
Purchasing land involves a lot of money, and it’s not limited to the actual price of the land itself. You should also consider other expenses like getting a title insurance (to shield yourself from legal complications involving your property), paying for the land surveyor, and the utilities and building costs.
You need to give up on your dream of having a shopping mall (as silly as that sounds) right in your backyard because zoning laws won’t allow you to do that!
These zoning laws tell you exactly what you can and cannot do with a specific land. Before you start any construction, make sure that the land you purchased is located within the residential zone and construction permits are secured.
In the Philippines, zoning and land use is regulated by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD). You can also check your local municipality for the local laws and zoning restrictions.
Aside from the zoning laws, you need to also take into account the building permit you need to acquire before starting your construction. Building permits also apply to alterations, renovations, and demolitions.
We all know that typhoons love to pay a visit to the country, especially during the months of June to November. While the rainy season is perfect for a day of cozying up in your blanket with a cup of hot chocolate, it’s not all smiles when your property is submerged in flood.
We don’t want your investment to turn into a lake or swamp so before purchasing land, make sure to check if it’s within flood prone areas as well as the flood zones so you’ll know the preventive steps you need to take.
Just like other real estate properties, investing in raw land is a profitable venture that may provide you with a continuous passive income when planned and done right. Plus, it’s a fixed asset that gains appreciation over time so you might be preparing for your retirement as early as now when you buy vacant land.
Aside from that, you can also do land partnership with various real estate developers so you can still earn without having to sell it.
A lot of Filipinos dream of owning their first apartment or house and lot. With today’s booming real estate opportunities, there are so many options to choose from.
Here at Vistaland International, we have a roster of affordable property listings from several locations across the country. Whether you’re looking for a place to live in Manila, Cebu, Davao and etc, we’ve got you covered. So contact our real estate agents today!
Vistaland International was primarily created to bring OFW closer to their dream of finally acquiring a home in the Philippines. And with the rising cost of living in the country, OFWs and their families are looking for ways to earn extra cash flow to support their daily needs. Luckily, you can also join the global network of Vistaland International as a real estate professional and earn a commission!
Vistaland International Marketing, Inc. (VIMI) is the international marketing division of Vista Land. Aiming to provide OFWs and migrant Filipinos a home in the Philippines, VIMI has established long-lasting relationships with brokers and clients around the world.
Get started with your property investments! Contact us today and follow our social media accounts: Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
To be relaxed on a lazy day outdoors and catch up with your friends is one thing, but it’s another when you’re exposed to the harsh rays of the sun or be wet from the rain, and it’s never too late to add some little shade to your backyard or your patio. Adding a shade to your outdoor space protects you, your loved ones, your pets, and your guests from Mother Nature’s outbursts and it completes the homey aesthetic you’re going for as not all houses have a protected patio and backyard.
If you don’t know where to start, here are some of the best outdoor shade ideas as well as backyard shade ideas that will get you started in protecting you and your loved ones from the harsh weather conditions and to make your outdoor spaces extra beautiful!
Umbrellas are the fastest, easiest, most versatile, and the least expensive option way to provide outdoor shade for outdoor spaces. They come in moveable and portable ones, and these are perfect when you want to lounge by the swimming pool with a cool glass of lemonade and a couple of shade trees to be instantly transported to the beach. You can just get an inexpensive market umbrella or a couple of patio umbrellas, and you have your instant patio shade idea. Perfect for every backyard or patio to have!
If you want to invest a little more out of your usual patio umbrella, then you can opt for a straw umbrella (especially if you have a stall outside to serve everyone some cool fruit shakes) for the ultimate instant escapade and work from home step up when you’re sick of working indoors.
Outdoor rolling shades are retractable like retractable awnings, so you can soak up all the sun you want minus the sunburn! You can do this on your own, whether you have a manual one or the motorized one as they are simple to set it up and these are another versatile shade option for your covered patio that you can also use for your backyard.
If you want to put in a little more investment for protection or an upgrade to your usual patio umbrella, then building a pergola will make your home look like a 5 – star resort either with a Zen atmosphere or a country garden Napa Valley vibe.
This permanent and aesthetically pleasing sun shade will definitely invite your people to a tea party or to an intimate luncheon (with a few bottles of beer and cool drinks on the side). It also adds a romantic atmosphere if you add a porch swing and some fairy lights on the side and it also makes a nifty outdoor room, making it the perfect reason to spend time outdoors as well as getting some sun for your plants.
It may sound basic for almost every outdoor space, but planting trees will not only give you a natural sun shade, but it’ll also provide you oxygen and your plants carbon dioxide, giving you breathable air for you and your plants in and out of your house! Make sure you research about a tree that will fit your requirements and you have to make sure that you find a spot with adequate seating areas for you to plant.
Don’t forget that you should choose a tree that doesn’t have much maintenance but isn’t weak – wooded so that it can withstand weather disasters and so that you’ll have a natural shade from Mother Earth! It may take a while, but you can always consult an arborist or a gardener and it’ll be worth it in the long run with fresher air to breathe and — you may never know — a tasty and healthy snack to grab!
It sounds a bit pricey, but we’re talking about metal gazebos (unless you’re willing to invest in raw materials to build a natural pavilion). This permanent structure will cost you a few thousand pesos or dollars, but it’s one of the most stylish backyard shade ideas that you can decorate with plants and flowering vines, making it your private haven to protect you from the sun’s position (and a romantic spot for you and your partner to dance with some Christmas and fairy lights all over, just like the ones that you see in romance movies and books)!
These two permanent structures are great shade ideas for anyone who wants to either relax by the poolside or have a private oasis in the middle of your garden in your own backyard. In short, these are perfect ideas to add your outdoor living spaces some spice and elegance!
If you don’t know what a cabana is, it’s another stylish shade structure that is usually placed by the poolside to relax, eat snacks (or breakfast with the sunrise view), and change clothes. It adds a sense of luxury, elegance, style, and privacy for your intimate moments with a comfortable lounging surface, a solid cover to have more shade, and some adjustable curtains to add shade from the sun or to hide from people and enjoy those intimate moments.
They can either be made with simple DIY wooden structures that are covered in bamboo shades or they can be permanent structures with pillars and hard-wired lighting. The only thing you need to work on are the colors and you’re already transported to 5 – star resorts in Bali!
Canopies, on the other hand, are much simpler and budget-friendly compared to cabanas that provide much shade without having to fuss about raw materials. These are usually made with a thatched roof, sail shades, tents, and many more that you can think of!
You can easily be transported to the restaurants of Abu Dhabi or India, and these are perfect backyard shade ideas and patio shade ideas because these are lowkey and more intimate compared to umbrella. You can also add some curtains while organizing a lunch get-together with your girlfriends (guy friends) for a summery vibe!
It may not be the perfect sun shade, but they’re an underrated option for a patio cover if you think an umbrella won’t cover it. It’s great for people who want to take their tea parties to the next level and you can allow or block as much light as you want to for your plants. If it gets rainy, it’s easier for you to pull them back and add some lights for some class. Talk about a classy patio shade with an attitude and versatility!
Awnings are basically rolling shades, but they are shade sails that are either stationary or retractable.
Stationary awnings are basically made of metal or fabric, and these are sturdier shade ideas than canopies, but more affordable than solid roof structures because they protect you from the sun and rain (and maybe a little bit of storm) while a retractable awning can let your guests be protected from the rain (or from the harsh sun) and you can retract them when you want them to eat dinner under the stars. Perfect for a homemade date night in the yard, if you ask us! You can easily adjust them on how wide and open (or closed) you want them, and it provides additional shade, unlike the stationary one.
We know that not every house has a sun shade and not everyone can accommodate the idea of having a shade, but putting a shade structure or even a simple patio cover like a shade sail can add a relaxed, elegant, versatile, and stylish option for everyone to protect themselves from unpredictable weather conditions (and to add beauty to step up your lounging game to the next level whether you want to chill on lazy hot afternoons or you want to make gatherings more intimate or romantic whether you choose to build a gazebo, pergola, canopy, cabana, or even throw some sail shades as an added bonus).
Rest assured that these patio shade ideas as well as backyard shade ideas would make every house a perfect place for everyone to hang out in style!
So what are you waiting for? Get your creative juices to the test and turn that patio shade or backyard shade a reality!
Your journey towards owning your house or condominium starts here!
Click on the button on the right and start browsing our properties!