Online learning has been a way for students to learn and catch up with the academic year since the pandemic started. Since then, people have been recommending things for online classes and WFH workers from Bluetooth keyboards to building your own personal PC that will not only handle online classes and work but also for games and streaming. But with everything being online also comes with issues such as imposing academic freeze and frequent burnouts from students, causing their mental health to decline with the unusual workload they get from their teachers and professors one after the other. In other words, education has brought itself to the students, both having a positive and negative impact with the home setup being the “new” wave for education.
But with DepEd imposing pilot face to face classes last December 6 in different cities and November 20 for provinces in CAR and all over the Philippines, students can now rejoice again as more schools open for students and teachers to continue not only face to face education but also in slowly transitioning the “normal” education system that will happen in the next few years as they lower restrictions for COVID – 19.
Not sure if you’re ready for face to face classes? We’ve got your back from reintroducing DepEd to tips on how to be ready again for face to face classes (because we know you miss your friends and classmates, don’t we)?
In order for you to be updated about which schools would be having face – to – face classes, we’re reintroducing to you the Department of Education or DepEd, a government agency dedicating in protecting the rights and responsibilities of students, teachers, and non teaching personnel of both public and private schools around the Philippines. All school personnel should report things that are happening in their respective schools to them from your usual school suspension announcements to inter – school competitions and fund raising events that support other schools around the Philippines. They also allocate funds to build more schools all over the country. Their goal is to make Filipinos not only to be educated, but to also reach their potential to be able to contribute to make the nation a better place by creating gender – safe learning institutions for students, a supportive environment for the administration and other school personnel, for teachers to constantly nurture and facilitate learning to their students, and to be constantly active in engaging with parents, communities, and other stakeholders in developing lifelong learners.
With this in mind, Education Assistant Secretary Leonor Briones made sure that her department allocated budget for schools to have face – to – face classes (and hopefully to extend and expand to more schools and universities around the Philippines) after two regional representatives from DepEd had concerns about making sure that health resources are provided for implementing face – to – face classes, according to an article in Rappler entitled Live Updates: Limited Face- to – Face Classes Start in the Philippines.
Suggested Read: Cost of Living in Metro Manila
To give you an idea as to which schools that had started having pilot in person classes, here are a couple of public schools and private schools around the Metro that had started last December 6 according to an article written for Inquirer by John Eric Mendoza entitled DepEd OKs 28 Schools in Metro Manila For Face – to – Face:
NCR
Caloocan
Las Piñas
Makati
Malabon
Mandaluyong
Manila
Marikina
Muntinlupa
Navotas
Parañaque
Pasay
Pasig
Quezon City
San Juan
Taguig
Valenzuela
As more schools fall back into the domino effect of having in person classes in the near future, a lot of students can’t wait to enter back into their classrooms after almost two years of being stuck at their homes, having online learning as a resort to keep up with their academics. But with health protocols still on the line, many parents are still hesitant in enrolling their children to have physical classes due to the fear that the pandemic brought out.
Suggested Read: OFW Investment: Age as an Edge
With that said, here are some questions and dilemmas parents and teachers still have until today:
Between making sure it’s really safe to go into the physical classroom in a school or university and being complacent, a lot of people still doubt going to school physically is worth the risk with other health issues such as cough, colds, sore throat, and other common illnesses are often mistaken as symptoms for COVID – 19, especially with up and down cases that happened for almost two years despite health protocols being imposed. For instance, according to an article that was published in PhilStar by Christian Deiparine entitled DepEd: Limited Face – to – Face Classes COVID – Free So Far, it’s challenging for people to follow safety protocols (such as social distancing and putting on face masks) especially for little children who are in Kindergarten because they miss the contact (hugging, high fiving, and many others that involve hands) they normally would do every time they would be with their friends, especially when they want to sit next and having close contact with each other. Plus when other students are allowed to hold events in school in the near future such as school concerts, Battle of the Bands, and many others, there would be complete contact with other people without social distancing, knowing how crowd control can go if it’s out of control.
The question still remains as to whether it’s safe to go to school physically or not, but it’s safe to say that schools are promoting health protocols in COVID – free areas. But a better question would be: When is it really safe to push through physical learning?
If you want motivation and better concentration in class with things that are better explained, then having face – to – face learning is an option you’d go for. If you want greater flexibility while acquiring knowledge on the go, then online learning shouldn’t be a problem as there are online courses for you to enroll. It’s all about preference that students opt to consider as long as the professional services of each instructor do their best to make learning for students conducive and convenient (and which classroom setting is better for you) as the Department of Education constantly finds more ways to make each and every student have a learning experience that will not only be suitable for everyone’s needs, but to also have an education that they’ll utilize to make the country better!
There are many ways to prepare the class changes that are about to happen in the near future, but here are some ways to make sure that you’re really prepared to finally be in the classroom after being at home from online learning aside from following health protocols mandated by the government:
Be on the lookout for your school’s social media and your email for your school’s announcements regarding the pilot run face – to – face classes because you’d never know that your school will be one of the next lucky schools that will open its doors for you to enter the classroom! Once you’re already informed that your school’s going to have a pilot run of having physical classes, kindly make sure that you’re set with your schedule and the things you need to buy and bring! After all, it’s back to school again!
We understand that mental health became the biggest challenge when the pandemic season started with lockdowns and constant – changing alert levels, and believe us when we say that a lot of us found ways in coping up with unusual feelings we’re having during these times, but it shouldn’t stop you from learning more about the counseling services your school or university has to offer for you to share those feelings (and how to cope up with them healthily). As far as we know, schools and universities all over the world offer remote counseling and meditation sessions for you to check out! Your mental health matters, so go ahead and seek a friend, teacher, or a school counselor and release those bottled feelings out!
One of the things the pandemic taught us is to get fit, even at the comfort of your home! Lots of people shifted from working out in the gym and go home sweaty to having every exercising equipment you have at home to get your butt moving! There are lots of workout videos, workout home programs, and apps for you to try out in order for you to get your dream body (or to simply get moving for your mental health) without spending a single peso for a gym membership or the fear of getting COVID – 19 outside of your home by simply walking around the house, do some stretching, and do some intense cardio or by simply doing yoga sessions! So what are you waiting for? Go and grab your yoga mat, a pair of dumbbells, and other equipment you have, and let’s get physical!
Trust us when we say that time management became our constant challenge even before the pandemic started, and you’re not the only one struggling with school (or work) and play balance with online learning being the resort for everyone to catch up with the academic year. Well, we can suggest that you should have some productivity apps such as StayFree that lets you use your phone less by setting time limits on the apps that you normally use as well as Google Keep and Notion to keep you up to date as to what you need to do and ClassUp for you make your own schedule for the subjects you have so that you can already see it on your phone. Whatever productivity apps you have, use them so that you’ll not only practice time management, but also to keep yourself on track when it comes to homework and other things you need to do!
Learning how to cook is one of the basic skills that people often forget to realize it’s important as restaurants open and close at unpredicted hours of the day and fast food may be cheap, but not the best option for your everyday craving. Go on YouTube or TikTok or some websites for you to look for some recipes that you can do at home! It may take some time, but nothing beats home – cooked meals, right?
This is still a big question as more schools are ready to open its classrooms for you to come in after almost two years of being stuck at home learning (and working) online due to the effects and mental health issues the pandemic gave. While some say it’s a hopeful time to let schools open their doors for their kids to go to, some are still quite hesitant if going to school just to continue academics is even an option for the meantime. Being on the same page with more schools opening around the globe (especially in the Philippines), they say as long as you’re vaccinated, you can go anywhere, even if it’s just school. The question is: When is it okay to go back to school again?
–
Buying real estate properties is one of the safest ways to start your investment journey. Here at Vistaland International, we have a roster of affordable house and lots, and several condominium projects found across the country. If you have any questions or inquiries, our real estate brokers are here to help. So contact us 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.
When you’re house hunting in the real estate market, you might end up having to choose between an affordable house vs. a great location. While both choices have their own benefits, they have their own key differences and other important factors such as usable space.
The local real estate market can also be competitive. The property value may change at any given moment. This is why it’s important to keep up with real estate trends and news about the housing market.
You can also read on about the national real estate market if you want to expand your search options because real estate prices vary depending on if the property is a desirable place or not.
The location can have a big impact on a home’s price. Great locations tend to be surrounded by civic infrastructure, busy streets, hospitals, a grocery store, a good school district, and access to public transportation.
Whereas a residential property or housing supply located in not so busy street with little to no transportation options and few accessible facilities might end up decreasing the home’s value or become a vacation home for some home buyers.
Because land is a scarce resource, location has become an important factor in the buyer’s market. Naturally, people will look at the prices in the local market and this affects the home’s value and overall, real estate markets.
Suggested Read: Best Place to Live in the Philippines
Aside from the lot location which affects the real estate value, there are also other factors that determine the price of a residential or commercial property. These important factors can make all the difference when it comes to real estate’s value.
Every home value is different. In the seller’s market, there are several factors that can drive the price upward. You have to consider the square foot of the house, available community spaces nearby, new schools, or even accessible subway stations which shortens your travel time to work.
Before you purchase a house, you might also consider the insurance considerations or which land developer constructed the house. These factors can greatly affect home values.
As such, here are a few of them:
To determine the value of the property, you need to also look at the sales price of other similar properties near its location which were sold recently. Other key factors that indicate the property value is the home’s location, nearby local schools, grocery stores, parking traffic, and safe neighborhood. Young families also tend to gravitate towards safe neighborhoods.
A good way to find out if the neighborhood is safe is by checking out the local crime reports. You can easily find this out by checking on the Internet where the information is readily available.
You should also consider the area’s desirability and usable square footage when estimating the home’s resale value. The bigger the home, the more money you earn from the home sales.
Just note that usable square foot does not take unfinished basements, garages, and attics into consideration.
Newer homes typically have higher prices. This is because important aspects of the home such as plumbing, electrical, and the roof are less likely to break down which is what buyers tend to aim for so they can save money for other expenses and payments.
As the saying goes, the older the house, the more likely you need to maintain it. And that might mean spending more than what you’ve anticipated from your budget. This could lead to unexpected expenses as well as time and effort on your part to make sure the plumbings and electricity should be working as they should.
Home improvement projects also tend to be a major factor in increasing a home’s values. These improve property values since the house is more or less fixed and upgraded.
Homebuyers prefer to buy ready-made homes with built-in modern plumbing, amenities, and appliances because it saves them more money in the long run.
Interest rates can also influence your ability to buy the home’s market value. If you’re currently paying for short-term and long-term interest such as car payments or mortgage payments and if the interest rates happen to increase over time, it might leave you with less money to afford a home.
Short-term interest rates don’t necessarily affect long-term interest rates. As long as you have your finances in order and know how to budget accordingly, you will be able to stay afloat and pay for the house without any worries.
Suggested read: Finding a Profitable Rental Property in the Philippines
Unfortunately, there is no clear winner on which aspect is better. It all relies on the person’s ability to afford the home value.
If you have the budget, then that’s a great opportunity to buy real estate in a great location. Not only would the property value have a higher price in the near future, but it could also be the best investment option you can have if you decide to move out and rent the property out.
However, if you don’t have the budget, consider the sale prices instead. There’s nothing wrong with buying an affordable home. The real estate location may not be your liking but the real estate values can only go higher.
What’s more, a residential property far from the city is more likely to have better quality landscaping and future appreciation potential. There might also be a chance for future commercial development which provides easy access to shopping locations and important amenities.
Did you know that the safest city in the Philippines is located in Mindanao? Yes, Mindanao, the second-largest island and the major breadbasket of the Philippines. Divided into six regions, Mindanao consists of the Zamboanga Peninsula, Davao region, Caraga Region, Northern Mindanao, Soccsksargen, and the BARMM (Bangasamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao).
Aside from being the surfing capital of the Philippines, another main highlight in Mindanao is its top tourist destinations. Most of their places are untouched by modern technology, making them a popular tourist spot among local and foreign tourists alike. From their majestic waterfalls to pristine white sand beaches, to hopping from one beautiful island to another, Mindanao is a great tourist destination for nature lovers and foreign tourists visiting southeast Asia.
In this blog, we’ll list down famous Mindanao tourist spots with pristine beaches perfect for island hopping. Mindanao also has a lot of surfing destinations, natural pools, and lush greenery that captivates foreign and local visitors. There are many picturesque tourist spots on the island that will surely be a great surprise to whoever wants to travel to this island with adventure and love.
First on the list of tourist spots in Mindanao is the Philippine Eagle Center in Davao City. The Philippine Eagle Center is an 8-hectare wildlife breeding center and the home of the critically endangered Philippine Eagle bird species.
The park offers presentations about its captive breeding program and its most recent field research on the last remaining eagles in the wild. The center has educated its members and customers about the importance of preservation by providing them safe environment and habitat.
Lake Sebu is a 42,450-hectare landscape recognized by UNESCO cultural landscape at Mindanao. It is irrigated by Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato provinces. Apart from the lake itself, there are other attractions on Lake Sebu including the Seven Falls with a total (7 waterfalls) and the Punta Isla Lake Resort. The T’boli Museum and School of Living Tradition is also home to diverse indigenous peoples, including Tirurays, Ubos Manobos Manobo, and Ts. See their special textiles on the Grand Dulay T’nalak Weaving Center.
A popular surfing spot in Mindanao, Siargao island is home to fine white sand beaches and is another great tourist spot destination. It also has other tourist spot destinations such as Sohoton Cave, Magpupungko Pool, Guyam and Del Carmen Mangroves, Bukas Grande and Taktak Falls, Sugba Lagoon and Naked Island Siargao.
A small pear-shaped island with many scattered springs and waterfalls, Camguin is great for natural exploration and is also known to be surrounded by seven volcanos, two of which are still “active”. They have scuba diving spots and if you’d like to have an adventure, they have a sunken cemetery which you can explore around in.
A short boat trip will take you to White Island, an uninhabited long stretch sandbar which is perfect for a relaxing day out on the beach. White island is another popular tourist spot especially among local islanders and visitors.
Known as the official island garden city of Samal, it is the largest resort city and a popular tourist spot in Mindanao. Typically, you’ll see a lot of people coming in from all over the Philippines and abroad during peak season so if you want to book a room in your favorite resort, you should book it early. The closest international airport to Samal island is the Davao International Airport.
Another tourist spot destination you can go to is Talikud island. It gets its name because it sits directly behind Samal island. The island is known for its rich marine wildlife and a great spot for scuba diving.
If you love white sandbar beaches, then the Panampangan island is for you. Located in the municipality of Sapa-Sapa, Tawi-Tawi, the island is considered to be the longest sandbar in the Philippines.
Lake Holon is one of the best tourist spots in Mindanao. It caters to outdoor adventurers and camp hikers since there’s lots of trekking and climbing mountain terrains. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart or those who tire easily. At the end of the trek, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful view of the Lake. Surrounded by mountains and filled with pristine blue waters, Lake Holon is considered to be the crown jewel of the south in South Cotabato.
If you love pristine clear turquoise rivers, then you’ll love the Hinatuan Enchanted River. The river is found in Surigao del Sur. A reason why it’s called the enchanted river is because of the fresh water and saltwater mixing together, namely the Pacific Ocean.
As the only beach with pink sand, Santa Cruz island is another tourist spot destination you need to visit. Located in Zamboanga city, the pink beach can be found further down south of the Santa Cruz Bank in the Basilan Strait. The reason why the sand color is pink is because of the pulverized organ pipe corals from eons of the surf touching the shoreline.
If you love a challenging hike, then Mt. Hamiguitan is the perfect tourist spot for you. Located in Davao city, the mountain is home to many diverse wildlife species and is considered to be one of Unesco’s World Heritage. The terrain isn’t for the inexperienced so be prepared to struggle climbing through difficult terrains but once you reach the top, the perfect view of the untouched mountain forest will be worth it.
Here at Vistaland, we offer different kinds of real estate and affordable house and lot units to local Filipinos as well. Vistaland International aims to provide quality homes that are built to last for future generations. So what are you waiting for? Contact us 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.
If you’ve ever considered investing, then at some point you might have thought about buying properties. One of the most common investment advice or wealth management strategies is to invest in properties. If you have saved enough personal funds or aren’t in any huge debt, you could see the value of buying land and renting them out to tenants.
In the Philippines, aside from investing in the stock market, acquiring houses and lots and renting them out is a common way to earn passive profit and substantial income. Long-term wealthy Filipino businessmen have made money through stocks and passive income through rental property investments.
But not everyone can make a successful business out of renting out properties. It takes patience and lots of trial and error. There are lots of factors, such as paying property tax that you need to learn before you can get the hang of it.
At an early age, you learned to crawl before you can walk. Property investors must first learn how the market works before putting any cash or down payment on any property. Learning about property taxes, what’s your financial budget, or calculating your cash gains is one of the basics you must do before diving into any investment. And that includes paying a minimum of 20% down payment upfront of the total cost of the property.
Calculating your monthly expenses and checking your mortgage options can help manage your debt or long-term costs. For example, using the 1% rule you’ll be able to analyze your cash flow and property costs or tax expenses on any property that catches your interest.
Suggested Read: How Does The 1% Rule Work In Real Estate Investing?
You should also be aware of your personal savings goals. If your goal is to earn a passive income of at least Php 25,000. You’ll need at least several rental properties to reach your target goal.
Here are the dos and don’ts in property investing:
Before you decide to buy a property, you need to do your research and compare them with similar properties. You might want to look around the neighborhood. Is it well-protected and in a moderately safe location? Is the community great? What is the average tax bracket in that location?
Some rents may be higher than others so do some sleuthing to get the best deal.
There are different types of properties to invest your money on. Here’s a blog that talks about condominiums, townhouses, and house and lots in the Philippines.
In the property market world, you are responsible for doing a physical inspection on any house for sale in the markets. This gives you an advantage to personally check if the house’s condition because sometimes sellers will cover up houses issues by applying a band-aid solution. So you won’t know about it until after the deal is over.
If you can afford the costs, you can pay for the services of a house inspector to inspect the house’s condition for you.
If you’re unable to decide how to go about in investing properties, there is always the option to use the services of a professional investment advisor. Although their services are costly, they are paid to help guide you through the investment process. Whether it’s tax or mortgage inquiries, as an advisor their services are invaluable and come with great benefits.
Looking for a real estate broker? We have brokers in the Philippines and abroad that would happily assist you. Talk to our real estate professionals today!
You’d expect sellers or advertisements to be upfront with their information but let’s be honest, some of them can be clever when phrasing property descriptions. You need to read between the lines such as “as is”, meaning the house might have old plumbing or a leaky roof. You might end up buying the house along with its problems and end up paying more money than you’ve anticipated.
Always ask questions and learn the 3 P’s When Browsing Through Online Property Listings.
Aside from rent, most successful investors have more than one type of investment in their portfolio. You can even say that’s the secret to their wealth. It can be in the form of mutual funds, investing in stocks, or being a shareholder in some companies.
Have you heard of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)? Read this article to find out more ways to diversify your portfolio.
One great thing about investments is you’re not limited to certain types. As long as you have the budget, you can choose whatever assets or services are available. Aside from property rent, you’ll find many experienced financial experts to hold and own different assets. Because if your rent investments don’t do well, at least you’ll have another type of investment to back up your losses.
Why not try investing in memorial lots in the Philippines? Yes, you can use it for investment purposes too! Check this article out.
When it comes to property for rent, you’re playing the long game. It’s fairly common to see little to no profit during the first year and it may take a while for your property rent to become profitable. Fortunately, the price of real estate can only go upward which makes it one of the most secure ways to earn passive income- as long as you have a tenant, of course.
So if you expect huge profits in a short amount of time, there are other investment options to take note of.
Did you know? As early as your 20s, you can already start investing in real estate. There are several benefits that await!
If you’re new to investment property, it might not be a good idea to take too many risks. For example, to better manage your finances, you can stick to low-risk stock market options, or take a low-interest mortgage payment.
Finance can be tricky to manage especially if unexpected events happen such as loss of employment or a death in the family. Or if you’re unable to pay taxes, you’ll most likely fall into debt. That’s why it’s critical to manage your money closely while you’re still in the early stages of your journey.
Learn the risks and challenges when investing in real estate in this blog.
At Vista Land International, our property advisors are happy to get you started with your first journey in property investment. Our company has a roster of several properties that may fit your needs. We value our clients by providing them with quality services and valuable insight into today’s market trends. So contact us 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!
Vista Land 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.
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) strive to work hard for their families and loved ones to have better lives regardless of the profession that they’re practicing in other countries. While making ends meet, here are some struggles that OFWs face every day as well as reasons they are considered as ‘modern day heroes’ of our everyday lives.
Before we can say that OFWs work in other countries just to have a better life for them, let’s take a look as to why OFWs are known as ‘modern day heroes’:
According to an article entitled 9 Reasons Why OFWs are Considered as Heroes of Modern Day on a website called OFW Update, they give 10% to the Philippines’ GDP through money remittances. That means it’s a massive contribution to the Philippine economy with the Monetary Currency supply and demand, making the Philippine Peso stronger each day with each currency exchange!
Suggested Read: 10 Best Domestic Remittance Centers for OFWs
Despite the restrictions due to COVID – 19, remittances from Overseas Filipinos saw double – digit growth last May 2021 as more jobs came back and more opened worldwide, according to an article that was posted in Rappler by Ralf Rivas named Overseas Filipinos’ Remittances Up to 13.1% in May 2021. It also mentioned that according to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, money transfers through bank transfers rose up to 13.1% (around $2.38 billion) from $2.34 billion last year while personal money transfers, such as cash and in – kind through informal channels, shot up to 13.3% (around $2.65 billion) from $2.34 of last year. These remittances mostly came from the United States, Malaysia, South Korea, Singapore, and Canada, making both land and sea – based workers remitting more cash during the period.
Because of the growing demand of Filipinos overseas, OFWs exceed the expectations of employers around the world and they do their jobs well, thus explaining various industries and imports that come into the country and their expertise becoming well – known in the Philippines, making them well – respected people not only for the Philippines, but also worldwide when it comes to employment.
At the end of the day, OFWs not only represent the country and economy, but they also represent the families and loved ones that they work hard for to have a better life for them. It’s no joke that they struggle each day to make ends meet, but when they see that their families and loved ones have better lives because of them, that makes them feel proud of themselves.
Of course with working abroad comes with different struggles and sacrifices for each Overseas Filipino Worker, whether it’s financial, emotional, or mental as well as physical aspects. But yes, we have to admit that eventually, they can cope up and enjoy life at its fullest.
Between time differences, priorities, and other things and mishaps that ruin their plans in making an appearance to family events such as graduations, birthdays, Christmas, and many other family gatherings, even if they know they’re a video call, an email, or a chat away, OFWs still want to be present in every milestone, even if that would cost them a huge amount money.
Suggested Read: Streamtech: Bridging the Gap between OFWs and Their Families Back Home
If you’ve watched Hello, Love, and Goodbye, it summarizes the financial and personal struggles OFWs go through, and one of them is putting other people first, regardless of the situation. Whether a sister’s or brother’s enrollment is coming up, when someone wants or needs something, or when someone is sick, they would do anything in order for them to provide whatever is needed, even if they neglected their rests and day offs just to make time for side hustles in order for them to have extra income.
Sometimes with the surplus of employment rate of Filipinos in other countries, income becomes quite hard to achieve, especially if they work for someone who has too many expenses and is ready to let go of them. So on weekends or at night time, they find side hustles (even if it’s illegal in some countries) so that they can have more money to bring over to their families.
Working abroad for some can be quite overwhelming and exciting at first, but for some in the long run, it could have a negative impact on them while it could have a positive impact on others.
When an OFW gets to a new country for the first time, this is the most common feeling, especially for mothers and fathers who are far away from their children. It can be quite overwhelming (and can sink for a while) that an OFW is a thousand miles away from the people they love, especially their family.
Suggested Read: How To Cope With Homesickness
Some OFWs experience culture shock and started to observe some cultural changes that they need to adapt in order for them to blend in with their type of society. After all, “Do what the Romans do,” right?
Suggested Read: How To Deal With Culture Shock While Working Abroad
It’s inevitably relatable that OFWs miss the people they love, from their families to their friends and significant others, even after a video call or several hours of chatting. They usually wish they’re back home to spend time with their families and friends, but at the end of the day, they push themselves to give a better life for these people.
Whether it’s to seek employment, to have a better income, or to give people a better life, not all OFW stories are successful. You would hear some of the injustices that you don’t hear every day such as related stories of sexual, physical, power, and verbal abuses from their employers (especially in women) as well as their toxic work schedules for some and racism even out of their workplace for others. Stories left and right about them going through poverty all over again because of being duped by other people or by certain circumstances, you name it. It’s not every day you get to hear these stories left and right because most of them go unheard and left behind for another time or until they’ve forgotten about them.
In other words, these “modern day heroes” fight each day like everybody else not to only survive, but to enjoy life and see smiles from other faces that are familiar to them. Nonetheless, the nation and their families are proud of them not only for the money and the economy, but how empowered and inspiring the nation is becoming thanks to these OFWs with success stories to be shared and stories that need to be heard.
Vistaland International was primarily created to bring OFWs 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.
If you want to build wealth, real estate investing is really a good way to do it. There are many reasons why you should invest in real estate, but let’s focus on the main thing: the value of real estate is always appreciating.
The market value of real estate is always increasing. If you notice, the value of a particular house today is higher than it was a couple of years ago. That should be enough to entice you to go into the real estate business.
It’s not going to be easy though. You don’t just become a real estate investor without knowledge and hard work. You need to learn the basics of real estate and you need to develop a good real estate investing strategy.
When you invest in real estate, you really have to spend money in order to earn money. However, it doesn’t just stop with the money. You also have to put in serious effort to make it work for you. If done correctly, real estate investment will provide significant cash flows and return of investment. If done poorly, you would have just invested a large amount of money for nothing.
You need to get into the real estate industry with conviction and with a good real estate investment strategy. Now, here are some of the investment strategies that newbies can take part in to make money from real estate:
This is the process where you purchase real estate, fix it up, and then put it back on the market. This is a really great way to make a handsome profit in real estate.
It also helps that this could be a really fun investment opportunity. At least, that’s what we usually see on television, builders having fun renovating fixer-uppers. But while these reality shows make it seem like flipping houses is such an enjoyable investment idea, the reality is so much more than that.
Yes, it’s quite fun to flip houses, but it’s really so much more than that. This is a real business opportunity where real estate investors need knowledge and in order to succeed. You need to have knowledge of the real estate and construction industries in order to make flipping profitable.
You also need patience since renovating a house could take months, no matter what those shows try to convince you otherwise. Not only that, if you want to make a killing in this type of business, timing is going to be crucial. You might have to wait for the right moment to sell your newly renovated real estate property.
It’s important to know the pros and cons of this type of investment strategy to determine if it’s the right one for aspiring investors like yourself.
Pros of House Flipping
Cons of House Flipping
This is a stressful endeavor–from finding the right property to monitoring the renovation and construction process until the part where you find a potential buyer.
This is a strategy where the investor buys the property and holds on to it as a long-term investment property. In the meantime, while waiting for the time to make a huge profit from property appreciation, the real estate investor will make short-term cash flow from renting out the property.
It’s like hitting two birds with one stone: you get a short-term and long-term investment. The rent money received from this form of investment would go to mortgage payments. This is one of the more popular real estate investment strategies. It’s also a great way to diversify one’s real estate portfolio.
The buy-and-hold strategy will also provide you with a passive income. You only need to make an effort once, which is when you buy the property. After that, you continually receive rental income until such time you sell the property.
You can sell it five years or 10 years later where the market value will greatly increase, allowing you to enjoy massive profits.
Pros of The Buy and Hold Strategy
Cons of The Buy and Hold Strategy
This is the strategy of buying multi-unit properties. The buyer will live in one while also renting out the other units. This is the right strategy for a lot of people as it also kills two birds with one stone: you get a place to call your home while also earning rental income from tenants.
If you have a good number of units being rented out, this could become your main source of income. Besides, the role of the landlord is stressful enough that it should be a full-time job.
It doesn’t always have to be multiple-family properties. If you don’t have enough realistic budget to purchase a land income property, then you could just buy a house with multiple bedrooms. You could occupy one, if you are single, or more than one if you have a family. The rest could be rented our or you could put an ad on the Airbnb.
In many cases, people develop and rent out their basements to generate income.
Pros of House Hacking
Cons of House Hacking
The name is an acronym for buy, rehab, rent, refinance, and repeat. It is one of the real estate investing strategies that could definitely improve personal finance when done right. There are a lot of things to do right in this case.
For one, it involves a lot of steps. With the first one, it’s not just about buying any property. Real estate investors usually look for a distressed property or properties to buy. This type of property is more affordable for obvious reasons.
For this strategy, you would have to invest in repair value. Since we are talking about a distressed property, you have to set aside a large amount of money for material and labor costs. In most cases, it’s going to be a major renovation.
When the renovation is complete, you then need to study the real estate markets and figure out the rental price of the property. Then, you find people who would rent the newly renovated home. But your real estate investment doesn’t end there. It won’t be a BRRRR strategy if you don’t refinance the property. Refinancing the property basically means taking out another mortgage, a bigger one, by converting your equity.
The process will provide you with extra money. If it’s large enough, you could even use it as the down payment for another property, hence, the last “r”. By doing so, you have just doubled your investment properties.
Pros of BRRRR Investment Strategy
Cons of BRRRR Investment Strategy
When you purchase properties for real estate investing, you are most likely going to take out loans. That’s what investing means–you have to expend money in order to make money.
But your mortgage may not be the only debt obligation you have. There may be credit card obligations and other loans as well. To maximize the money you earn, you have to pay off your debts one by one since the mortgage might take up much of your income.
There are different strategies for paying off debt and one popular one is called the debt snowball. Under this strategy, you will have to list down all your debts, from smallest to largest. Each month, you have to try and pay off your smallest debt and make your way to the largest one. The goal is to eventually pay off your smaller debts and eventually experience positive cash flow.
The downside here is that you don’t actually consider interest rates when you practice the debt snowball method. However, you get a high whenever you pay off a debt.
Investing in real estate is a great way to make more money. You could have ongoing income from a rental property or take a larger profit from the value appreciation of a long-term investment property.
However, you don’t just go take on real estate investments without arming yourself with knowledge about the industry and devouring real estate investing tips. You also have to learn strategies to ensure that you will earn money rather than lose them in the process.
Whether you intend to take on flipping house or house hacking, buy and hold or the BRRRR scheme, you need to commit yourself to the process by continually learning and educating yourself with the latest real estate trends. Making money through real estate will have a good payoff when you do it right.
Real estate due diligence is one of the most important parts of any real estate transaction. It doesn’t matter if you are buying a new house, an old house, or even a commercial real estate property, having a due diligence checklist can help determine whether it’s worth investing in. Experienced investors pay extra attention during the due diligence period. They know that due diligence is not just about investigating the property, but also the people involved in the process.
Due diligence is like doing your homework before buying real estate, you inspect the property’s physical condition and financial standing. This is an important step that potential buyers of rental properties should take to double-check on the property’s return on investment and cash flow opportunity. For first-time home buyers, the due diligence period is an essential step to get a fair deal without losing money in your investment property in the future.
Familiarizing yourself with due diligence for real estate investment is tedious and can be overwhelming at times. However, buying a residential property with a clean title and good financial standing can save you from unexpected problems during the due diligence process.
During due diligence, you will need to inspect and analyze several factors regarding both physical and legal issues associated with a potential investment purchase. Once your due diligence checklist is complete, make sure it’s protected with due diligence insurance. You can read more about due diligence in real estate transactions here at this blog.
One of the first things you should do during this process is to physically visit the property you are going to buy. Inspecting the property will help you to discover any problems that may arise due to poor maintenance. A home inspection is one way for an investor to look into all aspects of a house, from its electrical system and water heater down to flooring materials or even appliances.
It’s important for potential buyers who are looking at a commercial property or house from outside their home city because they won’t be able to do an in-person inspection when they move in. So they should know exactly what the residential or commercial property looks like before closing the deal. You can also ask previous owners or the current homeowners association about their experience in living in the neighborhood.
Ask assistance from a real estate agent or broker with a proven track record when reviewing the seller’s financial records, property taxes, property values, tax certificates, and property codes.
It is common practice to hire a professional inspector, who will evaluate the property’s condition and let you know if any problems need further attention or repair before buying it.
Additionally, a licensed contractor or a certified home inspector can help you conduct a series of physical inspections such as radon gas inspection, defective drywall inspection, and even look out for wood-destroying organisms such as termites that are common pests in a home.
During this due diligence period, seeking legal help from an attorney can help you determine what due diligence issues are relevant to your rental property business. An attorney can also help you evaluate the potential risks associated with due diligence in real estate investment, and how these might end up affecting your purchasing process. This is also the chance that you can have the real estate contract or purchase contract reviewed by an attorney.
A title search is a part of the due diligence period that involves research to ensure the seller has a clear title over the residential real estate property. Having a real estate broker can also help you during the title search.
This is a very important part of real estate to do, especially if you are purchasing real estate property in another city. You should also ask the seller for copies of all the documents related to the property so that you can properly review them and make sure there aren’t any liens against it.
Title insurance is due diligence that protects the owner or lender from claims against ownership of real property. This due diligence period in real estate investing is very important to do, especially if you’re buying an old house and will be making improvements on it because if there are any liens or judgments against it then the previous owner might come after your home since you own it now.
Financial due diligence is another due diligence in real estate investing that entails making sure all of the financial information provided is accurate and up to date, like how much money they make and what their expenses are.
This due diligence is especially important if you are buying a house that needs a major renovation because it will allow you to research potential costs and see what kind of return on your investment (ROI) can be expected.
Overall, due diligence in real estate investing is very impertinent because it allows you to better understand what you are buying and ensures that there aren’t any surprises after the sale. Make sure that you take your time in reviewing seller disclosures or the purchase agreement in the closing process.
Vista Land International offers different kinds of real estate assets and affordable house and lot units to ordinary Filipinos as well. Having one of the largest real estate companies in the Philippines as part of their selection of real estate investments, VIMI aims to provide quality homes that are built to last for future generations.
Vistaland International was primarily created to bring overseas Filipino workers 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.
People are finding ways to invest in the Philippines, whether it’s looking for a location for your start-up, expanding your business, or moving into a new place from the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila. And that place is definitely Batangas City!
With various industries such as trading, education, medical services, tourism, and oil power plants and with its second-largest seaport, Batangas is one of the eight Philippine provinces that is known to be the Industrial Port Capital of the Philippines. It’s no wonder that Batangas is ahead in the real investment game!
Generally, real estate in the Philippines, especially in the National Capital Region, is more expensive whether you’re leasing or buying. Living outside of NCR can get you a place for a better deal with great views, particularly in Batangas. Another reason to invest in Batangas is that its proximity from Metro Manila is convenient! You can get to Batangas from anywhere in Metro Manila in a nick of time thanks to various road projects such as the Nasugbu – Ternate Road Project, South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Quezon – Batangas Coastal Road, and by connecting coastal areas of Batangas, Quezon, and Cavite to different parts of NCR.
Suggested Read: 4 Reasons Why OFWs Should Buy a Home Outside the City
It would probably take you almost 2 hours via Metro Manila Skyway, R – 3, and Calabarzon Expressway/STAR Tollway if you’re using a car or any private vehicle whereas it would take around 4 – 5 hours if you opted for public transportation starting from Bagbaguin Road or Malanday Terminal, considering the need in switching bus terminals in between.
Live in the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila!
Coming from Laguna, it’s better for you to pass through the Calabarzon Expressway because it would take you to Batangas in 1.5 hours using a private vehicle whereas if you would like to commute, you can enjoy the scenic spots of Manila heading there on a 10 – 11 hour journey.
Rediscover history and natural wonders at Laguna.
If you decide to take the Cavite route, you can experience a short ferry trip to Manila and a few bus switches, and you would definitely reach Batangas with an exciting journey of 4 hours and 22 minutes. If you decide to use a car, it would take you 2 hours and 14 minutes via R – 3 and Calabarzon Expressway.
Come home to Cavite, a home beyond the Metro.
Fishing plays a major role in Batangas such as tuna, tanigue, tilapia, and tawilis. Besides this, they’re also famous for their balisong, or fan knife. San Jose is also known as the “Egg Basket of the Philippines” because it provides eggs throughout Batangas province. Pineapples are also everywhere and their leaves are made into gusi, which is used in making Barong Tagalog, the National Costume for men. Sugar is also a major industry as Central Azucarera Don Pedro in Nasugbu has the largest sugar producer in the whole of Batangas. Let’s not forget that Batangas International Port is the main entrance for goods coming from the Southern part of the Philippines and around the world.
Suggested Read: Ready-for-Occupancy Properties: Understanding Their Value
Batangas province has lots of famous attractions for foreign and local tourists to enjoy! Here are some to put on your bucket list:
You can hike at Taal Lake’s famous Taal Volcano, the world’s “smallest volcano” in the Philippines. When you reach its crater, you would see the whole of Taal Lake in view.
This iconic diving spot is perfect for scuba diving and venturing out different kinds of coral reefs for your eyes to feast!
Located at the heart of Lipa City, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church is the most famous cathedral for its miracle garden.
This ancestral house, also at Lipa City, is a museum that is named after Jose Rizal’s first love, Segunda Solis Katigbak.
This is the oldest lighthouse in the world built in 1887 along with Malabrigo Lighthouse, which was present during the Spanish era.
Pegging is one of the easiest mountains to climb for beginners, it gives a decent challenge with its rolling slopes and several mini peaks before you arrive at the summit. On top of that, you’re given scenic spots as you go along its trail and spend the night at its campsite.
The Benito Marasigan Ruins (or BM Ruins) lie along San Juan’s Marasigan Street. Built around 1929 – 1930, it’s one of the historical landmarks for people to admire its beauty.
This underrated historical at San Jose church has a long history since the Spanish colonization.
This Greek-inspired island is popular among tourists when it comes to island hopping. This island will give you Santorini vibes while camping and cliff diving with its glorious view of the sea and its Grecian – inspired pillars!
This beach boasts its white sand and blue waters for water activities along with a mix of bars and restaurants, making it popular for you to enjoy with your family and friends for a summer getaway!
This secluded island makes the perfect escapade that will leave you in awe with stunning beach resorts and attractions like Mahabang Buhangin and Cueva Citio! Definitely another island to add to your island hopping list!
There are scenic places to live and invest while making your real estate investment in the Philippines worthwhile. There are lots of condos, houses, and lots for sale and rent whether you’re planning to build your vacation home or to settle your retirement abode that will definitely suit your needs (and budget)! Whether you want the view of the beach or experience the cool and clean winds of the Batangas mountains, towns like Nasugbu, Punta Fuego, Calatagan, and San Juan open their doors for everyone. Out of all the Philippine provinces, Batangas has a fair share of Philippine history with ancestral houses that would definitely make traveling interesting and fun.
So come invest and live in Batangas, definitely your next haven!
The Visayas islands make up the central part of the Philippine archipelago. With six major islands namely Panay, Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, and Samar, the Visayas region is home to the best tourist spots in the Philippines that welcomes hundreds of local and foreign tourists every year. Foreign investors and locals alike enjoy Visayas’ natural charm fresh air, and white sandy beaches. Making Visayas tourist spots a haven to go on island-hopping to visit unique rock formations or go scuba diving over the weekend with family and friends.
The Visayas is famous for a lot of things. From religious festivals like Sinulog, Ati-Atihan, Dinagyang, Pintados, and MassKara to famous local delicacies like Cebu’s Lechon, Iloilo’s LaPaz Batchoy,and Bacolod’s Chicharon visiting the many regions of Visayas is worth the trip. But for the most part, Visayas is famous for their historical landmarks and beautiful islands.
The Visayas is beautiful not only because of their natural wonders but also for their historical landmarks. Remarkably, the whole Philippines itself is a historical landmark. For many years, the Philippines has been colonized by different foreign powers such as the Spanish, Americans, and Japanese.
This is why you will find the beautiful architecture of each historical landmark in the Visayas that tells a story of how the Philippines was colonized by these different foreign powers. The Visayas holds historical landmarks like the Magellan’s Cross in Cebu City where Ferdinand Magellan was killed during his expedition to colonize the Philippines.
Visayas has beautiful natural wonders which makes them an ideal destination not only for the locals but also for foreign visitors and investors. A few examples of beautiful Visayas tourist spots are Chocolate Hills, Apo Island, and Boracay Island which will be discussed further in the blog.
The Visayas region offers lots of tourist destinations for a quick vacation and an ideal place to live in. Here’s a list of tourist spots in the Visayas region that’s rich in history and culture.
This tropical paradise is one of the best Visayas tourist spots located in Malay, Aklan. This beautiful place features powdery white sand and clear blue waters that will make you feel relaxed and rejuvenated after long months of work or school. It also offers activities such as snorkeling, windsurfing, jet-skiing, and kiteboarding.
Historically, Boracay was known as “Buracay” to Iberian conquerors. It was inhabited by the Ati people prior to the Spanish colonization. Before Boracay was a tourism hub and the favorite destination for the local Filipinos, the small island was mostly an agricultural community where copra and fishing were the major businesses. Boracay soon had a rise to fame in the 1980s-1990s where it was hailed as the best island in the world.
Located on the island of Bohol, Philippines, are beautiful hills that look like chocolate. Because of its natural beauty, it’s one of the Philippines’ top tourist destinations. Moreover, the Chocolate Hills has been declared as the country’s third National Geological Monument, and for good reason. As a geological formation, there are at least 1,200 small hills covered in green grass that turns brown during the dry season. If you ever visit the beautiful country of the Philippines, this is one spot not to miss.
Chocolate Hills are eroded marine limestone formations on top of hardened clay. Various historical legends surround the tourist attraction. According to one legend, it is said that a giant fell in love but got heartbroken, and thus, the hills were created as tears hit the ground.
Another beautiful place in the Visayas, Philippines is the Cebu Sirao Flower Garden. Fit for the vibrant city of Cebu, this garden has been named after the beautiful flowers planted all over it including its wide variety of orchids and roses. A modern-day tourist attraction, the flower farm in Cebu Island is dubbed as “Little Amsterdam” because of the colorful flowers similar to Amsterdam of Netherlands. Just beside the famous flower garden is the Sirao Pictorial Garden and Camping Site. The garden also features an infinity pool.
One of the Visayas tourist spots that continue to attract visitors is the stunning Islas de Gigantes located in Carles, Iloilo that offers a great view of the Panay Gulf. Gigantes Island consists of ten islands and several points of interest such as natural pools, blue lagoons, several major rock formations, and pristine white sand beaches. The island is also blessed with fresh seafood and friendly locals.
Islas de Gigantes used to be called Salauag or Sabuluag; a tree species found on the island. The island attraction was renamed with the current name after a legend about giant human bones were found in an island’s cave entrance.
Apo Island is a beautiful volcanic island located off the tip of Negros Island, specifically beyond the southern coast of Negros Oriental. The island has also been declared as a marine sanctuary and diving site for its beautiful coral reefs, teeming with different species of fish and turtles. It’s perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving adventures! It’s one of the Visayas tourist spots protected by the National Integrated Protected Area Act (NIPA).
Believed to be part of a bigger landmass, Negros Island is the second-largest island in the Visayas. The island was named “Negros” because early Spanish explorers reported several sightings of dark-skinned locals on the island.
Biri Island is a beautiful, serene island located in Northern Samar. Characterized by staggering rock formations, the Biri Island in Samar is truly inviting to nature lovers wanting to spend their time at the beach. The whole island is well-preserved and serene, yet the waves are often at war because the San Bernadino Strait and the Pacific Ocean often clash.
Because it faces the great Pacific, it used to be the entry point to Luzon and the rest of Visayas. Named after the Spanish word “barrer” which means “to sweep”, Biri has been used as a navigational mark.
Vistaland International offers different kinds of real estate assets and affordable house and lot units to ordinary Filipinos as well. Having one of the largest real estate companies in the Philippines as part of their selection of real estate investments, Vistaland International aims to provide quality homes that are built to last for future generations.
Vistaland International was primarily created to bring overseas Filipino workers 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.
Many people buy homes for themselves or for their families and loved ones to show a symbol of how successful they are through their hard work, and we get that every inspiring Filipino and OFW story doesn’t end there because it shows as one of the fruits of their labor and love when it comes to buying a property in the Philippine real estate market or to build one from the down up.
But it’s a challenge to choose the design and the type of your living space because you have to consider the budget, lifestyle, your preferences, and your taste, and believe us when we say that every house is unique in its own way, causing us to have a hard time in choosing whether to buy a preset property for you or to start from scratch and because of so many designs and types to choose from.
If you’re stuck in a rut to decide what type of house style and design you’re going for, don’t worry! We got you as we tell you the different house styles and designs for you to choose from so that you’ll save on the latter part of the hassle — which is to actually make it happen.
Bungalow houses are one of the most common and popular house styles in the Philippines as they provide a single-story house with all the rooms found on one floor. These are found in most private subdivisions of the Philippines, so you can see that a typical bungalow house design is often described as a house with a sloped roof, sprawling floor plan, and an open floor plan. They’re ideal for those families who are disabled and who have older loved ones or retirees that have a hard time going up the stairs. Their low design makes them easy to move around from one space to another on the same floor.
A single attached home refers to a residential property where one wall is shared with a neighbor and there’ll be a spacious lot on the left or right of the house. It has a spacious backyard and a porch, too. They’re relatively affordable because their house dimension is the same as the property being shared a wall with. Given this and the fact that they’re next to each other, it’s perfect for extended families who need to live close (especially for elderly relatives). They also have open spaces and develop a sense of community as your neighbors can watch over your place from anything harmful or suspicious when you’re away.
If you want more privacy from nosy neighbors, then a single detached property is the one for you! They’re just the right size for extended or growing families and they give a lot more space to the heightened privacy level that condos haven’t had. They have open space on all sides and your house is in the middle of the lot, giving you a lot of space for you and your loved ones to move around. This is often found in rural areas as provinces have farms and other things they do with their lot, but it sends out a countryside vibe because it lets you relax and run free while you have the lot all to yourself.
If you see a bunch of row houses around urban cities in Metro Manila, then it’s a townhouse. This is the other house type that you would normally find in most subdivisions that has shared walls. Its spaces may be a bit smaller than average spaces of single attached and detached, but it’s more affordable without sacrificing the quality of the living space for starter families or for medium-sized families that need the right amount of space that they can’t get from a condo.
These have a designated carport and front yard so that you can have a decent amount of space for you to move around without worrying about where to park your car. Along with this, you may opt to rent out your townhouse before moving to bigger living space if you’re planning on renting it out as an Airbnb or as a place for rent for some passive income.
Whether you have a small family or just living on your own, a duplex is like a condo and an apartment into one, except it feels like you’re more than just a condo owner because it features two separate units, and it depends on how it’s built. If the units are on top of each other, then the floor of the upper apartment sits atop of the first-floor dwelling. If these two units are living side-by-side, there’s a common wall that separates these units from one another.
In short, everyone would assume it’s two floors because the dividing wall usually has stairs for each unit space. But here’s the catch: You don’t have ownership rights because you’re renting in from the owner of that duplex apartment. It’s either you own the ground floor, upper floor, or in an area that is next to another one. But it feels like you’re living in a condo because of this set up and you’d have your own life on your half, making it a win-win situation for different owners who don’t want to share a space.
Minimalist homes are becoming popular in the Philippines, especially the modern architecture ones. This design typically emphasizes a box-type feature with glass windows replacing brick stone walls, allowing more light to pass through the home to give the illusion of more space. In addition, this is a concept Filipinos adopted from the Japanese in terms of its nature because this home design aims to make the most limited space to address typical problems like clutter and having to make do with smaller than average spaces that cost much like those in densely populated areas around Metro Manila.
If you’re aiming for a minimalist home, you’d mostly like to aim for a traditional architecture style with an earthy color palette such as white, beige, black, rich browns, ecru, and brassy colors. You’d also eye for minimal and functional furniture that saves space and that would make the most out of the space you have.
Mediterranean style home designs have gained popularity because of the inspiration of upmarket resorts and beach-side properties throughout the years, and it has caught the eye of many architects and homebuilders for the refreshing vibe this house design exudes. especially if it’s in the middle of the busy city.
Although this home style is typical for upscale neighborhoods in the Philippines, Mediterranean style homes are usually described by wrought-iron balconies, terracotta exteriors, heavy wooden doors, tegola stone roofs, and colorful tiles to give it an accent. It allows the property to be unique on its own as it’s hardly a cookie-cutter type of house.
Flourished from the 1940s when plywood and steel were utilized for this house design, the Mid Century Modern design is another idea Filipinos have adopted from American architecture. Known for its simplistic and symmetrical patterns, this house design is emphasized with open spaces and huge glass windows incorporating nature. This house design is quite popular in posh subdivisions and upscaled gated communities that are developed outside of Metro Manila, just like those Mediterranean style houses.
One of the house styles that coffee shops and commercial businesses go for is the country style design. One of the reasons why many places go for a rustic vibe is because they want to evoke a reminiscent charm of a traditional bahay kubo with a few modern twists. Homebuilders aren’t behind with cottage style houses because they favor vintage elements and they have been incorporating shabby chic for the overall style of the property. It has been a classic choice for American homes, and some homeowners have taken antiques and rustic furnishings to complete the vintage aesthetic that used to be present in Old America.
Whether you want a house and lot with a tropical design, a big space with a couple of swimming pools, or a floor area that will make everyone move around easier, it’s all up to you whether you want an understated charm of a cottage or an upscale and modernized lifestyle like one of the contemporary homes that you see in private subdivisions around the Metro.
You need to also consider the materials utilized in planning and making your dream home a reality, regardless of what the popular house style in the Philippines is because you also need to make sure that your dream home is strong and firm against natural disasters that might come. Rest assured that these house types and house designs will be your guide in choosing to buy (or build) the home you deserve for you and your loved ones because the fruit of your labor will be worth it in the end.
So this is your sign in eyeing and making your dream home that you’ve been planning for years. All you need is to get creative with the space that you’ll be using, a few new ideas, and a brand new slate to fill in.
Looking for an affordable property? Contact us today
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!
Your journey towards owning your house or condominium starts here!
Click on the button on the right and start browsing our properties!