The world of real estate investment offers a lot of opportunities and options an aspiring investor can venture into. If you are looking for a suitable habitat for you and your family, you can purchase a house & lot, a townhouse, or a condominium unit. On the other hand, if you are seeing real estate investment as an avenue to increase money and gain financial stability, you can invest into rental properties for a steady flow of cash in the form of passive income. If you are the type to take risks, you can try playing in the market of REITs. But aside from these options, there’s another investment strategy that’s been popular to many investors for its great returns and profit.
Also known as wholesale real estate investing, house flipping– or shortly, flipping, is when an investor purchases a property or a house, taking advantage on its low price, apply some cosmetic renovations and improvements which enhances its property values and sell it again for a quick profit.
Single family homes are the most staple when it comes to flipping houses, but your option isn’t only limited to these kind of investment properties. Recently, real estate investors are flocking into condo flipping due to its various perks.
While house flipping and condo flipping may sound similar, there are distinct features that differentiates the two. While both may involve purchasing, upgrading, and reselling a property, there are some factors (that investors like you should know and consider) like condo association rules and costs that sets aside one from another.
If you are a budding real estate investor, condo flipping is the suitable option for you to familiarize yourself in the real estate investment market. Here’s a handy tip: prioritize or target pre-selling condos as they are comparatively low in price since they are still in the planning stages or in the process of completion. By the time the project has finished, your property has significantly gained value and you can now resell it at a higher price. This investment strategy is referred to as ‘Buy Low, Sell High.’
Another good thing about condo flipping is that it doesn’t require a large capital. All you have to do is pay the down payment which usually has zero interest rate and is divided into terms payable within years which makes it light in the pockets. Here are some advantages which makes flipping condos an excellent option for investment.
There are lesser number of real estate investors who flip condos compared to house flipping. This means that there are fewer competitors in the market for those who want to profit in this type of investment. Another advantage of condo flipping is when the supply of available condominiums doesn’t meet the surging demand for units, you can sell your pre-purchased condo investment at a very reasonable, or possibly higher price to potential buyers.
Some condo associations prefer not to put up their units for rent. This is another advantage on the part of condo flipping as you can cross out rental property investors on your list of competitors.
Condominiums are more affordable than detached single family homes as they don’t have any backyard or patio and is comparatively smaller in square footage. They are the suitable option for those who are looking for cheaper investments. Even if you do have the money and capital, covering the costs of potential mistakes you might commit the process will be less expensive.
Owning a condo unit has cheaper renovation costs as you only occupy and maintain the space inside the four corner of your walls. Condominiums don’t have a backyard or a patio to clean and usually, condo owners aren’t the one whose in charge with the repair and maintenance of the building structure, foundation, roof and other central mechanicals such as HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), water heaters, and such.
With that you can solely focus your energy and attention into the cosmetic upgrades and interior design enhancements of your space.
Some condo flipping projects are funded by hard money loans. Meaning, condo flippers can sustain their business through residential loans options (like mortgage or home loans) since condos are also considered as a residential real estate.
Now that you’ve known the basics and advantages of condo flipping, it’s time for you to know the factors to consider to prevent your condo flipping business from flopping.
Before you dive into the world of condo flipping, ensure that you have a steady flow of income to afford monthly amortization and other fees in the long run. Savings also play a vital role, serving as a financial cushion in case you lose your source of income and money. Think about the potential financial mishaps and shortcomings that might come along the way and devise a plan on how you can assess them so you won’t lose your investment properties. Also, ensure that you pay your monthly amortization on time to avoid paying additional costs and interests which may hurt your budget.
Aside from amortization and fees, you also need to allot some cash for the renovation costs and improvements. You can hire an interior designer to assist you in revamping your niche.
Choosing the best and strategic location of your condominium will greatly affect its appreciation value at the date of its turnover. Invest in condos located in highly-urbanized cities and areas as they tend to yield higher appreciation values due to their close proximity to business center, schools, and commercial districts.
Now that your condo is nearing in completion and has appreciated significantly after a few years, it’s time to find the right buyer and offer the right price. It is advisable to start looking for a buyer a year and a half before the completion of the project. Consult your real estate agent about the current list price of the developer for your unit and so you’ll have the right benchmark when formulating your selling price.
Another thing to consider is the real estate agent’s commitment to the developer. Is your agent still employed in the company at the time of turnover? When the time comes that you are ready to put your property or unit up for sale, your real estate agent could lend you a helping hand in finding potential buyers and in processing necessary documents, especially if you are working abroad.
Transfer fee is the amount charged by condominium owners or association when a unit is sold and transferred. You may deduct this amount on the actual price of your profit as flippers are the ones who usually shoulders this fee.
Before you go and unleash that creativity in renovating your condo unit, make sure to speak up with the condo association if they have any rules and restrictions in regards to upgrades and improvements. Some associations are rather open to renovations while some may be a bit skeptical towards it.
Now that you have it, should you start condo flipping now?
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!
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.
The million peso (or dollar) question is: Will you pay it by cash or through mortgage?
With various flexible payment methods and schemes that can make buying a home easier, more people think that buying a house is more practical than constantly paying for rent every month (and it does better with money). But from time to time, people have a hard time in deciding how to buy a home whether it’s through cash so that they can enjoy their lives not worrying about debt or through mortgage loans so that they wouldn’t feel overwhelmed after buying a house and they can slow down the pace in paying the price.
When money is being talked about in buying a property, people make sure that they should know what they’re signing up for so that they can start their new lives at their new homes with a bang! So if you’re struggling to figure out whether you’re paying your new home using your hard earned cash or going for a mortgage loan, then keep on reading because you need to pause before you can make the biggest money move you’ll remember!
A mortgage loan is a type of loan that lets borrowers purchase a home, land, or other kinds of real estate properties where the borrower must apply through their preferred mortgage lenders and make sure that they meet several requirements which include a minimum credit score they have a follow and a series of down payments that are divided into principal and an interest rate that they’ll agree to! Mortgage applications usually go through an underwriting process (meaning paperwork) before they close the deal.
Basically, it’s like you’re borrowing money from someone that your close to and your paying them back through small amounts with an interest rate that you came up with! Buying a house has never been easier and possible all the time!
Many individuals who apply for mortgage loans don’t have to pay upfront the purchase price itself, but it serves as a home loan for them to pay in frequent amounts for a certain number of years with an interest rate to follow until they actually own the place. When the borrowers stop paying for their property, the lenders can foreclose which includes an eviction of residents, selling the property, and paying off their mortgage debt (and trust us, we don’t want that to happen, right?)
People begin this by applying for a mortgage to one or to more mortgage lenders. The lender will ask the borrower some evidences so that they can asses as to whether they are capable of making a monthly down payment of the loan, which can include bank and investment statements as well as recent tax returns and proof of current employment (Certificate of Employment). Then the lender would run a credit check to make sure your credit score is good.
When the application is approved, the lender will offer a borrower a loan of a certain amount along with a mortgage interest rate and a loan term for them to be aware as to until when they repay the loan. Some homebuyers apply for a mortgage after they buy a property or while they are still window shopping for properties they are eyeing for. This is also known as pre – approval, and this gives them an edge because sellers know that they’ll have money as a back up, securing them a place of their own and following your loan term at the same time. How cool is that?
Aside from the Federal Housing Administration loans, there are other types of mortgages people can choose from. Some people choose a short term one to get it over with while others choose a long term one so that they don’t feel overwhelmed paying for their home, especially for first timers.
Here are some types of mortgage loans you need to consider before applying for a mortgage loan for people who may not match their income, credit score, or down payment scheme and for anyone who wants to take it slow. After all, different lenders have different agreements.
Most lenders go for this type of mortgage loan because the interest rate stays the same and the monthly payment that the borrower has to repay is also the same. This traditional mortgage has fixed mortgage loans and fixed rate loans that borrowers have to stick by the book of the mortgage lender.
When you opt for this mortgage, the initial interest rate is fixed (which is often below the market value so that it can be more affordable short term) and it eventually changes as the interest rate adjusts based on the interest rates that are present in the real estate market (though it can be less affordable if the rate itself). ARMs typically have limits or caps as to how much the interest rate can rise each time it adjusts and in total over the loan.
One of the less common types of home loans is the interest – only loan, and this involves complex down payment schedules and this is best used by sophisticated borrowers. Though a word of caution: Many people get in trouble with this because they think they’ll only pay the interest and nothing else, so be sure to prepare a lot of money with this one!
As the name suggests, this mortgage payment scheme is for homeowners who are at a senior citizen age (60 and above) who want to convert part of their home equity to cash as they can borrow against the value of their home and receive the money either as lump sum, fixed monthly payment, line of credit. Then the entire loan balance becomes due when the borrower dies, moves away for good, or flips the property.
Weighing in this option over cash, you have so much financial flexibility because of reduced tax benefits such as in paying property taxes unlike people who pay cash in buying a home. Aside from that, you don’t need to worry when you want to make major renovations or have major repairs because you won’t have to worry how your credit score would look like in the future, how much the house will be worth after, and other factors that determine your financial status when you apply for a home equity loan or a mortgage. Depending on the state of the stock market, you have to make sure that your money move will be one that you won’t regret when it comes to practicality and the conventional ways on saving more money on your part!
On the other hand, settling it with cash can cut the chase in buying a house because it can lower your monthly fee as well as your mortgage payments and as a cash buyer, you can get away with a cash offer and from a home loan so that you would already feel secured with your home purchase (and you won’t have to worry about your credit union)!
Before you really weigh in your financial options, here are some of the good things between paying it in cash and getting a mortgage loan in securing your perfect haven either way!
When you decide you pay upfront with cash, monthly mortgage payments are out of the question with free flowing cash for you to consider other needs! But you still have to pay the homeowners insurance, applicable homeowner fees, property taxes and insurance taxes. Eliminating mortgage payments typically cuts down the largest expense for most households and saves the headache in calculating how much more you’ll be paying!
When you pay in cash, you have no interest rates to worry about! It’s like you just bought off your new haven (and called it your own) without worrying the mortgage payment you’re paying and it’s worth evaluating your diversified investment portfolio!
You’d automatically close out the deal when you pay in cash because you automatically avoid underwriting and all of the unnecessary steps that can create massive headaches for some homebuyers in order for you to secure your own place (and plus this can lower closing your costs, securing a deal in a snap of a finger)!
You have the edge out of most homebuyers when you buy a home upfront because you’ll be done and over with and you get to reduce the headache that most competitive buyers face in buying and securing a home! Sellers prefer buyers who can say ‘yes’ quickly in a competitive market, and sellers also prefer buyers who have cash in hand so that they can have a cash offer upfront without the hassle if they take up the offer. Besides, it’s a hundred percent win for everyone!
If mortgage rates are lower than the average rate of return in the stock market, it makes more invest to invest your money rather than drop it all in one purchase. Besides, it’s a 50 – 50 win for everyone when a real estate agent earns money through different mortgage payments and when you earn money in other investments (plus this one) as you pay off your debt!
If you take a mortgage for a portion (or for all) of your home purchase in a declining market, that will leave you with some good cash savings that you could invest elsewhere for a return while taking advantage of the lower interest rates on mortgage loans.
The opportunity in boosting your credit score is there (depending on your credit card and where you actually pay your credit card bills) with more rewards for you to not only to save money, but to make the most out of your haven and decorating (and filling it up) with the basic needs your home definitely needs and to make your house beautiful and aesthetically pleasing! Another win – win, right?
Having a monthly mortgage is a tax deductible with a portion of homeowners with outstanding mortgages. Besides, it wouldn’t hurt to have your taxes deducted if you decide to reduce some taxes that need to be paid, right?
Whether you secure your home through cash or a monthly mortgage payment, it’s important for you to consider the ups and downs for each of them so that it’s a win – win situation for the real estate markets, your real estate agent, your financial institution, and for you! In an urban development, you have to make sure that you have the right cards on the table so that you can either have a secured loan or a secured property. Besides, all you need is the right real estate company for you to deal with and you’re on your way in making a house your haven! After all, our home is where the heart is, right?
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!
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.
At some point in our lives, we’ve all dreamed of purchasing our own vacant land area and imagined all sorts of properties that we could build on it– a dream house, a residential subdivision, or a commercial building where you can sell goods and provide services. The possibilities and options are endless!
Among the various real estate property options OFWs can acquire, land is the ideal and most preferred type of property. Land is a tangible asset that has lower maintenance cost compared to other property options. Aside from the monthly pay of tax bills, maintaining a vacant land is completely a breeze!
The answer is a BIG YES!
Land ownership has been the most preferred option by investors as it promises great return of investment (ROI) without exerting that much of an effort on the owner’s part. The rate of appreciation value for land increases over time. It is due to the fact that unlike other rental properties, a vacant land is immune to the usual physical wear-and-tear of establishments, preserving its natural condition and integrity. It doesn’t require any major improvements– just simple and straightforward.
Acquiring the right land property is like stumbling upon a gold mine!
Think of a blank canvas. Envision everything you can draw and paint on it– virtually anything! It’s the same principle when it comes to the land you invested on. You possess all the freedom and right to build any type of establishment you want with it. However, it is important to determine the location of your property to get the best profit out of your investments!
For instance, if your land is located in the midst of the busy Metro, you can build up a commercial rental office space or an apartment for potential dwellers. On the other hand, if you decide to purchase out in the suburbs, subdivisions or townhouses are the most sound options.
Unlike other properties, vacant land is relatively easier to manage and supervise. You don’t have to worry about plumbing and electrical maintenance, construction improvements and repairs, among others. The only thing you need to take care of is to inhibit the growth of grass and weeds. Put up high fences to ward off trespassers. Also, no vandalisms!
Typically, vacant land costs less than developed properties as it doesn’t include construction costs. Property taxes and fees are also lower compared to established areas and lands.
Just place your down payment– or full payment if you can, and you will have direct control and ownership of that particular land! Direct ownership means you are safe from other costs and fees such as mortgage interests and loan fees. Having your land title documents brings such peace of mind knowing your hard earned money isn’t put to waste.
Despite dodging the hefty mortgage fees, you may find yourself facing other expenses like property taxes and even association fees. Moreover, a vacant land doesn’t usually generate passive income unlike rental properties.
While land value definitely increases over time, it also becomes more difficult to find buyers who are willing to pay your price. It may take years before you can sell your land to an actual, suitable buyer. This also means that you can’t convert your land into immediate cash.
Land permits and tax requirements may vary depending on where you purchase your land, so it’s another thing you need to take into consideration.
First and foremost, what is a tax declaration?
It is a form of document that shows the market and assessed values of a property for the basis of real property tax collection. Tax declarations are usually managed by the provincial, municipal or city assessors’ office.
You need to be wary that purchasing land possessing only a tax declaration comes with risk. These risks may include:
A tax declaration is not a conclusive proof of land ownership. It just states that a land is declared at the city’s assessor’s office of where the land is located for the purpose of real property tax payment. Anyone can pay taxes. It is still important to ask for a copy of the Land title issued by the Register of Deeds.
A land title assures you that the property you are eyeing on is legitimately owned by the seller. Somebody could come out and claim ownership for the land you are purchasing.
You can request for a Certified True Copy in the Registry of Deeds to verify the land title presented to you. It is important to check necessary information such as the owner’s name, address, contact numbers and especially the signature contained in the papers and that they match with the ones your seller provided you.
As much as it is important to check the status and condition of the land you are purchasing, it is also vital to conduct a thorough research on the one who sells it. Purchase land only from registered and licensed Real Estate Brokers as it is much safer. In the event that your real estate agent, for some valid reason, isn’t available for a meet-up, he should have a Special Power of Attorney (SPA) to do transactions on his behalf.
Ideally, you should only purchase lands from legitimate real estate agents, but if it happens (but hopefully not)that your only option is to buy untitled lands, here are some tips to minimize risk of loss in your investment.
Never, and I mean, never, purchase any land of this type of property without seeing and inspecting it first hand. Photographs could be reliable sources but this doesn’t mean that you should be complacent in your transactions. Remember that it’s your hard earned money we are talking about!
Another good thing to do is ask around the neighborhood the history of the lot– who are the owners, the heirs, if anyone had occupied the property, and so on.
A property tax map, which can be acquired from the Assessor’s Office will show you important details– size, shape, boundaries, owner–of the property.
If the description of the land in the property tax map doesn’t match with what your seller is telling you, consider it as a huge red flag.
Tracing ownership of an untitled property is surely a tedious job. In order for you to assess the chain of ownership, you need to contact the owners stated in the property tax map and ask them the following documents:
If you are still having second thoughts about the land you are purchasing, it’s best to get a lawyer to enlighten you of any queries and guide you through the whole process of the purchase.
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!
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.
It’s that time of the year again where the heatwave is on and where people would normally go out to the beach and enjoy the waves of the sea to simply cool down from the city’s heat burn!
It’s also that time of the year that fire is very rampant, and active fire protection is very important. The National Fire Protection Association promotes your regular fire safety awareness seminars that happen all over as fires mostly happen especially indoors. Many of these fires can happen at the comfort of your homes whether you live or work in a small enclosed space such as a condominium or in a spacious property such as an up and down apartment or a free flowing single detached where you’re free to move around.
People in the fire department often plan seminars for students and workers on how to prevent a fire from happening, what to do when a fire is happening, and what to do when you’re affected by the fire. But a lot of us forget and neglect these warnings, and there are many unfortunate possibilities that can happen before and during a fire, and a lot of these cases not only happen in the Philippines, but around the globe as well due to mismanagement and misuse of the things in your space.
Well, we’re here to give you a refresher on some of the smart and basic ways to prevent your humble abode from being burnt (and in flames) from those fire prevention seminars. So grab a pen and some paper (or your digital notepad) and jot down these important steps so that you can maintain your safe haven (and your life) in one piece this fire prevention month!
One of the most common reasons a lot of fires happen (and your electrical bills rise) is because some people leave the appliances and some other things such as LPG for cooking on even when you’re done or not using. Home fires happen when electrical and gas lines are active even when they’re on idle, and cause even some devices, electrical and gas linings, and outlets explode to start fires, making them as one of the most common fire hazards of all!
So one of the most basic steps in preventing fires from happening in your safe place is to turn off and unplug appliances and things when you finish or you’re not using them. It’ll only not help your electrical bills go lower, but it’ll also prevent a home fire from happening whether you live in a condominium, apartment, or a house of your very own!
Using electrical extensions can not only help you reduce your electricity bill, but these can also reduce the usage of electrical outlets that can lower your risk in having a fire at your place. These handy connecters can let you charge up your phone, laptop, and other devices as well as power up some small and easy appliances such as electric fans and such in one go! You can also buy ones with separate switches so that you don’t have to worry in unplugging your devices and appliances at the same time so that you can use other appliances and devices that you need!
But you also need to make sure that you shouldn’t overload your wires in one electrical extension because this can cause power tripping (and a possible fire), so keep your cords at a minimum (maybe two or three) so that it doesn’t mix with the other cords you need!
Fire extinguishers are important because they put out small fires and fires that happen in electrical devices and appliances when water is limited and unavailable (although that doesn’t mean you can ditch your hose in case of a big fire, okay?), but a lot of households don’t have a fire extinguisher simply because it’s expensive or there isn’t any space in the house to put one, thus resorting to desperate measures to stop a fire.
So we urge and plead you to buy a big can (or two) for your household, and put them somewhere that’s safe and easy to pull out just in case a fire starts as many buildings and workplaces keep a bunch of those when there are immediate fires happening.
It’s also advisable to put smoke alarms in your place so that when a fire occurs, you would put it out immediately. It’s also important to test smoke alarms before having one or two installed in certain parts of your place where there is automatic detection of fire so that you can put it out easily (make sure it’s a working smoke alarm). After that, you can turn it off when you’re cooking or doing something important that involves smoke so that you don’t cause a false alarm (and you can turn it back on after).
Open and old wires and outlets happen to be one of the causes of home fires, and a lot of people don’t either take note of old appliances that can be hazardous (especially if it’s broken or ones that gather dust and cobwebs), open wires that are cut from appliances that are broken, or outlets that aren’t covered properly or have been broken due to short circuits that have happened in the past (believe us, some of even have electrical wirings dangling outside of our places, and it’s best to stay away from those).
Whatever the story is, you need to check if those wires and outlets if they are still in great condition. Otherwise, throw out those old appliances that don’t work anymore and wires that are cut.
If you have an electrical outlet that needs to be replaced and covered, prioritize that to prevent a fire from happening. After all, a home is a safe place for everyone to live even the ones with kids, pets, and frequent visitors, right?
Flammable items such as cooking oil, gasoline, LPG, lighters, and many others should be kept away from each other at all times (especially when you use them and they’re turned on) so that it wouldn’t make a spark for a fire to start and lower your risk of having a fire to happen at the same time as the particles of these items are volatile, meaning they can spike up at any time that it’s on.
Whether you live alone, with a bunch of pets, with a group of people such as your own family and friends, with a roommate, or all of the above, it’s important to keep your place (whether it’s big or small) fireproof by not only following these fire prevention measures listed above, but to also do some overall damage control before the damage happens and to keep your loved ones and furbabies safe in a safe location (whether you leave the house or not)!
Following these fire safety protocols are very important so that you can prevent your safe haven to be burnt into flames. Some people provide a fire escape plan, a list of contacts for emergency personnel, and fire exits in their properties for you to go out in case a fire happens, but it’s one of those problems you can say that a prevention is better than a cure.
We know it’s devastating that a fire happens, but you can never be too ready to put out and prevent your home (and the things and people around them) from the fire danger everyone wants to avoid.
With that, we want you to stay safe during the Fire Prevention season (and the rest of the pandemic season)!
Cleaning sometimes-or often can be such a mood-killer. Imagine you are relaxing on your couch sipping on your sweet lemonade on a hot, lazy afternoon, when suddenly all of your cleaning chores comes into mind. Dishes on the sink, food leftovers on the table, pile of dirty clothes in the laundry basket—the list goes on! And the challenge seems to double up when you have kids making messes most of the time!
Tidying up your condo can be an overwhelming task but worry not! Here are some simple and helpful cleaning tips for a more comfortable condo living.
Clean-as-you-go, or simply CLAYGO seems so obvious but is most of the time forgotten. Try to keep things tidy, even in small ways. Always put your groceries in their proper places after you come home. Scan your room for anything you can clean up— socks on the floor, dirty clothes lying on your bed, shoes that need to be put in the shoe rack. Make sure that you have a bin nearby so you can throw your trash in immediately. Take effort in picking up any clutter and stuff lying around. These practices may seem trivial be but failing to do them daily means you are hauling yourself for a deep cleaning job in the future. Plus, it will keep your condo away from germs and pests such as rats, mice, and cockroaches that may bring certain diseases which could be harmful to you and your family.
Adapting a CLAYGO habit will keep your home clean and free from virus and diseases. What’s more is that it will save you from a month-worth of cleaning work.
Cleaning your condo unit can be a bit overwhelming especially there a lot of areas to cover-starting from the living room, bedroom, kitchen, and up to the bathroom. Creating a to-do-list will prevent you from cleaning your condo randomly. Clean things in a logical order, starting from the innermost areas of your home such as bedroom and bathroom to your kitchen and balcony.
Always make your bed by folding your blankets and arranging your pillows. One secret of having a neat and tidy bedroom is having proper storage. Having spaces for your clothes and accessories make your bedroom clean and eye-pleasing. You can also consider investing into space-friendly storage and organizers that can fit in easily under your bed. Look for small nightstands that have built-in drawers to put your books and journals.
Bathrooms should be always kept clean as we tend to use it every day for personal care. Focus cleaning the areas such as the sink, tub, shower and the toilet. Here’s a tip: the combination of white vinegar and baking soda effectively cleans mirror stains and windows. Lemon slices can also do the trick! You can use paper towels or old newspapers to wipe them dry. Keep surfaces clean from toothpaste dribbles and dirt by wiping them using damp rag or microfiber cloth. Take note of certain areas such as the corners as this is where grimes and molds form.
Lastly, don’t forget to mop dry the floor to prevent any accidents.
The kitchen is undeniably the busiest area in our condo as it is the place where we prepare our food and is also the dumping site of our plates and utensils. Wash the dishes immediately after you finish eating. If you prefer to soak them first, it’s best to put them in a basin filled with water and a few drops of soap. The food particles and grease will be easier to lift off by the time you are going to wash them. Make it a goal to always have an empty kitchen sink. Keep surfaces clean by immediately wiping any oil or food splattered while cooking as they tend to bake when left for a long period of time.
As for the living room, clear away any clutter such as toys, books and such. Regularly dust off mantels, coffee tables and other furniture.Using vacuum cleaner is a must, especially if you have pets around to keep pet hair from sticking to the floors and couch.
Having a neat and clean living room will surely make a good impression to your guests!
Of course, you don’t have to squeeze in all the cleaning tasks in one day. You can schedule laundry once a week, as well as changing the sheets and curtains. Defrost your refrigerator and reorganize your pantry once a month. Lastly, set your air conditioning to maintenance check-up once every six months. Contact an expert to help you check your electrical lines for any faulty wiring.
It is handy to have a cleaning caddy–a box or bucket filled with cleaning essentials, especially when you need to do a quick surface clean. You can put your cleaning tools like a pair of latex gloves, rags, tissue and cleaning products such as bleach and sanitizers in your caddy. Place it in areas where it is easy to reach and store.
Looking for a way to bond with the kids? Why don’t you invite them for a day of condo cleaning? Not only that it will save you from a ton of cleaning work but it will also teach your children how to be independent and responsible. Give them treats or rewards after they successfully wiped out the table or put their toys away.
Keeping your condo clean and well-maintained isn’t just for the face value. There are science-backed benefits of having a clean and well-kept house.
According to a study published in 2010 by Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, women with messier homes have higher cortisol levels than those with neat ones. This means that your stress level is correlated to what you see in your personal space. You will feel less stress if your environment is well-kept and tidy.
Sure, cleaning won’t burn calories as much as a full-blown work-out, but it will definitely will make you get you on your feet for a nice stretch. Performing household chores such as sweeping, wiping the windows and mopping the floors will give that movement your body needs.
Having no mess and clutter to worry about before you go to sleep will put your mind at ease. Moreover, according to a survey conducted by National Sleep Foundation, making your bed in the morning increases your chance of getting a good night sleep by 20 percent.
Sure, keeping your condo clean and well-kept requires a lot of work, but the benefits will always be worth the effort!
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!
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 think of your pet, you think of the unconditional love and bond that you have as a human and an animal. Naturally, you want to provide only the best for them. The best food, the best supplements, and the best accommodations in your home. While you may not live a lavish lifestyle yourself, this doesn’t mean your furry friend cannot enjoy a space of their own besides yours.
A new member of the family should feel just as welcome and at home as the rest. Whether you’re getting a puppy or adopting a kitten, you want your new best friend to feel as safe and as happy as you do in your own home.
If you’re looking for something specific, there are interior designs that you can integrate into your house specifically for your beloved furry friends. Check some of these suggestions below and see if you can do something like it on your premises.
This particular design can be called a classic. Using neutral-toned furniture and hardwood, you can create a cozy entryway that contains all of your outdoor essentials. And what do you know, you can put a rinsing station for your pets just behind the door or somewhere near it so you can wash off the mud that your pet might track inside.
If you live in pet-friendly condominiums or other tight-space locations, you might be a bit short on space. Why not try a built-in dog crate underneath your kitchen island? That way, you can enjoy your breakfast while keeping an eye on your furry family member as well. It is also easily accessible if you need to feed them or give them water.
A French Country style home is all about beautiful arches on doorways, windows, and even the cabinets. If you’re a pet owner with limited space in your location but still want your interior to be chic and classy, try putting a built-in dog food station right under the sink. It will be convenient for both you and your pet to have them be fed in the kitchen where you can dine together, just not at the same table.
If you and your family are pet lovers that own a traditional farmhouse outside of Metro Manila or the city and the interior design that goes with it, try having a built-in dog cabinet or dog crate in one of your more spacious areas like the living room. You can also add in a built-in eat station, just make sure it is a little spaced out from their pet bed.
Depending on your location, if you live in pet-friendly condominiums with a staircase or a house of your own, now is the time to put the cupboard space to good use. Many pet owners already do this but you can spice it up. Build your pet’s space according to their personality (or yours). It can be a place where your fur babies eat, sleep, or play. Just be sure the space is big enough that they are still comfortable when inside it.
Some domestic animals absolutely hate baths. Other pets are more amicable. Either way, they still need to be bathed and cleaned before you can play with them or leave them to roam around the house. An additional mudroom custom-designed to hold a shower area, a food station with two bowls, and other essentials just might be what you need. If you are in a location that allows this, why not, if it’s for your best buddy.
While your fur baby is undoubtedly one of the most important parts of your life, taking care of them and looking after them can be quite a challenge. If you have small children, you know how important it is to give them their own room or space to safely play and explore.
Pets are not humans but they can have the same human needs as your human children. It’s a relatively small price to pay if you consider the amount of joy and love they bring into your life. Nevertheless, there are still some housekeeping tips you can try to make your and your fur baby’s life easier at home.
Pets with claws and teeth like dogs and cats are quite inclined to chew in things when they are younger. Try to steer clear of wooden furniture or other delicate materials that you might put on display and within their reach. Wooden furniture scratch easily and any damage done is damage seen. Other examples of easily damaged stuff are velvet couches and fabrics, delicate vases, or breakable lamps.
To avoid your pet running into or over your furniture, try to keep their space as clutter-free as you can. If you have a location that is big enough to provide them with ample space to play and run around, bring in minimal decors that they might damage. Dogs are more inclined to reach for things on the ground while cats love jumping onto various heights.
If you haven’t already noticed, most animals love the outdoors or as close as they can get to it. For housed pets, windows are a great alternative if you live in the city and don’t have a front or backyard for them to freely run around on. Avoid putting up heavy, blackout curtains in the room. Use sheer curtains instead and let all of that natural light come in.
A vital aspect of creating a pet-friendly space is giving your furry buddy their own throne in your kingdom. However, many make the mistake of making an uncomfortable sleeping area for their four-legged friends. Choose something that is made specifically for pets; one that is made with comfortable but durable material. You can change their bed pads according to the season as well. Keep a thinner bed for the summer and opt for a thicker one for winter. Switch it up and see which one suits them better.
The number one rule in a household full of domestic animals should be spotless floors. Whether that’s wood, tiles, or carpets, it should be free of clutter, dirt, foreign substances, and yes, that includes your pet’s poo and pee if they are not potty-trained (which they should be). The style of the flooring doesn’t matter as much as the material it is made of as this will determine how easy or hard it will be to clean for you.
Pets are not only there for the sake of aesthetics. They are cute creatures who will be loyal to you and love you until their final moments on this Earth. They want to spend their time with you, waiting for you to come home, and generally being the source of your happiness in life. Apart from this, they can also teach you how to have fun and enjoy life more. Below are other benefits of having a four-legged best friend.
They may be small in size but your new best friend will still need the proper amount of exercise to stay healthy and live a long and happy life with you. Keep you and your baby from the sofa and go out for a walk in the park or just around the neighborhood. If the weather isn’t favorable, try playing catch or anything to get both your hearts pumping. Soon enough, this will become a habit and a healthy one at that.
Scientific research has shown that any animal, once domesticated and treated as a part of the family, can significantly lower the stress and anxiety of its owners. Dogs, cats, and even farm animals can be playful creatures that help ease whatever is stressing you out. Even just being in their presence can help you relax and breathe a little better and easier.
No matter what type of domestic animal you take home, it will require all of your time and attention. Being responsible for another living creature will take patience and hard work on your part. Dogs and cats will be especially reliant on you to bathe, feed, walk, and love them with all your heart. In return, they promise to love you back and help you develop your sense of responsibility.
When you’re out walking your buddy, you might notice that people around you are more likely to smile, say hello, or even stop for a quick and friendly chat. You might even unintentionally meet a new friend through your beloved animal. Research shows that people with pets in public are viewed as kinder and more approachable, thus, the random conversations strangers strike up with you when you’re out and about with your pup.
Whether you believe it or not, pets do have a positive impact on your physical, mental, and maybe even spiritual health. Research has shown that people who suffer from various health conditions have lesser chances of developing depression and greater chances of recovery if they keep pets. Certainly, animals are intelligent beings that deserve utmost care, respect, love, and a good home to take them in.
Interested in more content like this? Visit www.vistalandinternational.com for more, the leading real estate and property developer in the Philippines with the trust of millions of Filipinos.
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!
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.
Pets are some of life’s greatest joys. Most pet owners agree that having a companion, no matter what kind of animal (domestic, wild, or even farm animals), has made their lives infinitely better. Dogs are one of the top, if not the very top, choices for domestic animals. Dogs are devoted, loving, and a constant source of entertainment. However, not many are aware that pet ownership actually comes with a myriad of physical health and mental health benefits.
Not only do dogs make humans feel less alone, but it has also been scientifically proven that human-animal interactions can improve a person’s overall health and wellbeing. More recent studies have also begun to explore the benefits of owning a dog or other animals as pets. Not only that but pets have also evolved to become more attuned to human behavior and emotions, making them great companions in the absence of other humans.
Whether you already own companion animals or thinking about getting a four-legged friend, you may be surprised to learn that having a puppy is not just all about having enthusiastic licks and cuddles when you get home, although that part is also very important, as many pet lovers will agree.
Many research suggests that the mere presence of dogs can already be beneficial to your wellbeing, though you might not notice it. They can be social support animals but they are also great to be around when you are alone. Dog owners sometimes attest that their canine babies can understand what they’re feeling and saying. Among these benefits are a dozen others. Check them out below.
Pets survive longer when they are healthy and well taken care of. No matter your dog’s breed or lineage, strengthening their immune system with exercise will help not only them but also you to stay healthy. Owning a dog means consistent exercise.
Even if the exercise you do isn’t strenuous, as these are not recommended for lap dogs or small pets, the physical activity can still be enough to get you and your pup’s hearts pumping. Long walks around your neighborhood, the dog park, nature trails, and even mountain hikes are adventures you can take on with your best furry friend.
Having at least one pet animal in your household if you live alone can leave you feeling less lonely. Owning a pet means your pup can offer unconditional love, warm cuddles, emotional support, and even read your body language to know exactly what it is you need from them.
The Human-Animal Bond Research Institute found that 85% of the responders in their survey felt less loneliness thanks to their beloved dog. This was supported by a small Australian study that discovered that dog owners have reduced loneliness compared to non-dog owners thanks to their human-animal interactions.
Although many might see dog ownership as a stressful endeavor because of the maintenance and attention dogs need, multiple studies show that dogs can help alleviate the stress and anxiety of their owner, and many dog owners would agree.
This is why therapy dogs and pets are now dispatched on university campuses and students are encouraged to pet them or even just spend a few minutes in their presence. During stressful situations, therapy dogs can also help their owners remain calm and grounded, enough to stop or momentarily stave off anxiety or panic attacks.
Did you know that your dog can help prevent heart disease? A study found that there are heart health benefits from human and canine companion interactions. Your bond with your best pal reduces stress, one of the leading causes of major cardiovascular problems.
Physical activity with your pets can also lower blood pressure levels, control cholesterol levels, and lower triglyceride levels. A survey also stated that older adults have a 33% higher chance of surviving a cardiac event when recovering with a canine companion or service dog at home. While these studies are still being developed, a lot of them agree with one another.
If you always take your dog for a walk around the neighborhood, the park, or even bring them with you on errands, you’re likely to get a few more smiles. Some even stop to ask about your little companion. A dog’s appearance is more likely to make you appear more likable, trustworthy, and attractive to the general public.
This is because many people believe that dog lovers are happier, kinder, and generally wholesome people. A study even found that people are more likely to “match” with individuals in dating apps who have dogs or pet animals on their profile photos.
Purdue University’s College of Veterinary Medicine conducted a study and found that military veterans suffering from PTSD greatly benefit physiologically and psychologically when they have their own service dogs. Another study found that dogs are great and helpful companions to aging individuals (even in nursing homes) and those who are differently-abled.
Pet therapy can improve cognitive function, decrease agitated behavior, lower blood pressure, fewer anxious outbursts, less stress for the patients and caretakers, and improve these special needs individuals’ social life.
Not only can your animal friend or pets help lower blood pressure and decrease stress levels, but they also raise serotonin or the “happy hormone” and oxytocin or the “love hormone” that you need. People who have emotional support dogs are more confident to socialize and interact with other humans, as compared to non-pet owners.
The unconditional love you may feel from your dog can also make you feel happier, more loved, and overall give you a sense of security. Owning a dog means giving and receiving patience, love, and lots of cuddles. All positive things to make you happier in life.
Despite all the health benefits, it is important to remember that owning a dog, or any other animal for that matter, is a lifelong commitment. From the moment you take them in, you are responsible for them, as they cannot be responsible to feed, bathe, or look after themselves when they are sick. You will need to understand them apart from loving them and taking care of them. Understand their needs and provide for them as best as you can as a fur parent.
This will cost money, time, and energy. If you severely lack in any or all of these three areas, you might want to rethink getting a companion animal or pet. Domesticated animals require a lot of attention and responsibility. Some people even liken it to having human children. Canines, in particular, can be destructive, throw tantrums, be picky eaters, have weakened immune systems, or come with other complications.
You will need a lot of patience and kindness if you want to lessen the stress, both for yourself and for your new friends. Pets tend to have shorter life spans compared to their owners as well unless you own a sea turtle who can age up to centuries. Dogs typically live for 8 to 15 years, depending on their breed, health status,
If you’ve decided that owning a puppy is right for you, then congratulations. You are about to open your home and your life to another family member. Owning pets requires proper preparations to make the start of your relationship as easy and with as few health risks as possible, especially if it’s a newborn puppy. Owning a dog is also extremely rewarding but only if you are willing to put in the hard work of raising them. It is important to, first and foremost, find out what the perfect pet is for you.
Bigger pets require bigger spaces while smaller pets require small but clean spaces. This is one of the first things to consider, apart from talking to other members of your household about getting said pet. Owning a pet also means working around your schedule to spend as much time with them as possible, especially if you are getting a dog.
Other pets also require attention but perhaps not as much as dogs. Owning a pet also means considering your income, if you will be able to provide good quality dog food, monthly or annual shots, and vet visits. In essence, pet ownership and owning animals don’t just stop at giving them space in your house to sleep or play around.
It also means devoting your time and effort to making sure they are living their best lives. As much as they make you happy, always strive to return the favor. Having domestic animals around can affect your health for the better so make sure you keep your beloved furry friends healthy as well.
Looking for new property investments? Contact us today!
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.
Nowadays, people don’t want a bigger house but to turn their small home into a modern loft apartment like the ones you see in an advertisement! From figuring out how to turn your white walls to your desired design to playing around with your space and move around the furnishings and make some rooms such as the living area and bedroom for your place, there are plenty of ways to make the most out of your small space — even for a studio type condo unit! Think you’re looking for a sign to redesign your space? Look and think no more because here are some of the best design ideas for your modern loft bedroom and apartment to happen from behind the interiors all the way to the exteriors!
Who says a modern loft has to have one bed? Well, you can make two beds happen in one bedroom with this modern loft design! Choosing beds that won’t take up your space would have a lot to say about this style that it can not only change your modern loft game to the next level, but will also accommodate your family and friends to have a sleepover to a whole new level! With its plain white walls and light furnishing, space play is possible by placing two beds on the side and leaving a space in the middle, making the interior design spacious and free for you and your people to stay, bond, and crash over!
Contrasting your usual white interiors, this design will definitely match your edgy style with a wooden floor, modern steel gray accents, elevated bedroom, usable living space, and a wide glass pane for you to have that modern loft experience without having too much space crowded, keeping it open and light for you to move around and to live!
Okay, we know that high ceilings are quite common in making your loft apartment because you need to have space between your living space and your ceiling, but with a skylight window facing your bed and a rustic wooden wall and floor combo, it’ll make your modern loft look like you’re telling stories in the attic when you were a kid, and we think it’ll also create a vintage vibe that will take you back to your childhood memories!
If you’ve watched Tiny House, then this modern loft design will be your dream come true! This trendy style is timeless as Airbnbs shift to modern loft designs to not only accommodate guests to have a quick getaway from the busy life of the city, but this modern loft style will give you an experience of what it’s like to live in a tiny house with! Of course, this is the original loft bedroom with tiny stairs that inspired and influenced other loft designs to be cool from the interior design to how you decorate the walls and the rooms! Its light wood slats divider, elevated skylight, and wide windows create a warm and creamy look while letting the natural light flow freely and extending its vision from the outside.
Sassy and sophisticated, this modern loft style can elevate your classy life experience with a touch of sass that came from New York! From its open space to give way to other rooms to the classic beige walls, chic carpet, glass balustrades, and elegant frames, this modern loft design can speak for itself for being upscale!
One of the other common designs that Airbnbs go for is the Rustic A – Frame loft apartment style, creating an airy atmosphere that will transport you back to the countryside where the chilly fresh air meets the comfy and cozy glamping vibes (like the videos you see in TikTok). This loft style is ideal for people who long to escape the busy hours of a regular day to make it look like you’re on a personal retreat to rest and reflect as well as to enjoy the warm and cool nature vibes for you to refresh yourself.
If you live in a house or in an apartment building and you want to design your loft apartment in an attic that can make your trip to the rooftop safe, then this style is for you! Attaching a mini ladder to your window and making it accessible beside your bed makes your roof top visit convenient, functional, and pretty!
If you live in a place with mini stairs beside you, then this style can be ideal for you! With plain white walls and your bed beside the stairs, going up and down has never been easier and adding a bit of elevation in a small space can switch your loft apartment game to the next level!
Loft apartments are ideal for people who want to live on their own or who are living with a small group of friends or family. They create an environment that is convenient and comfortable with many functionable furnishings and aesthetically – pleasing and unique designs and styles for you to choose from! Depending on what design and style you’re going for, you need to consider everything from storage space to the texture for the walls and floor as well as what design that will not only inspire you but also you’re comfortable with. If you’re confident enough to turn your small house or your studio unit into a loft apartment, then bring out your interior designing self to the test and be as loud (or soft) as you can be!
Investing in making your dream loft apartment happen can take sweat, tears, hard work, and dedication, but with the design and style you love and making your small space into a big one, getting that perfect picture loft apartment can be easy with a lot of information you can study and search on the Internet as well as being on the same page with people who love the style you eye for! It can look like it’s one of the paid commissions to do with the services that you need to pay a lot, but trust us that it’ll all be worth it when you add a splash of your own twists and when you see the larger picture once you make your loft room or apartment a dream come true (and maintained, of course!)
So, what are you waiting for? Take your storage space and room to the next level, throw in some pillows, chairs, and other furniture, find some inspiration (and ideas) on the net because there many links, and make yourself function in making your room beautiful from the white walls to the texture of the floor to make your loft home picture perfect! Besides, you don’t need to pay a lot for an interior designer to make a cut for you and to bring the open click to you: You just need your creative mind, things to add and remove, and your dirty hands to do the work!
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, 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.
Okay, so it’s that time of the year where people make some New Year’s resolutions, and for some people, their New Year’s resolution is to redecorate their bedrooms or their houses into the aesthetics they want to achieve or they just want to simply aim for a simple house so that they can decorate it in any way they want it!
With so many ideas people can get from Facebook and Pinterest, it’s not a question as to why these small houses (or even mobile ones) with aesthetically – pleasing designs and practical arrangements to make most of the small spaces you have! Think you’re up for a challenge to spruce up your tiny dream house? Then keep on reading and unravel some home decorating ideas on a budget!
Before trading in your old life that lived in your old house for a small house that’s simple and your own, you need to consider these factors that make simple houses trendy without breaking a budget:
Honestly with a small house, you don’t need to worry about getting a hammer to break your piggy bank as you can find decorations at a low cost! Aside from searching for an ideal low cost material for decorating at a bunch of department stores, Shopee, and Lazada, you can also find decorations and things that can match to your dream aesthetic, whether you’re going for that clean minimalistic arrangement in any color or a mix of aesthetics to get multiple atmospheres and vibes in any way you want it to achieve your dream home at a low cost!
Besides, building your own dream house doesn’t have to call for desperate measures, right?
Nowadays, it doesn’t matter whether your house is big or small; as long as it has an excellent architectural medium (and of course good foundation and a good location), you can go crazy beyond the floor plan! Low cost houses can be a different world when everyone dreams for a mansion or a chateau, but a simple house (that doesn’t have to be that small) is one of the underrated gems that have excellent architectural medium (such as strong wood or great cement finish) for you to put your interior (and exterior) house designing self to the test!
You can even make a hut out of good straw and wood and splash it with a touch of class with the decorations you choose!
Before you can imply low quality on small houses, some Filipino families want to have a small house so that they can have everything in one place (without going for miles just to clean another room)! A simple house can be perfect for some Filipino families who are straightforward in having their own homes that they can make the most out of!
From having a simple house that is only a bungalow to a detached up and down apartment, these can be perfect for a small family who want to start a life of their own as a lot of Filipino families achieved in owning a simple house that they can call home!
For those that aim for an affordable but simple house on a small budget, then you’re in luck! There are small houses that are up everywhere in a Facebook notice for you to own! With loan programs that offer flexible payment schemes, bank financing has never been this convenient and achievable with flexible payment methods such as Pag – Ibig Fund, GCash, Paymaya, and other major banks! With Vista Land, we offer houses that have elegant houses with house designs for you to savor and for you to feast your eyes on with a budget that will fit in your pocket!
A simple house with two bedrooms (or probably with only one bedroom) can not only teach families on how to save space on a small budget by decorating it without having a riot with your bank account, but to also make the most out of what they have from arranging the furniture to decluttering things that eat up space to adding a little more to make your unit furnished and eye – catching at the same time!
Having functional furniture such as having a loft bed, which can have a bed on top and a working or study space below (which can be attached to the bed all in one so that it wouldn’t be space consuming) or a dining table that you can just pull it from the cabinet (or from the top) so that you can just push in your chairs and have a delicious home – cooked meal is an ingenius idea!
On the other hand, you can maximize the space of your small house so that you can maximize the space you’re in so that you can turn it into one of those trendy Airbnb houses from having a bedspace (or a small bedroom) upstairs so that you can go down a few flight of stairs (or a ladder steps) to having a small but beautiful bathroom that looks big by the angle play of a mirror!
With these simple houses, anything is possible with your imagination running wild and free while on a low budget! How’s that for smart living?
For those who have rent – to – own houses, houses that are bought from their own pocket, or houses that are built by their own, it’s a good thing that you can design, paint, and decorate every inch of it on your own! But for those that are renting, you can spruce it up without having the paint trouble (usually depends on the contractor) by arranging and adding things according to your aesthetic!
But before you can raid your house with your interior designing self, here are some decorating ideas that you should consider on a low budget so that you don’t need to saw your wallet in half and score many points on both the saving – your – money and the interior designing departments:
Whether you want to achieve a muji aesthetic, the usual minimalistic with a color splash, or you want to achieve any specific aesthetic you have in mind, you have to know which house aesthetic you want to have so that you’ll know on which things to buy, especially on multi – functional furniture. List down the things you want to buy (decorations, things to use for the kitchen, appliances) to things you want to have it made (bed for your bedroom, bookshelf, and many others) to things you already own that you want to add!
The sky’s the limit whether you want to maintain that home design idea or mix and match it! That way, you can figure out what your budget is in decorating a piece of your haven (or decorate your own place) in one go!
Of course, it’s the basic steps everyone does whether they’re following a feng shui atmosphere or you just simply want to revamp and spruce up your place called home by rearranging things your way, adding things to your aesthetic for your room (or your house), and removing the things that eat up space or you don’t need and want anymore. We know it’s a tedious trial and error, but if we want to make things work in your desired aesthetic, you need to get some inspiration at the palm of your hands and do the dirty work!
Seriously, adding plants to your home can not only brighten the atmosphere of your house, but they can also provide you the good stuff such as better air quality and they can also be a great addition to your room and your house (especially if you have cute succulents and have beautiful flowers as a bonus!)
…or any kind of lights such as lava lamps, glow in the dark stickers, and Christmas lights that will brighten your room softly so that whenever you want to shut off from the world without having the harsh bipolar brightness flooding in your room from the switch, you can have a good night’s sleep without being scared throughout the night (if you’re that type of person, we don’t judge) or you can go to the bathroom or kitchen for a midnight snack without having to bump on your way out!
With many options for you to buy wall decors without breaking your budget, it’s really tempting to buy all of the pretty quotes you can hang on your wall for affordable prices! But to make space in everything you want to put in, make sure that you place your wall decors (posters, wall quotes, paintings, and pictures) in all of the right corners so that your wall doesn’t seem crowded. Besides, you don’t want to put down so much if you want to repaint, do you?
With many people aiming either for a simple house design or going crazy with the aesthetic they’re eyeing on since forever, there are several low budget house design ideas for you to choose from whether you want a simple small house design, a low cost house design that can be the center of attention for everyone to see or any low budget house design that you want to achieve.
There are low cost houses perfect for one person or a small family to start their own lives by decorating it in any way they want it, whether they opt for a small house or for a semi – big one, depending on the space you want to have to achieve something with a big imagination. Go ahead, make your dream house (or dream room) aesthetic happen because the sky’s the limit on how you want to give your home a makeover!
Looking for new property investments? Contact us today!
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.
Ah, it’s the most wonderful time of the year again where Christmas trees are lined up as early as September (and every -ber month) and where old and new Christmas traditions collide. Where people who celebrate Christmas season have the hustle and bustle to prepare gifts for everyone to give, wishes for Santa Claus to give for kids, cooking and sharing food on noche buena and media noche, and mostly commemorating how Jesus Christ was born by our Virgin Mary. That’s how any Christmas, especially how a typical Filipino Christmas set up would look like, considering how the Philippines has the longest Christmas season.
But we know that spreading Christmas cheer is different for everyone, whether you want to be adventurous and have lots of stories to tell about your Christmas vacation experience from having your usual noche buena dinner on an island to spending your entire Christmas season in another country or you just want to bookmark places for your next Christmas vacation experience with your family!
But we also know that this holiday season is the merriest and busiest time of the year because of the gift shopping to check off everyone’s wish lists and preparing for a Christmas Eve feast (and another one before New Year’s) plus beating the holiday traffic is one way to beat down the holiday’s spirit (which by the way, sucks).
So if you want to to spend Christmas season doing unusual and fun outdoor activities around the Philippines just like in the Christmas classic National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation without feeling guilty of leaving your Christmas tree and other beautiful decorations behind, then grab your tickets and cars (or your Chevy Chase), pack your bags, and bookmark these destinations if you wish to spend your Christmas vacation in these places in the Philippines this December!
Since Philippines is a tropical country without snow most especially this pandemic season, going on a beach trip while having Christmas festivities without the cold like Boracay is best suited for you! With white sandy beaches for you and your families to relax and swim in the beach or go island hopping and see beautiful starfish, fishes, and other sea creatures that are widely admired by a lot of people!
You can also have fun with a bunch of water sports and activities that you and your family can not only enjoy, but also have a stronger bond with each other! After all, Christmas on the beach may be different, but also refreshing when you go back to the city after the Christmas Season and New Year break!
One of the places that you should check out when you’re island hopping in El Nido is the Nacpan Beach. Take a break from the city life and enjoy its golden sand and glide through its crystal clear waters while relaxing within its coconut trees along its 4 – kilometer stretch! This quick Christmas vacation experience can be the perfect Christmas getaway gift for families like yours as everyone is dying to go to the beach after almost two years!
Suggested Read: Cost of Living in Manila
If you want to make something with strawberries this noche buena or media noche and you don’t want what the supermarkets have to offer you, then picking the freshest strawberries in one of their Strawberry Farms in Baguio sounds like a perfect idea! Also known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines during the hot season and the Christmas Capital of the Philippines during the cold season with its chilly weather, it’s no wonder that Baguio’s famous strawberries are being brought home as one the famous pasalubongs all the way from Baguio next to other things such as brooms and jams.
All you’ve got do is to get a box (or bring your own basket), pick those strawberries, and enjoy them fresh or make them into your favorite Strawberry Shortcake for Christmas!
After picking up some strawberries, explore the wonders of Camp John Hay (and around Baguio City, which has been one of the most famous places since World War II) as Filipino families and most people enjoy the crowd’s annual favorite, which is the Christmas Village. Because what is Christmas season without enjoying their hot chocolate, ensaymada or bibingka with kesong puti or queso de bola, and its chilly air while enjoying what it has to offer to you?
What’s a beach trip without surfing through Siargao’s waves? Cloud 9 is a rocky beach in Siargao that is famous for being one of the most awaited surfing sites anyone can enjoy! You can also relax in one of their cottages while watching surfers catching some waves and enjoying food that is fresh from the sea! You can also enjoy cruising through the sea with their boats loaded up for you to go island hopping, Siargao style! After all, it’s Vitamin Sea for a reason!
If going away for the holidays isn’t for you because of the traffic and you want to be within the city without being too guilty for being too far to spend Christmas somewhere, then having a staycation in Mella Hotel in Las Piñas is the one for you! Located next to Villar C5 Sipag, you would have the chance to enjoy their annual giant lantern festival and their famous Bamboo Organ Church during Christmas time!
They also have their annual food festival that happens before Christmas season, so you won’t have an excuse to have an empty belly with great food lined up for your tummies to fill! So what are you waiting for? Let your dining table and eyes feast on all of the Christmas food, lanterns, and decorations to your hearts’ and cameras’ content!
Suggested Read: Where is the best place to live in the Philippines?
If you want to spend Christmas season somewhere that isn’t too far away from the city with great food and drinks to spend the holidays and at the same time enjoy the chilly air and views from your window without breaking a budget or you just want to simply take a break from Baguio City for a while, then Crosswinds in Tagaytay is the one for you!
Famous for its smallest volcano in the Philippines (which is the Taal Volcano), Tagaytay has got you covered with cold air for you to be in your blankets enjoying your favorite book with a cup of coffee and lots of food places and cafes for you to check out (and to tick off your Christmas vacation experience bucket list) as most families prefer to be near to the city so that they can come back to reality easily. Here are some of the places that you and your family can enjoy:
When families normally think of the countryside, they think of the green grass and rustic vintage houses and cottages with nice gardens filled with fresh flowers. Well, Napa has that aesthetic for you to achieve that cottage core vibe with its Napa Valley vintage – inspired house that will automatically transport you to Napa Valley in America (specifically in California) while enjoying their al – fresco dining with a view that will surely take your breath away! If you think it’s already good during the day, wait ’til it gets dusk or at a good night as they turn on their fairy lights for a romantic feel, perfect for your next date night or for just chilling with your friends.
So head on down to this vintage gem, and enjoy your next cup of coffee while appreciating its picturesque views only at Napa!
When Hidden Switzerland meets California, Windmill Lausanne happens! Its interior will greet you with its rustic and home Swiss feel and a hint of the American barn appearance with an easy – to – spot windmill that will give you that whimsical Swiss – American atmosphere while being transported to America and Switzerland at the same time! Perfect for big groups of families and friends (and pets because it’s pet – friendly, Windmill Lausanne will not only give you IG – worthy signs and aesthetics, but also good food, pastries, and coffee to satisfy your chilly night cravings!
But here’s the thing: You need to catch a motorcycle or car to get there, so spot that windmill, and have fun with your family or with a bunch of friends while relaxing with chilly fresh air all around the café!
Here us out: Coffee Project, but make it more IG – worthy! Dubbed as the “perfectly imperfect” café, it’s supposed to be Coffee Project’s 50th branch, but the pandemic happened, and even if it’s unfinished, they’ve decided to push through as The Ruined Project with its aesthetics that will make your inner plantita/plantito self happy and contented with their plant and coffee scheme this place went for!
Plus, you get to enjoy their food and drinks with fresh air that’s all around you while sitting down, getting things done or having a conversation with the people you love or to simply chill and enjoy!
As schools officially end the first half for students and kids to enjoy their Christmas vacation experience and to be with their families during the holidays, let’s not forget the true meaning of Christmas, which is about spending the holiday fun and cheer with your family and friends and to also remember that Jesus Christ was born on this special day. With the holiday rush happening around the world especially in the Philippines, people tend to forget that celebrating Christmas season also means that we should celebrate unity, reconciliation, love, gratitude, and hope that families and friends give despite the world being bad at times.
As we end the year and start the next on January, let’s not forget everything we’ve been through not only as small groups of families and friends, but also as a community and a country that has faced trials during these tough times and that also shares the joys and smiles that we have shared with you.
From the bottom of our hearts, we’d like to say Merry Christmas and have a Happy Holiday to you, your families, and your friends from your Vista Land International Family, and we’d like to also thank you in sharing your journey with us all year long. Have a great Christmas season and we hope that you have a blessed and fruitful New Year to come!
PS. Never stop believing in Santa Claus, Jesus Christ, and in the Christmas spirit and holiday cheer!
Looking for new property investments? Contact us today!
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.
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