Top 5 Real Estate Myths in the Philippines, Debunked!

(debbieshelton.com) 
Metro Manila is teeming with rent to owns, houses and lots, and condo units. Along with them comes a plethora of information as well and it gets hard to differentiate fact from fiction. Don’t worry, this list will to help you debunk real estate myths and make the buying and selling process much easier.

A pre-owned home is cheaper.

Wrong! Especially if you don’t inspect that pre-owned home well. There are a number of things that could go wrong―leaky roofs, faulty wirings, and other hidden unpleasantries that can even be overlooked by home inspectors—that can cost you a lot more in repairs in the long run.

Sure, it may seem inexpensive now but a pre-owned home is potentially costly to maintain. If there are a number of repairs, you just might as well buy a new one.

Real estate agents are not needed.

You might be thinking “why would I need a real estate agent? With all the available information on the internet, I can do it myself and save a lot of money!” Yes, you can definitely do this but a real estate agent has connections and can score the best deal for you. They have an in-depth understanding of the whole process. Just make sure to hire someone experienced and trusted. According to Henry Ford, when you hire people who are smarter than you are, it proves you are smarter than they are.

Open Houses are overrated.

Real estate agent Brett Clifton says that “Going to open houses is typically overrated.” Contrary to his belief, Business Insider stated that instead of considering it as a waste of time, you might want to think of it as time well-spent. You can even draw inspiration from visiting diverse types of houses!

As detailed by Time, the biggest benefit when you attend an open house is that you can learn from the crowd.

The “rainy season” is the worst time to buy a house and lot in Metro Manila

On top of the heavy downpour, it’s also the back-to-school season. It’s hectic, right? Although this may be true to some extent, it isn’t the “worst” time. In fact, buying during this period could be a smart move. During summer, people are on the market which means they are more likely to buy which also means prices sky rocket.

During rainy season, people are busy on weatherproofing their homes and focused on back-to-school preparations. Negotiating during this season is easier because there will be less competition.

You need to be rich in order to invest in real estate.

In real estate, you can invest even if you don’t have money…right now. Having not a big amount money makes it tough to buy a house, but not impossible. All you need to do is strategize. One among many game plans is to buy as an owner occupant. Live in the house for a year or two, and then sell the house or rent it out. It takes some money to buy a house as an owner occupant, but very little compared to investor loans.

These are certain misconceptions that need to be addressed especially if you’re thinking of buying a rent to own house and lot in the bustling megalopolis of Metro Manila. Investing on a house is no joke; knowing which is true and which is false leads you to an investment well spent!

Top 7 things to do in Santo Tomas, Batangas

House and lot for sale in Batangas


If you’re looking for a house and lot for sale in Batangas then this read is perfect for you. Not only is the place a perfect place to settle in, but it’s also a tourist magnet. Santo Tomas is the first town in the Southern part of the province and a first-class municipality in Batangas so if you’re considering purchasing a house and lot for sale or simply trying to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, here are seven leisure things to do when in Santo Tomas, Batangas:

Talon Falls

San Vicente
(Instagram / Karl Mikel)


If you want to deviate from the crowded resort pools, it’s best to go for a private paradise. The Talon Falls at Barangay San Vicente near Cabaong Bridge has everything in store for you. The place is open for swimming and group picnics. Nature tripping around the vicinity is also encouraged, just remember to pick up the trash before you leave. Pls. add unique experience from Talon Falls

Padre Pio National Shrine

San Pedro

(bit.ly/2dXpqf2)

The Philippines is one of two nations in Asia with Roman Catholicism as the predominant religion. It is no question that the country abound with so many church structures each with their own unique history and structure. Padre Pio National Shrine, however is a unique experience all by itself. Not only is it a religious structure but its architecture is also beyond amazing. The entire building is built with eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, stone and sasa. Its roof also resembles a salakot, (add brief description of salakot). Located at Barangay San Pedro, Santo Tomas, It is home for many pilgrims seeking the blessing of Saint Pio and for many non-Catholic tourists to marvel at and appreciate.

Mt. Makiling Recreation Center 

San Bartolome
(mountmakilingrec.com)
Primarily designed as a Christian activities center, Mt. Makiling Recreational Center has all of the amenities (pls. enumerate the all the amenities) your local resort can only dream of. Don’t be intimidated by the exclusivity of this place, it is open for everybody to enjoy. This place has everything from comfortable rooms to eat-all-you-can buffets which will make your stay ever so worth the while. Did I mention that it’s also right by the magnificent Mt. Makiling itself?

Mt. Manabu

Sta. Cruz

(bit.ly/2dXptaB)

Want to experience nature and the thrill of hiking but still a novice hiker? This mountain peak is ideal for you. Rated as a “Beginners’ trail”, Mt. Manabu has a short travel distance from the base to the summit which makes it ideal for starting hikers. With a budget of around 1,600 pesos, your hiking plans can now push through.

Gen. Malvar Shrine

(8liens.com)
General Miguel Malvar or “The Great Batangueño” was the last general to surrender to the Americans. Born in September 27, 1865 in San Miguel, Santo Tomas, Batangas, the brave general was also the unofficial president of the first Philippine Republic after President Aguinaldo’s exile. A shrine was erected in his honor in 1956. This historical landmark is located at the municipal compound of Santo Tomas. It houses pictures, documents and paintings that depict the life of the former general. Plan your trips on the 27th of September to experience the festivities of Malvar Day which is celebrated at the shrine.

Ecofarm Resort

Santa Maria

(realtordindin.ph)
Ecofarm Resort is a resort located at Barangay Santa Maria, Santo Tomas, Batangas. It was once a family-owned property with houses strewn across the 5,000 square meter hacienda-like landscape complemented by a private pool available for your regular occasions. What makes this haven stand out among other resorts is the serenity of having the whole place for you and your family. The majestic view of Mt. Makiling will take your breath awayI

Mt. Makiling

San Miguel

(pinoymountaineer.com)
Pls. also mention that the mountain is shaped like a woman, as popularly observed by many.

Who would want to miss such a marvel? Mt. Makiling is an inactive volcano which spans from Laguna to Batangas. Its name orginated from the Filpino folklore character named Maria Makiling. A diwata as so called by Filipinos, Maria Makiling is the fictional guardian of the woods around the mountain which makes it a great subject for countless myths and urban legends. Even though it is a tough travel, this place is a great point for thrill seeking adventurers looking for a place to spend their energy on. Wouldn’t you want to buy a house and lot for sale in Batangas just to be closer to that view?

Grabbing that house and lot for sale in Batangas, an area filled with invigorating sights and leisure activities, is an ideal move for you and your family.

5 Satisfying Reasons Why You Should Consider Buying a Property For Sale in Batangas

Forget mundane living and start thriving! The myth about the “probinsya life” has been long debunked. There were notions that living in provinces is “boring” and that urban developments are scarce. This isn’t the case anymore. You can definitely have the best of both worlds by simply purchasing a property for sale in Batangas.

(batangasallheresonear.com)
Batangas is first and foremost, a tourist attraction

Consistent with its provincial tourism tagline “It’s all here, it’s so near,” Batangas certainly has it all. Batangas has beaches and dive sites, forests and caves, mountains and hills, waterfalls and hot springs and a lot more! If you have that perennial wanderlust, Batangas is the place for you. 

(taal.gov.ph)
Batangas is a historical district

Spanish ministers first set foot in Batangas in 1572. Several years after that, it was founded and was called “Batangan” because of the big logs that were surrounding the Calumpang River. The natives, who were called “Batangan” called the logs as “batang.” The name of the province was later modified in 1601 and became Batangas.

Aside from the origin of the province, there are also heritage sites such as the Mabini Shrine, Casa de Segunda and Punta de Santiago.


(cookeatshare.com)
Batangas is filled with delectable delicacies

A certified foodie wouldn’t hesitate to reside in Batangas upon hearing the wordBulalo. It has been the signature dish of the province. Imagine sipping that light-colored soup while pieces of beef fall apart in your mouth. Don’t even get us started on the bone marrow.

Bulalo is just one among many other signature dishes of the province. These scrumptious delicacies are pretty convincing to make you stay and purchase a property in Batangas.


(choosephilippines.com)
Batangas is a festive province

Apart from beaches and heritage sites, Batangas is also filled with festivals. The Sublian Festival, is one of the biggest festivals of Southern Luzon. It stems from the Batangueños devotion to patron saints namely, The Holy Cross in Bauan and Sto. Niño in Batangas City. – Jian, pls. mention other festivals to support the line “festive province”

The colorful festivities reflect the province’s rich culture. This is a perfect place for people who enjoy cultural diversity in harmony.


Batangas is only several hours away from Metro Manila

If you ever miss the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila, don’t worry, the province is less than two hours away from the metropolis unlike other provinces which are far-flung and would take several hours to reach the city.

Batangas has grown into one of the country’s most viable real estate locations. Wouldn’t you want to purchase a house and lot for sale in Batangas with high property value?


Title: One of the Very First Real Estate Properties in Cebu City: Inside the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral Home

Location: Cebu

The Queen City of the South is the first landing site of the Spaniards during their settlement in the Philippines. It all started when Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, a Spanish expedition commander landed in Cebu in 1525. Ever since their fateful expedition, the city was slowly filled with heritage spots and one of which is the quintessential Yap-Sandiego ancestral house.

(zeelifestylecebu.com)

The ancestral house is located in Parian Street near Colon Street, the oldest street in Cebu. The street was named after Spanish navigator Christopher Columbus (or Cristobal Colon in Spanish).

This classical real estate property in Cebu was originally built by Chinese merchants in the 17th century before being inhabited by Don Juan Yap and Doña Maria Florido. Fun fact: the ancestral house is the oldest Chinese house outside of China.

The couple had three children namely Maria, Eleuterio and Consolacion. Maria Yap, the eldest daughter married Don Mariano Sandiego, Parian’s barangay head at the time. Thus became the Yap-Sandiego ancestral house.

The house, which has been standing for more than 300 years, is still preserved with its original structure. The current caretaker, Val Mancao-Sandiego, is the fifth generation descendant of the owners. He is also known as a heritage advocate, a cultural choreographer and an art enthusiast. He put the heritage under his supervision and claimed that the house is a heritage spot. He refurbished the place by adding coral stones imbued with molave, balayong and terracotta. This real estate property in Cebu is filled with family heirlooms, antique pieces and ancient furniture.

Ever since its restoration, the house has been open to the public and is now a tourist attraction. It is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. with an entrance fee of P50.

The Yap-Sandiego ancestral house is not only a heritage site but is also an integral part of Cebu’s history.

BATANGAS: MORE THAN A RAY IN THE FLAG



Batangas is one of the first eight provinces that participated in the 1896 Philippine revolution alongside Manila, Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Cavite, Nueva Ecija, and Laguna which are represented by the eight rays of sun in the Philippine flag. But aside from being the home of kapeng barako, balisong, the Taal Volcano, and its well-renowned governor, Vilma Santos, Batangas is more than just a tourist destination and a name represented in our flag.

Aside from Batangas being famous for its beaches as a hot spot for retreats, team buildings, family outings, and vacations Houses and lots for sale in Batangas are also in high demand because of its close proximity to the metro which is just a 2- hour drive away . Factor in the cool weather and Batangas quickly becomes a refreshing escape from the Manila hustle.

But behind the comforting image of Batangas is a history that is worthy of a tale.

Batangas is home to some of the most influential and unforgettable icons of our time. The Brain of the Revolution, Apolinario Mabini, is from Batangas; Marcella Agoncillo, one of the women who made the Philppine Flag, is also from Batangas and so is Miguel Malvar, a young general during the American war; Jose P. Laurel, the third president of the Republic of the Philippines; Segunda Katigbak, the alleged first love of our national hero; Ogie Alcasid, an award winning singer/composer/comedian; Renee Salud, one of the most celebrated fashion designer in the country; Dr. Bienvenido Lumbera, national artist for literature; and other stars like Ai-ai delas Alas, Ryan Agoncillo, and Leo Martinez are all from the esteemed province.

Batangas is also known for its magnificent and well-preserved churches. Taal Church was even chosen as a location to shoot the famous “chicken vendor scene” in the recent critically-acclaimed movie, Heneral Luna. Another scene, wherein Luna kneeled and his men prayed before going out to war was inside the same church.

You can also find the Mabini Shrine in Batangas. This shrine houses the remains and belongings of Apolinario Mabini. The General Malvar Museum and Library can also be found in Batangas to commemorate the last general who surrendered to the American forces. The Punta de Santiago Lighthouse, the oldest functioning lighthouse that has guided ships since 1890, can also be found in Calatagan, Batangas.

Those seeking for a slice of culture won’t be disappointed too. The Taal Heritage Village is one of the preserved cultural sites that datesd back to theSpanish colonial era which conforms to the hall-school-church and houses layout. Basilica of San Martin de Tours, a church that has withstood the calm and rage of the Taal volcano, was once hailed to be the biggest church in the whole of East Asia.

These are just some of the things that make Batangas more than just a ray in our flag. And if you’re not yet convinced, then take a tour and see how Batangas will tell youits tale and maybe you can join the hunt for house and lot for sale in Batangas too.

Affordable Yet Looks Expensive, A Filipino’s Dream Home Came True


Who would have thought that a house built on a 13 square meters lot is possible? Maybe others might think that houses built on a lot this size can only cater shanties, dog houses or small storage rooms for old stocked items but no it can also be utilized for building a small house. It might not be that big but it can be valuable to anybody looking for an affordable yet decent home.

One great sample of achieving this feat is a Filipino Architect Vina Lustado. Vina was a Filipina born in the Philippines whose family migrated to the US. Their first year in the US was difficult one, with a family of 10 members they managed to stay in a one-bedroom duplex. But this scenario did not stop Vina from pursuing her dream. She studied industriously and finally and graduated an architecture degree at University of Southern California in 1991.


After years of working hard for big architectural firms, she finally built a business of her own in 2010 which led her to build a small house with energy efficient functionalities.  

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5 Comparison Factors: Condominium vs House and Lot

Last week, my cousin just got off the ship and is planning to buy a property for his family. He’s a seaman with a family of 4 and is earning a salary that can give a comfortable life for them. At the moment, they are just renting out on a simple apartment with basic amenities that’s why they are planning to invest on an affordable property which they can use efficiently and they can call their own.

They are currently having problem deciding if they should buy a condo or a house and lot in the Philippines which prompted me to do a little research for them and here’s what I’ve found which I know that can help them:

Cost

Cost wise, if both condos and house and lot are located in the same area, condos always are cheaper.  Although, condos are introduced as luxurious living marketing wise, they are still more affordable than houses.

According to an article I’ve read over the internet, reliable developers even sell condo units below P1million pesos which is a way cheaper to an entry-level single-attached house located within Metro Manila which is prices go from 1.5million to P3million which could go as high as P22 million to P28 million for high end houses.

Location

Location wise, condominiums are built with greater locations. Given a place like Metro Manila where  development areas are congested, condominiums is a more practical option given that they can be built vertically which requires less space.

Convenience

If you need to be close on your workplace, living in a condo must be the right one for you. Condos are usually built just beside business districts which enables you to take advantage of less travel time and less transportation expenses.

Amenities

For those living in condos, recreational areas like pools, playgrounds, basketball court, tennis court, function rooms and gyms are always available for the homeowners. These amenities can also be available on high end house and lot for sale in the Philippines.

Space

In terms of space to move on, house and lot offers you a lot more freedom in terms of area. You don’t share ownership with others which gives you the freedom of doing all the things that you want to put in your backyard.

For condos, its life span would be only good for 50 years which is contradictory of buying a house. Once fully paid, it’s all yours.

Flood Management

Living on Condos might pose an advantage with this. Unlike horizontal developments where the risk of floods are higher, condos are rarely affected by floods.

Thanks for reading my post! For condos or house and lot for sale in the Philippines, visit Vistaland International’s site.

Related articles:
4 Amazing House and Lot Renovations to Increase Property Value
5 Things to Ponder Before Buying House and Lot in the Philippines
5 Simple Ways on How to Buy House and Lot in the Philippines

4 Mistakes Real Estate Investors Should Avoid

Buying and selling affordable house and lot in the Philippines is a good way to make money but it won’t be easy that’s why avoiding some mistakes might save you in the long run.

These are the 5 mistakes real estate investors should avoid:

Lack of Research

When buying gadgets what we usually ask for are the models, its features and its advantages from other models. Ask a lot of questions and try to determine whether purchasing it is worth the money. This is what should be done when buying a property but a more strict due diligence should be observed.

Questions that you need to ask when buying a house:
  • Is the property built in the vicinity of a commercial site, or will long-term construction be occurring in the near future?
  • Does the property reside in a flood zone or in a problematic area? Such as ones known for termite problems?
  • Does the house have foundation or permit "issues"? What is new in the house and what must be replaced?
  • Why is the homeowner selling?
  • What did he or she pay for the home and when?
  • If you are moving into a new town, are there any problem areas in town?
Abysmal Financing

When buying a house, many are unaware that they are choosing the wrong financial option of buying their house. Many buyers tend to buy variable loans where they eventually pay the price when interest rates rise. Buyers should make sure that they have the financial flexibility to make the payments if the rates go up. Nonetheless, if they are not flexible income to pay the rates, they should go with a fixed-rate mortgage.  

For mortgage rates in the Philippines just visit this link: http://www.foreclosurephilippines.com/best-financing-home-loan-interest-rate-comparison-chart/


Being a Know It All

Many buyers think that they know it all because they have closed a real estate deal in the past. Though it went smoothly in the past, there is no assurance that future deals can be successful too.
As a real estate investor, you should befriend experts that can help you make the right purchase. Experts that you should have should be, real estate agent, a home inspector, a handyman, a good attorney and an insurance representative. These experts would be a great help in case problems arise.

Overpaying

Finding the right house that will suit your needs is really very frustrating. The problem here is when a house that meets your needs come, you are pressured to buy a house that you think is the right one. Because of this you tend to be anxious that your dream house would be bought by others. With too much emotion about the house you like, you tend to overpay and end up buying a house that is not on your budget.

To avoid overpaying, what you should focus is on researching homes that you like and its comparison with the others of its kind. Do not rush on buying your dream house.
Mixing your buying decision with emotion is very dangerous. Relax and be patient on finding the right house for you.

For affordable house and lot in the Philippines, visit Vistaland International’s site here http://www.vistalandinternational.com/.

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Affordable house and lot in the philippines, camella homes, real estate philippines
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