Finding Housing in the Philippines
The Philippines offers diverse housing options from budget apartments to luxury high-rises. Understanding the market and legal restrictions is key for expats.
Legal Restrictions for Foreigners
Condo ownership: Foreigners CAN own condominium units outright, up to 40% of total units in any building.
Land ownership: Foreigners CANNOT own land. Options include:
- Lease agreements (up to 50 years, renewable)
- Filipino spouse/corporation ownership
- Long-term lease with option to buy structures
Rental Market Overview
Metro Manila (BGC/Makati):
- Studio: ₱25,000-40,000 ($450-720)
- 1BR: ₱35,000-60,000 ($630-1,080)
- 2BR: ₱50,000-100,000 ($900-1,800)
- Fully furnished common, building amenities (pool, gym, security)
Cebu City (IT Park/Business Park):
- Studio: ₱15,000-25,000 ($270-450)
- 1BR: ₱20,000-40,000 ($360-720)
- 2BR: ₱35,000-60,000 ($630-1,080)
Provincial Areas:
- 1BR: ₱8,000-15,000 ($145-270)
- House: ₱15,000-30,000 ($270-540)
Where to Search
Online platforms:
- Lamudi.com.ph (most comprehensive)
- Property24.com.ph
- Carousell Philippines
- Facebook Marketplace and groups
Tips for searching:
- Join Facebook groups: "Expats in Manila Housing", "Cebu Expats"
- Work with licensed brokers for better deals
- Visit in person before signing - photos can be misleading
Lease Terms
- Standard lease: 12 months (6-month contracts available at premium)
- Security deposit: 2 months rent typical
- Advance: 1-2 months upfront
- Post-dated checks: Often required for entire lease period
- Utilities: Electricity, water usually separate; internet included in some condos
Popular Expat Areas
Metro Manila:
- BGC (Bonifacio Global City): Modern, walkable, safe - highest prices
- Makati CBD: Business center, nightlife, well-connected
- Rockwell/Poblacion: Trendy, restaurants, younger crowd
- Alabang: Suburban, families, international schools
Cebu:
- IT Park: Coworking hub, restaurants, modern condos
- Cebu Business Park: Central, malls, professional area
- Mandaue: More affordable, near mactan
Other Popular Areas:
- Davao City: Safest city, lower cost
- Dumaguete: University town, expat community
- Siargao: Surf/nomad community, developing
Pro Tips
- •Foreigners can own condos but not land - consider this for long-term plans
- •BGC is most expat-friendly but priciest - Makati offers similar convenience cheaper
- •Post-dated checks for rent are standard - banks can issue checkbooks to foreigners
- •Always view units in person and check water pressure, AC function, internet speed
- •Negotiate - especially for longer leases or during low season
Have questions about housing in Philippines?