Philippine Real Estate - A Thriving Industry in the Philippines

Philippines Real Estate is an ancient and thriving enterprise, if folk history is to be believed.

The landing of the ten Bornean “datus” in Philippines’ Panay Island recorded one of the earliest purchases of its lowlands from the native Aeta King Marikudo and his wife Queen Maniwangtiwang. The total contract price was equivalent to a golden hat (”saduk”), a long golden necklace (”manangyad”) and other assorted items. After the sale, being nomadic, the Aetas retreated to the highlands.

Additionally, various historical proofs point to a flourishing Real Estate Industry in the Philippines - with active trade between our Asian and other foreign neighbors such as Chinese, Indians, Mexicans, Spanish, Arabs and others.

Centuries since then, the Philippine Real Estate is still showing a lot of promise. It is proving to be very lucrative for all kinds of investors and customers. As a matter of fact, Subdivision and Housing Developers Association President Eduardo M. Alunan even advised to those in need of housing that “the best time to buy is NOW”. One should buy now while the interest rates are still low. The present low interest rates regime of Pag-ibig fund and commercial banks still provide a warm respite for low amortizations. The OFW (overseas Filipino worker) is benefited further by today’s higher exchange rates (Philipine Daily Inquirer, 12 July 2008).

Thus, timing is important for an investor to succeed in the world of real estate. Sensitivity in real estate business’ direction and in land price movements are important success indicators.

To invest in real estate now, therefore, is a wise decision. Consequently, to be able to successfully benefit from a business investment in real estate, one can also go beyond house-and-lot purchase and consider commercial lot investment. Real estate developers in the Central Philippines Island of Panay are now much into “integrated community developments”. Aside from residential villages, Philipppine Real Estate developers nowadays offer features, amenities and facilities that add up to a comfortable and healthy community living. This includes commercial outlets, wellness centers, market places, transportation terminals, offices, schools, hospitals and other institutions. This goes to say that the more business savvy the investor is, the more chances for success in his investment.

Lastly, important investment tips in Philippine Real Estate are a developer’s track record for high-quality workmanship and its attention to total customer satisfaction.

All these tips in real estate investment help an investor (whether OFW, balikbayan or foreigner) in the Philippines benefit a lot!