Philippines
Discover real estate in the Philippines – from luxurious villas overlooking paradise beaches to elegant apartments in Manila, Cebu, and the charming El Nido. Tropical islands, crystal-clear waters, and exotic nature create the perfect setting for living or investing. Find your dream property with our intuitive search tool!
What are the popular regions for buying real estate in the Philippines?
The Philippines is an archipelago full of contrasts and investment opportunities – from bustling metropolitan life to paradise islands. The greatest interest among investors is seen in Metro Manila, especially in districts like Makati, Bonifacio Global City (BGC) and Ortigas, which offer luxury apartments and excellent business infrastructure. In the south, Cebu enjoys growing popularity – a rapidly developing city with an international airport, modern neighborhoods, and access to beautiful beaches on Mactan Island. Fans of holiday climates are drawn to the iconic island of Boracay, ideal for condohotel investments and short-term rentals. The exotic Palawan, with destinations like El Nido and Coron, is a paradise for those seeking peace, nature, and unique projects – a great area for eco-friendly investments. For those looking for a more peaceful alternative, the increasingly attractive Davao stands out, known for its safety, order, and lower real estate prices. It’s also worth paying attention to Bohol, which enchants with its natural beauty, tranquility, and growing tourist potential.
No matter if you’re looking for a city apartment, a second home by the beach, or land for investment – the Philippines offers a wide range of opportunities for everyone.
What are the additional costs when buying real estate in the Philippines?
When purchasing property in the Philippines, it’s important to consider additional transaction costs, which typically amount to 5% to 10% of the property’s value. The key charges include:
Documentary Stamp Tax (DST) of 1.5% of the transaction value, Transfer Tax ranging from 0.5%–0.75% depending on the location, and a registration fee of around 0.25%. Additionally, there is a notarial fee, usually 1% to 2%, along with other minor administrative or legal costs. For newly built properties, there may be a requirement to pay 12% VAT, if the property value exceeds a certain threshold. It’s also worth considering monthly administrative fees – in the case of apartments, this is known as “condo dues”, and in gated communities, there may be contributions toward the homeowners’ association.
Although the agent’s commission is typically covered by the seller, it’s wise to confirm this before signing the contract. Accounting for all these costs helps avoid unpleasant surprises and allows for better investment budget planning.
