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  • Why Buying a Condo With No VAT Is a Huge Advantage in the Philippines

    Why Buying a Condo With No VAT Is a Huge Advantage in the Philippines

    In the Philippine real estate landscape, every bit of financial leverage counts. If you’re on the hunt for a new condominium home or investment property, you may have encountered listings with an enticing benefit: no Value-Added Tax (VAT). But what does that really mean for your wallet, especially in the local context? Let’s break down why buying a condo with no VAT is a significant advantage and how it can help you secure a property that better fits your lifestyle and budget within the Philippines.

    1. Lower Purchase Cost (Mas Mababang Presyo ng Pagbili)

    Without VAT, you effectively save the additional amount that would have been added to the base price of your condo. This translates into immediate savings—money you can allocate to other priorities, such as:

    • Interior design and furnishings (Interior design at mga gamit sa loob ng condo)
    • Moving costs and relocation (Gastos sa paglipat at relokasyon/lipat-bahay)
    • Emergency or contingency funds (Emergency funds o pondo para sa mga di inaasahang gastos/pang-abono)

    By eliminating VAT, you get closer to the quoted purchase price without the typical tax burden inflating your overall investment.

    2. Better Budget Management (Mas Madaling Pag-manage ng Budget)

    One of the biggest challenges when buying real estate is ensuring your budget aligns with the true cost of the property. When VAT is excluded:

    • Transparent Cost Estimates: You don’t have to perform mental calculations to add extra percentages to your figures.
    • Smoother Mortgage & Payment Planning: The lower principal cost makes it easier to calculate your monthly amortizations or payments, allowing you to confidently manage your finances.

    3. Improved Return on Investment (ROI) (Mas Mataas na Return on Investment (ROI))

    For those looking to invest in a property for rental or future resale, no VAT can significantly impact your bottom line:

    • Higher Rental Profit (Kita sa Paupa): Lower upfront costs reduce the pressure to charge high rent just to break even, giving you greater pricing flexibility.
    • Potentially Higher Resale Value (Halaga Kapag Ibinebenta): Because your initial investment is lower, any capital appreciation on the property may result in a stronger overall profit margin when you sell.

    4. Competitive Edge in a Dynamic Market (Competitive Edge sa Dynamic na Market)

    In the Philippines’ dynamic real estate market, condos listed with no VAT tend to stand out. Whether you’re an investor or a homebuyer, it often signals that:

    • The developer is offering more buyer-friendly options.
    • You’ll encounter fewer post-sale process layers—since your price doesn’t require VAT-related paperwork or fees.

    5. More Freedom to Upgrade Your Space (Mas Malaya Kang Ma-upgrade ang Space Mo)

    Every homeowner dreams of customizing their living space to perfectly fit their tastes. When you’re free from that extra VAT cost, you have extra budget flexibility to:

    • Purchase higher-quality fixtures or appliances.
    • Upgrade materials like flooring or countertops.
    • Set up smart home systems (lighting, security, temperature control).

    The result? A condo that’s uniquely yours, without feeling like you’re overspending.

    6. Easier Exit Strategy (Mas Madaling Exit Strategy)

    Not all owners plan to keep their condos forever. If selling or transferring ownership is on your radar, an initial purchase without VAT can streamline future transactions:

    • Less complication in property pricing.
    • A simpler and faster resale timeline.
    • Because your property’s baseline costs are lower, you’re more likely to be flexible in negotiations, which can help you close deals faster if market conditions change or you decide to shift investments.

    Finally…

    Buying a condo with no VAT is more than just a small perk—it’s a strategic move that can maximize your budget, streamline the ownership process, and potentially improve the long-term returns on your investment in the Philippines. If you’re currently exploring property listings, take the time to see if no VAT is an option. It might just give you the financial breathing room and peace of mind you need to secure a condo that truly meets your needs, both now and in the future.

    Ready to take the next step? Reach out to trusted real estate professionals or developers offering no-VAT condos to explore your options. Your dream home (or investment property) in the Philippines could be more affordable and attainable than you think! Message us.

  • Sample Computation

    Sample Computation

    • Purchase Price and Total Contract Price
      • Total Selling Price (TSP): ₱3,632,720.00Legal & Miscellaneous Fees: ₱435,200.00Total Contract Price (TCP): ₱4,067,920.00

      The Total Contract Price is simply the selling price plus any additional fees. These fees typically cover paperwork, taxes, and other costs that come with the purchase.

    • Equity (Down Payment) Computation
      • The equity or down payment is 10% of the Total Contract Price, which comes to ₱406,792.00.A Reservation Fee of ₱20,000.00 is deducted from that amount, leaving a Net Equity of ₱386,792.00.The net equity is spread out over 12 months, giving a Monthly Equity Payment of ₱32,232.67.

      Buyer Benefit Tip: Spreading out the down payment over 12 months makes it easier to manage compared to a one-time, lump-sum payment.

    • Bank Financing (Loan) Amount
      • The remaining 90% of the Total Contract Price would be financed by the bank: ₱3,661,128.00.The monthly mortgage depends on which loan term you choose (10, 15, or 20 years). Sample rates in the document are 7% fixed for 5 years:
        • 10 years: ~₱42,508.80 per month15 years: ~₱32,907.25 per month20 years: ~₱28,384.69 per month

      Buyer Benefit Tip: You can choose the loan duration that best fits your monthly budget. A longer term generally means a lower monthly payment, but you’ll pay more interest overall.

    • Income Requirements
      Banks typically assess your capacity to pay by looking at your Gross Monthly Income. A general rule (though it can vary by lender) is that your monthly amortization should not exceed around 30–40% of your gross monthly income. In the sample:
      • For a ~₱42,508.80 monthly payment (10-year loan), the recommended income is ~₱128,814.55.For a ~₱32,907.25 monthly payment (15-year loan), ~₱99,718.95.For a ~₱28,384.69 monthly payment (20-year loan), ~₱86,014.20.

      Buyer Benefit Tip: The bank looks at all your sources of income—salaries, business, side jobs, etc. If your personal income isn’t enough to meet the threshold, consider bringing in a co-borrower or co-owner. That way, you can combine incomes and have a better chance of qualifying for the loan.

    • Co-Borrower or Co-Ownership
      • If you’re worried that your current income may not be approved by the bank, you can have a co-borrower or co-owner (like a spouse or close relative) so the bank considers both incomes for the loan qualification.
      • This is a common approach to boost the combined income, improving your chances of approval.

    • Additional “Hidden” Advantages
      • Locking in a 7% rate for five years: If interest rates rise, you’re still protected for the initial five years. After the fixed period, interest can be re-priced, but you’ll have had the initial lower fixed rate.
      • Possible Early Payments: Some banks let you make partial lump-sum payments or pay off early. This can help you save on overall interest if you happen to earn extra money later.

    Remember:

    1. Flexible Down Payment: 10% equity spread over 12 months at ~₱32,232.67 each month.
    2. Bank Amortization Options: Choose from 10, 15, or 20 years to get a monthly amortization that best fits your budget.
    3. You can always pay in cash or deferred payment with PDCs.
    4. Combined Income: Add a co-borrower if you need to reach the bank’s income requirement. Remember, they count all income streams—including side hustles.
    5. Plan Your Payment Strategy: If you expect more stable finances or higher earnings soon, you can go for a shorter loan term with a higher monthly amount but pay less interest overall. If you need a lower monthly payment now, a longer term might be best.

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  • Details About Harbour Park Residences

    Details About Harbour Park Residences


    1. Developer & Partner Profiles

    Wee Community Developers Inc. (WeeComm)

    • Established: 2008
    • Philosophy: Belief that project development should focus on client satisfaction, not merely profit
    • Past “Beyond Ordinary” Projects:
      • The First Baron Residences (San Juan)
      • The Baron’s Place (San Juan)
      • Baron 3 Gardens (San Juan)
      • Baron Tower (San Juan)
      • Centro Residences (Quezon City)
      • Centro Tower (Quezon City)

    WeeComm also ventured outside Metro Manila:

    • Diamond Heights (Davao) via Davao South Prime Developers Inc. (DSDI)
    • Emerald Estates (Oton, Iloilo) via Iloilo South Prime Developers Inc. (ISDI)

    In 2018, WeeComm launched two projects in its new “Fringe-city” category:

    1. Harbour Park Residences (HPR) in Mandaluyong City
    2. Grand Mesa Residences in Fairview, Quezon City

    Arcya Commercial Corporation

    • Over 20 years of experience in real estate leasing
    • Major leasing properties:
      • The Echelon Tower (Malate, Manila)
      • Citihub (Mandaluyong City)
      • Kisad Peak (Baguio City)
      • Casitas de Sta. Rosa (Sta. Rosa, Laguna)

    Metro Worx Properties Inc.

    • Founded: 2018
    • Partnership Between: Founders of Wee Community Developers Inc. and Arcya Commercial Corporation
    • Purpose: Build quality homes that remain within reach of the average Filipino

    2. Project Overview: Harbour Park Residences

    • Location: Along J.P. Rizal Street, Mandaluyong City, beside the Pasig River
    • Number of Towers: 2 (North Tower and South Tower)
    • Goal/Theme:
      • Provide a modern urban refuge with majestic views of the Makati City skyline
      • Allow residents quick access to major commercial centers
      • Combine structure, landscape, and light to deliver a breathtaking skyline view

    Concept:

    “We create spaces where residents can function, live, and grow—a place which breathes and interacts—resulting in a rich culture and great sense of community.”


    3. Key Building and Development Features

    1. Naturally Ventilated Amenities and Hallways
    2. Fully Addressable Fire Detection and Alarm System
    3. Garbage Room: Two for every three floors
    4. 24-Hour Security with CCTV
    5. High-Speed Elevators
    6. Shared Househelpers’ Toilet & Bath: One per every three floors
    7. Green Building Compliance
    8. Energy Efficiency Measures:
      • LED lighting in common areas
      • Inverter-type air-conditioning units
      • Overall cost-saving design and technology
    9. Water Efficiency:
      • Efficient design, materials, fixtures, equipment, and methodologies

    4. Amenities

    • 25-meter Adult Infinity Pool
    • Kiddie Pool
    • Children’s Play Area
    • Day Care
    • Function Rooms
    • Lounge with Bar
    • Open Theater
    • Fitness Center
    • Landscaped Roof Decks

    The Oculus

    An architectural feature described as “the art of sculpting beautiful new forms by incorporating structure, landscape, and light to create a breathtaking skyline view.”

    Lay-By

    • Designated drop-off/pick-up area along the property frontage

    5. South Tower Specifics

    Available Unit Cuts

    1. 27.20 m²
    2. 28.80 m²
    3. 30.80 m²
    4. 36.40 m² (Typically labeled T2 Units 8, 9, 10, & 11)
    5. 40.00 m² (2-bedroom unit + 4.00 m² balcony)

    Floor-to-Ceiling Heights

    • Living, Dining, Kitchen, Bedroom: 3.00 meters
    • Toilet & Bath: 2.40 meters

    Hallway Dimensions & Features

    • Width: 1.85 meters
    • Ventilation: Natural
    • Design Benefits:
      • Convenient traffic flow
      • Improved safety during emergencies
      • PWD-friendly

    Garbage Room & Househelpers’ Common T&B

    • Garbage Room: Located strategically, two for every three floors
    • Househelpers’ T&B: Shared facility, one for every three floors

    6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Earthquake Safety

    • Reference: West Valley Fault Line (per PHIVOLCS study)
    • The nearest active fault (Kagandahan and Kalayaan Streets, Pasig City) is 4.7 km from the HPR site.

    Flood Concerns

    • Reference: Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazard)
    • According to a 100-year flood hazard study by Project NOAH, the HPR site is not directly affected by flooding.
    • The site is not included in the list of flood-prone areas released by the Second East Metro Manila Flood Control Operation District.

    Rainwater Harvesting System

    • Purpose: Accumulate and store rainwater on-site rather than letting it run off
    • Advantages:
      1. Reduces flooding and erosion
      2. Lowers water bills
      3. Decreases demand on groundwater
      4. Useful for non-drinking purposes
      5. Can improve plant growth

    Emergency Power Source

    • Generator Set installed as backup during outages
    • Coverage Per Unit:
      • Two (2) lighting fixtures
      • Two (2) convenience outlets
      • One (1) refrigerator outlet

    Internet Connectivity

    • Fiber-Optic Ready (PLDT Fibr)
    • Speeds of up to 100 Mbps, with direct-to-the-home (DTTH) fiber optic service

    Modes of Transportation

    • Various forms of public and private transport are accessible in Mandaluyong and Makati.

    E-Sakay

    • Description: Battery-operated jeeps running between Makati and Mandaluyong
    • Operating Hours: 5:00 AM to 12:00 Midnight
    • Fares:
      • Base fare: PHP 9.00 for the first 4 km (2015 based fare)
      • Additional: PHP 1.50 for every succeeding kilometer
      • Maximum fare: PHP 15.00

    E-Sakay Route

    • Buendia → Mandaluyong:
      • Buendia Ave. (near MRT) → Jupiter St. → Makati Ave. → Coronado St. → San Francisco St. (Mandaluyong City Hall)
    • Mandaluyong → Buendia:
      • Mandaluyong City Hall → Coronado St. → J.P. Rizal St. → PRC → Kalayaan Ave. → N. Garcia St. → Jupiter St. → Paseo de Roxas → MRT Buendia

    7. Summary of Key Points

    1. Strategic Location: Along J.P. Rizal, Mandaluyong City, near major central business districts and transport routes.
    2. Riverside Views: Panoramic vistas of the Pasig River and Makati skyline.
    3. Lifestyle Amenities: Pool, fitness center, lounge, open theater, roof decks, day care, and more.
    4. Green & Sustainable Design: Natural ventilation, rainwater harvesting, generator backup, and energy-efficient fixtures.
    5. Modern Connectivity: Fiber-optic internet readiness, proximity to E-Sakay route.
    6. Safety & Security: 24/7 CCTV surveillance, fire detection system, wide hallways, and assigned garbage rooms.