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Is BGC property overpriced in Philippines?

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BGC (Bonifacio Global City) remains the Philippines' most expensive residential district, with condo prices averaging ₱220,000-₱275,000 per square meter as of September 2025.

While BGC commands premium prices 10-20% higher than other Manila business districts, the market shows mixed signals with elevated vacancy rates but strong infrastructure development and sustained foreign investor interest supporting long-term value.

If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in the Philippines, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At BambooRoutes, we explore the Philippine real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Manila, Makati, and BGC. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

How much do BGC condos cost per square meter now compared to five years ago?

BGC condo prices have experienced significant growth over the past five years, with current rates reaching ₱220,000-₱275,000 per square meter as of September 2025.

In 2020, average BGC condo prices ranged from ₱150,000-₱180,000 per square meter, meaning prices have increased by 25-35% over this five-year period. Premium luxury developments in BGC now command even higher rates, with some new launches reaching ₱390,000-₱415,000 per square meter.

The BGC condo market experienced a temporary correction during 2020-2021 due to pandemic impacts, but prices rebounded strongly and are now at or above pre-pandemic peaks. This price appreciation reflects BGC's status as Metro Manila's premier business district and the continued demand from both local professionals and foreign investors.

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How do BGC condo prices compare with nearby business districts today?

District Average Price per sqm (2025) Typical 1BR Unit Price
BGC ₱220,000-₱275,000 ₱8.3-₱10.2 million
Makati CBD ₱200,000-₱250,000 ₱7.6-₱9.5 million
Ortigas ₱150,000-₱200,000 ₱5.7-₱7.6 million
Mandaluyong ₱110,000-₱160,000 ₱4.2-₱6 million

BGC commands the highest condo prices in Metro Manila after Makati CBD, with a 10-20% premium over Ortigas and significantly higher rates than Mandaluyong.

The price premium reflects BGC's modern infrastructure, planned development, and appeal to multinational companies and expatriate professionals. While Makati remains competitive due to its established business district status, BGC's newer developments and better urban planning justify the slight premium in many projects.

What rental yields can you expect from BGC condos right now?

BGC condos currently deliver gross rental yields of 4.5-6%, with smaller units sometimes achieving higher yields due to stronger rental demand.

This yield range is actually below the Metro Manila average of 5.1-5.3%, primarily because BGC's higher purchase prices offset rental income potential. Net yields after deducting association dues, taxes, and maintenance costs typically drop 1.5-2 percentage points lower than gross yields.

The relatively lower yields compared to other Manila districts like Mandaluyong (which can achieve 8%+ yields on smaller units) reflect BGC's premium pricing and the trade-off between capital appreciation potential and immediate rental returns. Investors in BGC typically prioritize long-term capital gains over high rental yields.

How much new condo supply is coming to BGC in the next few years?

BGC will see moderate new residential inventory through 2027, but the supply increase is more controlled compared to the aggressive pre-2020 development pace.

The primary surge in new residential completions has shifted to other areas like the Bay Area, which now accounts for up to 34% of Metro Manila's new supply. BGC developers have adjusted project timelines and volumes to avoid severe oversupply that affected the market during the pandemic period.

While BGC is still set to receive thousands of new residential units over the next 2-3 years, the growth is now more measured and strategic. This controlled supply approach should help maintain price stability and prevent the oversupply issues that have affected other Metro Manila districts.

What's the current vacancy situation in BGC compared to before the pandemic?

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Metro Manila's overall vacancy rate reached 24.3% in Q1 2025 and is projected to hit 26% by late 2025, but BGC maintains below-average vacancy rates due to sustained demand.

Before the pandemic, BGC vacancy rates were closer to 10%, making the current situation elevated but still better than the broader Metro Manila market. The higher vacancy rates across the region stem from office sector weakness and the exodus of Chinese POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators) companies.

BGC's relatively better vacancy performance reflects its appeal to expatriate professionals, multinational company employees, and high-income Filipino professionals who continue to demand quality residential units in the district. The area's superior amenities and business environment help maintain occupancy levels above the city average.

How many foreign buyers are purchasing BGC condos and where do they come from?

Foreign buyers remain active in the BGC condo market, with the law allowing foreigners to own up to 40% of units in any condominium project.

The majority of foreign buyers in BGC come from mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, and increasingly from North America and the Middle East. Foreign investor participation has recovered from pandemic lows and is rising as international travel and business operations normalize.

While precise recent counts of foreign purchasers aren't available, foreign buyers are particularly prominent in high-end and luxury developments where they often comprise a significant portion of sales, especially during pre-selling phases. The foreign buyer presence helps support demand and pricing in the premium segment of the BGC market.

What infrastructure projects around BGC will impact property values?

Several major infrastructure projects are enhancing BGC's connectivity and long-term property value prospects, with the Metro Manila Subway being the most significant development.

The Kalayaan-BGC-Ortigas subway segment is under active construction, with the BGC station providing critical north-south connectivity. This subway line is expected to be operational within 5-6 years and will dramatically improve BGC's accessibility from other parts of Metro Manila.

The recently completed BGC-Ortigas Link Bridge has already boosted accessibility and property values by reducing travel time between the two business districts. Additional infrastructure includes mass transit links, improved floodways, and new mobility corridors under public-private partnership arrangements.

These infrastructure improvements reinforce BGC's position as a premium business and residential address, with enhanced connectivity likely to support continued property value appreciation over the medium to long term.

How do current mortgage rates affect BGC property affordability?

Current mortgage rates from most Philippine banks range from 6.25-8.25% for 3-5 year fixed-rate loans as of mid-2025, making BGC properties more expensive to finance than during the low-rate environment of recent years.

Despite the BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) overnight lending rate being lowered to 5.5%, banks price their mortgage loans higher to maintain margins. These elevated rates compared to pre-pandemic levels significantly impact affordability for mortgaged buyers in the premium BGC market.

Pag-IBIG's subsidized rates of approximately 6.25-8.5% benefit local first-time homebuyers more than higher-income BGC investors, but the rate environment still makes financing more expensive than previous years. Cash buyers and investors with access to alternative financing have advantages in the current market conditions.

It's something we develop in our Philippines property pack.

infographics rental yields citiesthe Philippines

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in the Philippines versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

How have BGC condo prices appreciated historically compared to national averages?

BGC condos have delivered estimated annual appreciation of 6-8% since 2015, significantly outperforming the Philippine national average of 3-5% annually for residential property.

This outperformance reflects BGC's development from a emerging district to Metro Manila's premier business and residential address over the past decade. While BGC experienced sharper corrections during the pandemic period, the subsequent bounce-back has been stronger than most other areas.

The historical appreciation advantage stems from BGC's planned development, modern infrastructure, concentration of multinational companies, and sustained appeal to both local and foreign buyers. However, future appreciation may moderate as the district matures and faces increased competition from other developing areas.

How quickly can you sell a BGC condo compared to other Manila business districts?

BGC condo resales typically require several months to complete, with prime and well-priced units often selling within 2-6 months in the current market.

BGC outpaces older central business districts like Mandaluyong and Ortigas in terms of sale velocity, but market liquidity isn't as active as during the 2017-2019 peak period. The Metro Manila average "sell-out" time for total pipeline is 5.8 years, but individual resale units move much faster than new project completions.

BGC's advantage in sale velocity comes from sustained demand from expatriates, multinational company employees, and affluent Filipino professionals who value the district's amenities and business environment. However, sellers should still expect longer sale periods than during the hottest market years.

How much higher are association dues and carrying costs in BGC?

BGC association dues typically range from ₱80-₱150 per square meter per month, placing them at the upper end among Metro Manila central business districts.

Comparable association dues in Makati premium developments also reach ₱100-₱150 per square meter monthly, while Ortigas and Mandaluyong typically charge ₱60-₱100 per square meter monthly. BGC's higher fees reflect the premium amenities, superior maintenance standards, and well-maintained common areas that characterize the district.

These higher carrying costs must be factored into investment calculations, as they reduce net rental yields and increase the total cost of ownership. However, the premium fees often correlate with better building management, higher-quality facilities, and maintained property values over time.

What types of buyers are purchasing BGC condos today?

1. **End-users**: Young professionals, Filipino families, and returning Filipino expatriates seeking quality living environments2. **Expatriate residents**: Foreign nationals working for multinational companies based in BGC3. **Local high-net-worth individuals**: Affluent Filipinos seeking premium residential addresses4. **Foreign investors**: International buyers focused on capital appreciation and rental income5. **Yield-seeking investors**: Both local and foreign buyers prioritizing rental income generation

Current BGC buyers represent a mix of end-users and investors, with speculative flippers much less prominent than during pre-pandemic periods. There's strong sustained demand from expatriates and top-tier local professionals who value BGC's business environment and lifestyle amenities.

Foreigners remain significant participants in luxury and pre-selling projects, but most transactions involve high-net-worth Filipino buyers. The buyer profile has shifted toward more conservative, long-term-oriented investors rather than short-term speculators.

It's something we develop in our Philippines property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

  1. Average Price Condo Philippines
  2. Average Condo Price Manila
  3. Housing Interactive BGC Market Analysis
  4. Gulf News Manila Property Report
  5. Global Property Guide Philippines
  6. Philippines Real Estate Forecast
  7. BSP Key Rates
  8. Philippine Real Estate Growth Dynamics