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Should you buy property in Calabarzon now?

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Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Philippines Property Pack

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Calabarzon's property market is experiencing steady growth with prices rising 4-7% annually, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking affordable alternatives to Metro Manila. The region offers strong rental yields, expanding infrastructure, and growing industrial zones that support both lifestyle and investment goals.

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 Philippines 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 Tagaytay, Santa Rosa, and Antipolo. 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.

What are the current average property prices in Calabarzon compared to a year ago?

Property prices in Calabarzon have increased by 2.7-4.2% over the past year, significantly outpacing Metro Manila which saw declines in some areas.

As of September 2025, the average median property price across Calabarzon reaches PHP 4.5-5.1 million for all property types. Condominiums average PHP 2.36-3.5 million, while townhouses start at PHP 1.6 million and single-detached homes can peak at PHP 13.9 million or more in prime locations.

The annual growth rate currently stands at 4-7% for house-and-lot projects and 7-15% for lot-only developments, which is modestly faster than the previous year's performance. This acceleration reflects increased demand from both local buyers migrating from Metro Manila and investors seeking better value propositions.

Areas with improved infrastructure connectivity and proximity to economic zones show the strongest price appreciation, while smaller cities and peripheral locations experience more modest increases. The region's affordability advantage over Metro Manila continues to attract buyers, supporting sustained price growth.

How fast are property prices rising in the short term, and what is the forecast for the next three to five years?

Calabarzon property prices are rising at a steady pace of 4-7% annually, with lot-only investments seeing higher growth rates of 7-15%.

The short-term outlook remains positive, driven by continued migration from Metro Manila, expanding industrial zones, and ongoing infrastructure development. Price appreciation is strongest in areas benefiting from improved connectivity and economic zone proximity.

For the next three to five years, property prices are forecast to maintain stable annual growth in the 4-7% range for mainstream residential projects. Lot-only investments may continue seeing double-digit gains due to infrastructure development and urban expansion patterns.

Key drivers supporting this forecast include government decentralization policies, major infrastructure projects like CALAX and Cavitex extensions, and the continued expansion of industrial zones. These factors create sustainable demand that should support consistent price appreciation through 2030.

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

Which areas in Calabarzon are seeing the strongest price growth right now, and which ones are slowing down?

Area Price Growth Status Key Drivers
Tagaytay Strong growth above average Tourism, lifestyle demand, infrastructure
Santa Rosa, Laguna Strong growth above average Industrial zones, proximity to Manila
Antipolo, Rizal Strong growth above average Urban expansion, accessibility improvements
Lipa, Batangas Strong growth above average Economic zone development
Lucena, Quezon Slower growth below average Limited infrastructure development
Peripheral Quezon areas Slower growth below average Distance from economic centers
Remote Batangas areas Slower growth below average Limited connectivity improvements

What are the price differences between condos, townhouses, and single-detached homes in key cities like Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, and Rizal?

Property prices vary significantly across Calabarzon cities, with Cavite commanding premium prices for single-detached homes while condos remain relatively consistent across provinces.

In Cavite, condos average PHP 2.4 million, townhouses start at PHP 1.6 million, and single-detached homes reach PHP 13.9 million in prime areas. Laguna shows similar condo pricing at PHP 2.36 million, with single-detached homes ranging from PHP 5.1 million to premium units at PHP 40,000 per unit.

Batangas mirrors the regional pattern with condos at PHP 2.36 million and townhouses at PHP 1.6 million, while single-detached homes range from PHP 7.22 thousand to PHP 61.5 million depending on location and features. Rizal offers the most affordable single-detached homes at PHP 3.19 million per unit.

The price premium for single-detached homes reflects land scarcity and development costs, particularly in areas with established infrastructure and proximity to economic zones. Condos maintain consistent pricing across provinces due to standardized development models and similar target markets.

How much rental yield can you realistically expect in different parts of Calabarzon, and how does that compare to Metro Manila?

Rental yields in Calabarzon average 4-6% across the region, with properties near industrial zones and growing urban centers delivering the higher end of this range.

This performance is slightly stronger than typical yields in Metro Manila, reflecting lower property acquisition costs combined with stable rental demand. The region benefits from tight rental markets with declining vacancy rates, especially near industrial estates and popular lifestyle areas.

Areas like Santa Rosa, Laguna, and parts of Cavite near economic zones consistently deliver yields closer to 6% due to strong tenant demand from industrial workers and professionals. Tagaytay and Antipolo focus more on lifestyle rentals, typically achieving 4-5% yields but with potential for seasonal premium rates.

The rental yield advantage over Metro Manila stems from Calabarzon's lower property prices combined with competitive rental rates supported by growing employment in the region's expanding industrial and commercial sectors.

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investing in real estate in Calabarzon

What are the current vacancy rates and demand trends for rentals in major Calabarzon cities?

Major Calabarzon cities continue experiencing tight rental markets with stable or declining vacancy rates, particularly near industrial estates and established urban centers.

The rental market shows strong fundamentals with competitive bidding becoming common—approximately 14% of properties sold above asking price in 2024, indicating robust demand that extends to both sales and rental markets.

Industrial zone proximity drives rental demand, with cities like Santa Rosa and areas of Cavite seeing particularly strong tenant interest from workers in manufacturing and logistics sectors. Popular lifestyle destinations like Tagaytay maintain steady rental demand from both long-term residents and short-term vacation rental markets.

Current market conditions favor landlords, with minimal vacancy periods and strong tenant retention rates. The combination of industrial growth, urban migration, and limited new supply in established areas supports continued rental market strength.

How easy is it to resell property in Calabarzon right now, and what is the average time to resale across property types?

Reselling property in Calabarzon is moderately straightforward, with ready-for-occupancy and resale units in established neighborhoods experiencing high demand that favors sellers.

Average resale times vary significantly by location and property type. Hot zones like Tagaytay and Santa Rosa see properties sell within three months, while slower peripheral markets may require up to six months for successful transactions.

The resale market benefits from the same factors driving new property demand: infrastructure improvements, industrial growth, and migration from Metro Manila. Properties near completed or planned infrastructure projects command premium prices and sell more quickly.

Market conditions currently favor sellers in prime locations, with multiple offers common for well-positioned properties. The key to quick resale lies in pricing competitively and ensuring properties are in areas with strong fundamentals like good connectivity and proximity to employment centers.

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

What major infrastructure projects are underway or planned in Calabarzon, and how will they impact property values in the next five to ten years?

Major infrastructure projects transforming Calabarzon include CALAX, Cavite-Laguna Expressway, Cavitex extensions, PAREX, new railway connections, and ongoing expressway expansions.

These infrastructure improvements are projected to increase property values significantly by reducing commute times to Manila, improving regional connectivity, and attracting additional industrial investment. Areas directly served by new infrastructure typically see property value increases of 10-20% within two to three years of completion.

The Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX) particularly impacts property values along its corridor, making previously remote areas more accessible and attractive for both residential and commercial development. Railway expansions connect Calabarzon more efficiently to Metro Manila's business districts.

Over the next five to ten years, these infrastructure investments should boost the region's investment attractiveness, support continued industrial expansion, and maintain strong demand for residential properties. Properties positioned near infrastructure nodes or along major corridors are expected to outperform regional averages in price appreciation.

infographics rental yields citiesCalabarzon

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 affordable is it for buyers today, based on average income versus average property prices and current mortgage rates?

Calabarzon remains more affordable than Metro Manila, though typical buyers need incomes above the regional median to afford PHP 4-5 million homes at current mortgage rates.

Current mortgage rates make monthly payments accessible for middle-class households, particularly when compared to Metro Manila pricing. The region's affordability advantage continues attracting buyers seeking larger spaces and better value for money.

Entry-level purchases in urbanizing areas start around PHP 2-2.5 million for budget condos or townhouses, making homeownership achievable for a broader range of income levels. This accessibility supports continued demand from first-time buyers and upgraders from smaller properties.

The affordability equation favors Calabarzon due to lower property prices relative to Metro Manila, combined with improving infrastructure that reduces the lifestyle trade-offs of living outside the capital region. Regional income growth from industrial expansion also supports buyer purchasing power.

What is the minimum budget you need to buy in Calabarzon now, and what does that get you in different areas?

The minimum budget for property purchase in Calabarzon starts at PHP 2-2.5 million for entry-level condos or townhouses in developing areas.

With PHP 2.5 million, buyers can secure budget condos in emerging areas or older townhouses in established locations. PHP 3-4 million provides access to newer condos in prime locations or quality townhouses with better amenities and locations.

For PHP 5-7 million, buyers can consider single-detached homes in good locations or premium condos in the best areas. High-end properties and luxury homes in prime locations like Tagaytay require budgets of PHP 10 million and above.

Budget allocation varies significantly by area: the same PHP 4 million might buy a premium condo in Santa Rosa or a modest single-detached home in a peripheral area. Location premiums reflect infrastructure access, amenities, and proximity to employment centers.

Which types of buyers are driving demand right now—end-users, investors, or overseas buyers—and how does that shape opportunities?

Local end-users, Metro Manila migrants seeking larger spaces, investors targeting rental yields and capital appreciation, and some overseas buyers are shaping current demand patterns in Calabarzon.

End-users, particularly young families and industrial workers, drive demand for affordable housing near employment centers. This segment seeks practical properties with good connectivity and access to schools and amenities, creating opportunities for developers and investors in mainstream residential projects.

Investors focus on rental yield opportunities near industrial zones and areas with strong capital appreciation prospects. The region's industrial boom escalates housing demand, creating reliable rental markets for investment properties.

Metro Manila migrants represent a growing segment seeking lifestyle improvements and better value for money. This trend supports demand for larger homes and lifestyle properties, particularly in areas like Tagaytay and Antipolo that offer recreational amenities alongside residential value.

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

If you're buying now, which areas and property types give you the best balance between living comfort, rental potential, and long-term appreciation?

Tagaytay, Lipa, Santa Rosa, and Antipolo represent the leading areas for balancing lifestyle comfort, rental potential, and long-term appreciation prospects.

Condos and townhouses in these areas offer the optimal balance for both owner-occupier comfort and rental potential. These property types provide sufficient space for comfortable living while remaining attractive to rental tenants, particularly professionals working in nearby industrial zones.

Santa Rosa, Laguna stands out for its combination of industrial proximity, infrastructure connectivity, and lifestyle amenities. Properties here benefit from strong rental demand while maintaining good appreciation prospects due to continued economic zone expansion.

Well-located house-and-lot and lot-only investments in these growing cities are forecast to outpace most Metro Manila mid-market options in appreciation. The key is selecting properties with good infrastructure access and proximity to employment or lifestyle drivers that support both personal use and investment returns.

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. Calabarzon Price Forecasts
  2. PSA Calabarzon Inflation Report June 2025
  3. Calabarzon Property Market Analysis
  4. Calabarzon Property Investment Guide
  5. Calabarzon Real Estate Market Report
  6. Fazwaz Calabarzon Condos
  7. Inquirer Calabarzon Homebuyer Report
  8. Property Report Future Urban Centers