Buying real estate in the Philippines?

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Should you buy property in Manila now?

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

property investment Manila

Yes, the analysis of Manila's property market is included in our pack

Manila's property market is experiencing steady growth with luxury condos averaging PHP 203,360 per square meter in prime districts.

The broader residential market has risen 6.5% year-on-year as of September 2025, though luxury properties show flat or slightly declining trends. This creates both opportunities and challenges for different types of buyers in the Manila real estate market.

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 Quezon City. 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 current property prices in Manila and how have they changed over the past 12 months?

Manila's residential property market has experienced steady growth with prices rising 6.5% year-on-year as of September 2025.

Luxury condominiums in prime districts like Makati and BGC average around PHP 203,360 per square meter. However, the luxury segment shows mixed performance with some properties declining 0.7% to 2.41% year-on-year, creating opportunities for selective buyers.

The broader Metro Manila market recorded increases ranging from 6.5% to 13.9% over the past twelve months, with a particularly strong Q1 2025 surge. Secondary cities outside Metro Manila grew at a more modest 3% annually, though some outperformed the capital region.

Mid-tier and entry-level properties have shown more resilience than luxury segments, benefiting from steady demand and infrastructure development projects.

As of September 2025, the market demonstrates clear segmentation with luxury properties facing headwinds while affordable housing continues its upward trajectory.

How do property prices vary across Manila's key districts like Makati, BGC, Quezon City, and Pasay?

District Condo Price Range (PHP/sqm) Typical House Prices Market Characteristics
Makati 200,000-270,000 Above PHP 50 million Premium CBD, luxury focus
BGC (Taguig) 200,000-270,000 Above PHP 50 million Modern business district
Ortigas 150,000-230,000 PHP 10-50 million Established commercial hub
Quezon City 70,000-130,000 PHP 1-10 million Diverse, entry-friendly
Pasay 120,000-180,000 Varies widely Infrastructure-driven growth
Las Piñas 70,000-130,000 PHP 1-6 million Value growth potential

What are the rental yields by area and property type in Manila?

Manila's rental market offers varying yields depending on location and property type, with small units in business districts providing the highest returns.

Condominium units generate rental yields ranging from 4.5% in luxury areas to 7.2% for smaller units in central business districts and mid-tier neighborhoods. Studio and one-bedroom apartments typically achieve the higher end of this range due to strong tenant demand.

Houses generally provide lower rental yields at approximately 4-5%, unless positioned in premier locations serving expatriate markets where yields can reach 6%. The house rental market requires more selective targeting compared to condominiums.

Townhouses present mixed yield performance with overall declining prices of 3.4% year-on-year in 2024, though certain areas maintain stability. Location becomes critical for townhouse rental success.

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

How is rental demand trending in the short, medium, and long term?

Manila's rental market shows resilient fundamentals despite short-term fluctuations, driven by urbanization and returning workforce patterns.

Short-term rental demand experienced a slight decline with rents dropping 0.4% in Q1 2025, reflecting post-pandemic adjustment patterns and economic uncertainty. However, this represents stabilization rather than significant weakness.

Medium-term prospects appear solid with expected stabilization and gradual growth supported by infrastructure expansion and corporate hub development. Core business districts maintain steady occupancy as companies consolidate operations and workers return to offices.

Long-term rental demand outlook remains positive, particularly for central locations benefiting from strong overseas Filipino worker (OFW) remittances and expatriate presence. Infrastructure projects and urban development will continue supporting rental markets in well-connected areas.

Luxury rentals face price sensitivity challenges but maintain steady demand from multinational corporations and high-income professionals.

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What do analysts project for Manila property price growth over 1, 3, and 5 years?

Property price forecasts for Manila show measured optimism with expectations varying significantly by market segment and location.

One-year projections indicate modest overall growth of 3-7%, with secondary districts and smaller units likely outperforming luxury segments. This reflects current market dynamics where affordability drives demand more than premium positioning.

Three-year cumulative increases are projected at 10-18%, with sector divergence expected as houses and land outperform condominiums. Infrastructure completion and economic reforms will drive this medium-term appreciation, particularly benefiting well-connected areas.

Five-year analyst expectations suggest continued broad appreciation across most segments, contingent on successful infrastructure project implementation and sustained economic growth. Areas beyond the current luxury focus are expected to lead this longer-term growth cycle.

These projections assume stable political conditions, continued infrastructure investment, and steady OFW remittance flows supporting domestic purchasing power.

How affordable is Manila real estate compared to local incomes and financing options?

Manila real estate affordability varies dramatically by district, with Metro Manila ranking 9th among ASEAN cities for housing affordability.

Current mortgage rates range from 5.75% to 7.94%, but banks expect rates to decline to 4.75-5% by end-2025, improving affordability for qualified borrowers. This rate environment makes financing more accessible than previous years.

Entry-level properties in Quezon City and outer districts remain accessible for middle-income Filipino buyers, with many options under PHP 10 million. These areas offer genuine homeownership opportunities for local professionals and overseas workers.

Luxury properties in Makati and BGC require significantly higher income levels, both for local and foreign buyers. Foreign ownership restrictions add complexity, though condominium units remain accessible to international investors within legal frameworks.

The affordability gap between premium and entry-level markets continues widening, creating distinct buyer segments with different financing needs and investment strategies.

Which property types are selling fastest and which are struggling in the current market?

Manila's property market shows clear preferences with smaller, affordable units dominating sales velocity while luxury segments face extended marketing periods.

Fastest-selling properties include:

  1. Studio and one-bedroom condominiums in central business districts
  2. Entry-level units near new MRT stations and infrastructure developments
  3. Single detached homes in secondary cities with growth potential
  4. Affordable condos along major transport corridors
  5. Properties priced under PHP 10 million in established neighborhoods

Slowest-selling properties include:

  1. Luxury condominiums in saturated premium districts
  2. Townhouses in areas lacking new infrastructure connections
  3. Premium houses priced above PHP 70 million
  4. Properties in locations with limited public transport access
  5. Oversized units targeting shrinking family demographics

Market velocity reflects buyer priorities of affordability, connectivity, and practical utility over luxury positioning and premium finishes.

What does Manila's property supply pipeline look like for the next 2-3 years?

Manila's development pipeline shows robust activity through 2027, with developers planning significant new launches across multiple districts.

Condominium projects dominate the pipeline, particularly in Makati, BGC, and Ortigas, where established demand patterns support continued development. However, premium and luxury segments face growing oversupply risks as completion dates approach.

New entry-level condominium projects concentrate around transit lines and growth corridors, responding to demonstrated market demand for affordable housing options. These developments target the PHP 3-8 million price range where sales velocity remains strong.

Infrastructure-driven developments follow government transportation and commercial projects, with new launches timed to coincide with improved connectivity and economic activity. This creates opportunities in previously secondary locations.

The supply pipeline suggests continued market segmentation, with developers increasingly focusing on proven demand categories rather than speculative luxury positioning.

infographics rental yields citiesManila

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.

What are the main risks to watch in Manila's property market?

Manila's property market faces several key risks that could impact investment returns and market stability over the coming years.

Oversupply risk in luxury condominium segments represents the most immediate concern, as multiple high-end projects approach completion simultaneously. This could pressure prices and extend selling periods for premium properties significantly.

Interest rate fluctuations pose ongoing financing challenges, though current expectations suggest rates will ease by end-2025. Unexpected rate increases could dampen buyer demand and reduce affordability across all segments.

Economic slowdown risks center on potential reductions in OFW remittances, which support significant portions of property demand. Global economic conditions directly impact overseas worker employment and sending capacity.

Regulatory changes affecting foreign ownership rules, development approvals, or taxation could alter investment attractiveness and market dynamics. Political shifts often drive policy modifications impacting real estate markets.

Infrastructure project delays or cancellations would undermine location-specific investment strategies, particularly in areas banking on improved connectivity and economic development.

Where are the best entry-level opportunities for small to mid-size budgets?

Entry-level property opportunities in Manila focus on emerging districts and transit-connected areas offering growth potential at accessible price points.

Quezon City provides the strongest entry-level market with studio and one-bedroom condominiums ranging from PHP 3-6 million. The district's size and diversity create multiple sub-markets with different characteristics and appreciation potential.

Mandaluyong and Pasig offer compelling opportunities near business districts with properties priced PHP 4-8 million. These areas benefit from proximity to employment centers while maintaining relative affordability compared to premium districts.

Emerging Pasay and Las Piñas areas present value opportunities, particularly properties near new infrastructure projects. These locations target buyers with PHP 3-10 million budgets seeking future appreciation through development.

Transportation-oriented development around new MRT stations creates opportunities for early investors willing to buy during construction phases. These properties often offer flexible payment terms and pre-completion pricing advantages.

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

What are the premium opportunities for luxury investment and long-term appreciation?

High-end Manila property opportunities require selective targeting within established premium districts and emerging luxury segments.

Makati remains the premier luxury market with established condominium projects and gated house communities priced PHP 15-100+ million. These properties offer prestige positioning and potential long-term appreciation through continued business district development.

BGC provides modern luxury alternatives with newer developments and contemporary amenities targeting multinational corporations and affluent professionals. Premium units here command similar pricing to Makati but offer different lifestyle positioning.

Ortigas Center represents value opportunities within the luxury segment, offering premium properties at slight discounts to Makati and BGC while maintaining strong business district fundamentals.

Select premium subdivisions offer house and lot opportunities for buyers seeking landed property investments. These gated communities provide security, amenities, and potential appreciation through infrastructure expansion.

Early-stage luxury projects with flexible payment schemes can provide entry points for qualified investors, though market timing and developer selection become critical success factors.

How should you position your investment strategy based on your intended use?

Investment positioning in Manila's property market requires different strategies depending on whether you plan to occupy, rent, or resell your property.

Investment Goal Recommended Property Types Key Location Factors Pricing Strategy
Owner-Occupier 2-3 BR condos, houses Schools, transport, amenities Stability over speculation
Buy-to-Rent Studio/1BR condos Employment hubs, universities Yield-focused pricing
Buy-to-Resell Entry-level units Infrastructure development Early-stage timing
Long-term Hold Mixed portfolio Growth corridors Value appreciation focus
Luxury Investment Premium condos/houses Established districts Quality over quantity

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. Philippine Star - Property Price Growth
  2. BambooRoutes - Philippines 5-Year Real Estate Forecast
  3. BambooRoutes - Philippines Price Forecasts
  4. Manila Times - Housing Price Growth
  5. MoneySense Philippines - Metro Manila House Prices
  6. BambooRoutes - Average Condo Price Manila
  7. Global Property Guide - Philippines Price History
  8. Inquirer Business - BSP Home Price Growth