21 February 2025

The Philippine Real Estate Rollercoaster

The Philippine Real Estate Rollercoaster: What’s Hot, What’s Not, and Where to Park Your Pesos

By Timons Cabansi

Ah, the Philippine real estate market—a wild, unpredictable beast that’s equal parts thrilling and terrifying. By 2025, this market is set to undergo some seismic shifts, and if you’re not paying attention, you might just find yourself holding the bag (or an unsold condo unit). Let’s dive into the chaos, shall we?

 


Metro Manila: The Condo Glut Chronicles

Picture this: over 75,000 unsold condo units in Metro Manila, just sitting there like forgotten leftovers in a fridge. That’s enough to make even the most optimistic investor break out in a cold sweat. With a projected absorption period of over six years, it’s clear that the days of flipping condos for quick profits are over. Property values are due for a correction, and if you’re still banking on those sky-high rental yields, you might want to rethink your strategy.

 

The short-term rental market, particularly Airbnb, isn’t doing anyone any favors either. The market is saturated, and let’s face it—nobody wants to compete with 50 other listings in the same building. It’s like trying to sell fried fishballs on a street where everyone else is also selling fried fishballs but with fancier cups.

 


The Rise of the Underdogs: Bulacan, Clark, Cebu, and Iloilo

While Metro Manila is drowning in condos, other areas are stepping into the spotlight. Bulacan, for instance, is poised to become the next big thing thanks to the new Manila International Airport.

 

Sure, the project has “delays” written all over it (this is the Philippines, after all), but if it materializes, Bulacan could be the next goldmine. Just don’t bet your life savings on it yet.

 

Then there’s Clark, which is being hyped as the next Bonifacio Global City (BGC). With its modern amenities and ambitious development plans, Clark is definitely one to watch. But let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: the local economy still has some catching up to do. Investors, tread carefully.

 

Down south, Cebu and Iloilo are making waves. Cebu’s tourism sector is booming, thanks to airport expansions and infrastructure upgrades. But beware—oversaturation is a real risk, and rising property prices could eat into your returns.

 

Meanwhile, Iloilo is flexing its smart city muscles with urban development plans that could make it a prime investment destination. Just keep in mind that government-led initiatives can be as reliable as a weather forecast during typhoon season.

 

Siquijor: The Island of Mystery (and Risk)

Ah, Siquijor. Known for its mystical charm and pristine beaches, this island is becoming a favorite among international travelers. But before you start dreaming of owning a beachfront villa, remember this: Siquijor’s real estate market is as volatile as its tourist seasons.

 

Relying on seasonal tourism is like building a house on sand—it might look solid, but one big wave could wash it all away.

 


Key Takeaways for the Savvy Investor

  1. Metro Manila is a minefield. Oversupply, declining rental prices, and a saturated Airbnb market make this a risky bet. Proceed with caution.
  2. Bulacan and Clark are the New Frontier. Infrastructure projects are promising, but don’t let the hype blind you to the risks.
  3. Cebu and Iloilo are Rising Stars: Tourism and smart city initiatives are driving growth, but oversaturation and government dependency are real concerns.
  4. Siquijor is a Gamble: Beautiful, yes. Stable, not so much.

 


Takeaway

The Philippine real estate market is a mixed bag of opportunities and pitfalls. While some areas are thriving, others are teetering on the edge of oversupply and market correction. The key to success? Do your homework, stay informed, and don’t let FOMO (fear of missing out) cloud your judgment.

 

💡 Key Takeaway: Follow the infrastructure projects—that’s where the money is going! Whether it’s the new airport in Bulacan, the smart city initiatives in Iloilo, or the tourism-driven developments in Cebu, infrastructure is the backbone of real estate growth. Keep your eyes on the projects that are actually moving forward, and you’ll be one step ahead of the game.

 

This blog was inspired by the insightful YouTube video by John Dang, “Manila Condo Crash to Philippines Boom? These Areas Will 10X in Value! 2025 & Beyond!”If you haven’t watched it yet, do yourself a favor and check it out—it’s a goldmine of information for anyone looking to navigate the Philippine real estate market.

So, whether you’re eyeing a condo in Metro Manila, a plot in Bulacan, or a beach house in Siquijor, remember this: in real estate, as in life, timing is everything. And maybe, just maybe, keep a few pesos in your pocket for a rainy day. After all, in this market, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

 


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

1. Is Metro Manila still a good place to invest in real estate?
Short answer: Proceed with caution. With over 75,000 unsold condo units and a saturated Airbnb market, Metro Manila is facing a correction. If you’re looking for quick returns, this might not be the place.

 

2. Where are the best areas to invest in the Philippines right now?
Keep an eye on Bulacan, Clark, Cebu, and Iloilo. These areas are benefiting from infrastructure projects and government initiatives. Bulacan, in particular, is poised for growth with the new Manila International Airport.

 

3. What’s the deal with Siquijor? Is it a good investment?
Siquijor is beautiful and gaining popularity among tourists, but its real estate market is risky due to its reliance on seasonal tourism. If you’re thinking of investing, make sure you’re prepared for the ups and downs.

 

4. Should I invest in short-term rentals like Airbnb?
The short-term rental market in Metro Manila is oversaturated, and regulatory hurdles are making it even tougher. Unless you’re in a prime location with high demand, it’s probably not worth the hassle.

 

5. What’s the #1 tip for real estate investors in the Philippines?
Follow the infrastructure projects! Wherever the government is building airports, roads, or smart cities, that’s where the money is going. Do your research and invest in areas with tangible growth potential.

 


Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with a professional before making any decisions.


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