While location has long been one of the most important factors in buying a home, it has reached top priority status in this age of the pandemic. Where you live dictates how long it takes to reach the supermarket and run grocery errands, and how much of a recreation you can get in a day amid the lockdown measures. It’s no wonder many are reconsidering their idea of a “perfect” location. For the majority, the answer is simple: gated communities near Metro Manila.

Offering both convenience and safe leisure, these neighborhoods help residents access essential establishments and recreational amenities without a hassle. If you’re eyeing to move to a house and lot in nearby urban areas, here are some of the communities worth checking out:

Cavite

The nearest municipality of Cavite is only an hour away from the capital region. This proximity is the reason many people living in Metro Manila treat the province as the go-to place for a relaxing weekend getaway. Now, under the new normal, you can fulfill your dreams of living in a tourist destination.

Consider The Gentri Heights in General Trias, as it has all the features of the perfect Filipino neighborhood. Dotted with modern Asian homes, the subdivision carries an atmosphere of oriental tranquility and contemporary sophistication. It offers five house models: Bethari (with a floor area of 67 square meters), Lestari (67 sqm), Kirana (82 sqm), Haila (108 sqm), and Asmara (133 sqm). Whether you’re a newlywed couple or a growing family, you’ll find a fitting house and lot in this exclusive subdivision.

Meanwhile, in Dasmariñas, along Emilio Aguinaldo Hi-way, you’ll find a picturesque subdivision that also has homes built with modern architecture: Washington Place. Houses vary in size, with floor dimensions starting at 73 sqm. Even amid the pandemic, you can enjoy recreational amenities, including the tennis court, covered and outdoor basketball court, playground, and swimming pool.

Laguna

With the opening of new thoroughfares connecting this province to the capital region, it’s easier to go to and from Metro Manila when you live in Laguna. What’s more, you won’t be giving up modern conveniences since the neighborhoods in Laguna are at par with modern communities in the capital. Take Suntrust Sentosa in Calamba. By its name alone, inspired by the popular theme park in Singapore, you can already imagine the progressive atmosphere in the village. The houses–Aya, Aeon, Azumi, Kiara, and Amaya–reflect a modern Asian architecture. Around the village, you’ll find nature-oriented leisure facilities, from the picnic grove to the parks and the view deck.

Another tourist-destination-inspired neighborhood in Laguna is Suntrust Verona in Silang. With its name taken from the beautiful city in Italy, there’s no surprise that it features charming amenities, including an Italian-themed nature park, love lock garden, hiking trail, and shop houses. Here in Verona, the houses’ floor dimensions range from 94 to 179 square meters. The ideal house and lot you’re looking for may be in this neighborhood.

Batangas

For quick beach escapades, Batangas is the first thing that comes to mind. It’s only a two-hour drive from Metro Manila. Now, if you’re working from home and would only need to go to your Makati office on certain days of the week, living in this idyllic province is certainly worth considering.

One neighborhood you should see is Suntrust Siena Hills in Lipa. The village features six house models: Angelica, Fiorenza, Celestina, Caterina, Amadea, and Micaella. The floor area ranges from 67 to 179 sqm, ideal for families of all sizes. 

Convenience is at a premium in this neighborhood since it’s near essential establishments. The closest schools are New Era University, De La Salle Lipa, and Batangas College of Arts and Sciences. Ospital ng Lipa and Lipa Medix Medical Center are only a half-hour drive away from the village, in case you need medical care. Remember, a house and lot surrounded by essentials is a must-have in the age of the pandemic.

Pampanga

This province is the go-to place of Metro Manila dwellers for exciting out-of-town adventures. In Porac alone, you can visit its popular breathtaking falls as well as Poracay. Imagine living in this area and doing thrilling activities with the family every weekend.

In The Arcadia, you will enjoy not just the proximity to popular nature spots, but also the country-inspired facilities within the community. The open activity spaces and pocket parks will truly give you the feel of the province’s signature peace and quiet. In the basketball court and swimming pool area, you’ll meet neighbors who may have the same thirst for thrill as you. Don’t miss the opportunity to live in this luxurious, pristine community.

Are you planning to move out of Metro Manila? You don’t have to worry about accessibility to vital and recreational amenities. You shouldn’t look too far either. Around the borders of the capital, you’ll find your home sweet home. 

First published in Lamudi.