Why Communities Outside the Metro Are Becoming a More Priced Investment During a Crisis

Since the beginning of 2020, the Philippines saw unexpected changes that continue to affect its economy. Different industries encountered boom and bust cycles, while the property market generally remained resilient and optimistic.

Looking deeper into the Philippine real estate industry, shifting priorities have been noted amid a health crisis. According to Lamudi’s trend report Indicators of Growth: Where to Invest in 2021, property seekers started putting a premium on bigger floor spaces and open areas. And since these spacious homes come at a price in the capital region, the trend of property buying outside Metro Manila has caught up. 

The following reasons fuel the demand for suburban properties as well as their price growth. At the same time, these reasons could be reasonable grounds to buy a home outside the metro today.

The Flexibility of the New Normal

The now-flexible work and study arrangements are evident reasons for the boom of property investments beyond the metro. Homebuyers, in particular, are prioritizing a secure base for working and learning from home. 

Consequently, the need for open areas indicates the desire to bring a piece of the outdoors inside the home. With quarantine measures still in place, spaces that evoke a sense of relaxation are just as important as dedicated work or study areas.

Sentosa by Suntrust Properties, Inc., a well-planned subdivision in Laguna, melds indoors and outdoors through its spacious homes with expansive outdoor spaces. Inside, there’s ample room to set up a “work zone,” and outside, there’s an open area to boost wellness and foster connections.

OFWs’ Appetite for Real Estate Investments

Part of the reason the real estate industry remains resilient is the housing demand coming from outside the country. In the first half of 2020, overseas property seekers expressed interest in provincial cities, fueled by the availability of mid-income projects and home features centered around convenience, comfort, and active leisure.

Focusing on keeping conveniences within reach, overseas interest in Southern Luzon properties increased. Laguna and Batangas cropped up as excellent home locations because of their proximity to Metro Manila and prime residential developments.

In Batangas, Sienna Hills unfolds in a 51.54-hectare prime land in Lipa, filled with classic Italian-style houses and resort-inspired amenities. The community marries the rustic charm of the Italian city of Siena and the rich history and culture of Lipa.

Meanwhile, in Laguna and Cavite, developer Suntrust Properties dominates the landscape while addressing homebuyers’ new normal needs. Besides Sentosa, the company developed San Francisco Heights (Calamba, Laguna) and Verona (Silang, Cavite), complete with generously spaced houses, abundant greenery, and themed amenities. Most importantly, they’re situated near places of work and relaxation for convenience and a well-rounded lifestyle.

Infrastructure Buildup Outside Metro Manila

Finally, the acceleration of the government’s infrastructure spending isn’t just a move to decongest Metro Manila. It’s also a perceived solution for inclusive growth. New expressways, railways, and airports are set to reinvigorate the countryside and spread economic growth from Metro Manila to its neighboring provinces.

As an example, Pampanga is shaping up to become more competitive and a real estate hotspot. The North Luzon Expressway, Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, and MacArthur Highway already connect it to the rest of the metro and Luzon region. But Pampanga will become even more connected to the rest of the country and beyond with the completion of Clark Airport’s Terminal 2. This, along with the Malolos-Clark Railway Project, will boost the province’s accessibility and economic activities.

Developers keen on meeting housing demand without sacrificing convenience take advantage of regional growth centers like Pampanga. Suntrust Properties, through its project The Arcadia in Porac, Pampanga, aims to level up countryside living. Besides being close to business hubs, educational centers, and leisure destinations, this house and lot project will feature a host of relaxing amenities, including a commercial strip for sustainable and highly convenient living.

The rise of such premier communities is yet another reason why more people are flocking to the suburbs. With the continued infrastructure push and a more flexible way of life, it’s only a matter of time for properties beyond Metro Manila to soar in prices.

----

Publish first in Lamudi