Can Foreigners Buy Property in Philippines?


Due to the increased competition and scarcity of current physical resources, many households are considering investing invaluable properties. Individuals with stronger financial backgrounds tend to allocate resources through money in the expectation and probable likelihood of garnering more income or profit. Nowadays, investment is commonly achieved through a business, investing in assets, or purchasing real estate to book a place for future residence, or sells it at a higher price depending on the land of property value. The principal mission of investing is expecting profitable returns through monitoring value or price enrichment with statistical significance. However, the rate of profit or end value is dependent on the spectrum of assets in which a person invests. The real state is the new concept that is dominating the concept of investment. It has noticeably produced many wealthy individuals; therefore, it is considered a sound have a way to invest. Before stepping into the world of real estate, it is essential to understand and be acquainted with the foundation before jumping into real estate investment. Understand the principal obligations, with the pros and cons, and analyze the return. Potential real estate investors also need to calculate operating expenses and consider the unexpected and on-schedule cost of construction or purchase of the property.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in the Philippines?

Yes, foreigners can buy property but can not own land in the Philippines; if you want to buy a house or any residence in the Philippines, you can buy a property through a corporation where 60% or more by Filipino citizens, or you can make a long-term lease agreement as an individual with the Filipino landowner.

The archipelagic country of the Philippines is situated in South East Asia. It is located in the western Pacific Ocean and is home to about 7640 islands. It is a geographically diverse country offering the most beautiful beaches and ideally tourist spaces that attract countless tourists worldwide. It is considered a relatively reasonable country even from south Asian standards. As far as tourism is concerned, the Department of Trade and Industry claims that it has significantly increased by 8.3% to 7.1 million visitors in 2018. Aside from the fact that the Philippines is a tourist-friendly country, individuals are attracted to the Philippines because of its massive expatriate community. Foreigners enjoy the meager cost of living and invite themselves to enjoy a beautiful and diverse culture with scenic natural beauty and just for the locals.

As for now, foreigners in the Philippines enjoy exclusive amenities and facilities provided to them for a comfortable environment. This is especially for those who want to book a valuable property in the country looking to spend post-retirement life overseas. The average cost of living for foreigners residing in the Philippines includes $1500 per month. This cost incorporates basic grocery items, entertainment, recreational activities, housing or rent costs, and healthcare issues. Among these parameters, the rent or mortgage of the house comprises a significant portion of the entire budget. Most foreigners believe in renting a suitable condo or house in the country; however, some real estate experts suggest that purchasing property is more appreciated and practical, especially for those aiming to stay for a longer duration. If the aim is to live in the country for a short time and enjoy the culture, renting is feasible and cost-effective; otherwise, not. Regarding the debate of purchasing land or property in the Philippines, foreigners are generally not allowed to purchase land; however, they have a legal obligation and freedom to purchase property and reside in the country as an ex-pat.

Is buying a condo a good investment in the Philippines?

Buying a condo unit in the Philippines is a good investment idea because of low costs, high rental yields, and strong appreciation potential in the Philippine real estate industry.

By condominium policy in the Philippines, foreigners  are restricted to owning land (you can buy a property through a corporation where 60% or more by Filipino citizens, or you can make a long-term lease agreement as an individual with the Filipino landowner. )

Land ownership in the Philippines

Foreigners in the Philippines are not allowed and authorized to purchase land. It is highly regulated and only directed to Philippine citizens and residents. A corporation that has the majority of Filipino citizens is directly eligible to purchase land. The anti-dummy law directs and strictly regulates foreigners to avoid land ownership. However, ex-pats and foreigners have complete authority to purchase condos, villas, apartments, industrial, commercial buildings without noticeable land ownership. However, foreigners can purchase any building under the following regulations.

  • If the property is purchased before 1935If ex-pats inherit any building or property under legal airship or succession
  • If the foreigners obtain less than 40% in our current condominium project
  • If Filipino citizens are married to foreigners and are natural-born citizens of the country

They can also ensure long-term lease on the land with restrictions and right of use.

The cost of living, affordability, and cost-effectiveness is totally dependent on the location, urbanization, availability of facilities, business districts, downtown, and other parameters. Regardless, foreigners can communicate with local real estate agents and purchase, sell or rent the ideal villa or apartment depending on the individual needs, lifestyle, budget, and overall preferences. Real estate agents have the complete know-how and insight about local properties; therefore, they can guide the necessary legal requirements, potential market share, and future value of the property on the market trends. They are also known to negotiate and make contracts through paperwork. Therefore, hiring a reliable real estate agent will significantly tone down the probability of frauds and scams an ex-pat may face in a foreign country.

Foreigners can purchase condos, houses, and property through corporations. However, it is essential to analyze and review the locations that offer a high great quality lifestyle and state-of-the-art facilities for foreigners. Owners of condos, houses, or any other apartment should be legally obliged to pay for the maintenance, work, or repairs, pay the mortgage fee, perform home checkups, inspections and invest in the monthly upkeep of the unit. Foreigners can also participate in long-term leases with property owners under the investor’s lease act of the Philippines. There are a lot of variables and options for expatriates to choose from. It depends on individual preferences as you can purchase a property of single-story, double attached story, villa, and multi-story. However, try to review the house’s safety standards that include the resale value, quality of materials used, and the durability of the property in times of natural disasters and calamities.

Can Americans own property in the Philippines?

Americans can buy property but can not own land in the Philippines. Americans can buy a house or any residence in the Philippines through a corporation with 60% or more by Filipino citizens or make a long-term lease agreement as an individual with the Filipino landowner.

Ways to conduct financial transactions.

Foreigners planning to reside permanently in the Philippines will require the necessary budget and resources to purchase property in a foreign country. Even if this is not the case, then acquiring loans from credible institutions has become easier. First, visit a bank or a brokerage firm that acknowledges the needs of an individual. Based on the eligibility review, bank administration will be able to gift and provide a loan along with terms and conditions that need to be fulfilled. Hiring a qualified broker can assist in providing and recording the necessary documentation with loan applications. The BDO bank facilitates the experts by providing mortgages under categories of visas. The Metro Bank and BPI bank also provide bank loans with the available visas and mortgage loans to those who are married to Filipino citizens.

Purchasing property in the Philippines is considered a great pathway for future investment. Financially and emotionally, culturally, purchasing and investing in properties in the Philippines will also prove to be extremely worthwhile soon and allow you to visit the stunning geography and natural beauty the country has to offer.

Daniel Smith

Daniel Smith

Daniel Smith is an experienced economist and financial analyst from Utah. He has been in finance for nearly two decades, having worked as a senior analyst for Wells Fargo Bank for 19 years. After leaving Wells Fargo Bank in 2014, Daniel began a career as a finance consultant, advising companies and individuals on economic policy, labor relations, and financial management. At Promtfinance.com, Daniel writes about personal finance topics, value estimation, budgeting strategies, retirement planning, and portfolio diversification. Read more on Daniel Smith's biography page. Contact Daniel: daniel@promtfinance.com

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