Renting vs. Buying in the Philippines: Updated Guide for 2025 and Beyond

🏡 Renting in the Philippines

Renting remains the most flexible and low‑risk way to live in the Philippines, especially if you’re new to the country.

✔️ Advantages of Renting

• Low upfront cost — usually 1–2 months’ deposit + 1 month advance

• High flexibility — ideal if you’re exploring different cities or islands

• No maintenance responsibilities — landlords handle repairs

• Furnished units are common — especially in condos and tourist areas

❌ Disadvantages of Renting

• No equity or long‑term financial return

• Rent may increase annually

• Limited ability to renovate or customize

Typical Rental Prices (2025)

• Metro Manila studios: ₱15,000–₱30,000/month

• Makati/BGC premium units: ₱50,000+

• Provincial condos: ₱10,000–₱20,000/month

🏠 Buying Property in the Philippines

Buying offers stability and long‑term investment potential — but comes with legal and financial rules that foreigners must understand.

✔️ Advantages of Buying

• Long‑term stability and control

• Builds equity and potential appreciation

• Freedom to renovate and customize

• Strong rental demand in key cities and tourist areas

❌ Disadvantages of Buying

• High upfront cost (10–20% downpayment + taxes + fees)

• Maintenance and repairs are your responsibility

• Foreigners cannot own land — only condos or long‑term leases

📌 Updated Law: Foreigners Can Now Lease Land for Up to 99 Years

A major update in 2025 expanded foreign land leases:

• Foreigners can now lease private land for up to 99 years

• This replaces the old 50 years + 25‑year extension (75 years)

• Applies to investment‑qualified projects, tourism developments, and long‑term residential arrangements structured under the new framework

This is a significant improvement for foreigners who want long‑term stability without owning land.

Important:
Ordinary residential leases (non‑investment) still typically range from 1–5 years, or 25–50 years for long‑term land leases outside the investment program.

🌴 Why You Should Rent First Before Buying

Even if you plan to buy eventually, renting first is the smartest move — especially in the Philippines, where neighborhoods can vary dramatically in:

• Traffic

• Noise levels

• Flooding

• Building management

• Internet quality

• Local conveniences

• Safety and walkability

Most experienced expats recommend living in an area for 1–3 months before making a long‑term decision.

🛏️ Try an Airbnb Stay to Experience the Area First

If you want a comfortable, well‑managed place to stay while exploring the Philippines, start with this Airbnb:

👉 Ocean Breeze by RA Property Group
https://airbnb.com/h/rapropertygroupOceanBreeze

It’s a perfect way to experience the lifestyle, amenities, and environment before committing to a long‑term rental or purchase.

🤝 Need Help Navigating Philippine Real Estate?

Whether you're comparing neighborhoods, evaluating condo projects, or exploring long‑term leasing options (including the new 99‑year framework), we can help you understand the process and make a confident, informed decision.

Just tell us what areas or property types you’re considering, and we’ll guide you step‑by‑step.

RA Property Group specializes in cross-border property management and advisory. We help foreign investors navigate ownership rules, due diligence, and operational oversight with clarity and confidence.

Live boldly. Make the nontraditional, traditional.

Book a consultation today and let’s explore what’s possible.