History was made in the Philippine real estate on September 3, 2025. That day wasn’t just another date on the calendar; it was the moment the Philippines threw open the doors for foreign investors in a way we’ve never seen before. With Republic Act No. 12252 now signed into law, the message is loud and…
The ongoing scandal involving widespread corruption in the Philippines’ flood control projects is more than just a case of money being wasted. For a country known as one of the most disaster-prone in the world, failing to build and maintain strong flood defenses is a deadly problem. This failure turns the challenge of adapting to…
Why You Need to Know Your Rights Now Renting a home in the Philippines, whether it’s a sleek Makati condo or a cozy Cebu house, comes with its own set of worries. The biggest one? Getting blindsided by a vague lease or unfair rule. Will your landlord keep your security deposit for no good reason?…
In the Philippines, land use conflicts often arise from misunderstandings about the legal status of occupants on residential properties. It is crucial to clearly differentiate between a free lease arrangement, commonly known as “katiwala,” and squatting, as these have vastly different legal implications and protections. Executive Summary By Sheila Viesca, Ph.D.With insights from John Riad,…
The real estate market has never been static, but 2025 is still changing quickly. Whether you’re a veteran broker or just starting out, you’ve likely noticed how unpredictable the first half of the year has been. Shifting buying behavior, evolving seller expectations, and rapid-fire advances in technology are fundamentally changing the way properties are bought,…
By Sheila Viesca, Ph.D.With insights from John Riad, CEO of HousingInteractive Imagine this*: You’re ready to buy your first home or sell a property you’ve held for years. You find what looks like the perfect listing online and send an inquiry. Within minutes, you’re hit with a barrage of messages: not from one, but from…
Executive Summary By Sheila Viesca, Ph.D.With insights from John Riad, CEO of HousingInteractive Investing in real estate can seem intimidating, but it’s a proven path to building significant wealth and securing your financial future. Unlike volatile stocks or other abstract assets, real estate is a tangible asset that you can see, touch, and even live…
Executive Summary By Sheila Viesca, Ph.D.With insights from John Riad, CEO of HousingInteractive When you’re ready to make a major purchase like a new home or an investment property, a mix of excitement and anxiety is completely normal. The prospect of finding your dream space is thrilling, but the real estate market, especially in the…
Executive Summary By Sheila Viesca, Ph.D.With insights from John Riad, CEO of HousingInteractive During a real estate crisis, selling a home is incredibly difficult. However, by understanding the market and its key drivers, you can navigate these challenges effectively. The housing market is a powerful economic force that directly impacts your personal wealth. A crisis…
Executive Summary By Sheila Viesca, Ph.D.With insights from John Riad, CEO of HousingInteractive The Philippine real estate market is under attack. A surge of unlicensed individuals, operating as so-called “real estate agents,” are preying on unsuspecting Filipinos. These aren’t just small-time hustlers; they are a dangerous, unregulated force that poses a direct threat to your…
The traditional urban model of separating residential and commercial zones is obsolete. This approach has led to the long commutes and crippling traffic that plague cities in the Philippines, wasting time, increasing stress, and harming the environment. The solution is clear: mixed-use developments that integrate living, working, and leisure spaces. Rethinking Urban Living: The Case…
Executive Summary By Sheila Viesca, Ph.D.With insights from John Riad, CEO of HousingInteractive Investing in Philippine real estate is a solid opportunity, but it’s crucial to understand the rules. The primary legal hurdle is simple: foreigners cannot directly own land in the Philippines. This restriction is embedded in the country’s constitution. However, this doesn’t mean…