Manila Investment Property ListingsHistoric core with businessand rental zones

Real Estate in Manila

Manila: Historic Capital with Urban Investment Potential

Manila, the capital of the Philippines and a core part of Metro Manila, is one of Southeast Asia’s most densely populated and economically dynamic cities. As the center of government, culture, and education, Manila combines colonial charm with intense urban growth. Its real estate market is shaped by infrastructure developments, academic demand, government institutions, and proximity to Manila Bay. Though often overshadowed by business districts like Makati or BGC, Manila presents unique opportunities for budget-conscious investors, heritage restorers, and high-yield rental seekers.

Types of Property in Manila

Manila City consists of multiple districts, each offering different real estate options:

• Condominiums: Mid-rise and high-rise buildings in areas like Ermita, Malate, and Binondo
• Old townhouses: Heritage properties in districts such as San Miguel and Santa Ana
• Student housing: Dormitory-style or studio apartments near universities in Sampaloc and Intramuros
• Commercial buildings: Office spaces, hotels, and retail units in busy areas near Roxas Boulevard and Divisoria
• Vacant lots: Limited availability, mostly in redevelopment zones or fringe districts

Compared to other Metro Manila cities, Manila offers lower price entry points but higher density and limited land availability.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Manila?

Yes — foreigners can legally buy certain types of real estate in Manila, under specific conditions:

• Condominiums: Foreigners can own up to 40% of units in a condominium project
• Leased land: Foreigners may lease land for up to 50 years, renewable for another 25
• Corporate ownership: A Filipino-majority corporation (60% local ownership) can hold land and buildings
• Spousal ownership: Foreigners married to Filipinos can jointly own real estate, with land titled in the Filipino spouse’s name

VelesClub Int. assists in structuring property purchases in line with Philippine law, whether through individual condo units or corporation-based ownership structures.

Property Prices and Trends in Manila

Manila offers affordable real estate compared to other global cities, with strong demand from students, professionals, and tourists. As of 2025:

• Studio condos: PHP 2.5–4 million ($45,000–$70,000)
• 1- to 2-bedroom condos: PHP 5–10 million ($90,000–$180,000)
• Townhouses or old houses: PHP 10–30 million ($180,000–$540,000), often in need of renovation
• Commercial buildings: PHP 40 million+ for income-generating assets in high-footfall zones

Prices vary significantly by district, proximity to transit lines, and access to universities or government buildings.

Most Popular Districts for Real Estate

Manila is composed of 16 administrative districts, each offering specific benefits:

• Ermita and Malate: Tourist-friendly zones with high rental demand and condo developments
• Binondo: The world's oldest Chinatown, ideal for commercial investments and cultural projects
• Intramuros: Historic walled city with rare opportunities for boutique hotels and restoration
• Sampaloc: Academic district, home to University of Santo Tomas and strong student rental demand
• Santa Cruz and Tondo: High-density areas with affordable housing and logistics value
• San Miguel: Residential enclave near Malacañang Palace, known for heritage mansions

VelesClub Int. identifies undervalued zones and redevelopment hotspots for strategic investment in central Manila.

Rental Yields and Income Potential

Due to strong demand from students, short-stay travelers, and business workers, Manila properties can deliver solid rental yields:

• Studio units: PHP 12,000–20,000/month ($215–$360), depending on location
• 1-bedroom condos: PHP 18,000–35,000/month, higher near universities or bayfront
• Airbnb rentals: Popular in Malate and Ermita, with nightly rates of $30–$60
• Gross rental yields: 5%–8% annually for efficiently managed units

Commercial rentals — such as office floors, shops, or hostels — can offer higher returns in Binondo and Divisoria districts.

Infrastructure and Access

Manila benefits from its central location and evolving transport connectivity:

• LRT-1 and LRT-2: Light rail lines connecting central Manila to Quezon City, Makati, and Pasig
• Bus rapid transit and jeepneys: Provide local circulation and access to surrounding districts
• Proximity to Manila Bay Port: Facilitates logistics and trade-based commercial activity
• Accessibility to NAIA airport: 30–45 minutes by car depending on traffic

Urban renewal projects, including the Pasig River Expressway and bayfront reclamation, are expected to uplift property values in the coming decade.

Legal and Transaction Costs

Real estate transactions in Manila follow national guidelines. Buyers should account for:

• Transfer tax: 0.5% of the property value
• Documentary stamp tax: 1.5% of the sale price
• Registration fee: Approximately 0.25% of sale price
• Capital gains tax: 6% (typically paid by the seller)
• Annual property tax: 1%–2% of assessed value

VelesClub Int. helps buyers structure fair negotiations and ensures compliance with tax and registry requirements.

How to Buy Property in Manila

1. Identify your segment: Residential condo, commercial property, or restoration project

2. Verify legal conditions: Confirm eligibility for foreign ownership and land status

3. Review developer or seller background: Especially for pre-selling or older buildings

4. Secure reservation or contract: With down payment and signed agreement

5. Complete payment: Via bank financing, staged payments, or full cash

6. Register title: With the Registry of Deeds, and submit tax filings

7. Set up rental management (if applicable): Short-term or long-term leasing structures

Why Choose VelesClub Int. for Property in Manila

With a full-service approach, VelesClub Int. helps international buyers navigate Manila’s complex urban market. We source vetted listings, coordinate with licensed brokers, handle title due diligence, and structure compliant ownership pathways for foreigners. Whether you’re looking for a strategic income property near a university or a long-term heritage restoration, our team ensures transparency, value, and peace of mind.

Conclusion

Manila offers a rare combination of historical significance, dense urban demand, and price accessibility. For buyers interested in authentic Southeast Asian urbanism, high-yield rental plays, or long-term city center appreciation, Manila remains a rewarding market. With the guidance of VelesClub Int., acquiring and managing property in the Philippine capital becomes a structured and successful endeavor.