Nature has always been associated with peace. The tranquility it offers reminds us of the beauty that the world has to offer. This is why a lot of us often crave to go out of town– where nature is abundant– for a quick change of scenery when we want a break from our fast-paced lives in the city. Whether it’s a trip to a nearby beach, going on a hike to a mountain, or even just having a staycation in an area filled with lush greeneries– we seek nature to recharge ourselves from our busy lives.
For most of us who live in urbanized areas, the thought of being or residing in nature seems like a luxury due to the serenity it offers. Fortunately, reconnecting with nature doesn’t have to be a rare thing as it is now possible to live in properties that are surrounded by nature.
In recent years, property developers have recognized the need for more projects that are immersed in nature, with some of them dedicating portions of their developments to green spaces. This continues to be a trend as seen in a number of upcoming residential developments especially in areas in the South of Metro Manila such as Batangas, Laguna, and Tagaytay.
Some notable upcoming projects with lush greeneries and open spaces include Alveo Land’s Sereneo in the Nuvali estate in Laguna and the Trealva at Midlands in Tagaytay by Highlands Prime Inc., the developer of Tagaytay Highlands.
A peaceful, private environment
Properties surrounded by nature curate a sense of luxury by offering a peaceful and aesthetically pleasing environment, according to Melissa Erin, chief strategy officer of Canada-based Paramount Landscaping Inc.
“Well-maintained gardens and lush greenery, water, and fire features, supported by natural landscapes create a serene atmosphere that many associate with high-end living. These elements transform an ordinary space into a tranquil retreat, providing a sense of escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life,” Erin said.
“Imagine waking up every morning to a private oasis in your own backyard, seems like a much better deal than having to spend both time and money traveling to only have that experience for a day or two,” she added.
Similarly, US-based realtor Andrew Fortune notes that the privacy offered by nature-filled properties makes it a luxury.
“Privacy is luxury. Land is one of the only true appreciating assets. As cities grow, finding privacy becomes harder every year. When a home feels secluded, but is only minutes from town, it will return the highest value, as there are only so many of these homes available. They are built and reserved for those who can afford them,” said Fortune, who is the owner of real estate brokerage Great Colorado Homes.
For her part, US-based realtor and Webuyphillyhome founder Rinal Patel said properties with a view of the outdoors are highly sought after because they exude an air of luxury.
“Whether they are large mansions or small cottages, these homes provide a distinct lifestyle that makes them stand apart from metropolitan apartments,” she said.
“Homes with natural settings convey a feeling of seclusion and exclusivity. These estates are isolated from the bustle of the city by natural barriers like mountains and lush foliage. Residents may live in peace and quiet with this solitude, which is a luxury in and of itself. It also enhances the property’s overall beauty, giving it the impression of being a hidden jewel amidst the wilderness,” she added.
Health benefits of living closer to nature
Patel highlighted that properties surrounded by nature also support a happier and healthier way of living.
“Living in a property surrounded by nature offers residents cleaner air, tranquil settings, and the chance to participate in outdoor activities away from the clamor and pollution of the city. Because of the enhanced physical and mental well-being that results, people who are concerned about their health highly value these attributes,” Patel said.
“The sense of being connected to the environment is an advantage of owning a property surrounded by nature. Being in nature serves as a reminder of our origins and the value of protecting the environment. A lot of properties that are surrounded by nature are constructed with sustainable design elements, such as rainwater collection and solar panels. These houses’ opulent appeal is enhanced by their eco-friendliness, drawing in eco-aware tenants,” she added.
Closer to leisure destinations
The south of Metro Manila continues to be a popular place for residential seekers looking to live closer to nature. A trend for second homes in destinations outside of the country’s capital was even observed in the years following the pandemic.
According to a report by Santos Knight Frank released earlier this year, an increasing number of Filipinos have expressed a heightened interest in acquiring second homes, particularly in residential leisure condominiums in Metro Luzon. It noted that Tagaytay emerged as the favored location for second homes. This was followed by Pampanga and Batangas, particularly the areas of Laiya and Nasugbu.
Data from Santos Knight Frank showed Pampanga leads Metro Luzon in selling rate at P126,374/sqm, followed by Tagaytay at P122,500/sqm and Laguna at P117,269/sqm.
On the other hand, Bulacan, Cavite, and Laguna exhibit the lowest average unit prices: P3.7M for Laguna, P2.9M for Bulacan, and P2.8M for Cavite.
“Whether it’s a second home or a residence close to work, the Philippine real estate sector is experiencing a robust phase, underscored by a burgeoning demand for luxury residential spaces,” Santos Knight Frank said earlier.
With the fresher air, peaceful living, and proximity to leisure spots it offers, residing in properties that are closer to nature is a luxury that many aspire to have.
