Big Bets, Bigger Gains: The PH Real Estate Game this 2025

(Part 1: Investors Edition)

On January 21, 2025, my broker board, the PAREB-City of Taguig Real Estate Board (CTREB) held its First General Membership Meeting at Inspire Hub, ALVEO Corporate Center, BGC. The event featured a market outlook presentation by Colliers Philippines. Their talk, *Philippine Property Outlook: Aim to Thrive in 2025*, explored key trends and opportunities shaping this year’s real estate market.

Some good news: infrastructure is booming, GDP growth is holding strong at 5.2%, interest rates are easing to 5.75%, and suburban migration is surging. Add in last year’s $37B in remittances and a relentless BPO sector, and the stage is set for serious real estate opportunities.

Now, let’s break down the biggest moves you can make—whether you’re a broker aiming for big deals or an investor looking for your next power play.

Big Plays in Real Estate

The best opportunities are where the money and people are going. Right now, these point towards new infrastructure hotspots, luxury real estate, bargain buys from POGO’s downfall, and rental goldmines. 

  1. Bet on Infrastructure—It’s the Ultimate Cheat Code

Massive public works are turning once-sleepy areas into goldmines. If you’re not looking at properties near upcoming MRT stations, airports, and expressways, you’re missing out. Snatch good residential house and lot deals along these new channels particularly the Bulacan Corridor before the hype kicks in.

Best Spots to Eyeball:

  • Bulacan: New Php 450B airport foreshadows property price explosion
  • Quezon City: Subway, MRT-7, LRT-1 Common Station—triple the transit, triple the value
  • Clark and Pampanga: The next big BPO hub with international airport vibes
  • Cavite and Laguna: LRT-1 Cavite Extension and CALAX are making the South more connected
  1. Liquidity is in Luxury Properties

Luxury properties remain a strong investment, with high-net-worth buyers driving demand in prime areas like BGC, Rockwell, and Makati. Pre-selling units offer early appreciation, while high-end rentals yield strong returns. Market downturns present chances to acquire luxury units below value. Upcoming infrastructure projects will further boost prices, making now a prime time to invest. If you have extra funds to rake in passive income, invest in a luxury r

Where the Big Guys are Playing:

  • BGC: Still the king of premium real estate. Think executives, expats, and High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs).
  • Rockwell Makati: Proscenium, Balmori Suites—luxury with a waiting list.
  • Bridgetown and Greenhills: Joint ventures with international players are pushing prices sky-high.
  • Exclusive Villages: Low-density living is in demand in reputable gated communities near the CBDs.
  1. POGO’s Exit = Bargain Bonanza

Surely, POGO’s downfall is a bloodbath for some areas, but for smart investors, it’s a clearance sale. While it’s tempting to be a wolf and take advantage of these opportunities, negotiate with compassion. Many sellers are in distress, but win-win deals create lasting value for both sides.

Best Areas for Steals:

  • Bay Area (Pasay, Macapagal, Paranaque): Vacancy rates are about to hit 56%. 
  • Makati CBD and Alabang: Some luxury units are selling below market value.
  • Ortigas and Mandaluyong: Developers are desperate to move RFO units.
  1. The Suburbs are Looking Sunnier than the Metro

The WFH era changed everything—families and professionals are swapping cramped condos for bigger nature-filled homes in the South and North. This is one of the best long-term plays right now. Buy houses and lots in up-and-coming townships before the big price jump.

Best Areas to Bet On:

  • Nuvali, Laguna and Silang, Cavite: Master-planned communities with premium appeal.
  • Lipa, Batangas: Affordability, natural beauty, and quick access to stunning beaches make it a winning choice.
  • Clark and Pampanga: Metro Manila escapees are moving here for work-life balance.
  1. Rental Game: Airbnb and Expats Still Pay Big

Short-term rentals aren’t dead—they’re evolving. If you own rental units, the play is still strong in expat and corporate housing markets.

Top Rental Markets:

  • Makati and BGC: Feels like expats, executives, and high-end renters never left.
  • Ortigas and Mandaluyong: More affordable but still high occupancy.
  • Tagaytay and Batangas: Airbnb-friendly properties pose for passive income.

Smart Moves:

  • For Investors: Find units that can hit 6-8% rental yields. Forget break-even, you want real cash flow.
  • For Brokers: Offer rental management services to investors and target expats who pay up to a year in advance—providing easy recurring income.

This Year’s Game Plan

If you’re not investing in high-growth locations, scooping up luxury real estate, or taking advantage of bargain buys, you’re leaving money on the table.

Investors, here are your best plays:

  • Pre-selling projects along new infrastructure projects (where all roads literally lead into)
  • Luxury condo flips (buy pre-selling, sell in 3-5 years)
  • Distressed deals in POGO-hit areas (buy low, wait for rebound)
  • Suburban house and lots (perfect for Metro Manila escapees)

Brokers, here’s your money move:

  • Become the go-to expert in high-yield areas.
  • Market distressed and luxury units to serious buyers.
  • Use AI tools, video content, and digital marketing—old-school lead gen is sputtering out.
  • Invest your extra commission cash in your own pre-selling properties. If you trust the stuff you’re selling, it’s easy to be your own broker and client.

Bottom line? The biggest winners will be those who move fast. The opportunities are there, but they won’t last forever. Now’s the time to make your next power play.

To be continued.

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