Being a single mom means wearing many hats — provider, nurturer, protector, and decision-maker — often all before breakfast. Imagine taking on responsibilities that a husband and wife would often share, every single day, with no pause button.
So when it comes to buying a home, the weight of the decision is more than financial — it’s emotional. You’re not just purchasing four walls and a roof. You’re building a safe haven where your child can feel secure.
Know What You Can Afford — Not Just What the Bank Approves
Banks might pre-approve you for a big loan, but that doesn’t mean you should max it out. A good rule of thumb is to keep your monthly housing cost — including amortization, insurance, and taxes — within 30–35% of your gross monthly income.
For example, if you’re aiming to buy a P15 million home with a P3 million down payment, your monthly amortization on a P12 million loan could reach P93,000. That means your gross household income should ideally be around P265,000 or more per month so you still have enough for essentials like food, tuition, and groceries. Imagine the number of rakets Mommy will have to take on!
Always be honest about what you can realistically manage — your peace of mind is worth more than square footage.
Firm Up Your Emergency Fund First
Before the down payment, prioritize a cushion of at least 3–6 months of expenses. Kids get sick, school bills pop up, car accidents are inevitable, and life throws curveballs. An emergency fund helps you stay current on your mortgage even when life gets unpredictable.
For my own emergency fund, I used Peso Cost Averaging — investing a fixed amount monthly in strong-performing stocks. It wasn’t just a savings strategy, it was a lifeline. When the pandemic hit and income dropped to zero, that fund helped me survive. The beauty of cost averaging is that it grows your emergency fund exponentially — and if the need arises, most stock trading platforms allow you to liquidate and withdraw funds within days. It’s a smart way to stay financially prepared without letting your money sit idle.
Consider Government or Special Financing Programs
Depending on your income, profession, or solo parent status, you may qualify for lower-interest housing loans through PAG-IBIG or similar affordable programs. Single moms can apply for a PAG-IBIG housing loan as long as they are active members with at least 24 monthly contributions (which may be paid in lump sum), are under 65 years old, and have no existing loan defaults. Applications can be submitted online via the Virtual PAG-IBIG portal or in person at any branch. Once approved, a Notice of Approval will be issued, and you’ll have 90 days to comply with the post-approval requirements before the loan is released. PAG-IBIG offers competitive rates—5.75% per annum for a 1-year fixed term and 6.25% for 3 years—with an even lower 3% rate for qualified minimum-wage earners under its Affordable Housing Program.
But here’s something even more exciting — especially if you’re open to sustainable living. As an accredited broker for Arthaland, I’m proud to share that they offer a one-of-its-kind financing option called BALAI BERDE. It’s specifically designed for buyers of certified green buildings and offers fixed annual interest rates as low as 3%, depending on your loan term (from 5 to 30 years). Even better? You can finance up to 100% of the appraised property value. It’s rare to find a financing program this generous — and only Arthaland offers it. For eco-conscious single moms who value good health and energy savings, this is a smart and accessible path worth considering.
Think Long-Term: Will This Still Work in 5 Years?
Your child’s needs will evolve — from a crib, to a study space, to eventually needing their own room. So it’s important to ask: Will this home still suit your lifestyle a few years from now? Can you repurpose rooms or rent out part of the space if your income situation changes?
One smart strategy is to start small, then scale up. For example, if it’s just you and your baby right now, a studio unit near a school — like those along Katipunan Avenue — can be a practical and affordable first step. Later on, when your needs grow, you can move to a bigger home. That tiny studio? You can turn it into a rental for students from nearby schools like Ateneo or Miriam College — transforming your first home into a long-term income stream.
“Single” Doesn’t Mean “Alone”
As the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child.” One of the most beautiful Filipino values we hold dear is bayanihan — the spirit of helping one another. For single moms, this often comes in the form of family and friends who are more than willing to lend support.
If a mortgage feels too heavy, ask a sibling to be a co-maker or even co-invest in the property with someone you trust. Shared ownership can lighten the load while building assets together.
Also, work with a trusted real estate broker who truly listens — not just one chasing commissions. A good broker will take your calls even at odd hours (because sometimes, you can only talk once the kids are asleep), guide you through financing options, negotiate smartly, and consider resale value — always with your family’s best interests in mind.
As a real estate broker, I’ve had the privilege of working with single mom clients — and one thing stands out every time. The decision to buy is always to benefit their child first and themselves last. They pour every hard-earned peso into creating a better life for them — even if it means putting their own dreams on hold.
It’s one of the most emotional and inspiring parts of my work.
This piece is my giant hug to all the single moms out there — the quiet warriors building homes, holding hearts, and shaping lives. You are seen. You are appreciated. And you are deeply admired.
#PropertyReportFeature
#FeaturedStory
