“Our goal is to set the gold standard when it comes to compliance.”
– Cathy Engelberg, Commissioner of the WNBA
By Realttorney®
Happy New Year. We wish you all the best for the Year of the Dragon. May you all work synergistically with your teams or other REPs to have the most prosperous 2024 possible.
We hope that you have your yearly goals written and these goals broken down into quarterly, monthly, and weekly goals. Since this is the first working day of 2024, we would like to remind all real estate service professionals (RESPs) of some regulatory compliances according to Republic Act No 9646 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR).
First, in Section 38, Rule IV of the IRR “Real estate service practitioners shall be required to indicate the certificate of registration, professional identification card, Privilege Tax Receipt (PTR) number, AIPO membership and/or receipt number.”
Now, the IRR says ”privilege tax receipt” but in reality, this is called the Professional Tax Receipt or PTR. Yet, despite the “misspelling”, the mandate is clear. All licensed RESPs should get a PTR.
Here are my previous year’s Professional Tax Receipts as an attorney and real estate broker
It costs around PhP 300.00 and you can get this at the Office of the Treasurer of your LGU. Just say that you will get a PTR when you stand in front of the transaction window of the Treasurer’s Office. Some LGUs may not have a PTR, but instead have an OTR – the Occupational Tax Receipt – which is the same thing.
What must you bring with you when you apply for a PTR? For veteran RESPs, a photocopy, digital copy, or the original copy of the PTR of the previous year will suffice. For the new salespersons and brokers, you need to bring a photocopy of your Certificate of Registration and the PRC ID Card with you.
Second, if you are already registered with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) then you should pay your annual registration fee of PhP 500.00 using the BIR Form 0605. You can remit the payment at the BIR Revenue District Office (RDO) that you registered in or at the Authorized Agent Banks of the concerned RDO.
Third, and final reminder, concerns accredited real estate salespersons and licensed real estate brokers who engage in project selling. If it is your cup of tea to sell subdivision and condominium projects then you are mandated by Presidential Decree No. 957 to register with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), according to existing rules and regulations.
Like securing a PTR, the Certificate of Registration must be renewed annually. You can apply at the Main office of DHSUD in Quezon City or at its Regional Offices nearest your place of residence.
For licensed real estate brokers wanting to do project selling for the first time or those who are renewing their certificate of registration, kindly prepare for submission the following:
(1) duly accomplished Application Form – which is specific per region. The application form you can download if you click here is only for Region IV-A [CALABARZON];
(1) Photocopy of valid PRC-issued Certificate of Registration and PRC-issued Professional Identification Card (Originals thereof to be presented upon filing for comparison as faithful reproduction);
(2) previous year’s Official Receipt;
(3) Two recent 2 X 2 ID pictures; and
(4) Surety/Cash Bond.
If you are lucky to have been issued an ID Card issued by DHSUD then a copy of it can also be submitted. The registration fee is PhP 720.00 if renewed before expiration.
Here is my DHSUD Identification Card for the year 2023
Meanwhile, for newly accredited salespersons or those wanting to renew, you need to submit the following:
(1) duly accomplished Application Form – which is specific per region. The application form you can download if you click here is only for Region IV-A [CALABARZON];
(2) Two recent 2 X 2 ID pictures;
(3) a copy of the PRC-issued accreditation card, or PRC-issued Official Receipt. or the PRC-issued claim stub;
(4) Cash/Surety bond; and
(5) the Letter of Engagement/Employment signed by a DHSUD registered Real Estate Broker with these attachments – copies of the PRC ID card of the broker, the DHSUD ID card, and the listing of accredited salespersons from PRC under the broker’s name. The registration fee is PhP 288.00 if renewed before expiration on December 31.
Here is a sample of the Salesperson’s Letter of Engagement/Employment. Once again, notice that the Letter is region-specific. I secured this since I filed my requirements to the CALABARZON region in Brgy. Halang, Calamba City, Province of Laguna.
Here is a final note. According to Section 4.7. of PRBRES Resolution No. 11, Series of 2021, “it is only after Mass Oath taking that the RES-Applicant can be considered Accredited and can already practice the real estate brokerage profession and may now register at DHSUD.”
Let it be known that the Real Estate Salesperson-Applicant can only apply for registration at the DHSUD after attending the oathtaking ceremony – whether in person or online – NOT before. We hope this is clear.
So kindly perform these regulatory compliances for you to work fully compliant with the requirements of the law that regulates our profession. Failure to comply is a violation of the law and the professional can be subjected to criminal and administrative sanctions.
Start the year right. As professionals, these are the things we do. It is part of our identity as legal and fully compliant real estate service professionals.
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Atty. Jojo is a real estate attorney, an estate planning attorney, a licensed real estate broker, and a PRC-accredited Lecturer/ Speaker for Training Programs in Real Estate. He is committed to helping new and veteran real estate service practitioners be well-informed of the latest laws, rules, regulations, and information relevant to the real estate service sector.
– Warren Buffet, American Business Magnate, Investor and Philanthropist
By Realttorney®
In the Philippines, as with many other countries, the proliferation of online platforms has both facilitated legitimate real estate transactions and has provided avenues for fraudulent activities as well.
Early last month, President Marcos, Jr. signed into law 2 of his priority bills he first mentioned during his first State of the Nation Address in July 2022. The first is Republic Act No. 11966 otherwise known as the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code of the Philippines.
The second one is the focus of this article, which is Republic Act No. 11967, also known as the Internet Transactions Act of 2023. This piece of legislation aims to protect online consumers and merchants engaged in Internet transactions. It was enacted on December 5, 2023, and became effective 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette according to Section 38 of Rep. Act No. 11967.
What are the key provisions of the relatively new Republic Act?
First, is the Establishment of the Electronic Commerce Bureau (ECB). The ECB is a new government agency tasked with implementing and enforcing the provisions of the Act. It has the power to investigate and resolve complaints, issue cease and desist orders, and impose fines on violators.
Second, the Protection of Online Consumers. The law strengthens the protection of Filipino online consumers by (a) requiring online merchants to provide clear and accurate information about their products and services, including prices, payment terms, delivery schedules, and return policies; (b) prohibiting any misleading or deceptive advertising practices; (c) mandating that online merchants have a privacy policy in place that outlines how they collect, use, and protect consumer data; (d) giving consumers the right to cancel orders within seven days of purchase, with some exceptions; and (e) establishing a mechanism for consumers to file complaints and seek redress for any violations of their rights.
Now, can real estate buyers who engage colorum practitioners be protected by this provision? In my opinion, the resounding answer is YES. It must be emphasized that the Internet Transactions Act of 2023 requires online merchants (colorum practitioners) to clear and accurate information about their products (house and lot, farm lots, condominium units, etc.) including price and payment terms.
What clear and accurate information needs to be included in the social media posts of the colorum practitioners, apart from the details of the real properties, their prices, and their terms?
Full name and designation;
The PRC License Number or PRC Accreditation Number of a real estate salesperson;
Validity of the license or accreditation number;
The PRC Identification Card Number;
The Current Professional Tax Receipt Number;
The AIPO Number, if available; and
The date of issuance of the PTR Number and the AIPO Official Receipt for the current year.
But, if you are a project-seller then aside from the 7 information, the colorum practitioner should indicate each item in his social media posts:
DHSUD Registration Number and date of issuance;
Office Address;
Contact Information and Email Address;
Name of Project;
Location of the Project
Project Classification: PD 957 or BP 220
State max. selling price if under BP 220
Project Type: Subd/Condo/Memorial Park
Name of Owner/Developer;
License To Sell No.?
Completion Date?
These details are all required by HLURB Board Resolution No. 921, Series of 2014, in conjunction with Rep. Act No. 9646.
Third, the Protection of Online Merchants. These are the new law that protects online merchants: (a) Prohibits unauthorized access to or use of electronic data and systems; (b) Provides for the protection of intellectual property rights in the online environment; (c) Establishes a dispute resolution mechanism for resolving conflicts between consumers and merchants.
Fourth and final, Regulates online advertising and marketing practices. This is equally important as the provisions that protect online users discussed above: (a) Prohibit the sale of counterfeit goods online; (b) Require online platforms to take down illegal content upon notice; and (3) Encourage the development of self-regulatory mechanisms by the e-commerce industry.
How can the real estate buyers be protected using these provisions of the law? The PRBRES in coordination with the PRC should now make representation with the Department of Trade and Industry to inform Facebook, YouTube, and other social media platforms to take down illegal content upon discovery of the lack of the mandated information listed in Section 38 of RA 9646 and HLURB Board Resolution No. 921, Series of 2014 in the posts of colorums as part of their marketing efforts using the internet.
Rep. Act No. 11967 is a significant step towards building a more robust and trustworthy e-commerce environment in the Philippines. It is expected to promote consumer confidence, encourage more businesses to operate online and contribute to the growth of the digital economy. Hence, we can use the provisions of this new law to curb, if not totally stop the colorum practice in our midst.
I call upon all licensed real estate brokers and accredited real estate salespersons to unite and make our voices heard by Facebook and other social media platforms, through the DTI, and ECB to stop once and for all the illegal practice of all colorum practitioners.
What do you think? Do you share my views on the application of Rep. Act No 11967? Let me know in the comments section and let us start a conversation.
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Atty. Jojo is a real estate attorney, an estate planning attorney, a licensed real estate broker, and a PRC-accredited Lecturer/ Speaker for Training Programs in Real Estate. He is committed to helping new and veteran real estate service practitioners be well-informed of the latest laws, rules, regulations, and information relevant to the real estate service sector
“If you want to succeed in real estate, be persistent, be passionate, and never give up.”
–Barbara Corcoran, American businesswoman, investor, and television personality
By Realttorney®
Are you are licensed real estate broker in the Philippines who is a project seller and wants to go into general brokerage to maximize all the opportunities that the real estate service sector has to offer?
Are you a private practitioner who belongs to a branded brokerage house but is dying to establish your own real estate brokerage business?
Finally, are you a graduating student of the Bachelor of Science in Real Estate Management in 2024 and are confident to pass the real estate brokerage examination in April 2024?
Embarking on the journey to establish a real estate brokerage in the Philippines is a significant endeavor that requires meticulous planning, industry knowledge, and a commitment to ethical conduct. It is a huge endeavor, but rewarding nonetheless.
These aspiring entrepreneurs in the real estate sector must navigate through various regulatory requirements, market dynamics, and operational challenges to carve a niche in this competitive landscape. This article outlines the essential steps to initiate and grow a successful real estate brokerage in the Philippines, focusing on practical insights and strategic considerations.
Step 1.Acquire the Necessary Qualifications and Licenses
All Real Estate Service Practitioners (RESPs) know this as gospel truth. No one can practice the real estate service profession without being licensed or accredited by the Professional Regulatory Board of Real Estate Service (PRBRES) according to the provisions of Rep. Act No. 9646 or the Real Estate Service Act. This means that if you are not yet licensed, then this article may not be for you to read.
But if you are persistent and you really want to become a licensed real estate broker or an accredited real estate salesperson, then you have to acquire the necessary qualifications. To become an accredited real estate salesperson then you need to undergo a 12-hour real estate training seminar for new-entry salespersons.
But, please remember that you need to have a minimum of 72 units of college subjects as a minimum qualification to get accredited by PRBRES. Now, if you want to be a real estate broker — because someone told you that the earning capacity is limitless — then you need to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate Management under Section 14 (b) of Rep. Act No. 9646.
After graduating with a degree in Real Estate Management then you need to pass the licensure examination to be conducted by the PRBRES under the supervision of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). Familiarize yourself with Republic Act No. 9646 to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
Step 2.Develop a Comprehensive Business Plan
What? Do I need to make a business plan? Yes, of course, if you want to succeed in your latest endeavor. Let me share with you a wonderful quote from Benjamin Franklin. He said, “By failing to plan, you are preparing to fail.” It is also similar to what Winston Churchill said: “He who fails to plan is planning to fail”.
It does not need to be a complicated business plan. Keep it simple as far as practical. But you have to cover these three critical items that would become the foundation of your entire business plan.
The first critical item is Market Analysis. Conduct thorough market research to identify target markets, assess competition, and analyze demand-supply dynamics. In my experience, I concentrate only on real estate transactions in the Metro Tagaytay area. I just want to specialize in a particular real estate market where I can operate comfortably. Or in a class of real estate that I can handle with ease, like farmland or raw land.
The message here is don’t be a jack-of-all-trades and master of none. One cannot effectively service the entire real estate market in the Philippines, covering all 13 or 14 regions. You have to choose your niche, your area of expertise, where you can effectively operate.
The second critical item is Financial Projections. Prepare detailed financial projections, including startup costs, operating expenses, and revenue forecasts. But, I don’t know how to do this? Do not despair. The greatest source of information regarding this matter is at your fingertips… and it is free. If you like to read, try Google Search. If you like to listen to instructions, try YouTube. Or, call a friend who has done this or has experience in making financial projections.
The third critical item is Strategic Objectives. Define clear objectives for the incoming year or the current year. Create the mission and vision for your real estate brokerage. Then, outline the unique value proposition for the clients and stakeholders of the brokerage.
Find a quiet place and time where you can do your planning without interruption from your kids, spouse, or co-workers. My suggestion is to wake up 30 minutes earlier than your usual time of waking up. Use that “extra” time you have to start planning.
Step 3.Establish a Legal Entity and Compliance Framework
As licensed real estate brokers, it is a given that we are already registered with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). As such, if you want to venture on your own, outside the structure of your current brokerage, then we are considered independent contractors. But remember that independent contractors are considered sole proprietors in their business endeavors.
The critical and most important act for Step 3 is to determine your Business Structure. Decide on the most suitable legal structure for your brokerage, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation. Know the tax deductions allowable for each kind of structure, as well as the monthly, quarterly, and annual regulatory compliance with the BIR.
If the entity you chose is a partnership or a corporation, then you also have to know the different Legal Compliance requirements for your chosen business entity. Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, including registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and compliance with local government rules and regulations.
Can you set up a One-Person Corporation to conduct your real estate brokerage? In my opinion, the answer is YES. But it is a separate article where my views on it are fully discussed.
Step 4.Build a Robust Network and Partnerships
I have always said in all my lectures that the real estate service sector is a relationship-based endeavor. The more you grow your network, the longer and better your career will be. But, create a high-caliber network composed of licensed real estate service practitioners (RESPs), never with colorum or pseudo practitioners.
Cultivate relationships with real estate developers, property owners, real estate investors, and other industry experts and stakeholders. Cultivating a relationship is quid pro quo. What value do you bring to the table? What value do you offer to the other party?
Consider being a part of a Professional Association of your choice. Of course, Section 34, Rep. Act No. 9646 mandates that all real estate service practitioners duly registered with PRBRES shall automatically become members of the accredited and integrated professional organization (AIPO) of real estate service practitioners.
But apart from joining the AIPO, you may still want to consider joining reputable real estate associations and organizations, such as the Real Estate Brokers Association of the Philippines (REBAP), to enhance credibility and access to resources. Eventually, these current real estate service organizations will transform themselves into specialty real estate organizations to create specialized RESPs.
If you ask: What areas of specialization are being proposed by PRBRES? At this early stage, here are the three proposed areas: (1) General brokerage, Titling, and Documentation; (2) Residential Project Selling; and (3) Foreclosed Properties. PRBRES said that these are the initial areas that may or may not be expanded.
Step 5.Invest in Marketing and Branding
What makes you different from all the other real estate brokers and salespersons working in your area of operation? What sets you apart from the others? Why would a seller or a buyer contact you for assistance in their real estate transaction?
At this stage of your planning process, you need to embrace the wisdom of having a Brand Identity. Another critical component of your business plan should include developing a compelling brand identity. This includes creating a logo, website, and marketing materials that resonate with your target audience.
How much Digital Presence do you need? Leverage online platforms, social media, and digital marketing strategies to enhance visibility and attract potential clients. Wow!! Are there a lot of things to consider? Yes, that is why planning on how to best use these strategies and implement them well is paramount.
These are part of your marketing plan, which is a part of your overall business plan. Why is this a critical part of the plan? It is so because to put these into action, you will spend a little or more than a little financial resource. Hence, you need a plan to know how much to allocate per month to execute these important marketing tools at your disposal.
Why do all these? As a licensed real estate broker or accredited real estate salesperson, you are considered a professional. And what sets you apart from the colorum or pseudo-practitioners who continue to dominate the market? Aside from your license or accreditation, it is a well-crafted business plan composed of the items we have so far discussed.
Step 6.Implement Effective Operational Systems
Now that you have your marketing strategies all planned out, you need to consider what technology you will use to streamline and automate your day-to-day operations. You have to determine how to systematize and manage your listings, site visits or orientations, client follow-ups, and transaction facilitation. There are a number and advanced real estate software and technology solutions that you (as a professional) can adopt. But, of course, this has a cost. So it is important to list this as a necessary cost of your operations.
Team Development: Have you considered creating your own team? Recruit and train your own team of accredited real estate salespersons, ensuring alignment with your brokerage’s values and customer service standards.
Make a handbook that will explicitly outline the mission and vision of your brokerage, the values of your organization, and the standard of service that will be experienced by your clients and/or customers.
In the alternative, have you considered forming a super-team with other RESPs? I know of a super-team, who are members of our organization, which decided to form a corporation to synergize their efforts and resources — financial and manpower — that make their earning opportunities and capacities more efficient.
If two brains are better than one, then probably five brains are far superior to one, correct? So, consider this carefully. It does not hurt if you find like-minded professionals who are aligned with your goals and values. This creates leverage that benefits the entire group in the end.
Step 7.Prioritize Ethical Conduct and Professionalism
The final step is to remind yourself that money is not the end-all and be-all of our profession. In a previous article, I argued that INTEGRITY is the most important personal quality a licensed real estate broker needs to be successful in the real estate service sector.
Hence, it is the same thing when you want to start your own real estate brokerage. Keep your eye on our Code of Ethics. All RESPs should uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, adhering to the Code of Ethics for Real Estate Service Practitioners to build trust and credibility. This is non-negotiable. Our long-term success is dependent on the reputation we build as a real estate service professional.
Client-Centric Approach: We should keep in mind the needs of our clients before our own. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule, like difficult or obnoxious clients. But we should always prioritize client satisfaction, transparency, and integrity in all interactions, so we can foster long-term relationships and secure referrals for future opportunities.
Conclusion
Embarking on the entrepreneurial journey to establish a real estate brokerage in the Philippines requires a strategic approach, an unwavering commitment to ethical conduct, and a deep understanding of the industry landscape. By following these essential steps and continuously adapting to market trends and regulatory changes, aspiring real estate brokers can lay a solid foundation for success, driving growth, and making a meaningful impact in the dynamic Philippine real estate market.
By adhering to the principles of integrity, professionalism, and client-centric service, real estate brokerages can navigate challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and build a reputation as trusted advisors and industry leaders.
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Atty. Jojo is a real estate attorney, an estate planning attorney, a licensed real estate broker, and a PRC-accredited Lecturer/ Speaker for Training Programs in Real Estate. He is committed to helping new and veteran real estate service practitioners be well-informed of the latest laws, rules, regulations, and information relevant to the real estate service sector.
“The Philippines is a developing nation with ideal conditions which position it as one of the best destinations for agri-tourism.”
– Asia Research Media, “The Rise of Agri-Tourism in the Philippines” on October 2013
By Realttorney®
Image source: The Playground in Royale Tagaytay Country Club. The club is a nine-hole garden golf course that is 3,079 yards long. It is described as a garden golf course because of the beautiful flora that surrounds it. It is located in Brgy. Buck Estate, Alfonso, Cavite.
Alfonso is part of the third Growth Area, under the Cavite Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan 2021 – 2030, known as Metro Tagaytay or the Tourism Haven and Food Basket of the Province. It is an upland town situated in the southwestern part of the Province of Cavite.
Alfonso, Cavite is 74 kilometers from Manila via Tagaytay. Magallanes is on its western side, Batangas Province on its southern side, Mendez and Tagaytay on its eastern side, General Aguinaldo on its northwestern side, and Maragondon and Indang on its northeastern side.
Why write about Alfonso, Cavite now? Well, aside from frequenting it often, it is a municipality that has gained attention for its natural beauty, cool climate, and emerging real estate opportunities. As a licensed real estate broker who has been a resident of Indang, Cavite for more than a decade, I will provide critical insights that are valuable for those interested in investing in real estate in Alfonso, Cavite.
Here are 5 key facts you need to know about the upland town of Alfonso.
1. Alfonso was once part of Indang, Cavite. The town was originally part of Barrio Lumampong in the town of Indang. Over time, the pocket settlements grew into sitios and later into barrios. The town became a separate district municipality from Indang on March 16, 1859, through the efforts of the community leaders Bonifacio Aveo and Felix del Mundo.
The new town was called Alas-as for seventeen years. The name refers to the pandan tree used for the construction of houses and bears sweet fruit. It was, eventually, named after King Alfonso XII of Spain, son of Isabella II.
On October 15, 1903, the adjacent towns of Bailen (now, the Municipality of General Emilio Aguinaldo) and Mendez-Nuñez merged with Alfonso under Act No. 947 enacted by the Philippine Commission. Both towns were later separated in 1915 to become independent once again.
2. Climate Excellence. One of the distinguishing features of Alfonso is its cool climate, reminiscent of Tagaytay, but less crowded and with more lush greenery. This climate advantage makes it a preferred destination for those seeking respite from the heat of urban areas.
The temperature in Alfonso has a yearly average of 20 to 27 degrees Celsius, with the highest temperature reaching 29, 30, and 29 from March, April, and June, respectively.[1] But you will still enjoy its cold breeze from late afternoon to nighttime.
This climate advantage is not just an environmental boon but also a factor that real estate brokers can leverage in marketing properties, especially for those looking to invest in second homes, vacation rentals (Airbnb), restaurants, resorts, and/or events places, and other development projects.
3. A Place of Culinary Distinction. There are numerous restaurants in Alfonso, Cavite. The entire municipality offers a gastronomic adventure, with flavors from around the world at every bend on the road. Here are some of the best restaurants in Alfonso, Cavite itself.
First, Lime and Basil offer Thai cuisine. Second, Lequestria Cafe and Restaurant offers French, Indian, Filipino, and Asian cuisine. Third, Marcia Adams offers Mediterranean cuisine. Fourth, Surugin Ramen House offers Japanese cuisine. Fifth, Amare La Cucina Tagaytay offers Italian cuisine. Finally, Sentro Botanikos offers Vegan and Healthy cuisine. These places are purely restaurants, and they are not the only places that satisfy the epicurean delights of their customers.
In addition, Alfonso is also home to various wedding venues and bed and breakfast businesses with onsite restaurants. The first example that comes to mind is Sonya’s Secret Garden located in Brgy. Buck Estate, Alfonso, Cavite. Second is Girasol along Tagaytay Nasugbu Highway. And, finally, Hill Creek Gardens along Luksuhin-Mangas Road.
FUN FACT: When you see the website addresses of Girasol and Hill Creek Gardens both include the word “Tagaytay”. But, now you know that these wonderful places are located in Alfonso, not Tagaytay.
4. Infrastructure Development. While it is not as urbanized as neighboring Tagaytay, Alfonso has been experiencing gradual infrastructure development, including road improvements and utilities.
One of the major roads that have been opened to serve the residents and visitors of the Metro Tagaytay area is the Tagaytay-Alfonso Bypass Road. If you are still unfamiliar with this new road, it starts at the end of TCI Road where the Tagaytay Public Cemetery is situated, and ends at the Luksuhin-Mangas Road.
As of the time of this writing, a portion of Bypass Road that passes through Brgy. Mahabang Kahoy Balagbag, Indang, Cavite connecting it to Brgy. Patutong Malaki North, Tagaytay City is still unpassable. Moreover, the portion from Tagaytay-Mendez Road to Maglabe Drive in Brgy. Guinhawa North, Tagaytay City is likewise still unpassable.
Aside from the Bypass Road, the East-West Lateral Road creates greater accessibility going to the Municipality of Alfonso. The Lateral Road is a 41.67-kilometer road project that will connect two national roads: the Cavite-Batangas Road in the east and the Ternate-Nasugbu Road in the west.
It will traverse the municipalities of Silang, Amadeo, Indang, Maragondon, General Aguinaldo, Magallanes in Cavite, and Nasugbu in Batangas. The project is part of the Build, Build, Build program of the government and is expected to be completed by 2024. The road will provide faster and easier access to the tourist destinations and agricultural areas in the region.
Finally, the proposed Cavite-Batangas Expressway (CBEX) will provide faster and easier access to the tourist destinations and agricultural areas of Silang, Amadeo, Tagaytay, Indang, Mendez, and Alfonso in Cavite – all part of Metro Tagaytay – before crossing into Nasugbu, Batangas. If all goes as planned, there will be 2 interchanges of CBEX that will be located in the Municipality of Alfonso.
The net effect of the opening of new portions of the Bypass Road (even though not completely opened), the completion of the East-West Lateral Road, and the future opening of CBEX is that real estate values have been rising in almost every corner of the Alfonso, Amadeo, and Indang. Easy access to once inaccessible parts of Alfonso has attracted new businesses and promoted economic growth in the municipality as well as the Metro Tagaytay area.
5. Agricultural Richness and Agri-tourism Potential. Did you know that Alfonso has a strawberry farm? It is called Queens Strawberry Farm and it is a farm-to-table agri-tourism complex composed of a farm, restaurant, and Bed-and-Breakfast accommodations. Aside from Sonya’s Secret Garden mentioned above, Luntiang Republika is a sustainable and eco-friendly farm. This farm offers guided tours, workshops, and other activities to educate visitors about the importance of sustainability and the benefits of organic farming.
Another agri-tourism site that you can visit and take ideas from when you want to create your own agri-tourism complex is Preziosa Farms. Previously known as “Preziosa Botanical Park and Farm Resort,” it is located in Brgy. Sulsugin, Alfonso, Cavite. It has 3 main features in all – The Farm, The Akela Campsite and The Villas.
And, another agri-tourism site located in Brgy. Palumlum is The Coffee Farmhouse. It is a farm that is all about coffee. But, it also has Bed-and-Breakfast accommodations and several recreational facilities where activities like biking, strolling, swimming, basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, billiards, darts, camping, and relaxing on a hammock under coffee trees are available to do in the Farmhouse complex.
The final agri-tourism site that comes to mind is probably one of my favorite due to its proximity to our home in Indang, Cavite. Camp Benjamin is situated in Brgy. Taywanak Ilaya, Alfonso, Cavite. It is an all-inclusive resort with a Hotel and Restaurant, Event Center, Farm, and other indoor and outdoor amenities.
With the 10-year moratorium on building residential housing projects in Alfonso, Cavite, the best investment opportunities here are agri-tourism projects and farm lot development projects. As you can see, Alfonso is an agricultural treasure trove. The municipality is known for its fertile lands suitable for various crops such as coffee, pineapple, and other agricultural products (vegetables and high-value commercial crops).
Plus, the potential for agri-tourism is quite significant. Real properties can be developed for agri-tourism projects, catering to the growing interest in sustainable and experiential lifestyles of Filipino urban dwellers. And there are numerous opportunities in properties that can be good candidates for such projects.
In conclusion, the Municipality of Alfonso presents a mosaic of opportunities and considerations for those involved and interested in real estate. From its history, climate excellence, and a place of culinary distinction to its agricultural richness and agri-tourism potential coupled with the infrastructure development sprouting in and around it, this municipality could be your perfect area of investment in the near or medium term.
If you want to know more about the opportunities for real estate investments in Alfonso, and other parts of the Metro Tagaytay area, feel free to contact us. We would be happy to assist you in determining whether your project is best suited to be located in Alfonso. Hope to hear from you soon.
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Atty. Jojo is a real estate attorney, an estate planning attorney, a licensed real estate broker, and a PRC-accredited Lecturer/ Speaker for Training Programs in Real Estate. He is committed to helping new and veteran real estate service practitioners be well-informed of the latest laws, rules, regulations, and information relevant to the real estate service sector.
“Most people who work at home find they do not have the benefit of receptionists who serve as personal guards.”
– Judith Martin, American Journalist, Author and Etiquette Authority
This article was written last August 31, 2013. It was probably published on my WordPress site the next day or a few days after. The record of it was lost when I lost control of the domain name four years ago. But, I just found out that an updated version of this article was published on October 7, 2013, on the website ZipMatch.
The title of the ZipMatch version of my article is “Working-from-Home Tips for Licensed Brokers.” I am so grateful that ZipMatch used and cited my article. It brings joy to my heart. Compared to other websites that claim my written articles as their own.
Since this article is more than a decade old, then it is now time to update it as well while keeping in mind what the world has gone through with COVID-19. The updates will be in blue font.
Photo by Ameruverse Digital Marketing Media on Pexels.com
By Realttorney®
Do real estate service practitioners (RESPs) in the Philippines need a physical office? Yes is the sad answer to the question.
Section 33 of RA 9646 mandates licensed real estate brokers, appraisers, and consultants to “establish and maintain a principal place of business and such other branch offices as may be necessary, and shall conspicuously display therein the original and/or certified true copies of his/her certificate of registration as well as the certificates of registration of all real estate service practitioners employed in such office.”
The legislators felt that requiring RESPs to have physical offices would give them credibility and make them look more professional vis-à-vis fly-by-night colorum brokers that are still operating despite the passage of the Real Estate Service Act (RESA) more than 14 years ago.
However, the cost of maintaining an office is a drain on the meager resources of independent RESPs. Therefore, I would venture a guess and declare that most independent RESPs have home offices – where they can display their certificate of registration proudly as required by RESA.
Having a home office is the best of both worlds for real estate brokers. First, you comply with what is required by RESA. Second, you do not have high overhead costs to maintain a home office.
Third, you do not even have to dress up and commute to work. Lastly, you have the flexibility to work whatever time you want while balancing your business time with your family time.
If this is the case, then it shouldn’t be really hard to establish a home office. Correct?
Not exactly, because it is more than what it seems. Working from home is not as easy as people would like many to believe. Oftentimes, having the flexibility of time makes it harder to be productive and complete each day’s goals or tasks.
I have experienced this when my daughter often interrupts my work by politely asking for something as mundane as “Papa, can I please have a glass of water?” She is four years young and although I am irritated sometimes, I still welcome such interruption. But, for others, such may not be the case, especially when there is a deadline to meet.
At home, distractions abound as well. And it becomes easy to put off those particularly annoying tasks – like tracking and listing your daily expenses for tax purposes – until tomorrow.
For veteran brokers and newbies (newly licensed real estate brokers) alike, here are five (5) tips to guide RESPs on getting the most out of working from home, four of which were taken from the article from Argonautnews.com.
TIP 1: Make a schedule and stick to it. A good schedule covers what you absolutely need to accomplish while being realistic about the amount of time each week to grow your business and prospect for new business. Stick to your schedule. For instance, spend your mornings completing administrative paperwork, touching base with clients on current deals, and securing exclusive listing agreements. Then, spend the rest of the day prospecting – in the home office or out.
Create a flexible schedule. This means planning for potential distractions, including personal phone calls, family members, pet noise, and televisions. However, this does not mean you are to put your personal life second. Some brokers find themselves on the clock all the time, as they’ve allowed the line to blur between work hours and non-work hours. Make sure to schedule time for family and friends outside of your established working hours. To have a life, plan it.
Tip 2: Establish a routine. Sometimes, it is tempting to get out of bed and go straight to the laptop and begin working because you thought of numerous things upon waking up. Resist this urge. Instead, create a routine that prepares your physical and mental state to tackle the work for the day.
As much as possible, wake up at the same time every day. Start off your day by meditating, exercising, or finding quiet time to reflect on your personal life. Shower, dress up, have breakfast, and take your child or children to school. Create a routine that takes into account the most important matters in your life. It all depends on what goals you want to accomplish this year and the year after. Afterward, it’s time to get down for some serious and uninterrupted work time.
TIP 3. Make a space. Camping out and working on the couch is not likely to get you very far. Invest heavily in personalizing your office space. Stock it with the office equipment you need to get the job done. Do not try to conduct your entire business from your smartphone. You will need an actual computer (or laptop), printer-scanner-xerox machine – and of course a desk and comfortable chair. This is your workspace.
As you’ll invariably spend many hours in your car each week, keep chargers for your mobile products – tablets and phones – in your car. Increasingly, real estate brokers carry laptops or tablets (and sometimes mobile printers) so they can type up and process transactions quickly. To keep all your work materials together, consider purchasing a car organizer. Most importantly, make sure that you have more than ample data connectivity for the day.
TIP 4. Find support. Working from home can make anyone feel disconnected. However, the great thing about working from home in this day and age is that you are not alone. There are plenty of other workers – in real estate and other professions – who live nearby and deal with the same struggles unique to working from a home office. Organize midday breaks for walks, refreshments, and conversations about work and family. Where can you find these fellow home office workers? Start by asking around your own professional network. You can also reach out through the virtual social network to create a live one. Form a community by planning regular meetings with these solitary workers.
TIP 5: Take advantage of the benefits. Working from home can save money by skipping expensive rent or desk fees for co-working arrangements, and time by eliminating your commute and office-chatter distractions. Further, tax deductions are allowed for some of the expenses and utilities used exclusively for your home office. Consult your certified public account on this matter.
To summarize, licensed real estate brokers should have an office – whether a home office or a physical office with a separate address. However, a home office is often most advantageous to real estate brokers because we are still compliant with RESA, have minimal overhead costs, and have no commute time to work.
To make a home office setup work, real estate brokers need to step up a schedule and stick to it, establish a routine, create a workspace at home, and take advantage of tax benefits. Just make sure that your office space at home will be conducive and inspire you to work smart.
In the end, whether you work at home or not, real estate brokers are people person in general. Your people skills are the most important of all. No one likes a grumpy and hard-to-get-along broker. This is what makes or breaks the career of a licensed real estate broker, not their home office setup.
Are there other tips that we have forgotten to mention above? Let us know by leaving your comments below.
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Atty. Jojo is a real estate attorney, an estate planning attorney, a licensed real estate broker, and a PRC-accredited Lecturer/Speaker for Training Programs in Real Estate. He is committed to helping new and veteran real estate service practitioners be well-informed of the latest laws, rules, regulations, and information relevant to the real estate service sector.
