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  • Home for the Holidays: The Role of Real Estate in Fostering Community and Belonging

    “The yearend brings no greater pleasure than the opportunity to express to you season’s greetings and good wishes. May your holidays and new year be filled with joy.”

    –  Charles Dickens, English novelist and Social Critic

    By Realttorney®

    The holiday season is indeed a special time when the concept of ‘home’ takes on a deeper meaning. Beyond just a physical structure, a home becomes a space where cherished memories are made, and traditions are upheld. This emotional connection to our homes is what ultimately fosters a sense of belonging and community among Filipinos.

    Moreover, homes are often the setting for holiday gatherings and celebrations. Filipino families and friends come together to exchange gifts, share meals, and create lasting memories. The size and layout of a home does not really matter. However, it can impact the dynamics of these events, with open-concept spaces facilitating social interaction and cozy nooks offering intimate settings for conversations.

    Ultimately, real estate goes beyond just providing shelter. It is a catalyst for community-building and emotional connections. The homes we inhabit during the holidays become containers for love, joy, and a sense of belonging. Whether it’s through the design, layout, or the experiences we have within them, real properties have the power to enhance our holiday experience and create lasting memories for years to come.

    Photo by Nicole Michalou on Pexels.com

    The Emotional Landscape of Homecoming

    The act of homecoming during the holiday season is a deeply rooted cultural and emotional experience shared by individuals and families around the world. This is the reason why thousands of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) chose to come back home and spend the Christmas holidays with their families.

    In the context of real estate, this phenomenon gains profound significance, as real properties serve as the tangible repositories of memories, traditions, and shared histories. This section delves into the emotional landscape of homecoming, elucidating how real estate shapes and enriches the narratives of the holiday season.

    Familiarity and Comfort: The familiarity of one’s home during the holidays offers a welcome break from the hectic pace of daily life. The scent of freshly made delicacies wafting from the kitchen or the soft glow of festive decorations adorning your living room can evoke a profound sense of comfort and belonging.

    Hamon, queso de bola, leche flan, and ube haleya are some of the foods that were always present during noche buena when I was growing up and celebrating Christmas in Indang with our grandparents. And different families have different staples of food on their dining table. But, these instances are what build the familiarity and comfort as children growing up with a closely knit family.

    Traditions and Rituals: Homes often serve as the cornerstone for family traditions and rituals. From setting up the Christmas tree to hosting annual family gatherings, the spatial layout and design of a home can significantly influence the dynamics of communal interactions and shared experiences, as stated above.

    However, no matter the layout of the house, as long as the family members are complete and gathered in one place, the celebration is complete and heartwarming. The challenge happens when families expand and welcome new family members.

    Neighborhoods as Microcosms of Community

    Beyond individual properties, neighborhoods play a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community and belonging. The layout, amenities, and social dynamics within a neighborhood can profoundly impact residents’ quality of life and sense of connectedness.

    Shared Spaces and Amenities: Parks, churches, community centers, shopping malls, and other recreational facilities serve as communal hubs where neighbors converge, interact, and forge meaningful connections. These shared spaces facilitate the exchange of ideas, cultural practices, and mutual support, thereby enriching the fabric of the community.

    Of course, every Christmas Day the shopping malls all over the Philippines are full of families gathering together and having a great time with one another. And, this has been a recent phenomenon for the past decade. Why? A visit to the malls alleviates families from the mundane tasks of preparing and cooking the food and washing the dishes and cooking implements after the festivities.

    Cultural Diversity and Inclusivity: A vibrant neighborhood is often characterized by its cultural diversity and inclusivity. The mosaic of backgrounds, traditions, and perspectives fosters a dynamic social ecosystem where residents learn from one another, celebrate diversity, and cultivate a sense of global citizenship.

    Real Estate as a Catalyst for Social Impact

    The role of real estate extends beyond mere transactions; it serves as a catalyst for social impact, influencing broader societal trends and values. Do you agree?

    Sustainable Development and Urban Planning: Responsible real estate development prioritizes sustainability, inclusivity, and community engagement. By integrating green spaces, promoting walkability, and incorporating mixed-use developments, urban planners and real estate developers can create environments that prioritize human well-being and environmental stewardship.

    We have seen major developers who have embraced the increased use of open spaces within their shopping mall complex, aside from implementing green and sustainable technologies. And Filipinos welcome these modalities with open arms.

    Affordable Housing and Social Equity: Not all Filipinos are celebrating Christmas in their own homes. Affordability remains a critical issue in the Philippine real estate market, posing challenges for both aspiring homeowners and policymakers alike. The confluence of factors such as rapid urbanization, supply-demand dynamics, and economic disparities has exacerbated affordability constraints, particularly in major urban centers.

    The affordability issue in the Philippine real estate market is a complex and multi-dimensional challenge that requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders. By addressing the root causes, implementing targeted policy interventions, and fostering collaboration between the government, real estate developers, real estate professionals, and civil society organizations, it is possible to mitigate affordability constraints and pave the way for a more inclusive and sustainable housing market.

    In conclusion, the holiday season serves as a poignant reminder of the intrinsic human need for connection, belonging, and community. Within the realm of real estate, this sentiment is manifested through homes and neighborhoods that serve as vibrant spaces for communal interactions, shared experiences, and emotional well-being. As we celebrate the joyous festivities of the season, let us recognize and cherish the profound role that real estate plays in fostering community, enriching lives, and nurturing the essence of ‘home.’

    Merry Christmas everyone. May today’s festivities in your homes bring you joy and comfort that will renew and uplift your spirits for the remaining days of 2023.

    ——-

    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.

  • Mastering the Balancing Act: A Guide to Part-Time Real Estate Brokerage Success in the Philippines

    “The effort to work a small deal versus the bigger one is about the same. Focus your mindset on fewer, bigger, and better deals.”

    – Atty. Ernesto C. Perez II, CTEPTM Real Estate Attorney & Licensed Real Estate Broker

    By Realttorney®

    I was an attorney first then a licensed real estate broker second. In terms of the practice in real estate service, I am more well-versed in the documentation side of the real estate transaction. My wife, who is also a licensed real estate broker, is the one who has experienced closing real estate sales transactions.

    It is safe to say that my wife and I are part-time real estate brokers. Why? Because real estate brokerage is not our main source of income. Unlike the hundreds of licensed real estate brokers who actively practice the profession as their bread-and-butter income source. They are the backbone of this industry. Kudos to them.

    Photo by Thirdman on Pexels.com

    And, in the dynamic landscape of the Philippine real estate industry, the role of a licensed real estate broker is pivotal. However, many licensed professionals find themselves constrained by the commitments of a full-time job in another field.

    Balancing two professions is undeniably challenging but not insurmountable. This article aims to provide insightful pointers on how a licensed real estate broker can successfully work part-time in the Philippines, especially when juggling a full-time role in another profession.

    Before delving into strategies, it’s imperative to address the regulatory framework governing real estate brokerage in the Philippines. If one wishes to be a part-time real estate broker in the Philippines, he or she should have an unexpired license. Hence, if your license is expired, then you cannot legally practice your part-time profession.

    Even as a part-time real estate broker, adherence to ethical standards and regulatory compliance should never be compromised. Maintaining a deep understanding of the Real Estate Service Act (RESA) of 2009 and Resolution No. 39, Series of 2019 (Code of Ethics) ensures that brokers operate within legal parameters, thereby safeguarding their reputation and their level of professionalism.

    Here are 5 important insights that will guide a part-time real estate broker to be successful in his or her second or third chosen profession.

    Time Management and Prioritization

    Effective time management is the linchpin of part-time real estate brokerage if success is the goal. Given that you have a full-time commitment to another profession, delineating clear boundaries and allocating specific hours for real estate activities is essential.

    1. Set Clear Boundaries: Designate certain days or hours exclusively for real estate tasks. One or two days a week would be ideal. And, two to three hours a week could provide enough spark to keep your interest in this profession.

    2. Leverage Technology: Utilize scheduling tools (Google or Apple Calendar), and communication platforms to streamline and automate your processes. Create systems that will assist you in getting your tasks done at the least amount of time necessary. There are various productivity and note-taking web applications to help you plan and organize your activities under a single platform.

    3. Delegate When Necessary: Consider hiring or partnering with assistants for tasks that don’t require your direct involvement. If you have a personal assistant, who works with you on your full-time profession then it is best that you inform him or her of the “extra” work that he or she will perform for you as a licensed real estate broker. The best practice is if you close a transaction then your assistant gets rewarded for the valuable assistance extended to you.

    Niche Specialization

    One of the most effective strategies for part-time brokers is to specialize in a particular niche within the real estate market. The Professional Regulatory Board for Real Estate Service (PRBRES) has announced that they are encouraging all licensed real estate brokers to specialize in three major areas.

    First, is General Brokerage, Titling, and Documentation. Second, is Residential Project Selling. And lastly, Foreclosed Properties. Despite these three areas of specialization, there are still several niches that you can focus your attention on. These could range from residential properties in specific locations to commercial real estate or even niche markets like farm lot developments and agricultural real estate, industrial development projects, or memorial lot projects.

    Never be a jack of all trades and be a master of none. Pick a niche to specialize in. Specializing allows you to:

    1. Build Expertise: Deep dive into market trends, pricing strategies, and client preferences within your chosen niche. Your expertise will allow you to do fewer, better but bigger valued deals. Be the go-to broker in your chosen field of specialization.

    2. Network Efficiently: Focus your networking efforts on industry events, seminars, and groups relevant to your specialization. It makes sense to focus your time and energy on a particular segment of the real estate industry. If you focus enough time and effort on a particular segment then you will be recognized as a thought leader for that chosen segment of yours.

    3. Maximize ROI: With targeted marketing and a specialized client base, you can achieve higher returns on your time and investment. If you will not be able to focus 100% on real estate, then if you do work on a deal make it worth your while.

    Collaborative and Synergistic Partnerships

    Collaboration can be a game-changer for part-time real estate brokers. By forging strategic partnerships with full-time brokers or real estate agencies, you can tap into their resources, listings, and client base. Just make sure that the partnership you are entering into is synergistic for both parties involved. It must be the right fit.

    This can be done through the following:

    1. Referral Agreements: Establish referral agreements where you can refer clients to other brokers in exchange for a commission split or a referral fee. There is no hard-and-fast rule about this. Just make sure that when you request for a commission split then you will contribute more effort to the transaction than just merely referring a prospective buyer or seller outside your chosen niche.

    2. Team Up for Listings: Partner with other brokers to co-list properties, thereby expanding your reach without overextending yourself. We suggest that the real properties that will be co-listed belong to the category of your chosen niche but outside your area of operation. As a part-time real estate broker it is best to concentrate on a specific area of operation or concern like the CALABARZON area, or different regions in the Philippines.

    3. Shared Resources: Utilize shared office spaces, administrative support, and marketing resources to enhance your part-time operations. This is how you create leverage in your part-time profession. But be smart about this. Study sharing resources assiduously. If not, this can be a drain on your financial resources.

    Continuous Learning and Professional Development

    The real estate landscape is ever-evolving, influenced by economic factors, regulatory changes, and technological advancements. As a part-time real estate broker, investing in continuous learning is non-negotiable. Moreover, our Code of Ethics requires us to be life-long learners.

    As part-timers, you should commit to the following:

    1. Attend Seminars and Workshops: Stay abreast of industry trends, legal updates, and best practices by attending PRC-accredited continuing professional development (CPD) seminars.

    2. Engage in Online Courses: Leverage online platforms offering courses on real estate brokerage, property valuation, and market analysis, even though they are not accredited CPD seminars. There are a few experts in real estate who are not accredited by the PRC to teach real estate topics. But this should not stop you from enrolling in said courses to increase your knowledge base.

    3. Join Professional Organizations: Become a member of reputable real estate organizations like the Real Estate Brokers Association of the Philippines (REBAP) to access resources, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs of some chapters like the REBAP Metro Tagaytay Chapter.

    Marketing and Branding

    Finally, building a robust personal brand is crucial for part-time brokers to establish credibility and attract clients. But this matter goes hand in hand with effective time management and prioritization of activities.

    The part-time real estate broker must first and foremost have a simple marking plan to set clear goals on how to deploy various marketing strategies available with the help of the latest technology like ChatGPT. Effective marketing strategies include:

    1. Content Marketing: The part-time real estate broker can share insights, market analyses, and tips through his or her blogs, videos, or podcasts. Think about creating a YouTube channel even as a part-timer. This could be a potent avenue for engagement and establishing yourself as a niche player in your segment.

    2. Social Media Presence: Maintain an active presence on professional platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and/or TikTok. For starters, post once a week on all these social media applications. Then when you get a hang of things, you may want to increase the frequency of your posts from 2 to 5 posts three or four times a week. Finally, when your time allows it, you may want to create ads in each social media application to reach more potential clients within your niche.

    3. Client Testimonials: Showcase testimonials from satisfied clients to build trust and credibility. Even as a part-time real estate broker, this strategy will work because it gives social validation on what type of professional you are to work with and the level of service you provide.

    In conclusion, navigating the realm of part-time real estate brokerage in the Philippines necessitates a strategic approach encompassing time management skills, niche specialization, collaborative partnerships, continuous learning, and effective marketing. By implementing these pointers, licensed real estate brokers can not only successfully balance a part-time brokerage role with a full-time profession but also thrive in the competitive Philippine real estate landscape.

    Tell me, what is your full-time profession? And is this article a valuable resource for you in the upcoming year? Let us have a conversation.

    ——-

    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.

  • Six Main Facts to Know About the Historic Town of Indang, Cavite

    “Paradise is exactly like where you are right now… only much, much better.”

    – Laurie Anderson, American artist, composer, musician and film director

    By Realttorney®

    Indang is part of the third Growth Area, under the Cavite Enhanced Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan 2021 – 2030, known as Metro Tagaytay or the Tourism Haven and Food Basket of the Province. This third Growth Area is composed of seven other municipalities and one city, which we will feature in subsequent articles in the future.

    Why write about Indang, Cavite first? Well, aside from living here, Indang is a very interesting place. More importantly, as a real estate service practitioner, I have to become an expert in the area of opportunity I concentrate on.

    Here are 6 main facts you need to know about the central upland town of Indang.

    1. Indang was once a part of the Municipality of Silang, Cavite for about 70 years. Indang became a full-fledged town in 1655 when it was administratively separated from Silang to resolve the difficulties of Indangeños in transacting official business and attending religious services. Think about it. There was no East-West Lateral Road to speak of during the 1600s.

    2. Indang is a historical town. During the Philippine Revolution, Indang was known by its Katipunan name “Walang Tinag.” It belonged to the Magdiwang faction of the Katipunan headed by the Supremo – Andres Bonifacio, as opposed to the Magdalo faction headed by Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo.

    The Tejeros Convention was a revolutionary assembly held on March 22, 1897, in Rosario, Cavite. Presided over by Andres Bonifacio toward the end of the session, the Assembly decided to establish a central revolutionary government and elected Emilio Aguinaldo, President; Mariano Trias, Vice President; Artemio Ricarte, Captain General; Emiliano Riego De Dios, Director of War; and Andres Bonifacio, Director of the Interior.

    However, Daniel Tirona questioned the election of Bonifacio as Director of the War on account that the position should be held by a lawyer. Bonifacio was insulted by this act of Daniel Tirona. Hence, he voided the results of the Convention as Supremo of the Katipunan.

    He then retreated to Indang to regroup. His arrest was ordered by the newly-elected President Aguinaldo to prevent Bonifacio from pursuing his counter-revolutionary plan to set up a separate government and army to proceed with his own plans for the revolution. Andres Bonifacio was arrested in Barangay Limbon, Indang, This is the exact place Bonifacio retreated to after nullifying the election to decide the leaders of the revolutionary government in Rosario, Cavite. The Bonifacio Shrine stands as a reminder of this historical fact.

    3. Indang is a center of academic learning. In the heart of this Municipality can be found the main campus of the Cavite State University (CvSU), known as the Don Severino De Las Alas Campus.

    Who was Don Severino? Don Severino De Las Alas was a prominent Indang native who was elected Secretary of Justice at the Tejeros Convention. He belonged to the Magdiwang faction of the Katipunan.

    From its humble beginnings in 1906 as the Indang Intermediate School, CvSU has 11 campuses (I think… I lost count after 10) spread all over the Province of Cavite, with more than 30,000 students, 1,200 faculty and staff from all campuses, and offering close to 100 curricular programs in the undergraduate and graduate levels.

    But CvSU’s crown jewel on the main campus, in my opinion, is the 5-hectare Agri Eco-Tourism Park which boasts of thousands of endemic plants and tree species. It also produces the premium Aguinaldo Blend, which is roasted and blended with Cavite Barako, Robusta, and arabica beans. It is also a Farmer’s Training Center and Technology Demonstration Farm of the Agricultural Training Institute of the Department of Agriculture.

    4. Indang has one of the oldest Catholic churches in the Province of Cavite. Based on Church History, Indang was originally a chapel of Silang under the Jesuits. The church was established as a mission station of Father Angelo Armano in 1611 and became a separate parish only in 1625 under the advocacy of Pope St. Gregory the Great.

    A huge part of the stone church was built during the term of Father Luis Morales from 1672 to 1676 and was finished in 1710. The church was burned during the Philippine Revolution against the Spaniards.

    Curiously, despite being dedicated under the chaplaincy of St. Gregory the Great, the Parish effectively has 8 patron saints. The devotion to the Seven Archangels by Indangeños is strong. Since then, several miracles have been attributed to St. Gregory the Great and the 7 Archangels. Preparations are underway for the 400th anniversary of the parish in 2025.

    5. Indang is a top food producer for the Province of Cavite. Like some of its neighbors, it is a first-class municipality. But, its main driver of municipal revenues comes from agro-business commercial farms which raise large volumes of livestock and poultry. As per the record of the municipal agricultural office, there are existing hog farms, broiler farms, layer and breeder farms – categorized as backyard, medium-scale to large-scale commercial operations.

    More than 7,000 hectares of land in Indang are devoted to agriculture. Most farmers are engaged in multi-cropping farming systems. Most lands are planted with vegetables, root crops, corn, coconut, banana, coffee, pineapple, and other high-value commercial crops like dragon fruit, mangoes, cocoa, etc. As such, Indang has claimed the title of the Agri-Tourism Center of Cavite.

    6. Indang is the Spring Water Capital of the Philippines. More than a dozen springwater resorts are thriving in the municipality. They become areas of fun activities during the summertime, as the cold waters provide respite to the hot and humid weather in Metropolitan Manila.

    There are various resorts in Indang that people from within and outside the Province of Cavite visit during April, May, and June. Sad, some of these resorts have swimming pools right in the middle of a river, which makes these structures and their operation not compliant with the environmental laws of the country.

    Numerous real estate inquiries in this part of upland Cavite are farm lots for weekend farmers Who want a second home away from the hassles of urban life or semi-retired to retired individuals looking for a shift in their lifestyle. But in my previous article, I argued that Metro Tagaytay is more than just a haven for retirees. Young professionals in the Gig Economy are perfect to invest for their future homes and raise a family in this 3rd Growth Area of Cavite.

    Other real estate-related inquiries are possible sites for posh and not-so-posh event places and/or resort businesses near the various rivers and tributaries crisscrossing the Municipality of Indang. In addition, real estate developers find Indang as an ideal environment to set up farm lot subdivision projects.

    And, this is the only type of project that is allowed for now considering the 10-year moratorium on converting agricultural land for residential purposes. The moratorium was imposed last 2018. So, we are halfway through. After another 5 years, various types of residential development projects may be allowed once again in Indang.

    To conclude, there are vast opportunities for real estate investment in our quaint community. But, make no mistake this is a rural community. We are far enough from Mega Manila to enjoy fresh air and low prices of agricultural produce.

    Yet, with the presence of nearby shopping malls and other so-called “urban amenities,” we really like where we live and we can say that we have found our paradise in this part of Cavite. In the words of Agritorney, “OWN A FARM. MAKE IT YOUR PARADISE.“

    ——-

    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.

  • Now is the Time to Talk About Your Estate Plan

    “Making an estate plan is taking action from the heart. Estate planning is a gesture that comes from a place of love and caring for those who depend on you.”

    – Connie Aschenbrenner Estate Planning Attorney in the State of Alaska
    Photo by Mike Bird on Pexels.com

    By Realttorney®

    It is ten days before the end of the year. Typically, you will see on television programs the yearend reviews about the economy, and specific sectors or industries in the Philippines. Sadly, part of this yearend review consists of recalling personalities or celebrities who suddenly and unexpectedly passed away during the year.

    Think about your situation now. If you suddenly die tomorrow, what will happen to your immediate family – your spouse and children or your old parent living with you? How will be taken care of? Who will care for your children when they are not yet of legal age?

    Who will care for your child with special needs or an old relative depending on you for support, if this is applicable in your situation? What will happen to your properties – real and personal? Can your immediate family members continue your business venture?

    There are so many questions to ask. And the answers are very difficult to provide. But the questions can only be answered if you are willing to sit down and commit to talking about your estate plan.

    Talking about estate planning is always very difficult for a vast majority of people because most of us cannot imagine what things would be like after we die. But, I argue, that it is precisely what we should be doing – imagining what and how our loved ones would live after we are gone. We must look at and consider the different scenarios that will affect the quality of life of our loved ones when we pass away or become incapacitated for a long time.

    Every family situation is unique. Hence, every estate plan is very much different from the next. There is no one-size-that-fits-all plan when you want to set up one. Estate Planning is, according to one author, premature death planning. So, what exactly is an estate plan?

    Your estate plan is a tool where you communicate your wishes when you die or become incapacitated permanently or for a long time. It is a set of instructions to your loved ones on how you will be remembered and how they will be provided financially when you are no longer present or unable to dictate your wishes personally. It is also a road map on how your debts and other liabilities will be settled, as well as how the business will go on without you at the helm.

    Several days ago, the husband of a lady lawyer passed away. He was 31 years old. So much of life ahead but cut short. The couple had a two-year-old and a baby several months old, it seems. When I read the news, the first thing that came to my mind was the welfare of the children.

    The second thing was I hope the couple was savvy enough to get life insurance for each spouse and prepare a simple estate plan. Purchasing life insurance is part and parcel of an estate plan because it is one of the basic tools of estate planning.

    It does not matter whether you have a large or small estate, or you are just starting out in life; whether you are single or married; or whether you are separated or estranged from your legal spouse. Every Filipino of legal age, who is gainfully employed and has dependents – young or old – for financial or economic support must have an estate plan in place, as you as possible.

    WHERE DO YOU START? If you are now convinced that you need to take this estate planning seriously, how do you begin the process? Here are my suggestions for you to consider:

    1. Research on the topic exhaustively. The first thing to do is to go to Google, type in the words “estate planning in the Philippines” in the search bar, and press ENTER. There are multitudes of articles for you to start reading. When you read these articles, please take down copious notes so that you can go back to read them after going over the rest of the articles that Google suggested.

    2. Learn about the basic estate planning tools. In your quest for information, you must know what are the basic tools that are available and applicable to the Philippine setting. There are plenty of articles about basic estate planning tools that are written by authors from the United States. Again, you must take down notes so that you know what each tool can do and what are the best tools that are needed for your situation.

    3. Take note of your current family situation. You must take stock of where you are in life when you begin the process of planning for your demise. Are your children still minors? If yes, then you must think about who you will appoint as guardian if you die suddenly.

    This is also very much true if you have a child with special needs, like me. How will your child be cared for? Who will bring your child to therapy – occupational or speech, or both? How will the cost of the therapies be paid for?

    Do you get the picture? Do you get the sense of how to go about meticulously planning for this eventuality in your life? Take notes, make a mind map, or draw a flow chart. Whatever it takes to capture your thoughts on paper, or the computer will be worth it.

    4. Talk to your immediate family or nearest of kin. It is my opinion that an estate plan should not be made or crafted in secret. You must talk to your spouse or immediate family members whom you will rely on to execute your plan to perfection. Pick out the relatives who you can trust and make them involved in the process. Get their input and comments on certain things that you want done when you are gone. Again, take note of what they say positively as well as their objections to certain things.

    Now that you have more than a handful of notes, what do you do will all this information? Learn them by heart. And when you are ready, it’s time to reach out to a professional. Estate planning is a multi-disciplinary approach to crafting your plans after you have passed. These experienced professionals – estate planning attorneys, certified public accountants, life insurance brokers, licensed real estate brokers, registered financial planners, etc. – will guide you in preparing an estate plan that is tailored to fit your needs.

    Once you have made your estate plan, with the able assistance of various professionals, please remember that its contents are not set in stone. It can be changed and revised based on the changes in your family circumstances or life-altering events that affected your health or your business.

    In conclusion, Connie Aschenbrenner said, “Don’t wait until a crisis arises to begin the conversation. In a crisis, you may not have the time to fully consider your options. Or you may be incapacitated and unable to decide on anything at all.”

    Estate Planning is more than just premature death planning. It is a protection plan for the lives of your survivors, according to Ms. Aschenbrenner. Don’t wait before it is too late. Start the process of planning your estate now. The Google search bar awaits you.

    ——-

    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 a Chartered Trust and Estate Planning (CTEPTM) professional who is committed to educating Filipinos about the value and importance of having an estate plan in their lives.

  • Top 7 Reasons Why Metro Tagaytay is the Ultimate Haven for Gig Economy Professionals in CALABARZON

    “Metro Tagaytay is an investment in lifestyle and future prosperity, along with an unparalleled quality of life.”

    – Atty. Ernesto C. Perez II, Real Estate Attorney

    By Realttorney®

    This article is not about the City of Tagaytay. It will be mentioned often as it is the Summer Capital of the CALABARZON Region. But it will not be the focus of this essay.

    According to the Cavite Enhanced Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan 2021 – 2030, “the areas of Tagaytay, a portion of Silang, Alfonso, Mendez, Amadeo, Indang, Ternate, Maragondon and Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo comprises the third Growth Area known as Metro Tagaytay or the Tourism Haven and Food Basket of the Province. These are the top food producers in the province and sit some of the province’s scenic and tourism spots.”[1]

    Of course, the most famous local government unit (LGU) in this cluster is Tagaytay City. Being approximately 56 kilometers south of the National Capital Region (NCR), some consider Tagaytay City the next best thing to Baguio for local and foreign tourists, who want to experience a cooler climate and escape the concrete jungle of NCR.

    But, the Metro Tagaytay Area is more than just the City of Character. As the third Growth Area in the Framework Plan of Cavite, LGUs in this cluster “have an abundance of lands for agricultural purposes and settlements expansion without undermining the need to preserve its functional role as the province’s top food producing areas.”

    The Metro Tagaytay Area’s strategic location, pleasant climate, and the government’s commitment to infrastructure development as key factors driving its real estate market. These factors not only enhance the quality of life but also contribute to the long-term attractiveness of Metro Tagaytay as an investment destination.

    The Metro Tagaytay Area is not a retirees’ haven. I would argue that it would be a haven for the young professionals in the Gig economy. This Gig Economy in the Philippines has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by technological advancements, changing work preferences, and economic dynamics.

    Young professionals, typically aged between 20 to 40 years, constitute a substantial segment of this burgeoning workforce. Engaged in various freelance, contract-based, or project-oriented roles, these individuals leverage digital platforms and specialized skills to offer services across diverse sectors such as technology, finance, marketing, and creative arts.

    But we are not talking about digital nomads here. We are discussing those young professionals who have a specialized skill set and embrace the autonomy to choose projects, set their schedules, and work remotely, aligning with their lifestyle preferences and career aspirations.

    We are talking about young entrepreneurs who command higher pay rates and have diversified income streams, and personal brands to leverage on. But at the same time, they effectively collaborate with their clients and manage their workflow efficiently.

    A study by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) highlighted that the Philippines has one of the highest rates of freelancers in Southeast Asia, with the Gig Economy playing a pivotal role in enhancing economic resilience and fostering innovation. In an International Labour Organisation (ILO) study on online freelance workers in the Philippines, female online freelancers cited the need to take care of young children as a key reason why they chose such work.

    According to a report by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the Gross Value Added generated by the information and communication services sector, which encompasses a significant portion of the Gig Economy, contributed approximately PhP 689.22 billion to the country’s GDP in 2022. This contribution underscores the economic significance of the Gig Economy in driving growth and employment opportunities.

    Hence, these young professionals in the Gig Economy have the financial capacity to afford real property in the Metro Tagaytay Area, where the lifestyle is laid-back and internet connection is relatively reliable. Aside from these factors, here are the top 7 reasons why:

    1. The excellent climate. Except for Ternate and the non-mountainous areas of Maragondon, Metro Tagaytay is blessed with relatively low temperatures, normally 1 to 2 degrees lower than the temperature in the National Capital Region, and abundant rainfall. Despite the temperatures in the Metro Tagaytay area reaching the mid-30, especially during May and June, the entire area experiences cooler temperatures at nighttime until the break of dawn during summertime.

    The majority of the LGUs belonging to the cluster are located 230 to 600 meters above sea level. This is the major reason for the cool and invigorating climate. As such, these young professionals will often have lower electricity bills during summer compared to those in the National Capital Region.

    2. The fresh air. The majority of the land area of the Metro Tagaytay Area is still planted with forest and fruit trees, especially in the Municipalities of Indang, Alfonso, Amadeo, Mendez, and General Emilio Aguinaldo. No thick smog envelopes the area during the early mornings unlike in Metro Manila. Read here what my favorite business columnist Boo Chanco wrote about how “Metro Manila is getting uninhabitable” way back in 2014.

    Imagine nurturing one’s baby and toddlers in an environment where smog and vehicle exhaust is not prevalent or widespread. Imagine also waking up with the sounds of different birds chirping and peeking from the bedroom window.

    3. The low prices of basic agricultural products. The member LGUs of the cluster are the top food producers of the Province of Cavite. Hence, the residents benefit from this. Costs of basic commodities – fruits, vegetables, meats, and other agricultural products – are relatively cheap in the Metro Tagaytay area. For example, the public market of Indang is the source of cheap but fresh agricultural produce sold to consumers.

    4. Healthcare Excellence. Metro Tagaytay boasts a commendable healthcare infrastructure that resonates with the needs of young professionals in the Gig Economy. The presence of state-of-the-art hospitals, specialized clinics, and healthcare centers ensures accessibility to quality medical services. Tagaytay Medical Center is a private hospital located beside the Fora Mall of Filinvest along Aguinaldo Highway. It has a 50 to 100 in-patient bed capacity with laboratory and diagnostic services.

    Meanwhile, in Alfonso, Cavite there is the De La Salle Dr. Rodolfo Poblete Memorial Hospital in Brgy. Poblacion I. However, the newest hospital in the Metro Tagaytay Area is Mendez Specialists Medical Center along Tagaytay-Mendez Road. It is a 4-story state-of-the-art healthcare facility that can service the residents of Alfonso, Indang, and Tagaytay City.

    Finally, M.V. Santiago Medical and Diagnostic Center Indang is a multi-specialty clinic located in Poblacion 3, Indang, Cavite that caters to the residents of Indang, my hometown. However, in about 2 years, a government tertiary hospital will rise inside the main campus of the Cavite State University in Brgy. Bancod, Indang.

    5. Educational Opportunities. For young professionals considering educational prospects for their families or personal advancement, Metro Tagaytay presents a myriad of options. The area is home to reputable educational institutions, including the main campus of the Cavite State University (Don Severino Delas Alas Campus), and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines along the Luksuhin-Mangas Road in Alfonso, Cavite.

    The Municipality of Silang boasts the most number of tertiary education institutions, namely, Far Easter University – Silang Campus, Adventist University of the Philippines, Rogationist College, and the Cavite State University – Silang Campus.

    6. Stress-free living. Most of the people living in the Metro Tagaytay area are laid back. But it doesn’t mean that they don’t work hard. It’s a daily experience living close to Nature. Chirping birds wake you up in the morning along with refreshing and cool air. How can you be stressed when you have a low cost of electricity and a low cost of basic produce?

    Moreover, the Metro Tagaytay area consistently records low crime rates compared to the neighboring municipalities. The area ensures a safe living environment due to its well-established network of law enforcement agencies and community watch programs. Hence, Metro Tagaytay is perfect for those who want to fully embrace the laptop lifestyle – people who make a living online (virtual assistants and online entrepreneurs).

    It is a joy driving around the Metro Tagaytay area. Of course, the presence of slow-moving tricycles as well as dogs and chickens suddenly crossing the road are sources of minor frustrations. There is hardly any traffic during weekdays. Monstrous traffic jams occur only in Tagaytay City and Silang starting Fridays up to the late afternoon of Sundays and during long holidays.

    7. Finally, the prices of real properties are still competitive compared to other areas in the CALABARZON Region. Metro Tagaytay’s real estate market presents a golden opportunity for young professionals in the Gig Economy to secure relatively affordable and promising investments. Land values in the Metro Tagaytay Area are still competitive compared to other cities and municipalities in the Province of Cavite.

    The only exception here is the City of Tagaytay, where land values are about 30% to 60% higher compared to the other Metro Tagaytay municipalities. Of course, the exception to this is the City of Tagaytay. But there are still bargains to be had in the area of Metro Tagaytay and in Tagaytay City itself.

    Personally, I project a sustained growth in property values in the Metro Tagaytay Area, driven by factors such as infrastructure development (the opening of the Silang West Interchange of CALAX, completion of East-West Lateral Road, and the construction of CTBEX), increased urbanization, and the region’s growing popularity as a farm lot development hub. With the Gig Economy’s flexibility, young professionals can leverage their property as an investment, either through rental income or capital appreciation.

    As a permanent resident of Metro Tagaytay for the last 16 years, I have seen the area’s growth and development at a comfortable pace. Major developers have entered the Metro Tagaytay market. However, like all real estate markets, there are challenges and negative factors to consider. Hence, these developers are cautiously optimistic about this market in general.

    It is only a matter of time before young professionals of the Gig Economy see the potential of the entirety of Metro Tagaytay and invest accordingly. Invest now while bargains are still prevalent. Various types of real estate projects will cater to the needs of these young professionals.

    A note of caution though. Please consult a licensed real estate broker before purchasing real property. And, if you will purchase a house and lot or a farm lot make sure that there is a License to Sell issued by the Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development (DHSUD) and that the real estate project is registered with the DHSUD, as well.

    Invest wisely. Invest safely.

    ——-

    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.

    [1] See Page 27 of the Cavite Enhanced Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan 2021 – 2030. But, as an observation, I would like to think that the drafters of the current Framework Plan inadvertently failed to mention the Municipality of Magallanes, as another component of Metro Tagaytay.