Introduction: Making the Right Choice for Your Future Home in Baguio

Buying a home is a major milestone, but it can be overwhelming—especially if you're a first-time buyer, an OFW planning to settle back in the Philippines, or an expat searching for the perfect home.

At Homely Realty PH, we’ve helped countless buyers navigate this decision. I remember working with retirees and friends, who wanted to invest in Baguio City. They were torn between a condo in the city center for rentals, both for short-term and long-term as passive income, or a house & lot in a quiet subdivision for a residential dwelling Their decision, just like yours, wasn’t just about numbers—it was about their future lifestyle, financial goals, and dreams.

Let's break things down and help you decide: Should you buy a condominium or a house & lot in Baguio City?

What’s the Difference Between a Condo and a House & Lot?

1. What is a Condominium?

A condo is a unit inside a larger residential building with shared amenities such as a swimming pool, gym, and 24/7 security. It’s a great option for those who want to live in the city center, enjoy convenience, and have lower maintenance responsibilities.

✅ Best for: Young professionals, small families, OFWs looking for rental income, and expats who prefer a hassle-free home in prime locations.

💡 Real-Life Example: Angeli, a Filipino-American, working as a US Registered Nurse, bought a studio condo near Session Road. She wanted a lock-and-go lifestyle, allowing her to travel freely while maintaining a rental property in her absence.

Things to Watch Out For:

• Home Association dues increase over time both for condominium and subdivision projects.

• Condominium Projects have restrictions that owners should be aware of, especially with regards to its common areas. It can be read extensively in the Master Deed with Declaration and Restrictions.

• Houses require maintenance & repairs (roof leaks, repainting, plumbing).

👉 Takeaway: If you want lower initial costs and predictable expenses, a condo may be the best choice. If you’re looking for a long-term investment where land value appreciates, a house & lot is ideal.

Lifestyle Considerations: What Type of Home Suits You Best?

• Convenience: Condos are often located near malls, schools, and hospitals, while houses offer peace and space but require longer commutes.

• Privacy: Houses give you full control, whereas condos have shared walls, common areas, and restrictions that need to be abided by.

• Investment Goals: Are you buying for personal use, or do you plan to rent it out?

💡Personal Insight: A client, an IT professional, chose a condo in Baguio’s city center to avoid traffic. He said, "I’d rather pay for convenience than waste time on the road!"

Investment & Resale Value: Which One Will Give You Better Returns?

Condominiums in Baguio:

• Best for short-term rentals (AirBnB, Transients) due to high tourist demand.

• Located in prime areas (Session Road, Leonard Wood Rd., Legarda Rd) with good rental income potential.

• Older condos may depreciate in value as buildings age.
  

House & Lot in Baguio:

• Land appreciates over time due to limited availability in high-altitude cities.

• More flexibility in resale and renovations.

• Higher maintenance costs compared to condos.

💡Tip: If you plan to rent out a property while working abroad, a condo is easier to manage. But if you’re investing for long-term appreciation, a house & lot is a better choice.

Conclusion: What’s the Best Choice for You?

Choose a Condo If:
✔ You want a home near malls, work, dining, and entertainment.
✔ You prefer low-maintenance living with security and amenities.
✔ You’re looking for a rental investment in Baguio’s tourist hotspots.

Choose a House & Lot If:

✔ You value privacy and a serene environment.
✔ You need more space for family, pets, spacious parking, and future expansion.
✔ You want full control over renovations and personalizing your home.
✔ You’re investing for long-term appreciation in Baguio City.

💡 Still undecided? No worries! Our team at Homely Realty PH can help you find the perfect home that fits your lifestyle and budget.

📩Contact us today

2. What is a House & Lot?

A house and lot means you own both the house and the land, giving you full control over renovations and expansions. Unlike condos, there are no association dues (unless you are in a subdivision or gated communities), and you have more space and privacy.

✅ Best for: Families, retirees, investors looking for long-term appreciation, and those who prefer a quieter suburban lifestyle.

💡 Real-Life Example: My uncle, a balikbayan from Australia, recently bought a house and lot along Loakan Road. He wanted a spacious area where his grandchildren could play whenever they visit the Philippines, a backyard for family gatherings, and a wide garage—things a condo simply couldn’t offer.

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