Starting a family means making big decisions, and choosing the right type of home is definitely one of the most important. Condos are popping up everywhere in Metro Manila—in fact, there’s currently an oversupply of these residential spaces in the region, making the market more competitive. On the other hand, houses and lot properties in nearby provinces are becoming increasingly appealing to families, offering more space and long-term housing security.
Considering the pros and cons of each option, it’s crucial to determine which property has the highest potential for a profitable investment. Figuring out what best fits your needs, lifestyle, and financial goals will help you make the smartest choice. In this article, we’ll compare condos and house-and-lot properties to see which one offers the better investment.
The State of the Condo Market in Metro Manila
Right now, Metro Manila is dealing with a serious condo oversupply. About 37,800 unsold units are sitting on the market. Many of these are priced between ₱3 million and ₱7 million, making them a significant financial commitment. Mortgage payments can go as high as ₱40,000 per month, which has led many homebuyers to explore more affordable options outside the city.
Another factor affecting condo sales is the decline in demand from foreign workers, especially after the POGO ban. Condos were once prime investments due to their rental potential, but with fewer tenants and higher supply, prices are stagnating. In fact, the average condo price in Metro Manila is now ₱217,000 per square meter, with areas like Makati, Parañaque, and Taguig ranking among the most expensive.
Related: Is Condo Still a Good Investment in 2025? Residential Property Prices Amidst Oversupply
The Key Differences Between Condos and Houses
When choosing the best residential property for you, it’s important to list out the specifics of each property, along with your own needs and deal-breakers. While both condos and houses have the potential to be great investments, they differ significantly in terms of location, lifestyle, and cost considerations that an investor might be looking for.
Below are some key differences between a condo and a house-and-lot property.
| Location & Lifestyle | |
| Condos | Houses |
| This property type provides easy access to workplaces, shopping centers, and public transport. Many come with amenities like pools, gyms, and security, making them convenient for busy professionals. | Compared to most condos, houses provide more space, privacy, and flexibility. You can renovate freely and enjoy a backyard—something condos can’t offer. |
| Cost Considerations | |
| Condos | Houses |
| Usually, condominiums are more expensive per square meter. They also require monthly association dues, often with ownership restrictions under condo corporations. | Compared to most condos, houses provide more space, privacy, and flexibility. You can renovate freely and enjoy a backyard—something condos can’t offer. |
| Maintenance & Upkeep | |
| Condos | Houses |
| Due to shared upkeep, condominiums require significantly less maintenance than houses.However, this comes at the expense of monthly dues. | Houses definitely demand more effort in maintenance, but you have complete control over renovations and improvements. Plus, you are not restricted to a uniform layout like most condominiums are. |
Ultimately, condos are great for those after short-term convenience, while houses offer a more solid investment over time. If you’re considering potential returns, a house might be the better option in today’s market. But you’ll still need to decide what kind of location suits you best.
What’s the Right Choice for You?
Apart from studying the key features that differentiate condos from houses, it’s also important to consider what you actually want as a property owner. A big backyard isn’t worth it if you’re not willing to pay or spend time and resources on the upkeep and maintenance of a garden or driveway. So, before making a decision, ask yourself these questions:
- Can you afford the upfront cost and monthly payments? Condos might have lower initial costs, but houses are more of a long-term investment.
- Do you prefer city convenience or a spacious home in a quieter area? Your lifestyle plays a huge role in your choice. Do you want a home that is near nature or closer to urban spaces?
- Are you looking for a forever home, a rental property, or a short-term investment? Each option has its pros and cons depending on your goals.
The Best Choice Depends on Your Priorities
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when choosing between a condo and a house. It all boils down to your financial goals, lifestyle needs, and long-term investment plans. Given the current market trends, affordability and return on investment should be top considerations. Whether you go for the convenience of a condo or the stability of a house, the key is to choose a home that truly fits your future.
References
Ramsey. (n.d.). 15 Questions to Ask When Buying a House. Ramsey. https://www.ramseysolutions.com/real-estate/questions-to-ask-when-buying-a-house?srsltid=AfmBOooDIHqbohXT3e6x8cGG7T0vkdc3tFq72r16CnBj4L2mRtEbGKTI
Rosales, E. (n.d.). ‘Condo prices in NCR need correction’. PhilStar. https://www.philstar.com/business/2025/01/25/2416610/condo-prices-ncr-need-correction
Zoleta, V. (n.d.). Condo vs House: Which Is a Better Buy? MoneyMax. https://www.moneymax.ph/personal-finance/articles/condo-vs-house
Facebook
Instagram
Linkedin
Twitter
Youtube