Updated: December 12, 2012
A friend recently asked me where I’d want to retire.
The question caught me off guard because I’ve never really thought about it.
But also because, I’ve always imagined myself traveling around the world when that time comes – so having a single place to call as my retirement home is not a big part of the plan.
Nevertheless, I started thinking of possible places where I’d want to build a home. Among those I considered were Bacolod, Cebu, Davao and General Santos – all progressive cities in Visayas and Mindanao.
However, I believe I could never really settle far from Metro Manila, the place where I’ve spent most of my life.
So with that in mind, I started considering nearby cities and concluded that if ever I’d have to choose somewhere near the metropolis, then I’d probably go for Lipa City.
Lipa City is among the most progressive cities in Batangas and is just a short drive away from Metro Manila, thanks to the SLEX and Star Tollways. Taking public transport is also easy as there are many buses en route here everyday, all day, from Metro Manila.
Moreover, weather in Lipa is generally cool because it’s more than a thousand feet above sea level and known to be the third highest place in the Philippines.
No wonder celebrities such as Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzales, Boy Abunda and Vilma Santos chose Lipa City as their second home away from the city.
Lipa City, in my opinion, holds a lot of promise and potential for Southern Luzon, and maybe that’s why some real estate developers have chosen to invest there.
Among them is Convergence Realty and Development Corporation, who is now working on Bel-Air Residences, a residential project that will be built right at the center of business and social activity in Lipa City.
Bel-Air Residences is located beside Fiesta Mall and across Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Lipa. It is within walking distance to SM and located very near several schools, hospitals, malls and business centers.
I’ve seen their development plans and it really looks promising. The “Modern Zen” architecture design of the house units were conceptualized by renowned architect, Arch. Ed Ledesma.
Below are some of the unit designs.
Residents here will get to enjoy amenities inside the project such as basketball courts, a jogging path, a playground for kids, barbeque area, multiple parks, a pool, a lanai, a gazebo and a Club House.
If you agree with me that Lipa City is a great choice to have your dream home, then perhaps you can consider Bel-Air Residences.
To learn more about the project, you can contact their Sales and Marketing Department at (0922)8733060 or (043)7574210.
You can also send them an email at marketing@condev.com.ph or visit the project website at www.belairresidenceslipa.com.
Disclosure: This is an advertorial
Hi Fritz,
Good morning
Thanks for sharing your opinion but most of all. thank you for all the advices you’re giving.
Yes, you’re right. Lipa is a better place (the birthplace of my wife)and people are nice too. But just an opinion, if you will stay in a private subdivision, aren’t you going to pay the monthly dues? This will be a liability and that’s the developer passive income :-).
I would rather choose a vacant lot and build my own house. Free from burden of payment. Just an opinion.
Thanks and best regards
Roland
Hi Roland,
You’re right about the monthly dues but in my opinion, that’s an acceptable expense because you usually get something in exchange for being a member – such as security guard protection and regular garbage collection among other things.
But of course, it all depends on you.
Personally, it’s important to realize that there will be additional costs when you buy your own home or condominium, regardless of where it is.
And your finances should be ready to cover those expenses.
Thank you for sharing your opinion. I appreciate it.
Fitz
Hi Fitz,
Thank you very much for the reply. Actually im now living in a subdvision. Monthly dues (although not really big compare to some) is actually an added burden on our finances.
I’m always telling my average income friends to avoid buying properties in a subdivision. What if they lost their job? What if emergency things happen? What if they have more children? I’m just worried where they’re going to get the money for the monthly dues (water, electricity, security, etc.) or, worst, the housing monthly payment.
Ok lang if they have what you called “change mindset” and never depend on their present job alone.
I’m sorry for my opinion but this is just my personal one. I’m not an expert when it comes to this.
Thanks a lot and God bless.
roland
Hi Roland. Don’t apologize for your opinion, we are all here to share our thoughts and experiences. Thank you for being honest, the points you raised are indeed something that everyone should think hard about before they buy real estate.
halo po…… magkano po pala ang monthly dues pag mag subdivision?