Update: In June 2023, we officially put up this space for short-term rental. If you want to host guests at your place, use my referral link to earn P587 when you list your condo and complete your first qualifying stay!
We moved into our one-bedroom condo in the last week of May 2019. The place was a blank slate, echoing with emptiness. Apart from a bed with a mattress, a work station, a dining table, and three chairs, there was no other furniture or appliances. To top off this whirlwind of change, we found out I was pregnant. This happy news meant we had to prioritize saving for our baby, making our minimalist setup both essential and challenging.
Our cozy condo has been our starter home, a dream realized. While we hold onto that dream, let’s dive into the here and now. Before I get too nostalgic, let me share some insights and answers to the most common questions we’ve received about condo living.
1. What is living in a condo like?
Our space might not boast luxurious carpets or rugs to make it “homey,” but I appreciate the easy-to-clean, minimalist aesthetic. Plus, the view from our room is simply breathtaking—our windows open up to stunning mountain vistas, unobstructed by any nearby buildings. Best of all, everything we need is within walking distance. Midpoint Residences is just a 5-minute walk from Oakridge Business Park, which has a grocery store, plenty of cafes, and restaurants. Maintenance is a breeze since we don’t have to worry about grease trap cleaning, aircon cleaning or fixing anything ourselves.
2. Is it worth getting a condo?
Absolutely! With a price tag of less than two million pesos when we purchased it through Pag-ibig, and its prime location near bustling business centers, I can confidently say, ‘Yes, condo ownership is definitely worth it.’ The security and hassle-free maintenance add to the appeal, making it a smart and convenient choice for modern living.
3. Are condo dues monthly or yearly?
Our association dues are surprisingly affordable, staying below P2,000 a month. In fact, we didn’t pay anything for the first few months because some promised facilities were not yet available. Association dues are a common feature in all condominiums, covering essential expenses like the upkeep of common areas, an exclusive garbage disposal system, security, and more. It’s crucial to discuss these fees with your realtor before buying. Update: As of 2024, our condo dues have increased slightly to P2,600 because we now have 2 gyms and a pool between the two towers. Additionally, the water fee, which we pay to the condo administration, has risen from P200 to P300 a month. Keep in mind that the condo dues vary according to the size of the unit as well.
4. What’s the monthly amortization through Pag-ibig?
The monthly amortization through Pag-IBIG varies based on your chosen loan term. For instance, opting for a 20-year term, the monthly payment for a 24 sqm condominium unit near Cebu City would be approximately P13,000 to P14,000. This figure represents one of the most affordable options from a reputable developer in the area. Imagine living in a cozy, well-located condo for about the price of a cup of coffee each day—it’s a small investment for the convenience and lifestyle it offers. Update: We’ve paid to the principal of the loan, which shortened the loan term to just a few years.
5. So, when’s the condo buying sweet spot?
This really depends on your priorities. Imagine you’ve got some saved-up cash and you’re itching to be a homeowner (congrats!). Here’s the breakdown:
- Pre-selling can save you cash: It’s like buying clothes on sale! You might snag a better deal on a condo still under construction. But the catch? You’ll have to wait to move in and enjoy your new digs. Think of it as an extended “coming soon” party for your future home.
- Need it now? Be ready to pay more: If you’re like, “Move-in ASAP please!”, there are already finished condo units available. The convenience comes with a slightly higher price tag, though. Think of it as paying a little extra for instant gratification – like that time you had to have that limited-edition pair of sneakers right away! Ultimately, the best time to buy depends on what works best for you.
6. What are your top space-saving tips?
Conquer your tiny condo! Measure furniture before you buy (every inch counts!), ditch bulky appliances for compact versions (mini coffee maker!), and lighten up your space with light-colored walls and furniture. This brightens the room and makes it feel bigger. By following these hacks, we turned our cozy condo into a haven of comfort and style.
7. Was it hard to move from your old place to the new one?
Saying goodbye to our old home’s creaky bed and leaky roof was a breeze! Leaving our old rental meant no more wasted renovation dreams. Moving to the condo became a decluttering mission. We bid farewell to unused items, but kept sentimental favorites like our first wooden dining table and Neil’s PC desk. A small truck whisked away these treasures, leaving us with a fresh start in our new condo!
8. Aren’t you afraid of an earthquake or fire?
Earthquakes and fires are a concern anywhere, whether you live in a condominium or a house. Being prepared is key! We have packed a grab-and-go bag with essentials like water, documents, and a flashlight. Condos are also required to have fire alarms and are built with safety in mind. Familiarize yourself with the evacuation plan and fire escape routes for peace of mind. While we hope for the best, a little preparation goes a long way.
9. What are some challenges you faced living in a condo?
One unexpected challenge of condo living for us was drying clothes. While we send most laundry out, some items need special care. Air drying indoors can be tricky in a condo with limited space. Luckily, we found a lifesaver – a compact Xiaomi Sterilization clothes dryer from Lazada! This little machine dries clothes efficiently without taking up so much space.
10. What do you wish you can change with your current home?
Our cozy condo feels like home, but a few tweaks would make it perfect. We dream of replacing the cool tiles with warm, inviting wood flooring throughout. In the kitchen, practical tiles near the stove would be a lifesaver for cleaning up splatters. Our trusty brown dining table, while cherished, takes up too much space. We’re on the hunt for a compact option that fits better. The bathroom definitely needs a mirror, and more shelves would be fantastic for displaying books and adding a touch of nature with plants. These small upgrades would personalize our space and make it even more comfortable and functional.
From a blank canvas to a cozy haven, our condo has been a journey of discovery. Now, we’re excited to share our learnings and help you navigate condo living! Tune in for the next chapter!
You can follow my journey from condo dweller to a short-term rental host at Issa Suites!
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