The Philippines: Asia’s Hidden Gem for Investors, Expats & Early Retirees

The Philippines is fast becoming a prime real estate destination in Asia for investors, expats, and retirees. With low property prices, rental yields reaching 10%, an English-speaking environment, and the SRRV retirement visa, it offers both lifestyle and strong ROI in hotspots like Cebu, Manila, Siargao, and Palawan.

I knew the Philippines was beautiful — but I didn’t realise how liveable and investable it was until I visited Cebu and Siargao for the first time.

There’s a warmth here that goes beyond the tropical heat. It’s in the smiles of the people, the rhythm of the islands, and the way expats quickly feel at home. And what surprised me most? The property market is one of the best-kept secrets in Asia.

If you’re looking for high returns, affordable luxury, and a future retirement base with a low cost of living — you need to look at the Philippines.

🏝️ Why The Philippines is Rising Fast in 2025

🇬🇧 English is widely spoken – No language barriers, even outside cities

🏠 Foreigners can own condos freehold – Legal, safe, and straightforward

💸 Low entry prices – Condos from $60,000 and villas from $150,000

📈 High rental yields – 7–10% in hotspots like Cebu and BGC

👩‍⚕️ Healthcare is excellent and affordable – Especially in Manila, Cebu, Davao

✈️ International connectivity – Easy flights from Dubai, Singapore, Australia, Japan

This isn’t just a budget version of Bali or Thailand — this is a serious standalone destination with lifestyle and ROI baked in.

 

🏠 What You Can Buy in The Philippines (2025)

Here’s what your money gets you:

🏢 Studio or 1-bed condo in Cebu City or Davao: From $60,000

🌇 1–2 bed in Bonifacio Global City (BGC, Manila): $120,000–$180,000

🌴 Eco-villa or beach unit in Siargao or Palawan: $150,000+

🏡 Luxury penthouse or branded residences: $250,000–$400,000

Most units come fully furnished with rental management options included. Pre-construction pricing also means flexible payment plans — often with just 30% down.

Elly’s IPA Tip: Cebu IT Park and BGC offer the strongest long-term tenant demand, while Siargao and Palawan are booming for Airbnb-style stays.

 

📈 Rental Income & Investment Potential

The Philippines quietly ranks among the top rental yield destinations in Asia, especially in fast-growing cities and digital nomad hubs.

Cebu City: 8–10% gross yields (short-term or long-term)

Manila – BGC/Makati: 7–9% with strong corporate tenant demand

Siargao & Palawan: 6–10% for Airbnb & boutique villa rentals

Davao & Iloilo: 5–8% with rising domestic demand and capital growth

Occupancy stays high year-round due to tourism, remote workers, and returning overseas Filipinos (OFWs).

 

👵 Is The Philippines Good for Retirement?

In one word: yes — and it’s easier than almost anywhere else in Southeast Asia.

🧓 SRRV Retirement Visa:

  • Open to foreigners aged 50+
  • Deposit of just $10,000–$50,000 (depends on income/pension)
  • Includes spouse and dependents
  • Multiple-entry, indefinite stay
  • Access to healthcare, banks, and local services

🏥 Healthcare: Modern private hospitals with English-speaking doctors and US-trained staff

💡 Cost of living: A couple can live comfortably — with domestic help — for $1,800–$2,500/month

🌴 Locations for retirees: Tagaytay, Dumaguete, Davao, Subic Bay, Cebu Highlands

Elly’s IPA Note: Many of our clients use the SRRV route to set up a long-term base while renting out their property for income — it’s a flexible, efficient system.

 

🛍️ Daily Life in the Philippines

Despite the relaxed island vibe, daily life here is well-supported:

🛒 Shops & supermarkets: Easy to find Western brands + local produce

☕ Cafés & coworking: Great coffee culture and strong internet in most areas

🏫 Schools: International schools in major cities

✈️ Airports: International hubs in Manila, Cebu, and Davao with quick access to island hotspots

🧘 Leisure: Diving, surfing, paddleboarding, island hopping, hiking, and spa culture

Whether you want full-time tropical living or a winter escape, you’ll never run out of things to do.

 

📍 Top Locations I Recommend in 2025

  • Cebu City: Tech-driven growth, high expat population, close to white-sand islands
  • BGC, Manila: Modern, walkable, finance and lifestyle hub — ideal for buy-to-let
  • Siargao: Rising surf and wellness destination — huge Airbnb demand
  • Davao: Safe, clean, and quietly becoming an investor’s favourite
  • Palawan: Untouched nature, early-stage development, eco-luxury potential
  • Tagaytay: Cool mountain air, peaceful pace, great for retirees

💬 Final Thoughts from Elly

The Philippines is so much more than a holiday destination. It’s one of the most exciting real estate markets in Asia — with the legal safety, rental demand, and residency access that smart investors look for.

And if you’re dreaming of a beautiful, affordable, English-speaking place to retire or invest, I can’t recommend it enough.

 

✉️ Want to Explore Investment or Retirement in The Philippines?

We work with trusted local developers and teams in Cebu, Siargao, Palawan, and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a rental condo, a retirement base, or a beachfront eco-villa — I can help.

📩 Email: elly@internationalpropertyalerts.com

📱 WhatsApp: +447796174253

📸 Instagram: @elly_international_property

Coming soon: Full comparisons, downloadable guides, and off-market listings. Just say the word if you want early access!

 

About International Property Alerts


International Property Alerts is a premier global platform connecting real estate investors with handpicked opportunities in emerging and lifestyle-driven markets. Through curated listings, expert guidance, and market insights, we help buyers make confident property decisions worldwide.

Media Contact:

 rentals in the Philippines

Phone: +44 7961 212181

Email: office@internationalpropertyalerts.com

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