For Overseas Filipinos
More than 10 million Filipinos work abroad. Many dream of owning a piece of home. This guide is for them.
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OFWs working abroad
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Remittances in 2025
No. 1
Most popular OFW investment
Why Metro Manila?
Capital Appreciation
BGC and Makati consistently record the highest price per sqm values in the Philippines. Properties in these districts have delivered sustained capital appreciation over the past decade, driven by constrained land supply and strong institutional demand.
Rental Income
The executive rental market in Metro Manila is robust, with multinational corporations and senior professionals consistently seeking quality furnished residences. Gross rental yields of 4 to 6 percent per annum are typical for well-located condominium units.
Your Future Home
Many OFW buyers purchase now and rent the property until they are ready to return. When that day comes, the home is waiting. Fully paid. Title in your name. Ready.
What You Can Own
Condominium Units
As a Filipino citizen, you may own condominium units outright anywhere in the Philippines with no restrictions whatsoever. Full legal ownership, full title in your name, fully inheritable by your heirs.
House and Lot
Filipino citizens can own both the house and the land regardless of where in the world they currently live or work. Your OFW status places no restrictions on your property rights under Philippine law.
As a Filipino citizen your property rights are identical to those who have never left the Philippines. The law makes no distinction based on where you live or work.
Buying From Abroad
The Special Power of Attorney
What is an SPA
A Special Power of Attorney is a legal document that authorises a trusted person in the Philippines to sign documents, pay taxes and register titles on your behalf. It is the cornerstone of buying property remotely.
Who to Appoint
Your SPA holder should be someone you trust completely. A family member, a licensed Philippine lawyer or your property advisor. They will act as your legal representative for the entire transaction.
How to Execute It
Visit the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. Sign the SPA before a consular officer. No need to travel home. The consulate authenticates the document and it becomes legally valid in the Philippines.
What It Covers
Your SPA holder can sign the deed of sale, pay capital gains tax and documentary stamp tax, register the title at the Registry of Deeds, and receive the property on your behalf.
Important Caution
Have your SPA prepared or reviewed by a licensed Philippine lawyer. Clearly specify what actions are authorised, which property it covers, and the duration. A properly drafted SPA protects both you and your representative.
Sending Your Investment Home
Bank Remittance
Transfer directly to the developer or seller through SWIFT wire transfer from your overseas bank. Most Philippine banks including BDO, BPI, Metrobank and Security Bank have OFW banking services specifically designed for this purpose. For large transactions this is the most reliable method.
Developer Installment
Many Philippine developers offer OFW-friendly payment schemes. A typical structure involves a small reservation fee, followed by monthly installments paid over 12 to 36 months, with the balance payable on turnover. This spreads your investment over time without requiring a large upfront payment.
Pag-IBIG OFW Fund
OFW members who contribute to the Pag-IBIG Fund can access housing loan facilities at competitive interest rates. The Pag-IBIG OFW program allows contributions from abroad and loan processing through an authorised representative in the Philippines.
From Abroad to Owner
Step by Step
Choose Your Property Remotely
Browse the Metroluxe Property Management Services portfolio online. Request a virtual viewing with Ms. Jay Castro via Zoom or video call at a time that suits your schedule and timezone.
Reserve the Unit
Pay a reservation fee typically between 20,000 and 50,000 Philippine Peso via bank transfer or remittance to secure the unit. This takes the property off the market.
Execute Your Special Power of Attorney
Visit your nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate. Sign your SPA before a consular officer appointing your trusted representative in the Philippines.
Review and Sign the Contract to Sell
Your SPA holder signs the Contract to Sell on your behalf in the Philippines. Review the document carefully before authorising your representative to sign.
Pay According to Schedule
Make payments according to the agreed schedule via bank transfer, remittance or developer installment. Keep records of all payments.
Property Turnover
When the property is ready for handover your SPA holder inspects the unit and accepts the keys on your behalf. A snag list is submitted if any issues require attention.
Title Transfer and Registration
Capital Gains Tax, Documentary Stamp Tax, Transfer Tax and Registration Fees are paid. The Condominium Certificate of Title is issued in your name and registered at the Registry of Deeds.
You Are the Owner
Your CCT is in your name. Your investment is legally secured. Your future home is waiting. Remotely acquired, securely owned, permanently yours.
What to Budget Beyond the Price
| Cost Item | Rate | Typically Paid By |
|---|---|---|
| Documentary Stamp Tax | 1.5% of selling price or fair market value (whichever is higher) | Buyer |
| Transfer Tax | 0.5% to 0.75% depending on local government | Buyer |
| Registry of Deeds Registration Fee | Approximately 0.3% to 1% of property value | Buyer |
| Notarization of Deed of Sale | Approximately PHP 5,000 to PHP 20,000 | Negotiable |
| Title Processing Fee | Varies by developer | Buyer |
| Capital Gains Tax | 6% of selling price or fair market value (whichever is higher) | Typically Seller |
All figures are current as of 2026 and based on BIR and Local Government Code guidelines. Actual costs vary by transaction and location. Always consult a licensed Philippine lawyer or CPA before completing any property transaction.
See Your Future Home From Anywhere
Ms. Jay Castro conducts private virtual viewings via Zoom for OFW clients worldwide at a time that suits your schedule regardless of timezone.
Ms. Jay Castro
Founder
Common Questions From OFW Buyers