Gated Communities vs Neighborhoods in the Philippines!!! What’s Best ?

[@tedlasalvia9668]

Great advice Steven! Keep going strong!

[@jayyaj7197]

Gated hands down but there are different level of guarded - I like when I see real side arms vs an empty holster . In my gated community vs the one down the street. Down the street is considered higher end but there are rats everywhere and anyone can get in and out. Whereas my gated community, the guards are actually serious about protecting the community and they carry real guns!

[@walleye364]

I'm the opposite. Invest in a lot and build a small home.

[@delmarrey9077]

I have a sister-in-law that bought a place in a large gated community about 10 years ago to retire in, which she hasn’t yet. She paid 3.5 Million pesos + interest over time. The place is already rusting and falling apart. It’s not even livable anymore. The wife tried to talk me into one and I said “No Way”. The sister has been trying to fix it up but she has had to jump through fire hoops to get enough permits to get the work done. Long long story. We bought a 350 sq. Meter house along a busy road. It was a lucky find from a lady that we knew in the US whose husband died. We have 6 million pesos invested in the place and it’s above the usual annual flood level. We do have few dogs and roosters around but we’ve gotten use to it. And we’re a few houses away from the Barangay, which keeps it safe while we’re gone. We donate well for every event. It’s well built for PI with very little wood. You have to worry about termites in PI. They’re everywhere. Especially after a flood. Watch for flying ants. Those are the King & Queen of colonies. Good talk Steve!

[@Sweet-T-Mama]

Good to know about the termites! 😮

[@EdwinCV-dh8qc]

Steve,great fireside chat the info is always on point thanks .

[@sgtusa90]

1000% CONCUR With YOU !!!!! While I Am DELETING ( DXing ) LOTS of TUBERS that I Watched In the PAST ... DUE to ALL Their "DRAMA " ( ACTING Like a Group of 14yr American GIRLS ) , I Was ELATED to FINDED Ur Channel & After Watching ONLY 2 of Ur VIDEOS , I Became SUB !!!!!! :O)) THANKS .... FOR Keeping It REAL And VERRRY HONEST ( About BOTH Sides Of The COIN / ie EXPAT & PINA ) !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@RichTravel1010]

Thanks 🙏

[@Sweet-T-Mama]

Wow! Very surprised! Thank you for this subject Steve, because this is where we were recommend to live by my Filipina friends.

[@robiesanson3655]

Good advice. When we retire we will probably rent so we dont get locked stuck in one location. Neighbors and conditions may change.

[@dann547]

We went the gated community route in Batangas. It is an Ayala development. A Filipino friend in the U.S. recommended Ayala Corp. since they are the largest developer in the Philippines. Would we do it again? Probably, though we would probably take more time and pick a different location in the development closer to the front gate. Security seems good. 3 man teams 24/7, strict at the gate, armed and roving patrols. We don’t feel 100% secure, but more secure than outside the gate. We’ll still be vigilant regarding security. People have been very friendly to us and we have made some nice, thoughtful and wise Filipino friends. One even warned us, “ Offer a Filipino a hand and they will take your whole arm!” We renovated the house and added a second floor, but we had to go through 3 contractors before we found a professional, talented and honest one.

[@rickyt739]

Enjoyed your sound advice which makes sense to me.

[@RichTravel1010]

Glad it was helpful!

[@michaelpettett3087]

Anywhere the guard has to play private secretary for many residents, the security is compromised and personal goods can be going over the back wall.

[@danielsarwinski6883]

Great video Steve. We have 3 small condos in General Trias. Dogs are a huge problem there. I doubt we will ever move into that community.

[@wrafl]

Tell me about it. I lived in Bacolod City in a gated community. Neighbors raising goats, a cow grazing on empty lots and one day I saw children chasing a horse lol. Gated community doesnt mean there are restrictions, there were sari sari store, a bakery, an appliance repair shop, computer and cell phone repair Shops, etc. Zoning laws are non existent

[@Raadaaem]

New sub here. Great content. Thanks Steve.

[@RichTravel1010]

Welcome aboard!

[@bluedale6563]

Thank you for this Steve

[@billlloyd9755]

Thanks good advice. Plan on traveling when I get there for a couple years before I settle in someplace.

[@brentdewitt2180]

Great video. I was raised on a farm, and loved it when the roosters woke me up 90% of the time. Also loved that when I spent almost a month in Leyte. Maybe I’m a province guy? Lol

[@markreynolds5363]

Good video!

[@RichTravel1010]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@nede5936]

True!...well said.

[@JenGioPhilippineJourney]

Same as condo association here in Florida. You need ok here just to plant something

[@alexd8933]

Ive seen some really decent rentals for a good price over just south of Lipa, it is a gated community.

[@gkwoodard]

Thank you so much for your insights.

[@Matthew-gz4oh]

HOA fees in the USA are not just tossed out in the USA I believe, but must eventually be paid by new buyer.

[@RichTravel1010]

I bought a distressed condo that had condo fees owed for years. I didn’t pay back fees when I bought it.

[@MrDarrenkt]

Hi Steve yes lot of food of thought in what you are saying, yes you can buy house but not the land only leases on the land i think it's a 35 year turn round, but their laws are complex, anyway great to see how you pain hope it is subsiding some, God bless take care

[@RichTravel1010]

Still suffering but it wax and wains.

[@enjoylife1176]

You can lease land for up to 25 years as a foreigner, with an option to renew for another 25 years.

[@MrDarrenkt]

@@enjoylife1176 Hi thanks for the info

[@Neal_only1]

Are townhomes in gated communities considered like condos that can be owned? Because if it is a block building is it not like a condo just only smaller?

[@jenserikjohansson6228]

Tanks Steve great informasjon.

[@JenGioPhilippineJourney]

Question how I get ahold of you I'm coming to Philippines June 6th I land in Manila. What do I need to register at the VA at the embassy since I'll be permanently living their. VA gave me my discount copies rest going to take 7 months to get since I'm 100% disabled veteran

[@RichTravel1010]

[e-mail]

[@wrafl]

To register at the VA in Manila, try on line registration or call the Manila VA to make appointment. Thats what I did when I first needed medications and I was given a physical by the local doctor plus local flu vaccine.

[@JenGioPhilippineJourney]

@wrafl ok ty plus is my Filipina wife allowed to go with me to the appointment. Cause here in Florida she goes with me Cause she is learning what she needs to do if I get sick or hurt or when in 25 year hopefully I pass away. I need to teach her and have point of contact for her if anything happens

[@wrafl]

@@JenGioPhilippineJourney Yes she is allowed and when I brought my girlfriend they even gave her covid vaccine which was not available yet to Filipinos then she had a reaction got sick and blamed me for encouraging her to get the vaccine lol.

[@JenGioPhilippineJourney]

@@wrafl lol. Ok cause I got her military ID card here from McDill Air Force Base in St Petersburg, Florida. And she has a Florida ID card only good for 1 year we still waiting after 2 years for her green card. Yet other filipina friends that came to America but different states got theirs in 2 or 3 months. She keeps asking why America treating her like this. I explain to her it's not her it's the government we have. So I'll lose that $1250.00 I gave for her 2 year Green card. But we going home to Negros Oriental Guihulngan City north of Dumegete about 2 hours

[@peterramstedt6260]

As from what i understand they are also entitled to half your pension if you break up? Prenup is a must

[@fdwaller]

Is that a Gibson guitar hat??

[@RichTravel1010]

Yes Sir !!!

[@WilliamCrytzer]

Gated communities (condos, subdivisions) do provide better security, but you run into privacy issues. I lived in gated communities, where neighbors and security guards gossip (marites) and spread rumors. It's toxic to live in confined areas where these things are happening, especially being the only foreigner. The advantage to renting is you can move from place to place, to avoid such issues. The security guards, for example, used to dig thru my garbage (i.e. dumpster diving). They recovered medical records & financial statements. A friend of mine (security lady) that I used to date informed me what was happening. I immediately transferred to a different place.

[@hansreynders6853]

I find it very difficult to believe this kind of stories. I personally have never experienced anything like that in the very long time I'm living here, in various different environments. It seems to me just too coincidental that you have a security agent as friend, who happens to discover something. How is garbage gathered in your area? Must be very different from anywhere else in the Philippines. It's not my intention to offend you or anyone, but I read too much stories here in KZbin that makes me wonder why you and others are here anyway.

[@WilliamCrytzer]

@@hansreynders6853 I arrived here 2012. I lived in Kingsville Subdivision Antipolo (malapit sa SM Masinag), Eastwood (1 Orchard Road), BF Homes Paranaque (Bayanihan Subdivision), SM Fields Residences (Salikod sa SM Sucat), and now Iloilo (subdivision in Villa Arevalo). Been married twice, and dated 5 Filipinas. I've had my fair share of experiences. I have no reason to lie about my experiences. I have nothing to gain by doing so.

[@kj7444]

thanks for the video

[@richsadventures1889]

Did you bring any guitars 🎸 to the Philippines?

[@RichTravel1010]

I bought them online from Italy. A beautiful Cigar Box Guitar.

[@richsadventures1889]

@MrSteven5975 nice, I bought a 70s Japanese made Les Paul copy in a junk store in GenSan, had it set up by a guy in Polomolok I use it when I'm there. They use it at my girls Church mostly. Good information on your video.

[@patd4u2]

If your budget allows it, BCG would be the city to live in, no power outages or brownouts a modern city without all the problems of the cities in the USA

[@enzos711]

I'm sure "no problems" (in a grass is always greener fantasy) ..

[@enzos711]

Maki is a better deal ..

[@hansreynders6853]

Hahaha, you want to make me believe that BGC has it's own independent power generation? And it's own water source, sewer system so there won't ever be flood? Your BGC can't be located in the Philippines.

[@patd4u2]

@@hansreynders6853 If I were you I would do some research on BGC before leaving comments here for everyone to see. I copied this for you off the web to save you from attempting to do a search. Hahahaha World-class infrastructure in BGC Just like the glitz of its shopping and dining areas and the spectacle of its outdoor attractions, Bonifacio Global City’s infrastructure deserves some attention, too. Because of transportation, utilities, and services uncommon to Philippine urban settings, BGC has been likened by many to international cities, emphasizing its status as a true world-class satellite city for residents and visitors. 'Walkable', but lots of parking BGC is well-known for being a “walkable city” where everything is within reach for residents, but if you’re driving in for the day, the Fort Bonifacio Development Corp (FBDC) provides 14 sizeable parking areas in and around office and commercial areas where you can leave your car (for a fee, of course). Inside BGC is a public transport system that helps people get around the city more conveniently. Managed by the Bonifacio Transport Corp, the BGC buses shuttle passengers around the city, taking predetermined bus routes and making stops at certain scheduled points. Each bus can carry up to 90 passengers, and operates 24/7. The BGC bus terminal can be found at the corner of EDSA and Ayala for easy access to and from the MRT. 22 million liters underground The Bonifacio Water Corp provides BGC residents with a strong, uninterrupted water supply via large water reservoirs. The town also has integrated facilities for collecting, treating, and disposing of sewage. By creating an underground drainage detention system that holds up to 22 million liters of water and releases it under controlled conditions, residents can rest easy that they won’t experience flooding. Underground communications When you take photos at BGC, you probably wouldn't notice until later when you review your images that none of them will have those pesky communications lines that often obstruct landscape photos. That’s because BGC's fiber optic cabling network for telephone, cable, and Internet services have all gone underground. Power, too Just like phone and cable services, power in BGC is transmitted to homes and businesses through underground lines. These lines are closely supervised by Meralco substations to make sure that the town doesn’t experience power fluctuations or outages. Another that’s joined BGC’s underground circuit is the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supply provided by the Bonifacio Gas Corporation through an underground piping system. This means you won’t have to cook with gas tanks, which carries the risk of leaks and (in worst cases) may explode. There are also some building owners who opt to power their air conditioning systems with LPG to reduce their electricity consumption and ensure that their systems would still be up and running in case of an electrical interruption. Community well-being Formed by various owners and occupants of properties within the town, the Bonifacio City Estate Association (BGCEA), is the group that ensures the community’s general welfare. The Bonifacio Estate Services Corporation (BESC) was appointed by the BGCEA to maintain the safe and sustainable nature of the entire area. Round-the-clock security Aside from employing round-the-clock patrol guards, BGC also has a police/security assistance center that offers immediate action to safety and security concerns. Also on hand to respond to emergency situations is the Bonifacio Global City Emergency Response Team (ERT), which has its own ambulance and fire truck for medical emergencies, fire incidents and natural disasters. Road safety for motorists and pedestrians are guaranteed by motorized patrol and deputized traffic enforcers. Sustainably clean There’s no denying that BGC is one of the cleanest and greenest areas in the metro, thanks to the satellite city’s initiatives related to healthy and sustainable living. Aside from recyclable waste collection and regular tree planting, BGC also stays on top of maintenance of landscapes and street curbs, installation or replacement or traffic signs, and restoration of common areas.

[@mikereid5226]

Stevie boy two videos in two days ❤️☄️💥👍🇺🇸

[@youngandfree93]

The best are in Makiti. Can rent a good one for $1600 a month and nice, secure, and clean. You get what you pay for here without a doubt

[@banjammy4116]

Good advice

[@RichTravel1010]

Glad it was helpful!

[@amleth9047]

I’m smiling here…you hit the target in many things. 😂

[@mikesimpson9997]

Well done

[@RichTravel1010]

Thanks

[@Mr12bore]

My experience with gated community Gated usually some pesos would make it happen. I had no experience with condos to speak about.

[@edwardgriffin6042]

Steve, are there in 4/5 bedroom homes available for rent or for sale near you? Furnished or unfurnished?

[@walleye364]

Can i buy a house and put it in my daughters name? (Filipino daughter)

[@kennyl.TheSilverJewelryGuy]

Hi Steve, do you have any recommendations for gated communities in your area that are nice and worth buying into, thanks for any info

[@josephkumnick7696]

I've seen Guards Sleeping Standing up!

[@enzos711]

I'm going to stay / live in "Cheap Hotels" FB Short Stays & Airbnb's, and Travel Around & Explore SE Asia / Asia, some Europe & maybe the Americas, until I get sick of it (Why not) ..

[@enzos711]

Upon Retiring, Why do guys want to to up & move "all or nothing" to X, Y or Z Place ("Dumaguete" for eg) and "re-Plant themselves, Permanent" .. I get, settled down, "planting roots," a predictable routine, normal-secure life & Comfort Zone, But.. I'm doing that, now, (working) in the US, which is my point of "not doing that" (if I retire next yr) .. Travel & "Explore" (with the time & $) "While I can" & Than Settle-down (settle in) ..

[@RedHorsePoker]

I’m scared someone will break in and steal my cpap. Or my pile of cash.

[@centralgroupllp3933]

It seems everyone has a bunch of 🐓 roosters in philly.they haven't discovered the alarm ⏰ clock yet..😅

[@walleye364]

I live in the U.S. my neighbors have chickens I am the only one who loves the roosters crowing at 4 am 😅 when I move there. I want chickens. My buddy laughed and said my place is just like the Philippines. 😅

[@davidwhite5202]

Depending on security gaurds who make less than $10 a day for your safety is a bad idea.

[@aaba1473]

I would never purchase a condo straight from the developer. Always negotiate hard, buy second hand from the actual market rate, and at least 10 years old property.. Tested and proven. Once bought, it is not easy to sell in the Philippines unless you are happy to discount heavily ..

[@donaldtork5846]

Foreigners can inherit land owned by the Philippine spouse if the spouse dies intestate and there are no living children or parents.

[@angelocalima6338]

Reputable developer plus location. DO NOT BUY CHEAP areas. THERE IS A REASON, Why is cheap?. It's like buying products made in Dragon. Looks nice. we'll fall apart later on .😅😅

[@dennish4603]

You need a gated house in L-Town!!!!!

[@desipage9862]

Stay single forever ❤

[@barrymitchell4424]

👍

[@KB3TLE]

Looks like it's the same way there as it in the US - when it comes to 'many' people wanting more than they are willing to pay for ? -- The sad truth is it is very difficult to get people to agree on the same things in a way that pleases everyone ! So often the result is terrible and underfunded.

[@bhinbayoucity5691]

In the PH if a couple buys a house, its still the WIFE who owns it. If the couple divorces or break up, the wife stays n the husband takes the hike!!😮

[@youngandfree93]

As it should be.

[@sgtusa90]

YOU ( HUSBAND ) Can ( '' 1000% SHOULD " ) Get a POA Over That LAND / a LEASE To YOURSELF for 25-50YEARS 0r AS LONG as The LAW ALLOWS , At That TIME ( Get a GOOD/ GREAT PH LAWYER ) !!!!!

[@enzos711]

Unfortunately, even after moving 1/2 way around the world, it's Common to Fall Back into the Same Ol' (Self-Inflicted) Dysfunctional Routines (Bad Habits) .. "Why" would a 60+ yr old guy put himself right back in (Another) "dicey & vulnerable position" (Again & Esp there) regarding a "Risky Relationship & Situation" involving a House, "a lot of money" and In-laws (in the Philippines) .. I guess, it's Loneness / need for love and "wishful thinking" .. Not saying it never works out ..

[@sgtusa90]

Or........" STUPID Is , As STUPID DOES " !!!!!!!! WORDS From a GREAT MIND ! ;O))

[@thomasrobson6370]

If you have to pay fees or dues, you don't really own the property.

[@Joe-mz6dc]

You never own any properties. Ever. You're always paying someone. Whether it's a landlord or the government.

[@thomasrobson6370]

@@Joe-mz6dc property tax. Is renting your citizenship kind of thing, but is nowhere near at least where I am living right now is nowhere near as much as rent and or do's and fees. But in the Philippines no Foreigner will ever owne property

[@amleth9047]

That coconut beetle is too noisy…lol

[@PeevyMctweevy]

I would never live in a sub division again, noise was intolerable...

[@pa4765]

Never live in a gated community. I was the President of a Homeowners Assoc. (HOA) and learned the painful truth about politics. The general public becomes toxic due to their ignorance of the HOA rules and general society norms. As a result, the good intelligent HOA board members leave and you're left with the crazy power hungry board members. You need full control of your own property. The association fees are 2x or 3x the normal maintenance of any house's yard and/or facility and they erode the value of your home. Get out and cut your own grass. Take care of your yard and pool. You need the exercise which is critical to a healthy life. God Bless you.

[@dennish4603]

I am on HOA, my expenses are 50% less than owning a home. Been here 5 years.

[@hansreynders6853]

Incidental experiences are too easily generalized. I know well how a HOA works, I've been asked to put my candidacy when election was up, I refused for the simple reason that it's not to me as foreigner who doesn't own property anyway. It has been quite a hassle to get a new board elected, but in the end they go for it and take it very serious. The more common situation is that it goes up and down. When the rules get ignored people are reminded after some time and this continues as a wave up and down. Oh, when people are ignorant of the HOA rules, then the HOA has only to blame itself.

[@dennish4603]

@@hansreynders6853 Agree 100% on incidental experiences, many on this site. I am on a board as well......sold my house 5 years ago......very expencive to maintain property...........many houses are in shambles..... BEST

[@American_Mike]

Get a lawyer. You cannot own the land. You can own 100% of the buildings that are on land that you lease.

[@RichTravel1010]

Correct

[@tinmanrobby]

Confucius: "as long as your girlfriend's hot, a man can live anywhere". Lunyu (Analects) P.347. (I just made that up but it sounds cool, LOL!)

[@retiredbyboracayphilippine8656]

👍