Ohmyhome is the leading property transaction ecosystem. Find the latest Singapore property updates, HDB news, housing policies, CPF housing grants, and how to sell your property fast at affordable agent fees. Buy your property in Singapore with Ohmyhome`s VIP real estate services
After years of serving as a full-fledged property platform catering to the home transaction needs of residents in Singapore, Ohmyhome expanded its services to Malaysia and the Philippines. Officially launching its Philippines website in October 2020, it has now been almost a year since Ohmyhome began offering its real estate services in the country.
As a lead up to the company’s upcoming first anniversary in the Philippines, and in line with its goal of helping Filipinos discover homes and property deals that get them the best value for their investment, Ohmyhome has launched the Ohmyhome Cashback Program for the benefit of all homeseekers buying a brand new home through the platform.
From September 9, 2021 onwards, those who buy brand new homes for sale on the Ohmyhome website or mobile app on their own or with the help of an Ohmyhome agent are eligible for the Cashback. Eligible homes include all properties listed on the platform, be it condos for sale located in Manila or houses and lots in places like Laguna or Cebu.
The amount to be credited back to buyers is 2% of the total reservation fee plus 12 months’ worth of amortization for the property’s down payment. All buyers have to do is successfully make the consecutive payments for the first 12 months, and Ohmyhome takes care of the rest.
Why the Cashback?
Cashbacks or similar rewards programs aren’t a new concept in real estate and have been done by developers in the past to attract more buyers to their newly launched projects. A program that spans different locations, property types, and even developers/brands, however, is unprecedented, and having more homeseekers get greater value from their property purchase no matter where or what type of home they want is the motivation behind Ohmyhome’s Cashback program.
According to Ohmyhome Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer Race Wong, sharing the company’s savings to the buyers will help them in acquiring the exact homes they want; “Due to our ability to negotiate favorable terms with developers and our efficiency of operations, Ohmyhome can pass back some cost savings to our customers in the form of a Cashback. This creates a smarter community of property shoppers, where you can save more on your purchase.”
The Ohmyhome Cashback applies to all homes for sale listed by all partner developers on Ohmyhome, allowing homebuyers to get rewarded while finding their dream home from any of the following developers (and future Ohmyhome partners):
True to its aim to make property transactions as simple to do as possible, Ohmyhome has made qualifying and receiving payment from the Cashback hassle-free. As previously mentioned, the promotion began on September 9, 2021, and from that point onwards, anyone who has purchased a property through Ohmyhome is eligible for the Cashback.
Whether buying a pre-sellingcondo or a house and lot for sale, all homeseekers who purchase via Ohmyhome will be entitled to the 2% Cashback as long as they make 12 consecutive months of amortization payments and will receive their payout within 60 days after the 12th payment. In terms of needed documents, homebuyers need not do anything else beyond what they’ve already done when making a reservation for their chosen home.
Ready to find your dream home AND get more value out of your purchase by being rewarded with a Cashback? Visit Ohmyhome for the latest house and condos for sale from the top developers in the Philippines, or connect with an Ohmyhome agent for additional property information or assistance with getting the home buying process started.
To learn more about the Ohmyhome Cashback program, read about the complete mechanics, partner developers, and FAQs here.
Ohmyhome was launched in the Philippines in September 2020, following the company’s establishment of a tech team in the country in 2017. Ohmyhome was originally founded in 2016, and subsequently rose in Singapore as a leading PropTech solution and licensed real estate agency.
Ohmyhome expanded into the Philippines so that Filipino home seekers can have a real estate partner that they can trust to have their best interests at heart and can be relied upon to provide exceptional services throughout the entire property journey.
Featuring thousands of properties across many of the Philippines’ major real estate brands, Ohmyhome differs from other local platforms by going the extra mile and extensively helping buyers narrow down their choices and find the property that best suits their budgets, home needs, and lifestyle preferences.
The company’s Real Estate agents help in the shortlisting of options and provide professional services through the entire purchasing process. These include assistance in property inspections, negotiations, the finalization of the Conditions of Sale, deposit collection, the submission of property documents, as well as providing buyers regular updates.
Ohmyhome helps Filipinos find their dream homes, all while making sure each real estate transaction is complete and is an efficient and enjoyable experience.
Stay connected with Ohmyhome Philippines by following our official Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn accounts.
They say it takes a village to raise a child, but a new mom in a foreign country may find it hard to find her tribe. So Pooja Kawatra built her own community by starting a parenting group, Mums & Babies, to connect with other expat moms in Singapore.
That spawned her blog of a similar name, TheMumsandBabies, where she shares recipes, parenting tips and lifestyle product reviews. Since starting it in 2011, her online presence has grown to over 50,000 followers on Instagram and Facebook.
But Pooja is more than just a mommy blogger and social media influencer — she is also a cancer survivor. She says her bout with stage 2 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2009 taught her to cherish every moment with her family.
We spoke to Pooja recently about her journey as a mom, blogger and cancer survivor.
You were a few months into motherhood when you were diagnosed with cancer. Any insights from that time that you can share with us?
Family support is important, especially when you’re going through a really low time, not just physically but also emotionally.
I had just come off my maternity leave and returned to the office when I started getting really tired all of a sudden. I also had weight loss and a persistent cough. At first I thought they were only post-pregnancy changes but doctors diagnosed it as tuberculosis. They gave me medicine for it, but I still had a cough.
So my husband, Nikhil, finally said I should get some tests done. After some X-rays, PET scans and a biopsy, I was diagnosed with stage 2 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer that starts in the lymph nodes and lymphatic system.
I could not stop crying after hearing that. No one is ever ready to hear they have cancer. We had also just started a family — my first child, Aayan, was only nine months old — so everything looked so uncertain.
Pooja Kawatra was diagnosed with stage 2 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and had to undergo chemotherapy, which she said she could not have done without her husband, Nikhil.
I had to undergo chemotherapy, which I couldn’t have done without my husband’s support. He is a hands-on dad and so held down the fort while I was in and out of the hospital and through my recovery, taking care of himself and our nine-month-old baby on his own. It’s a partnership, you know?
We didn’t share the news with our children then as they were still too young. We wanted them to read my blog and understand it on their own. Aayan, my eldest, was seven years old when he read the blog. He was very curious about the whole thing compared to my daughter who was a bit more emotional. She was in tears when she read my post recounting my experience and she hugged me right after, telling me that she was proud of me and I was strong.
How has your parenting style changed since then?
That one year changed many things in my life, not just my parenting style. My whole outlook in life changed, to where I just wanted to embrace my family forever.
I now see every moment as worth celebrating, no matter how mundane it is. I also care less about what others think of me; I only care about my family who stood by me when I was at my lowest.
How did you start The MumsandBabies?
I started a parenting group, Mums & Babies, in the same year that I gave birth to Aayan in 2008. My husband and I were first-time parents and had a lot of fears about how we were going to manage everything in a foreign country, away from family and friends. Though we still called our parents in India, I also wanted to connect with other expat mommies.
Raising kids on our own was emotionally and physically challenging but, together, we did it happily. We had playdates and celebrations, and the friends I made are like family to me.
It was also around that time that I created my blog, TheMumsandBabies, where I started writing about my baby food recipes. Today, I write about everything, from raising kids in a foreign land, growing with your kids, travel diaries, daily logs and the positivity I gained as a cancer survivor.
Why does your voice resonate strongly with your audience?
When I started TheMumsandBabies, I was drawing readers with a similar cultural background or were raising their kids alone. My kids were also young then, so I was mainly writing about raising toddlers, which attracted other moms with kids of the same age.
My posts followed the growth of my kids. As I now have a teenager, I write about how to support him as he experiences peer pressure in school or prepares for major exams.
Pooja Kawatra said family support is important, especially when you’re going through a really low time.
I also started writing about my cancer journey and how I overcame it by not letting it dictate my life. This may have resonated with other women who were going through the same thing as they would message me for advice, encouragement or a listening ear.
It definitely makes me happy when my readers, followers or friends come up to me to talk about cancer because it’s an opportunity to give hope to a person. I share with them the biggest lesson I learned, which is that a positive attitude — despite the odds — can change everything.
That’s why I always quote Robert Schuller: tough times don’t last, tough people do.
What have been some of the joys and/or disappointments associated with having a platform with a following?
I feel blessed that I have a platform where I can share my thoughts and experiences, while also helping others.
It is still a big responsibility, though, and I never want to give the wrong impression to my readers when recounting my experiences or recommending certain products.
Everyone curates what they show or talk about online so constantly comparing yourself to others will not bring any joy.
What have you learned since starting TheMumsandBabies?
Content creation is a full-time job because you’re doing everything. Doing this while raising two kids is a tad challenging. It was easier when my kids were younger, because they would listen to me when I asked them to be on camera. Now that they’re older, it’s harder because they want their privacy. So I really learned how to find the balance between creating content with my kids and spending quality time with them outside of work.
What does home mean to you?
In terms of place, Singapore is home now. But wherever I go, my kids and husband will always be my home.
This article is part of Ohmyhome’s The Most Interesting Person Now series, which features personalities who captivate and engage others with their incredible stories, passions or work. Watch this space for more.
If you’ve been thinking of buying a new home, you’ve likely already wondered when is the best time of the year to move forward with such an investment– among other considerations aimed at finding the best possible real estate deal.
Fortunately, continued advancement in technology has helped transform the way we do property transactions. Platforms such as Ohmyhome have made it easier than ever to discover deals on properties–no matter where it is in the Philippines or what time of the year it is.
However, considering the timing of homebuying can still prove advantageous, and you might find that the last few months of 2021–or most years, for that matter–is what brings some great value for money. Read on to learn why buying a home within the last few months of this year will be to your advantage, be it from a financial standpoint, being able to get the most out of what you pay for, and, even getting your money back.
13th-month pay
For some, the end of the year means receiving 13th (and sometimes 14th) month-pay and other similar bonuses. More often than not, these are significant amounts, to the tune of at least a month’s worth of salary. While these are commonly spent on holiday expenses, this “extra” income can also serve as a great jumpstart to property investment. Granted, hardly does a month’s worth of salary cover a home’s down payment, much more its full-on price.
However, a bonus salary or 13th-month pay is often more than enough to cover a few mortgage payments or at least cover most of the expenses associated with buying property such as documentary stamp and transfer taxes, or title registration and notarial fees. Spending your year-end bonus on a property investment is surely a greater use of your extra income instead of another holiday where it seems to just disappear.
While there may not be as many homes for sale listed towards the end of the year, the last three to four months are generally considered a good time to buy because of price reductions. Individual sellers whose properties haven’t yet sold tend to be more motivated as the holidays near and, similarly, larger realtors and developers are aiming to meet or surpass their sales targets–be it at the expense of offering their properties at slightly lower prices.
Granted, it isn’t favorable to literally wait at the last few weeks or final month of the year before buying, as the purchase may take longer to close due to the holiday season. In addition, listings tend to be limited during the later months of the year, and buying at the last minute commonly entails having to work with not as many property options.
Favorable interest rates and terms
According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), home loans granted in early 2021 for all types of new housing units in the Philippines contracted by 32-percent compared to the fourth quarter of 2020. As a result, banks have continued adjusting the terms and other aspects of their housing loans to encourage borrowing, which has been helped by the BSP keeping overnight deposit and lending rates at 1.5% and 2.5%
This alone has made 2021 an ideal time to buy a home despite the pandemic. However, health crisis notwithstanding, lenders also typically offer up various promotions during the final few months, both as a means to, again, meet or surpass their business targets for the year and to compete with the year-end promotions being offered by other lenders.
In the Philippines, “‘tis the season” as early as September. From a commercial perspective, the early celebration of the season means a multitude of holiday and year-end promos, with homes for sale and real estate financing being no exception. While these “extras” are meant to have you buy or borrow now rather than later, they can work to your advantage too when you find the promo that is right for you.
Homebuying promos can range from waived processing fees, extended payment terms, or even be in the form of discounts or freebies on other things that coincide with your purchase of a home, such as the purchase of brand new appliances or a subscription to internet services. Of course, among the most advantageous is when you can lower what you spend or, in other instances, get some of your money back:
The Ohmyhome Cashback Program
Launching on September 9, 2021, the Ohmyhome Cashback is an unprecedented program in local real estate that will give homebuyers acquiring property through Ohmyhome the opportunity to make back a portion of what you spend on your property purchase.
For more information on the Ohmyhome Cashback Program and updates on its launch, make sure to follow Ohmyhome on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to Ohmyhome by visiting the website and/or downloading the Ohmyhome app.
Ohmyhome was launched in the Philippines in September 2020, following the company’s establishment of a tech team in the country in 2017. Ohmyhome was originally founded in 2016, and subsequently rose in Singapore as a leading PropTech solution and licensed real estate agency.
Ohmyhome expanded into the Philippines so that Filipino home seekers can have a real estate partner that they can trust to have their best interests at heart and can be relied upon to provide exceptional services throughout the entire property journey.
Featuring thousands of properties across many of the Philippines’ major real estate brands, Ohmyhome differs from other local platforms by going the extra mile and extensively helping buyers narrow down their choices and find the property that best suits their budgets, home needs, and lifestyle preferences.
The company’s Real Estate agents help in the shortlisting of options and provide professional services through the entire purchasing process. These include assistance in property inspections, negotiations, the finalization of the Conditions of Sale, deposit collection, the submission of property documents, as well as providing buyers regular updates.
Ohmyhome helps Filipinos find their dream homes, all while making sure each real estate transaction is complete and is an efficient and enjoyable experience.
Stay connected with Ohmyhome Philippines by following our official Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn accounts.
Singapore is one of the best economies for business in the world, which is why it is such a popular destination for expat workers.
As of June 2020, the expat population here stood at almost 29% of the 5.69 million-strong population.
Safety and ease of living here are usually the top reasons cited when expats are asked about the things they appreciate in Singapore, followed closely by easy availability of quality health care, ease in adjusting to the local culture, the wide use of English and satisfaction with their work-life balance, among others.
If you’re thinking of joining the ranks of expats here, below are seven of the residential areas that are popular to new transplants here. Like everywhere else, rents are generally most expensive around the central business district, dropping more and more the further the unit is from that point.
Here’s a map to zoom in on Singapore towns and streets.
For single expats
Orchard
If you would like to be right in the thick of a perpetual bustling shopping, entertainment and culinary enclave, Orchard is the place for you.
The famous Orchard Road is Singapore’s main shopping belt where luxury brands and high street fashion reign. Equally extensive are the food and beverage choices from every imaginable country, from high-end restaurants to local street food. Watering holes abound too, perfect for those who want to socialise and meet new friends.
This area is always teeming with people, especially during the weekends. Those who like to live in a central area with retail therapy close by will definitely like this place. But don’t worry; the hustle and bustle don’t quite infiltrate the serenity of the many ultra-luxe residential buildings in this area, many of which rank among those with the highest selling price per square foot. This means that for such a prime and exclusive area, rents here are also significantly higher.
Expat clubs nearby include the American Club and Tanglin Club.
As with the rest of Singapore, public transport is extensive and frequent here, with three Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) stations ‒ Dhoby Ghaut, Somerset and Orchard on the North-South Line – stopping along the shopping belt. Taxis are everywhere and so are on-demand cars from ride-hailing apps.
ION Orchard at the junction of Orchard Road and Scotts Road.
Condos in Orchard
Cairnhill Nine (mid-Orchard Road) – 1-BR, 2-BR and 4-BR at 592-3,864 sq ft, rent at $4,000-$10,000 monthly
Suites at Orchard (east end of Orchard Road) – 1-BR, 2-BR and 3-BR at 548-2,551 sq ft, rent at $2,000-$7,000 monthly
St Martin Residence (west end of Orchard Road) – 1-BR, 2-BR and 3-BR at 549-2,142 sq ft, rent at $2,750-$8,000 monthly
Interested in these condos or looking for something similar? Contact or message us at +65 9727 5270.
Marina Bay
Built entirely on reclaimed land, financial centre Marina Bay is considered “downtown” and draws many banking and finance executives and entrepreneurs to make their homes here for its proximity to the CBD.
This area is a great draw for locals and tourists too, who come for the beautiful waterfront views from the many exclusive restaurants, cafes and pubs around the Marina Bay, as well as those who want to try their luck at the iconic Marina Bay Sands casino, one of the world’s most expensive to build.
Another draw of Marina Bay is the award-winning Gardens by the Bay, a super garden of horticultural artistry, with the iconic Supertrees and cooled conservatories of myriad specimens of the plant kingdom.
For foodies, there is the historic Lau Pa Sat, a must-visit if you want to experience Singapore’s hawker culture that is recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. At night, a street alongside Lau Pa Sat transforms into al fresco dining for foods such as charcoal-smoked satay and BBQ seafood.
Marina Bay is served by no less than five MRT stations, with two more upcoming. For fitness buffs, the area around the bay is great for brisk walking and jogging, as well as strolls after meals to take in the sights and sounds of the city.
The iconic Marina Bay Sands (left) is two MRT stops away from the CBD (right).
Condos in Marina Bay
The Sail @ Marina Bay – 1-BR, 2-BR, 3-BR, 4-BR and 5-BR at 614-6,297 sq ft, rent at $1,900-$32,000 monthly
Marina Bay Residences – 1-BR, 2-BR, 3-BR, 4-BR and 5-BR at 710-11,012 sq ft, rent at $3,900-$50,000 monthly
Marina One Residences – 1-BR, 2-BR, 3-BR and 4-BR at 678-2,147 sq ft, rent at $3,400-$18,000 monthly
Interested in these condos or looking for something similar? Contact or message us at +65 9727 5270.
Holland Village
The closest to what can pass as a bohemian spot in Singapore, this area was once the residential site of British personnel and their families.
Today, it is a place where creative-types mingle after office hours in the many pubs, dining options and entertainment joints available.
A known nightlife spot in Singapore, this area is also famous for its eclectic mix of shops, from “mamak” shops – small shops selling sundries and personal items manned by Indians – to lifestyle and art stores.
Of late, the IT industry professionals who work at nearby one-north, Singapore’s Silicon Valley, have also taken to living and playing here, adding to the bustle of activity at night and on weekends.
Holland V is served by its namesake MRT station, and Orchard is just 10 minutes away by bus.
A known nightlife spot in Singapore, Holland Village is also famous for its eclectic mix of shops.
Condos in Holland Village
The Merasaga – 2-BR, 3-BR, 4-BR and 5-BR at 947-3,208 sq ft, rent at $4,300-$7,500 monthly
Leedon 2 – 2-BR and 3-BR at 710-1,249 sq ft, rent at $3,000-$3,700 monthly
Loft @ Holland – 1-BR and 2-BR at 323-1,140 sq ft, rent at $2,750-2,900 monthly
Interested in these condos or looking for something similar? Contact or message us at +65 9727 5270.
For the expat with family
River Valley
To the south of Orchard Road lies River Valley Road, an area that is mostly residential and likely to be more ideal for a family who wants quiet while enjoying close proximity to the buzz of nearby Orchard and access to nearby nightlife.
Rentals here are relatively less expensive than Orchard.
For the nearest shopping, dining and wining options, there’s Valley Point Shopping Centre at the western end, the Great World mall nearby, to Clarke Quay at the eastern end. The former is a quieter spot with many local food options nearby while the latter is another popular nightlife destination with its many bars and live music options.
The Singapore River, the main waterway of Singapore, is just south of River Valley Road. Along its banks is Robertson Quay, which is the location of a number of riverside condominiums and has a stretch of restaurants and pubs, making it a great place to chill with family and friends.
Many runners and jogger traverse this area when completing a big round to the Marina Bay area, adding to the general energy of the place.
Two MRT stations ‒ the Fort Canning station at the eastern end and the upcoming Great World station towards the west side ‒ and many buses serve this area, as well as taxis and private hire cars.
Robertson Quay is the location of a number of riverside condominiums and has a stretch of restaurants and pubs, making it a great place to chill with family and friends.
Condos in River Valley
Valley Park (west end of River Valley Road) – 1-BR, 2-BR, 3-BR and 4-BR at 710-3,907 sq ft, rent at $2,800-$13,000 monthly
One Devonshire (mid River Valley Road) – 2-BR, 3-BR and 4-BR at 904-4,876 sq ft, rent at $5,000-$16,800 monthly
Belle Vue Residences (east end of River Valley Road) – 3-BR, 4-BR and 5-BR at 1,798-5,005 sq ft, rent at $7,000-$16,000 monthly
Interested in these condos or looking for something similar? Contact or message us at +65 9727 5270.
Tiong Bahru
“Tiong Bahru” literally means new cemetery in a mix of Hokkien Chinese (tiong means to die or the end) and Malay (bahru or new). Nowadays, it is considered a hip area, with gentrified businesses such as artisanal cafes and speciality shops patronised mainly by the young crowd.
Architecture-wise, the eponymous housing estate at the eastern end of Tiong Bahru Road comprises pre- and post-war buildings, all four storeys high. Their Art Deco facade exudes old world charm that blends well with the estate’s mix of old and new buildings.
Many expat families love this place for its proximity to the Tiong Bahru Market, considered one of the best hawker centres in town, and Chinatown (20 minutes’ walk away or 5 minutes by bus) while also enjoying proximity to the CBD.
Two MRT stations currently serve this area, Redhill and Tiong Bahru stations, while a third is upcoming, Havelock station.
Tiong Bahru’s pre-war buildings have Art Deco facades which exude old world charm that blends well with the estate’s mix of old and new buildings.
Condos in Tiong Bahru
Meraprime – 2-BR, 3-BR and 4-BR at 840-1,313 sqft, rent at $3,900-$6,300 monthly
Central Green Condominium– 1-BR, 2-BR, 3-BR and 4-BR at 764-2,117 sq ft, rent at $2,900-$5,000 monthly
Highline Residences – 1-BR, 2-BR, 3-BR and 4-BR at 506-2,260 sq ft, rent at $1,900-$8,000 monthly
Interested in these condos or looking for something similar? Contact or message us at +65 9727 5270.
Sentosa
Exclusive oceanfront residences here comprise landed houses and condos at the eastern end of the island and would attract families who like easy access to the beach and an island resort lifestyle.
Sentosa Cove, a premier waterfront residential enclave, is the only place in Singapore where foreigners are allowed to buy a leasehold bungalow subject to approval by the government. Elsewhere in Singapore, landed property is only available to citizens and select permanent residents.
Given its exclusivity, rentals in Sentosa are high.
This area is the location of Singapore’s second casino, Resorts World Singapore, as well as the Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, Sentosa Cable Car Network, among other family fun destinations.
Many international hotel brands are also represented here, including the Capella Hotel, where US President Donald Trump met North Korea’s Kim Jong-un in the historic Singapore Summit in 2018.
There are three popular beaches here – Palawan, Siloso and Tanjong – where the waves are gentle, thanks to breakwaters along the coastline. Given such, these beaches attract crowds, especially during the weekend.
There is also the Sentosa Golf Club here which has two golf courses – Serapong and Tanjong – and was awarded the world’s best eco-friendly golf facility in 2020 by World Golf Awards. The Serapong course is a championship one, having hosted the Singapore Open from 2005 to 2019.
Aside from cable car, Sentosa is connected to the city by road, pedestrian boardwalk and monorail.
Sentosa is the location of Singapore’s second casino, Resorts World Singapore (right).
Condos in Sentosa
The Azure – 2-BR, 3-BR and 4-BR at 840-1,313 sq ft, rent at $7,300-$12,800 monthly
The Berth by the Cove – 1-BR, 2-BR, 3-BR and 4-BR at 764-2,117 sq ft, rent at $5,200-$32,000 monthly
The Oceanfront @ Sentosa Cove – 2-BR, 3-BR, 4-BR and 5-BR at 840-1,313 sq ft, rent at $5,900-$28,000 monthly
Interested in these condos or looking for something similar? Contact or message us at +65 9727 5270.
Katong/ Marine Parade/ East Coast
Katong, with its heritage buildings and colourful shophouses, was the traditional enclave of the Peranakans – region-born people of Chinese and Malay descent from the 15th century – and is also considered an exclusive enclave of old money. Before land was reclaimed and the shoreline pushed out, many Peranakans built villas right by the sea, and some still stand today, though they are inland now.
The biggest draw of this area is East Coast Parkway (ECP), a long strip of parkland and the beach at Singapore’s south-eastern coast. ECP is a big favourite of families for its cycling, inline skating, swimming, play, picnic, and other water sport amenities.
This mostly residential area is generally laid-back, with pockets of old-world charm displayed in its quaint, Peranakan eateries and shops.
Katong’s most famous food is the Katong Laksa, a savoury and spicy rice vermicelli soup with cockles, prawns and fishcake, which got the thumb’s up from the late chef Anthony Bourdain. Otherwise, expats and locals living here break bread with friends and family in any of the many small restaurants and unassuming, open-air pubs that are popular in this part of Singapore.
Be warned, many people say that once you’ve lived in this area (the East), it’s hard to move away.
There are two future MRT stations planned here – Marine Parade and Marine Terrace. This line will run along Marine Parade Road, which is also home to Parkway Parade, an established suburban mall.
Katong is a mostly residential area that is laid-back, with pockets of old-world charm displayed in its quaint, Peranakan eateries and shops.
Condos in Katong/ Marine Parade/ East Coast
The Sea View – 1-BR, 3-BR, 4-BR and 5-BR at 560-2,928 sq ft, rent at $2,500-$9,500 monthly
Villa Martia – 1-BR, 2-BR and 3-BR 603-1,615 sq ft, rent at $1,600 to $5,500 monthly
Bayshore Park – 1-BR, 2-BR, 3-BR, 4-BR, 5-BR and 6-BR, at 637-3,857 sq ft, rent at $1,050-$6,800 monthly
Interested in these condos or looking for something similar? Contact or message us at +65 9727 5270.
Quezon City-based real estate developer Landisco Corporation has partnered with Ohmyhome Philippines for the promotions of their current residential developments. Among these is Melton Townhomes in Binangonan, Rizal.
A gated, low-density community located in Barangay Tagpos, Melton Townhomes is particularly notable for its stylish three-bedroom townhouses and for being a low-density green space that effectively uses renewable energy. Prime units in Melton Townhomes are equipped to run on solar energy, giving further value to homeowners who want to live in a cleaner environment and want to save significantly in utility expenses.
Keeping to its commitment to building stylishly designed, private, gated, and fully-fenced neighborhoods that are within proximity to everything homeowners need, Landisco is also looking forward to launching new projects soon, especially in its favored location of Rizal.
While only 26 kilometers east of Metro Manila, the province offers an immediate change of pace from the capital region. Municipalities like Binangonan and others in Rizal have an abundance of wide-open spaces that makes one feel as if they are much farther than they are from Metro Manila.
And with more developable land comes a wider variety of residential options for Landisco to offer, making homeownership a greater possibility for Filipinos who will have not only a viable location to live in at Rizal, but also a residence that meets all their needs and more.
Established in 2010, Landisco is still relatively new in Philippine real estate. Despite operating for only over a decade so far and not yet garnering the name recognition of longer-termed developers, the company has had a significant impact on the market, offering low-cost high-value homes in a relatively modest period. It is this consistency that has made it a suitable partner for Ohmyhome.
“At Ohmyhome, one of our goals continues to help every Filipino discover the home for them,” shares Ohmyhome Philippines Account Manager Cielo Dumlao, “and this partnership with Landisco allows us to give homeseekers using our website a worthy option for their investment.”
It is important for us to have Landisco as a featured developer on our platform,” adds Ohmyhome Philippines Marketing Manager Julian Sison, “because not only are their projects situated in some of the most in-demand places in the country, but because they line of homes vary, and the communities they have built features options for a wider range of homeseekers.”
Interested in what Landisco currently offers in the market? Visit Ohmyhome for the latest Landisco homes for sale, or connect with an Ohmyhome Agent for detailed information and/or to start the home buying process.
For convenient access to the house and lot or condo for sale listings and real estate information in the Philippines, download the official Ohmyhome app.
Ohmyhome was launched in the Philippines in September 2020, following the company’s establishment of a tech team in the country in 2017. Ohmyhome was originally founded in 2016, and subsequently rose in Singapore as a leading PropTech solution and licensed real estate agency.
Ohmyhome expanded into the Philippines so that Filipino home seekers can have a real estate partner that they can trust to have their best interests at heart and can be relied upon to provide exceptional services throughout the entire property journey.
Featuring thousands of properties across many of the Philippines’ major real estate brands, Ohmyhome differs from other local platforms by going the extra mile and extensively helping buyers narrow down their choices and find the property that best suits their budgets, home needs, and lifestyle preferences.
The company’s Real Estate agents help in shortlisting options and provide professional services through the entire purchasing process. These include assistance in property inspections, negotiations, the finalization of the Conditions of Sale, deposit collection, the submission of property documents, as well as providing buyers regular updates.
Ohmyhome helps Filipinos find their dream homes while ensuring each real estate transaction is complete and is an efficient and enjoyable experience.
Stay connected with Ohmyhome Philippines by following our official Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn accounts.
Every month, Ohmyhome co-founders Race and Rhonda Wong share their insights on the real estate market, PropTech, and one-stop-shop Ohmyhome.
This month, Rhonda shares a way for young couples to own an investment property.
Earlier in the month, my co-founder Race shared practical saving and investing tips for couples who are just starting in life or now growing their families.
As a follow through on those points, let me answer one question about real estate investing that many younger couples in Singapore always ask, and that is “How do we even go about owning an investment property when houses are so expensive?”
Yes, Singapore property is expensive (before even considering the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty) and it is difficult to save for one. Knowing this, I’d say consider investing somewhere else. The world is big and there are other places that’s great for investments too.
Eyes on the Philippines
When I look at real estate investments, I always consider affordability and the returns, which could be in the form of rental or capital appreciation or both. I assess the risks against the benefits and do my best to make a calculated decision. I’ve certainly gotten some investments wrong in my younger years and hope that my sharing will help you avoid those mistakes.
I have personally transacted and invested in properties in 7 countries over the past years and at the moment, I remain very bullish about the long term prospects of the Philippines. Its affordability, rental yield and capital appreciation check all the boxes. The Philippines is one of the fastest growing economies in Asia, posting over 6% in average annual growth between 2010 and 2019 and it was only the pandemic that dented this figure for 2020 which then presented us with even better discounts on property purchases than before.
Affordability
To give you an idea of the affordability in the Philippines, let’s compare the per square footage cost of a residential unit in a prime location in Singapore versus Manila, Philippines. In Singapore, it would be easily above S$1,800 psf, while in Manila, it would be S$500 psf, or 28% of Singapore.
So, if you have around S$100,000 to invest, you can buy a studio unit in Quezon City, a highly urbanised, densely populated city of Metro Manila. The available choices in Quezon City would include a 201 square feet studio in a development called Amaia Skies at S$97,000 or a 237 square feet condo unit at Aurora Escalades which costs a little over S$100,000. Both are centrally located and will attract young urban professional tenants.
Rental yield
With S$100,000 in Singapore, most people leave it in their bank account with little interest returns or in a fixed deposit account with a 1% return. A condo rental yield would hover between 1 to 3%. On the other hand, with any of the two Quezon City properties, owners can look forward to a gross rental income of about S$500 per month. That’s a rental yield of 6% per year.
The demand in the Philippines is driven by locals, as well as from Overseas Filipino Workers. Remittances from Filipinos working abroad total over S$44 billionin one year.
Capital appreciation
The potential for capital appreciation is important. For the period March 2015 to March 2021, the annual average growth in prices of residential property in the Philippines was 3.4%. So with the S$100,000 examples, the asset could grow to S$114,300 in five years at the current rate.
The demand in the Philippines is driven by locals, as well as from Overseas Filipino Workers, otherwise known as OFWs. Did you know that remittances from Filipinos working abroad total over S$44 billionin one year?
Increasing urbanisation, an expanding middle class, the growth of their Business Process Outsourcing industry and the increasing remittances of Filipinos working abroad make this a resilient and thriving economy.
When you have a hard working, young and growing population of over 100 million with employment risks diversified across the world, it is clear that demand for real estate in this country will continue to grow vibrantly.
Property prices are highly correlated with that growth. So, if you want to grow your wealth through property capital appreciation, you can look into the Philippine market while real estate is still affordable.
What about the risks?
Any form of investment comes with risks and opportunity costs. Values may go up or down but remember that real estate is a tangible asset that you own.
1. Currency risk
There is currency risk when investing abroad because you are converting Singapore dollars into Philippines pesos when purchasing and over time, you’ll receive the rental and ultimately the cash proceeds when the property is sold. Between that time, the currency could move in your favour or against you. It may be possible to manage the timing of the cash flows to lessen the risk. Nonetheless, on the whole, you’ll have to weigh the potential currency loss/gain against your total returns.
“Any form of investment comes with risks and opportunity costs. Values may go up or down but remember that real estate is a tangible asset that you own.”
2. Investment risk
If you are wondering about the professional experience of the developers of the projects that we sell in the Philippines, be assured that Ohmyhome only recommends those who have excellent track records and have been around for a long time. We can confidently say that the chances of any of them not completing a project is very low.
Some of these trusted developers we work with are Avida and Amaia, both units of the oldest conglomerate of the country, Ayala Corp. Another developer is SM Development Corp, which is the real estate arm of another huge conglomerate, SM Investments Corp. Both Ayala Corp and SM Investments are blue chip stocks traded in the Philippine Stock Exchange.
For your peace of mind when deciding on the purchase of a place, Ohmyhome agents are ready to do video calls onsite so you can see the environment, the showroom or maybe the unit itself. This way, you aren’t buying blind.
We’ve successfully assisted Singapore clients in this way, and others too who were transacting from New York, Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. Our ability to do cross-border business has really been a competitive advantage, given that the pandemic has made flying difficult.
Moreover, our services do not stop after you purchase the property; it extends to making sure the unit is rented out to a good tenant, the aircon is serviced and pest control is carried out, among other services. We will also take care of selling the unit in the future if you so desire.
This end-to-end service by the local Ohmyhome team who is looking after your Philippine properties was purposely developed so that you, the landlord, won’t have to supervise these things yourself.
Our responsibility
Behind our recommendations of good properties to buy and markets to explore is Ohmyhome’s duty to always be truthful in our dealings.
The transactions we do, afterall, involve the life savings of hard-working people and I am very aware of our responsibility.
The aim then is that when Ohmyhome recommends an investment, the chances of it succeeding should be reasonably high, while the odds of it becoming a failure is as close to zero as possible. Our clients can then make their own decisions from there.
Future of Ohmyhome
Our core mission has always been to help our customers transact hassle-free, and at the best price. We have stayed true to this.
We are also working hard to make Ohmyhome the top-of-mind partner for everyone in whatever property transaction they are planning, be it in Singapore or any of the other markets we will operate in.
Lastly, we want to build implicit trust in our platform as the gateway to explore what investments in real estate are safely available in other countries.
Buying a home in the Philippines for the first time–or even the second, third, or nth time afterward–can be an overwhelming process. After all, there are so many steps to take, tasks to complete, and requirements to fulfill, and it is understandable why many of us become anxious about the possibility of making an expensive mistake.
Indeed homebuying can be complicated, but it is also one of the most worthwhile purchases you can make, particularly as an investment to earn from both now and in the future.
To help demystify the process so aspiring homebuyers can get the most out of their purchases, Ohmyhome CEO and Co-Founder Rhonda Wong joined the recently concluded Financial Literacy Summit 2021: Generation Investors to share a few homebuying basics that are helpful to know for both attaining homeownership and building wealth along the way.
Save up for an INVESTMENT property
Among the first tips shared by Rhonda, is how it is beneficial to take on an investment perspective when saving for and eventually buying property.
As many only really look into home buying when looking for a new place to live, Rhonda shared how this leads to missing the opportunity to earn from rental income and/or property appreciation from investment properties.
Then, more often than not, homes bought for living-in or ‘own-stay’ are later on sold in favor of an upgrade anyway.
“One of the mistakes that people make is putting all their money on their own home, But what happens when doing this is, usually, most of us don’t buy the most luxurious or biggest home on the very first purchase anyway. Then, when our family grows, we still end up having to buy a new property (to meet our changing needs).”
To invest in property early and successfully, Rhonda drew on her own experience of living with her parents and then renting for some time to save money for investments and recommends keeping things simple at the start of one’s career and independence.
”It may be better to sacrifice at the start and stay in a simpler place while putting aside the savings for an investment property.”
“Location, location, location.” Cliche as it seems, where a property is located is paramount in determining if it is the right home to buy and/or the right investment to make. For Rhonda, answering the question “where should I buy a new home” is determined exactly by the purpose of the property.
“When using the property for an own-stay or to live in, we look at proximity to locations that are important to us. One of the key things that are important to a family that has children is usually where are your children’s schools? You don’t want to live too far away because you want them to be able to travel back and forth safely.”
“You also want to look at where you’re working. So if your work location is quite a distance away, ‘are you taking public transport?’, ‘do you need to be near public transport?’, ‘are you driving?’, ‘which is the best route to your job so that you don’t get stuck in traffic every day?’. These are very important to think about because what we have that is most precious in life is time. So if you can save your time by being in a location that allows your children to get to school and you and/or your spouse to get to work conveniently, then that is a good place to start.”
“If you’re looking at a home from an investment standpoint, first start with how much of a monthly payment you can make, and then narrow it down to the properties that can fit within that budget. Then from there choose (which properties are in) the location which is both easy to rent out and also has high potential in capital appreciation.”
Buy property even when continuing to rent
Another question often asked by homeseekers is whether it is better to buy or rent a home. Common sense dictates that it is better to pay for something you’ll own as opposed to paying for something you never will, so homeownership is often regarded as the better choice.
Understandably property prices aren’t always the most favorable in the places we want to live, forcing us to rent. According to Rhonda, renting in one place can be an effective way to save and invest in a home in another place.
When I was younger I rented for a long time because I wanted to keep all of my earnings and savings for investments. The reason is that one of the biggest chunks of wealth that you can build is really from property appreciation, where if you buy at say Php10 million today you hope to sell at P12-13 million in the future.
That is the fastest way to make more wealth, compared to only saving from your monthly income. So, even if you continue to rent, if your rent is affordable (and less) than the rental income you can get from an investment property, then I suggest that you invest your earnings in a property even if you won’t live in it.
She further elaborated, however, that if one can buy a place that is in the place one also wants to live, then buying is also the best option as it will provide an investment and stop the need to pay rent.
“If you can only have one property and you’re considering that instead of renting you’ll use the money you’re paying for rent to buy a property, that still makes sense. Why pay rent for a property that is not yours when you can turn that money into property that is yours.”
Indeed, there is more to home buying than merely buying a place to live. Property is surely among the largest purchases most of us can make, and it stands to reason that we gather as much real estate information we can to make sure that it serves as an investment that is most beneficial to us.
To learn more about growing wealth through the basics of home buying and other real estate-related advice and information, visit the Ohmyhome website or follow Ohmyhome on Facebook and Instagram for more tips, and supplemental content and schedules for upcoming talks and summits from Ohmyhome CEO Co-Founder Rhonda Wong and the rest of the Ohmyhome team.
For easy access to the latest home for sale listings across the Philippines or to conveniently connect with trusted real estate professionals, download the Ohmyhome app today.
Ohmyhome was launched in the Philippines in September 2020, following the company’s establishment of a tech team in the country in 2017. Ohmyhome was originally founded in 2016, and subsequently rose in Singapore as a leading PropTech solution and licensed real estate agency.
Ohmyhome expanded into the Philippines so that Filipino home seekers can have a real estate partner that they can trust to have their best interests at heart and can be relied upon to provide exceptional services throughout the entire property journey.
Featuring thousands of properties across many of the Philippines’ major real estate brands, Ohmyhome differs from other local platforms by going the extra mile and extensively helping buyers narrow down their choices and find the property that best suits their budgets, home needs, and lifestyle preferences.
The company’s Real Estate agents help in the shortlisting of options and provide professional services through the entire purchasing process. These include assistance in property inspections, negotiations, the finalization of the Conditions of Sale, deposit collection, the submission of property documents, as well as providing buyers regular updates.
Ohmyhome helps Filipinos find their dream homes, all while making sure each real estate transaction is complete and is an efficient and enjoyable experience.
Stay connected with Ohmyhome Philippines by following our official Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn accounts.
Although the price and the type of home are easily among the top considerations most make when buying a new place to live, location almost always emerges as the deciding factor when finally making a purchase.
Indeed, it stands to reason why where the home is located is of the utmost importance. Be it the safety of a neighborhood; proximity to the office, school, and other key areas; or even the potential of the property to increase in value over time; all revert back to where the home is.
Understandably, given that buying a home is a significant expense, most of us want to cover all our bases. Apart from getting to live in a locale we think is best for ourselves and our families, we also want it to be exactly the type of home we want and have it fit our finances. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done.
More often than not, the most ideal locations are also the most in-demand and most populated. Metro Manila, for instance, is home to three of the top business districts in the country, with many living–and wanting to live–in its cities like Makati and Taguig. Due to the lack of developable land in these areas, home options in these places are understandably both limited and costly.
Fortunately, there are nearby locations that can provide a wider range of options that are comparably more affordable. Among these is the city of Las Piñas.
While officially part of Metro Manila, Las Piñas is comparably less busy and less populated than the bigger name cities in the capital region. Its greater amount of open spaces combined with its proximity to the previously mentioned central business districts makes it a place worth considering when aiming for a home that is more affordable but also not wanting to live too far from Metro Manila.
While Las Piñas takes on a comparatively more relaxed pace than most of Metro Manila, it is still part of arguably the Philippines busiest region, and as such similar features homes built living a dynamic urban life.
Like the rest of the National Capital Region, condos for sale in Las Piñas are among the most readily available options. These types of homes are, after all, usually developed to both caters to the needs of commonly large urban populations, and to also make living spaces affordable in markets (cities) where homes and land, in general, are costly.
What differentiates buying a condo in Las Piñas from buying in other places in Metro Manila is that it is not only slightly more affordable buying here than buying in cities like Makati and Taguig, but the city’s landscape presently also accommodates a wider range of properties. This means being able to choose to live in midrise and highrise condominium communities, the latter of which is more typical in busier cities.
A good example of the former that is currently available on the market is South Residences by the SM Development Corporation (SMDC). Part of the SM Southmall Complex, South Residences is a definitive highrise community in that it is centrally located and almost everything one would need is within reach–be it the amenities within the community itself or the different retail establishments and transportation terminals that are just right outside of it.
Life in a high-rise home would not be complete without views of the city, and at South Residences, homeowners have a great look at the Las Piñas City landscape within their studio or one- or two-bedroom units.
Of course, not everyone is eager to live in a highrise and, as mentioned, one of the main reasons many choose to live in Las Piñas is to be in a place that is comparatively less urban than most of Metro Manila. With that, mid-rise condos are often an ideal choice, given these are priced similarly to high-rise units but are in communities that are less dense and have a little more open spaces with the key trade-off being they are not as centrally located.
A notable mid-rise community to buy a condo in Las Piñas is The Hermosa COHO. A project from COHO by Vista Land is a resort-inspired condo development tucked away in the Pulang Lupa Uno area of Las Piñas. The 2.9-hectare project features three residential buildings set within a walkable community that has its own commercial establishments as well common amenities like a swimming pool, function hall, and fitness gym.
Featuring studio and one- and two-bedroom units, The Hermosa COHO is a suitable choice for young families who spend a significant amount of time outdoors but don’t want to go too far away from Metro Manila to get it.
With Las Piñas having slightly more developable land than most of the other cities in the region, houses and lots are expectedly among the most common places to live in the city and are arguably the reason why many consider buying a home in Las Piñas.
However, given that Las Piñas is part of Metro Manila, house and lot values in the city are in no way low, although they are slightly more affordable and more available. As it has both a good number of existing subdivisions and gated communities, there continues to be an extensive selection of houses and lots for sale in Las Piñas to choose from.
Among the more exceptional of these properties are the homes in Portofino. Developed by Brittany Corporation, Portofino is a 300-hectare Italian-inspired exclusive gated community featuring European-styled homes and distinctive courtyards complimented architectural details such as cupolas, gabled roofs, and pocket gardens.
Portofino’s Las Piñas location has it almost bordering the city of Muntinlupa, making key business and commercial locations like the Madrigal Business Park, Alabang Town Center, Asian Hospital and Medical Center, and nearby educational institutions like De La Salle Zobel, Paref Woodrose School, and San Beda College Alabang, among others, within convenient reach.
An expansive estate, Portofino features residential enclaves that each have their distinct community and architectural features. Among the latest of these to be developed is The Amore at Portofino, a community that adheres with the same level of excellence and quality as the other Italian house and lot communities in Portofino, but with properties that are at a slightly affordable price range. Exclusive to the enclave is the cluster, an assemblage of 4 single-detached homes with a charming common driveway and pocket garden.
Among the amenities in The Amore at Portofino are an Italian-inspired swimming pool, basketball courts, jogging path, playgrounds, outdoor activity area, and a grand ballroom large enough for 300 people.
These are but a few of the homes for sale in Las Piñas. As the city continues to see more development, more will likely become available in the market. To learn more about what residential options are currently available in the city, be it to buy or to rent, or receive complete assistance in acquiring a new Las Piñas home, visit the Ohmyhome website or connect with an Ohmyhome agent, today!
To conveniently access the latest home for sale listings and real estate information in the Philippines, download the Ohmyhome app.
Ohmyhome was launched in the Philippines in September 2020, following the company’s establishment of a tech team in the country in 2017. Ohmyhome was originally founded in 2016, and subsequently rose in Singapore as a leading PropTech solution and licensed real estate agency.
Ohmyhome expanded into the Philippines so that Filipino home seekers can have a real estate partner that they can trust to have their best interests at heart and can be relied upon to provide exceptional services throughout the entire property journey.
Featuring thousands of properties across many of the Philippines’ major real estate brands, Ohmyhome differs from other local platforms by going the extra mile and extensively helping buyers narrow down their choices and find the property that best suits their budgets, home needs, and lifestyle preferences.
The company’s Real Estate agents help in shortlisting options and provide professional services through the entire purchasing process. These include assistance in property inspections, negotiations, the finalization of the Conditions of Sale, deposit collection, the submission of property documents, as well as providing buyers regular updates.
Ohmyhome helps Filipinos find their dream homes while ensuring each real estate transaction is complete and is an efficient and enjoyable experience.
Stay connected with Ohmyhome Philippines by following our official Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn accounts.
Digital artist Rosemarie Yang’s personal Instagram account is one soothing place to spend some time in. Her array of beautiful photos and self-portraits feature a very defined, calming aesthetic with a dream-like quality.
“Whimsical” was how Brie Larson described Rosemarie’s work. Rosemarie photographed the Hollywood actress in 2019.
Whimsy aside, Rosemarie said her work explores the concept of freedom as well. And she does this so creatively by using great compositional techniques and mastery in the use of light to take photos that somehow elicit feelings of lightness and happiness.
We caught up with Rosemarie recently to ask about her visual art.
Rosemarie Yang photographed Hollywood actress Brie Larson in Singapore in 2019. Larson had wanted to give relatively unknown female photographers an opportunity to use her platform and build their portfolio.
How did you get into photography?
As a high school student, I was obsessed with documenting almost everything I saw with my phone’s camera. I gradually experimented using an old Nikon DSLR that belonged to my dad and tried different types of photography: still life, landscape, architecture, street and portraiture.
What’s the thinking/concept behind these self portraits?
I like to visually distort the things I see and transform daily mundane objects into something whimsical. The photography industry is still a field that is generally dominated by men. My works show that women can also be strong yet feminine at the same time.
How often do you take these self-portraits?
This depends on my work schedule. It can be up to 3 to 4 times a week.
Any plans to experiment with other subjects?
As a full-time photographer running Challe Creatives, I specialise in still life, lifestyle, beauty and fashion photography. So yes, I do photograph other subjects such as products and interiors/architecture.
My Instagram is more of a personal creative outlet for me to experiment with the different aspects of photography, which is also something different from what I do at Challe Creatives.
Which photographers inspire you and how have they influenced your work, your thinking?
These have got to be Peter Lindbergh, Annie Leibovitz and Steve McCurry. But as much as I love and admire their work, I wouldn’t want to imitate their style. They are more an inspiration for my artistic thought process. These great masters have influenced and changed my perspective when viewing the world through the lens.
Rosemarie Yang said her work explores the concept of freedom.
Why do you think your photos resonate with your over 170,000 followers?
It might be the way I convey and translate my thoughts into my works.
Your photos are very distinct in their colour treatment too. How do you do this?
When it comes to color-grading, I usually eyeball the settings during the retouching stage. I also have Lightroom presets available for my audience who are interested in creating photos of similar style.
For people who are going for a curated look for their Instagram feeds, there are feed planning mobile apps that can provide some visual aid in curating their photos too. I do not use them myself, as I prefer not to restrict myself artistically.
What gear/software/tech do you use to take your photos?
Mainly the Sony Alpha series and Canon 5D series. I also have professional studio lighting equipment in my home studio for work purposes.
What motivates you to continue doing your brand of photography?
My passion for photography. In this field of work, passion is the main source of fuel and motivation.
What’s your home studio like?
It is an extra room in the HDB flat where I live with my parents and looks quite similar to a standard photo studio.
How did you “dress up” your home to accommodate a studio?
Living under one roof with my family (a sister and my parents), we’ve managed by being accommodating to each other. We moved things around, cleared away any furniture and things that we didn’t need anymore to make space for my studio equipment. Thankfully, my mum has good taste in interior decoration so she is always helping me to maintain the aesthetics of our home.
What is home to you?
A home needs to be felt from the heart. It doesn’t need to be lavish or extravagant. The feeling of home is one where I feel safe and comfortable living in.
This article launches Ohmyhome’s The Most Interesting Person Now series, which features personalities who captivate and engage others with their incredible stories, passions or work. Watch this space for more.
After a couple of months of hard work and testing, Ohmyhome Philippines is proud to announce the launch of its new and improved website. Aimed to make property transactions even easier for Filipinos, the new website is designed to give a more intuitive and user-friendly experience whether one is buying, selling, renting, or leasing a home, or requires reliable real estate agent services.
What’s new?
The Ohmyhome website’s vastly improved user experience is anchored by its new mega menu, which allows users to know exactly where to find what they need–be it new listings of houses and condos for sale, selling your property with the help of an agent, or do-it-yourself tools that allows you to complete property transactions all on your own and for free.
Extending the hassle-free user experience beyond Philippine shores, the new website also features sections dedicated to Filipinos overseas who would like to buy a home or make real estate investments in the country conveniently even when they are away. This is in addition to being able to switch between the Philippines, Singapore, and Malaysia Ohmyhome websites on the homepage.
Bringing people and the right property together
With thousands of listings on the platform and new houses, lots, and condominium units being added to the inventory regularly, Ohmyhome has long understood that going through the numerous options is a process in itself. With that, we’ve also continued to make improvements in our property matching technology to make it easy for property seekers and providers alike.
Through the algorithm on the Ohmyhome website, we help those looking to buy or rent a home narrow down thousands of choices to listings that specifically meet exactly what they want and need in a new place. Owners who list their homes for sale or rent on Ohmyhome, on the other hand, don’t have to wait too long to find potential buyers or tenants thanks to the website’s matching capabilities.
Of course, bringing people and property together won’t amount to much when the transaction can’t be completed. So, in addition to updated services, Ohmyhome has also added a mortgage page where potential buyers can receive a free consultation and complete assistance regarding making home loan applications.
Real estate information right at your fingertips
The ease of transacting in real estate is the core of the Ohmyhome business. Along with fulfilling this through comprehensive digital solutions and expert agent services, our website is now designed to help users in making the most informed real estate decisions possible by way of news, insights, and other content that are created and curated to inform and entertain.
Between current trends in the local real estate market to expert tips and advice, news articles and other content are published on Ohmyhome regularly, allowing visitors to have a wealth of information conveniently available to them as they embark on their property journeys.
For a better look at the refreshed Ohmyhome Philippines website, or to explore the new and improved versions in Singapore and Malaysia, visit Ohmyhome.com today.
Conveniently access our suite of real estate solutions, services, and information from almost anywhere on your mobile device by downloading the official Ohmyhome app.
Ohmyhome was launched in the Philippines in September 2020, following the company’s establishment of a tech team in the country in 2017. Ohmyhome was originally founded in 2016, and subsequently rose in Singapore as a leading PropTech solution and licensed real estate agency.
Ohmyhome expanded into the Philippines so that Filipino home seekers can have a real estate partner that they can trust to have their best interests at heart and can be relied upon to provide exceptional services throughout the entire property journey.
Featuring thousands of properties across many of the Philippines’ major real estate brands, Ohmyhome differs from other local platforms by going the extra mile and extensively helping buyers narrow down their choices and find the property that best suits their budgets, home needs, and lifestyle preferences.
The company’s Real Estate agents help in shortlisting options and provide professional services through the entire purchasing process. These include assistance in property inspections, negotiations, the finalization of the Conditions of Sale, deposit collection, the submission of property documents, as well as providing buyers regular updates.
Ohmyhome helps Filipinos find their dream homes while ensuring each real estate transaction is complete and is an efficient and enjoyable experience.
Stay connected with Ohmyhome Philippines by following our official Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn accounts.
