Condo Search Tips: How to Choose One Based on Your Lifestyle
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Condo Search Tips: How to Choose One Based on Your Lifestyle

Finding the perfect condo isn’t just about the price—it’s about choosing a home that fits your lifestyle. As you grow, your needs and preferences change, and the right living space should evolve with you.

Imagine grabbing coffee at a nearby café, working from a cozy coworking space, or unwinding at your favorite hangout spot. All just steps from home. With amenities like gyms, pools, and pet-friendly areas, your condo becomes more than just four walls. It’s where comfort, convenience, and community come together. 

This guide will walk you through key factors to consider—from location to amenities—helping you find a condo that truly complements your lifestyle.

 

5 Condo Buying Tips to Find and Purchase the Best One

Finding a condo can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can find a place that suits your needs and goals.

 

1. Pick a location that suits your lifestyle

Whether you want a short commute or easy access to public transport, the right location should support your routine and lifestyle. 

  • Prioritize convenience. Your condo should make daily life easier. Look for a location near essentials like coffee shops, grocery stores, gyms, and other go-to spots. If work or school is a big part of your day, living nearby can save time and reduce stress.
  • Consider transportation options. While owning a car is convenient, city parking can be a challenge. A condo near public transport—like bus or train stations—makes commuting smoother. At the same time, easy access to major roads and highways ensures hassle-free travel for work, school, or weekend trips.

2. Prioritize amenities that match your needs

The right condo features can elevate your daily routine, support your lifestyle, and improve your social life.

  • Stay active with fitness centers and pools. If health and wellness are a priority, look for a condo with a gym or swimming pool. These amenities make it easy to exercise, unwind, and stay consistent with your fitness goals—without leaving home.
  • Boost productivity with coworking spaces. Working from home is convenient, but it can muddy the lines between work and personal life. A condo with coworking spaces helps you stay focused while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
  • Enjoy social and entertainment spaces. Whether it’s a rooftop lounge, clubhouse, or gaming room, these amenities give you a place to relax, host gatherings, and connect with friends—all within your building.

3. Select a layout that works for you

The right size and layout can make all the difference in comfort, functionality, and long-term satisfaction.

  • Pick the appropriate size. Studio units are great for single professionals, while one or two-bedroom condos offer more space and privacy for couples or small families.
  • Prioritize a functional layout. Open layouts maximize space and allow natural light to flow in, making your home feel more spacious and inviting. 
  • Ensure good light and ventilation. A well-lit, airy condo creates a comfortable and welcoming environment. Look for units with large windows and good airflow to enhance your living experience.

4. Go for a design that feels like home

Thoughtful design choices and personal touches can create a cozy and comfortable environment that refines your daily life.

  • Open vs defined spaces – Open-concept layouts make your space feel larger and more connected. Meanwhile, condos with defined rooms offer privacy and structure, which can be preferred for work or relaxation.
  • Personalization – Look for a condo that allows customization so you can make it truly your own. Adding personal touches raises comfort and reflects your style.
  • Smart storage solutions – Built-in and modular storage options keep your home organized and adaptable to your changing needs.

5. Think about long-term value

When choosing a condo, consider factoring in upfront costs and long-term value. A well-located condo in a growing area, such as a condo in Mandaluyong, can appreciate over time, offering strong resale potential or rental income.

 

More Than Just a Roof Over Your Head 

Your condo is where your daily life unfolds. The right one should match your lifestyle, make everyday routines easier, and grow with you over time. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where comfort, convenience, and smart investment align. 

As a premier real estate company in the Philippines, FNG creates communities designed for modern living. With a commitment to Japanese craftsmanship and Filipino warmth, we design homes that seamlessly blend function, comfort, and sustainability. 

Our developments feature lifestyle-centered amenities—from coworking spaces and fitness centers to green spaces and social hubs—ensuring your home supports every stage of life, whether you’re working, unwinding, or building connections.

Discover a home built for your life. Contact us today to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to your queries from the categories below.

General Question
Can a foreigner purchase a condominium unit in the Philippines?

Yes, foreigners are allowed to own condominium units in the Philippines, as stated in Section 5 of Republic Act No. 4726, otherwise known as the Condominium Act.

Yes, on the condition that the parent or legal guardian signs the contract on behalf of the minor. Please contact us for more details.

Yes, you can upgrade your purchase. The Developer will first check if the preferred unit is still available. If it is still available, the Buyer will be required to submit a written request. Once the request is approved, a new contract will be drawn up for the upgraded unit.

Yes. The process to downgrade is similar to that of upgrading a unit purchase. However, all expenses incurred by the Developer (commission, incentives, penalties, downgrading fee, etc.) shall be deducted from the Buyer’s original contract price, in favor of the Developer.

What are the available payment terms?

There are several payment terms available – Cash Term, Bank Financing Term, Deferred Cash/Installment Term, and No Down Payment Term. Please contact us for more details as the availability of these payment terms also vary per project.

Yes, you may change or restructure your selected term, but this will also be subject to Management’s approval and we will be charging a minimal processing fee.

Yes, we accept payment in US dollars. The exchange rate shall be based on the date the payment is credited to the Developer’s account.

On or before the due date of the first (1st) monthly amortization, the Buyer is required to submit Postdated Checks for the remaining monthly amortizations (that is, until the end of the payment term).

The developer adheres to provisions as stipulated in Republic Act No. 6552 or the “Realty Installment Buyer Protection Act,” also known as the Maceda Law. This law states that when the Buyer has paid at least two (2) years of installments, the seller/developer shall refund 50% of the total payments made if there is a cancellation on the purchase. For payments less than two years, the provisions as stipulated in the Contract to Sell will prevail.

How much is the reservation fee?

Reservation fees vary per project from Php ____ to Php ______.

Requirements to officially reserve a unit or lot are as follows:

1. Full payment of the Reservation Fee

2. Photocopy of one (1) valid government-issued IDs of Principal Buyer/s and Spouse/s (if applicable). Valid government-issued IDs with photos and signatures:

  • Passport
  • Driver’s License
  • GSIS ID
  • SSS ID
  • Professional Regulatory Commission ID
  • Tax Identification Number ID card
  • Senior Citizen ID
  • Postal ID
  • Photocopy of TIN ID card or BIR validated 1904 form

3. Fully accomplished and signed Reservation Application

4. Fully accomplished Buyer’s Information Sheet. For purchase under a Corporation, the following additional documents are required:

  • Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws (photocopy)
  • Secretary’s Certificate indicating the name of authorized signatory (notarized)
  • BIR-validated 1903 or copy of Certificate of Registration
  • For the authorized signatory to submit items 2 and 3 above

The reservation is valid for thirty (30) calendar days from the settlement of reservation fee. Kindly submit all the required documents to finalize the unit booking.

No, the reservation fee is non-refundable and non-transferrable. As stated in the Reservation Application, the reservation fee will be forfeited in favor of the Developer if no succeeding payments are received.

Will I be allowed to inspect the Unit before the actual turnover?

Yes, the Hand Over Team will coordinate with the Buyer on the schedule of unit inspection.

Yes, the Buyer may assign a representative to accept the unit on his behalf thru a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA). The SPA is also required to bring a valid ID plus photocopy.

Yes, you may have your unit leased out.

Monthly Association Dues vary per project, depending on the operating expenses of the building. Association Dues are used to defray the cost of maintaining and operating the building’s common areas and facilities. These costs include administration/management fees, janitorial, security, taxes and licenses, insurances, real estate tax, maintenance of equipment water distribution, garbage collection, maintenance of sewage treatment plant, and other miscellaneous expenses.

The unit turnover will be scheduled when all the following conditions are met:

  • Full payment of the contract price (including penalties and interests, if applicable)
  • Complete submission of all the required sales documents (listed above)
  • Payment of related Advance Registration Charges (ARC).

No, this is not allowed. Buyers are encouraged to either avail of bank financing (with accredited banks) or in-house financing to pay the unit in its entirety.