Buyer's Guide › Chapter 2 of 6
Choosing the right property: condo, house & lot, or townhouse
Once you know your budget, match it to the right kind of home. In the Philippines you'll mostly come across:
- Condominium unit (CCT). Ownership is evidenced by a Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT). You own the unit and a share of the common areas, and you'll pay monthly association dues.
- House & lot (TCT). Ownership of land and the house on it is evidenced by a Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT). You own the land itself, which many buyers prefer.
- Townhouse. A middle ground — often titled like a house and lot, usually within a subdivision with shared amenities and dues.
Beyond the property itself, weigh the location carefully:
- Commute & access — how close is it to work, schools, transport, and the essentials of daily life?
- Flood history — ask neighbors and check local records; this is a real factor in many parts of the country.
- Amenities & community — security, water and power reliability, and what's within walking distance.
Work with a verified broker. On lumingon, brokers complete identity verification before they can list, and a good broker will happily walk you through the documents, the neighborhood, and the numbers. If someone dodges basic questions, that's a signal.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a CCT and a TCT?
A Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT) covers a condo unit plus a share of the common areas; a Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT) covers land — a house and lot means you own the land itself. Townhouses are usually titled like a house and lot within a shared-amenity subdivision.
What should I check about a location before buying?
Commute and access to work, schools and transport; flood history (ask neighbors and check local records); and the community itself — security, water and power reliability, and what's within walking distance.
Reminder: this guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Fees, rates, and requirements change and depend on your specific situation and location. Always consult a PRC-licensed broker, a lawyer, and your lender before making a decision.