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Cebu Real Estate Prices: 2025 Market Update

Cebu Real Estate Prices: 2025 Market Update

Cebu, the beating heart of the Visayas region, has long been a dynamic center of business, tourism, and migration in the Philippines. From its tropical beaches and heritage towns to the urban high-rises of Cebu City, the province offers diverse real estate options for a wide range of buyers and renters. In 2025, the Cebu real estate market continues to evolve, shaped by infrastructure projects, growing foreign interest, and shifting lifestyle trends.

This comprehensive market update explores the current price trends in Cebu’s residential and commercial real estate markets, highlights popular neighborhoods, and offers insights for both foreign and local investors navigating the post-pandemic recovery landscape.


1. Market Overview: A Bounce-Back Year

After a challenging period between 2020 and 2022, Cebu’s real estate market began showing strong signs of recovery in late 2023 and gained momentum through 2024. Now in 2025, the market is considered to be in a resurgence phase.

Key Drivers in 2025:

  • Infrastructure Development: Completion of the Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) and improvements in Mactan–Cebu International Airport have enhanced accessibility.

  • Digital Nomad & Expat Demand: Remote workers and expats are fueling rental and resale markets, especially in central Cebu and beach areas.

  • Local and OFW Investment: Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) continue to invest in condominiums, often for rental income or future retirement.


2. Residential Real Estate Prices

Condominiums (Cebu City & Mactan)

Area Price per sqm (2025) Average Unit Price (Studio to 1BR)
Cebu Business Park (Ayala) PHP 170,000 – PHP 230,000 PHP 5.5M – PHP 9M
Cebu IT Park PHP 160,000 – PHP 210,000 PHP 5M – PHP 8M
Lahug & Banilad PHP 130,000 – PHP 180,000 PHP 4M – PHP 7M
Mactan Island (Beachfront) PHP 150,000 – PHP 200,000 PHP 5M – PHP 8.5M
Talamban & Guadalupe PHP 90,000 – PHP 130,000 PHP 2.5M – PHP 4.5M

Note: Units with ocean views or located near major malls like Ayala Center Cebu command higher prices. Pre-selling units offer 15–25% lower prices but come with 2–4 years of waiting.

Subdivisions & Townhouses

Area Lot Size (sqm) Price Range (PHP)
Banawa 150 – 300 sqm 6M – 15M
Talisay City 100 – 250 sqm 4M – 9M
Talamban 120 – 200 sqm 3.5M – 8M
Minglanilla 80 – 180 sqm 2.8M – 6M

Luxury Homes (Gated Communities)

Premium gated communities like Maria Luisa Estate Park, Beverly Hills Subdivision, and Pristina North are priced at:

  • PHP 30M–80M for large homes

  • PHP 50,000–120,000 per sqm depending on the lot, elevation, and view


3. Rental Prices in 2025

With rising demand from both locals and foreigners, rental prices have seen a moderate increase over the past year.

Average Monthly Rent

Unit Type IT Park / Ayala Mactan Banilad / Lahug Talamban
Studio PHP 20,000–30,000 PHP 18,000–25,000 PHP 15,000–22,000 PHP 12,000–18,000
1BR PHP 28,000–45,000 PHP 25,000–40,000 PHP 20,000–35,000 PHP 15,000–25,000
2BR PHP 40,000–70,000 PHP 35,000–60,000 PHP 30,000–50,000 PHP 25,000–40,000
House PHP 50,000–100,000 PHP 40,000–80,000 PHP 35,000–70,000 PHP 25,000–50,000

Furnished units typically fetch 15–20% more in rent. Rentals near coworking spaces and international schools are in higher demand.


4. Commercial Property Trends

As Cebu positions itself as a tech and startup hub in the Philippines, demand for commercial and mixed-use spaces is rising.

Office Space

Location Rent (per sqm/month)
Cebu IT Park PHP 700 – PHP 1,200
Cebu Business Park PHP 800 – PHP 1,400
Banilad / Talamban PHP 500 – PHP 800

Coworking spaces and BPO-ready offices are particularly in demand. New developments like JEG Tower, Cebu Exchange, and Skyrise 4B offer LEED-certified green office spaces.

Retail Spaces

Retail space in malls such as SM Seaside, Ayala Center, and IL Corso lease between PHP 1,200–2,500 per sqm monthly, depending on foot traffic and visibility. Neighborhood strip malls or convenience store lots fetch lower rents around PHP 500–900/sqm.


5. Foreign Ownership Rules & Investment Structures

Foreigners are not allowed to own land in the Philippines, but they can own condominium units (up to 40% of total units in a building). To invest in land, options include:

  • Leasing (up to 50 years, renewable)

  • Filipino spouse ownership

  • Corporation with 60% Filipino ownership

Foreigners buying condos must ensure:

  • The building is in compliance with the Condominium Act.

  • The unit is registered with the HLURB.

  • Titles (CCTs) and tax declarations are clean.


6. Pre-Selling vs Ready-for-Occupancy (RFO) Units

Pre-Selling

  • Lower upfront costs (monthly down payments over 24–48 months)

  • Greater choice of unit location and floor plan

  • Risk of construction delays or developer insolvency

RFO

  • Higher cost but available for immediate occupancy

  • More transparency in unit condition

  • Ideal for rental investors needing income immediately

Top developers offering pre-selling units in Cebu:

  • Ayala Land Premier

  • Megaworld

  • Rockwell

  • Cebu Landmasters

  • Robinsons Land


7. Cebu’s Most Popular Real Estate Hotspots in 2025

1. Cebu IT Park

  • Prime rental market for expats and tech workers

  • Near restaurants, coworking spaces, and gyms

  • High-rise condos dominate

2. Ayala Business Park (Cebu Business Park)

  • Premier shopping and commercial district

  • High-end condos (e.g., Solinea, 1016 Residences)

  • Stable resale values

3. Mactan Island

  • Beachfront condos popular among retirees and digital nomads

  • New developments near Lapu-Lapu City

  • Convenient access to airport and diving resorts

4. Banilad and Lahug

  • Suburban feel with proximity to city center

  • Gated subdivisions and low-rise condos

  • Preferred by long-term residents and families

5. Talamban and Talisay

  • Emerging markets with lower price points

  • Good for townhouse buyers and local investors

  • Near schools and universities


8. Real Estate Investment Outlook

The outlook for Cebu real estate in 2025 remains positive, particularly in:

  • Mid-tier condominium units (for rental yield)

  • Pre-selling projects (for long-term capital appreciation)

  • Suburban homes in growing areas like Consolacion, Minglanilla, and Mandaue

Expected Annual Growth:

  • Condos: 5–8% appreciation

  • Luxury Homes: 3–6%

  • Rental yields: 5–7% annually (up to 10% in high-demand districts)


9. Challenges and Buyer Tips

Challenges:

  • Flood-prone zones and poor drainage in some low-lying areas

  • Traffic congestion in core Cebu City

  • Delayed construction in some pre-selling developments

Buyer Tips:

  1. Hire a licensed broker to navigate listings and documents

  2. Research the developer’s history before buying pre-selling

  3. Get title verification through the Registry of Deeds

  4. Visit multiple sites before choosing your neighborhood

  5. Consider rental potential if not planning to live in the unit


10. Final Thoughts: Should You Invest in Cebu in 2025?

Cebu remains one of the most promising real estate markets in Southeast Asia. With improving infrastructure, a rising expat population, and sustained demand from local investors, property in Cebu offers a balanced mix of stability and opportunity.

Whether you’re:

  • A foreigner seeking a condo with rental potential,

  • A Filipino expat returning home and wanting a house,

  • Or a startup founder looking for office space in a thriving tech ecosystem —

Cebu delivers.

As always, due diligence is key. But with the right guidance and smart timing, investing in Cebu real estate in 2025 can be both profitable and personally rewarding.


Frequently Asked Questions: Cebu Real Estate Prices (2025 Update)

What is the average price of a condominium in Cebu in 2025?

As of 2025, condominium prices in Cebu range from PHP 130,000 to PHP 230,000 per square meter depending on location, developer, and building amenities. A studio or 1-bedroom unit in Cebu Business Park or IT Park typically costs PHP 5 million to PHP 9 million.

Are real estate prices in Cebu increasing in 2025?

Yes. After recovering from the pandemic downturn, Cebu’s real estate prices have been steadily increasing since 2023. In 2025, the market is seeing annual appreciation rates of 5–8% for condominiums and 3–6% for luxury homes.

Can foreigners buy property in Cebu?

Foreigners are allowed to purchase condominium units in the Philippines as long as foreign ownership does not exceed 40% of the total units in the building. However, they cannot own land. To access landed property, foreigners can lease land or form a corporation with 60% Filipino ownership.

What are the best areas to invest in Cebu real estate in 2025?

The most popular investment zones include Cebu Business Park, IT Park, Mactan Island, Banilad, and Lahug. These areas offer high rental demand, proximity to commercial centers, and quality infrastructure. Emerging areas like Talamban and Minglanilla offer more affordable options.

Is buying a pre-selling unit a good idea?

Buying pre-selling units can be a smart move, offering 15–25% lower prices than ready-for-occupancy units. However, it carries risks such as construction delays. Choose reputable developers with a strong completion track record to minimize risk.

What are rental yields like in Cebu?

Rental yields in Cebu range from 5% to 7% annually, with prime areas like IT Park and Ayala reaching up to 8–10% depending on occupancy rates and furnishing quality. Rental income is taxed and should be declared accordingly.

How much does it cost to rent a condo in Cebu?

Monthly rent for a studio condo ranges from PHP 15,000 to PHP 30,000. One-bedroom units range from PHP 25,000 to PHP 45,000, while two-bedroom units range from PHP 35,000 to PHP 70,000, depending on location and amenities.

Are there property taxes in Cebu?

Yes. Real property tax (RPT) is levied annually based on assessed property value. Rates in Cebu typically range from 1% to 2%. Condo owners must also pay monthly condominium dues for maintenance and security.

Can I get a mortgage as a foreigner in the Philippines?

Some local banks offer housing loans to foreigners, but eligibility is limited. Most foreign buyers pay in cash or use developer-in-house financing. Married foreigners may apply jointly with a Filipino spouse for better chances.

What is the process of buying a property in Cebu?

The process includes selecting a property, reserving the unit, signing a contract to sell, and fulfilling payment milestones. For condos, once paid in full, the buyer receives a Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT). Legal documentation and tax clearance are required for transfer of ownership.

What should I watch out for when buying property in Cebu?

Check the developer’s reputation, confirm title authenticity with the Registry of Deeds, avoid flood-prone zones, and ensure utilities and road access are available. For pre-selling units, review the HLURB registration and project timeline carefully.

Is now a good time to invest in Cebu real estate?

Yes. Cebu is experiencing a healthy growth cycle in 2025 due to strong rental demand, infrastructure development, and increased expat and OFW activity. Prices are still below Metro Manila levels, offering good value and upside potential.

How can I verify the legal status of a property?

You can verify ownership and liens through the Land Registration Authority (LRA) and Registry of Deeds. Request a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Title and check for encumbrances, disputes, or tax issues.

Are real estate agents regulated in the Philippines?

Yes. Licensed real estate professionals must be accredited by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). Avoid dealing with unlicensed agents to ensure protection and accountability throughout the transaction.

What are the legal documents required for a real estate purchase?

Key documents include the Contract to Sell, Deed of Absolute Sale, tax clearance certificate, updated tax declarations, and the Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT) or Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT). These documents are necessary for the legal transfer of ownership.

Can I rent out my Cebu property as an Airbnb?

Yes, many investors rent out Cebu condos via Airbnb or other platforms. However, some condominiums restrict short-term leasing. Always check the building’s policies, secure necessary permits, and register with the city if required.

What’s the difference between ready-for-occupancy (RFO) and pre-selling units?

RFO units are fully built and available for immediate move-in or rental. Pre-selling units are sold before construction is completed and are delivered after 2–4 years. RFO units are more expensive but less risky.

How can I find properties for sale in Cebu?

You can browse listings through platforms like Lamudi, DotProperty, Property24, and Rentpad. Joining Facebook groups and working with licensed brokers are also effective ways to find up-to-date listings.

Are there hidden costs when buying property in Cebu?

Yes, buyers should prepare for miscellaneous fees such as documentary stamp tax (1.5%), transfer tax (0.5%–0.75%), notarial fees, registration fees, and real estate agent commissions. Clarify inclusions with the seller upfront.