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Serviced Apartments for Long-Term Stays in Cebu

Contents

Serviced Apartments for Long-Term Stays in Cebu: The Ultimate Guide

Introduction

Cebu has rapidly emerged as one of the Philippines’ top destinations for business, remote work, retirement, medical tourism, and digital nomadism. Whether you’re relocating for a few months or settling in for the long haul, serviced apartments offer a convenient and hassle-free accommodation solution.

Unlike hotels or regular apartments, serviced apartments combine the privacy of a home with the amenities of a hotel, making them ideal for long-term residents who value comfort, flexibility, and convenience.

This in-depth guide explores what to expect from long-term serviced apartments in Cebu—costs, best locations, top-rated properties, and how to choose the right one based on your needs.


1. What is a Serviced Apartment?

A serviced apartment is a fully furnished unit that provides amenities similar to a hotel. It typically includes:

  • A bedroom (studio, 1BR, 2BR options)

  • A kitchenette or full kitchen

  • Housekeeping services (weekly or biweekly)

  • Fast Wi-Fi

  • 24/7 security or reception

  • Flexible lease terms (daily, monthly, yearly)

Ideal for:

  • Business travelers or expats on assignment

  • Medical tourists undergoing extended treatment

  • Remote workers or digital nomads

  • Retirees in transition

  • Students or interns staying 3–12 months


2. Why Choose a Serviced Apartment Over a Regular Condo or Hotel?

Feature Serviced Apartment Condo Hotel
Fully Furnished ✅ Yes ✅/❌ Varies ✅ Yes
Kitchen Facilities ✅ Always ✅ Often ❌ Limited
Housekeeping ✅ Weekly (included) ❌ Usually not ✅ Daily
Lease Flexibility ✅ Monthly or weekly ❌ Typically 6–12 months ✅ Daily/Weekly
Cost Effectiveness ✅ for 1–6 months stays ✅ for 12+ months ❌ Expensive long-term
Privacy & Space ✅ Separate rooms ✅ Full unit ❌ Often cramped

Summary: Serviced apartments strike a perfect balance—cost-efficient for long-term stays, fully equipped, and far more private than hotels.


3. Cost of Long-Term Serviced Apartments in Cebu

Long-term serviced apartments (monthly rentals of 30+ days) in Cebu vary in price depending on location, room size, and services offered.

Type Monthly Rate (PHP) Example Properties
Studio (20–30 sqm) 25,000 – 40,000 Citadines, Quest, Mezzo
1BR (40–60 sqm) 35,000 – 60,000 Sta. Barbara, Seda Residences
2BR (70+ sqm) 55,000 – 90,000+ Rockwell Aruga, Koi Residences

Most properties include:

  • Wi-Fi

  • Water

  • Weekly housekeeping

  • Furnishings

  • 24/7 security

Electricity is sometimes billed separately. Security deposits (1 month) are standard but refundable.


4. Top Locations for Serviced Apartments in Cebu

Cebu Business Park (CBP)

  • Central business district

  • Near Ayala Center Cebu

  • Popular with expats and corporate tenants

IT Park (Lahug)

  • Tech and BPO hub

  • 24/7 lifestyle, cafes, co-working spaces

  • Ideal for digital nomads and young professionals

Mandaue & Mabolo

  • Accessible to both Cebu City and airport

  • More budget-friendly

  • Ideal for long-term stayers who want suburban quiet

Punta Engaño, Mactan

  • Beachside luxury (more expensive)

  • Close to resorts and airport

  • Perfect for retirees and medical tourists


5. Top Serviced Apartments for Long-Term Stays in Cebu

1. Citadines Cebu City

  • Location: Base Line Center, Osmeña Blvd.

  • Operator: The Ascott Limited

  • Key Features:

    • Full kitchenette

    • Rooftop gym and pool

    • In-house restaurant

    • Weekly cleaning included

    • 24/7 reception

2. Seda Residences Cebu

  • Location: Ayala Center, CBP

  • Operator: Ayala Hotels

  • Key Features:

    • 1BR and 2BR options

    • Club lounge access

    • Housekeeping twice per week

    • Hotel-grade amenities

3. Quest Serviced Residences

  • Location: Near Ayala, Cebu Business District

  • Key Features:

    • Studio and 1BR layouts

    • Business-class guests

    • Conference room access

    • Hotel-Residences combo

4. Sta. Barbara Suites

  • Location: Maria Luisa, Banilad

  • Key Features:

    • Larger units with full kitchen

    • Residential feel

    • Perfect for families

    • Quiet, safe area

5. Mezzo Hotel Residences

  • Location: Mabolo, near IT Park

  • Key Features:

    • Compact, affordable units

    • Monthly rates available

    • Restaurant and laundry onsite


6. How to Choose the Right Serviced Apartment

✅ Consider the following:

Factor Why It Matters
Location Proximity to office, hospital, or school
Lease Terms Minimum stay, cancellation policy
Housekeeping Included or extra cost? Weekly or biweekly?
Kitchen Setup Full kitchen vs. microwave-only
‍ Wi-Fi Quality Critical for remote work
Total Cost All-inclusive? Utilities separate?
Storage Space Especially important for long stays
Building Facilities Elevator, gym, lobby, co-working area

7. Long-Term Lease Tips for Foreigners

  • You don’t need to own property to stay long-term—serviced apartments are legal and practical.

  • Use registered real estate brokers or go direct to property managers.

  • Check lease clauses: early termination fees, renewal, and deposit terms.

  • Ask for discounts for stays over 3–6 months—some give up to 30% off.


8. Sample Monthly Budget (1BR Serviced Apartment)

Category Monthly Cost (PHP)
Rent 40,000 – 60,000
Electricity 2,000 – 4,000
Food & Groceries 10,000 – 15,000
Transportation 2,000 – 5,000
Medical/Insurance 2,000 – 5,000
Internet (if separate) 1,500 – 2,500
Total 57,500 – 91,500

9. Pros and Cons of Serviced Apartments in Cebu

Pros

  • Move-in ready

  • Professional management

  • High security

  • No need to buy furniture

  • Flexible terms

Cons

  • Higher rent vs. bare units

  • Limited personalization

  • May have noise (if near business district)

  • Pets may not be allowed in all buildings


10. Who Are Serviced Apartments Best For?

Profile Recommendation
Digital Nomad (3–6 months) ✅ Studio near IT Park
Corporate Expat (1+ year) ✅ 1BR in CBP or Banilad
Medical Tourist (2–3 months) ✅ Mactan or near hospitals
Family in transition ✅ 2BR in suburban serviced suite
Retiree exploring Cebu ✅ Coastal 1BR or mid-rise apartment

Conclusion

If you’re planning a long-term stay in Cebu, serviced apartments offer an unbeatable combination of comfort, convenience, and flexibility. They remove the stress of furnishing, cleaning, and managing bills—allowing you to focus on what matters: enjoying life, working efficiently, or recovering peacefully.

From city-center studios to suburban suites and beachfront escapes, there’s a serviced apartment in Cebu to match your budget and lifestyle. Choose wisely—and enjoy stress-free living in one of Southeast Asia’s rising lifestyle capitals.


Frequently Asked Questions: Serviced Apartments in Cebu

1. What is a serviced apartment in Cebu?

A serviced apartment is a fully furnished residential unit that includes amenities such as a kitchenette, regular housekeeping, Wi-Fi, and 24/7 security. It’s a hybrid between a hotel and a condo, ideal for long-term stays.

2. Who typically rents serviced apartments in Cebu?

Serviced apartments are commonly rented by expats, business travelers, remote workers, digital nomads, retirees, students, and medical tourists. They’re especially popular with people staying 1–12 months.

3. How much does a serviced apartment in Cebu cost per month?

Monthly rents for serviced apartments range from PHP 25,000 for studios to PHP 90,000+ for larger two-bedroom units. Rates vary based on location, building quality, and included services.

4. Are utilities included in the rent?

It depends. Some serviced apartments include Wi-Fi and water in the rent, but electricity is often billed separately. Always clarify with the property manager before signing a lease.

5. Can foreigners rent serviced apartments in Cebu?

Yes, foreigners can freely rent serviced apartments in the Philippines. There’s no restriction on leasehold properties for foreign nationals.

6. What services are included in a typical serviced apartment?

Common services include regular cleaning (weekly or twice weekly), concierge support, 24/7 security, garbage disposal, and maintenance. Some also include linen change and laundry service.

7. Do serviced apartments require a security deposit?

Yes. Most serviced apartments require one-month security deposit, refundable upon checkout after deducting damages, if any. Some may also ask for one month advance rental payment.

8. Can I cook in a serviced apartment?

Yes. Most units come with a kitchenette or full kitchen equipped with a stove, microwave, fridge, and cookware—ideal for tenants who prefer to cook at home.

9. Are pets allowed in serviced apartments?

Pet policies vary. Some properties allow small pets with prior approval and possibly an extra fee or deposit. Others may have a strict no-pet policy. Always check before booking.

10. What is the minimum length of stay?

Some serviced apartments offer monthly contracts, while others require a minimum 3-month stay for discounted long-term rates. Daily and weekly rates are also common in hybrid hotel-apartment setups.

11. Is housekeeping included?

Yes. Most serviced apartments in Cebu include once or twice weekly cleaning, which may also include towel and linen replacement depending on the building.

12. Can I book online before arriving in Cebu?

Yes. Many serviced apartments are listed on booking platforms, or you can inquire directly through their website or a local real estate broker. It’s recommended to book early during peak seasons.

13. Is internet included and reliable?

Most units include basic Wi-Fi in the rent. Some properties offer faster paid upgrades. For remote workers, it’s advisable to test speed or ask for a bandwidth guarantee.

14. How do serviced apartments differ from regular condos?

Serviced apartments offer hotel-like management and shorter, more flexible lease terms. Condos may require long-term contracts and tenants often handle their own cleaning and maintenance.

15. Are serviced apartments available near hospitals or schools?

Yes. There are serviced apartments near Cebu Doctors’ Hospital, Chong Hua, and in university areas like Lahug and Banilad—ideal for medical tourists or international students.

16. Are there beachfront serviced apartments in Cebu?

Yes. High-end serviced units like Aruga Mactan or Sheraton Residences offer beachfront access. These cater to premium renters and vacationers looking for long-term stays.

17. Can I invite guests or work from home?

Absolutely. Most serviced apartments allow guests and are suitable for working remotely. Some even have co-working lounges or business centers on site.

18. Is parking available?

Yes, but it may come with an additional monthly fee. Availability is limited, especially in city-center locations, so reserve a slot early if needed.

19. What documents are needed to lease a serviced apartment?

Typically required: a valid ID or passport, reservation form, signed lease agreement, and payment of deposit and advance rent. Some properties may ask for proof of income or reference.

20. Can I negotiate the monthly rate for long-term stays?

Yes. For leases over 3–6 months, many landlords or property managers are willing to offer discounted monthly rates. Always ask if long-term discounts apply.