Short-Term Housing Options for Entrepreneurs in Cebu

Short-Term Housing Options for Entrepreneurs in Cebu

From scouting to scaling: Where to stay when you’re not ready to settle

Whether you’re validating a market, attending accelerator programs, or preparing for relocation, short-term housing is often the first logistical challenge for founders entering Cebu. Fortunately, Cebu offers a variety of options that cater to business professionals, remote teams, and solo entrepreneurs — from flexible condos to community-driven coliving spaces.

Here’s a detailed guide to your best housing options for stays ranging from one week to six months.

1. Serviced Condominiums

Professional, private, and productivity-friendly

For founders who value privacy and a stable work environment, serviced condominiums are a top-tier option. These are fully furnished units, often within modern residential towers located in strategic areas such as IT Park, Ayala Business Park, Mabolo, or Kasambagan.

What you get:

• Complete furnishings (bed, couch, fridge, TV, kitchenware)

• High-speed internet (sometimes pre-installed)

• Work desk or home office setup

• Access to gym, pool, 24/7 security

• Cleaning or linen service (in some units)

Booking channels:

• Airbnb (monthly discount available)

• Property agents (Facebook Groups, Rentpad.ph)

• Direct from landlords (via Facebook Marketplace)

Sample Properties:

• Avida Riala and Solinea – near coworking and malls

• Grand Residences – close to Mabolo and Banilad

• Calyx Centre – IT Park, ideal for founders and developers

Monthly Rates:

₱25,000 – ₱60,000 for studios and 1-bedroom units
₱60,000+ for high-floor or premium views

2. ️ Airbnb Rentals

Flexible, familiar, and founder-tested

Airbnb remains a go-to option for founders needing complete flexibility. Units range from budget studios to luxury penthouses, often with fast internet and self-check-in. Ideal for founders who want to test out different locations before committing.

Benefits:

• Rent includes utilities, Wi-Fi, and furnishings

• Instant booking; monthly discounts are common

• Hosts usually provide digital nomad–friendly setups

• Great for exploring various neighborhoods (Mandaue, Lahug, Fuente, etc.)

Cautions:

• Prices fluctuate based on season (Nov–Feb is peak)

• Not all units have backup power or strong internet — read reviews carefully

• Some properties are near noisy streets or construction zones

Recommended Areas for Airbnb:

• IT Park (walkable to coworking)

• Ayala Center (close to malls and meetings)

• Banilad (quieter but still connected)

• Mandaue (more budget-friendly options)

3. Hotels with Long-Stay Business Packages

Business-first infrastructure with plug-and-play convenience

Some hotels in Cebu cater to long-term guests, particularly business travelers and consultants. These hotels often provide monthly rates that bundle high-speed Wi-Fi, cleaning, laundry, and even complimentary breakfast.

Best For:

• Founders attending programs, conferences, or short business trips

• Early-stage teams needing structured living

• Entrepreneurs who want zero setup time and maximum convenience

Standout Options:

• Citadines Cebu City – Suite-style rooms with kitchenette

• Quest Hotel Cebu – Executive-level amenities

• Harolds Evotel – Quiet rooms with good lighting and workspace

• Bayfront Hotel (IT Park) – Strong location and digital nomad-friendly rooms

Inclusions:

• Fiber Wi-Fi, daily cleaning, business centers

• Complimentary breakfast or discounted meal packages

• Concierge support, airport transfer (in some cases)

Rates:

₱35,000 – ₱70,000/month depending on location and room type

4. Coliving Spaces & Hybrid Hostels

Productivity meets community: Ideal for early-stage founders & nomads

Coliving spaces have grown in Cebu as digital nomads and remote teams arrive. These spaces offer shared kitchens, coworking lounges, high-speed internet, and community events. It’s perfect if you’re a solo founder looking to network or stay productive in a social setting.

What to Expect:

• Dorms, private rooms, and semi-studio setups

• Shared kitchens and dining areas

• Daily/weekly/monthly pricing flexibility

• Coworking access built into the stay

• Community events (talks, movie nights, workshops)

Top Picks:

• Nomad’s Hub Cebu – Modern hybrid of hostel and coworking

• Murals Hostel + Café – Sleek design, fast Wi-Fi, in Banilad

• Shearwater House (pilot phase, Busay) – Designed for tech teams and remote workers

Rates:

₱8,000 – ₱15,000/month (shared)
₱15,000 – ₱30,000/month (private)

5. Short-Term Private Leases

Mid-term contracts directly with landlords or agents

For founders staying 2–6 months, some condo owners offer flexible private leases that bypass Airbnb’s premium pricing. You’ll find these through:

• Facebook Groups: “Cebu Condo Rentals,” “Cebu City Rentals,” etc.

• Real estate agents (make sure they’re licensed)

• Property listing sites: Rentpad.ph, DotProperty.ph, Lamudi

Why it works:

• Lower monthly cost than hotels or Airbnb

• More negotiating power for inclusions (internet, furniture)

• Ideal for early-stage teams renting multiple units

Watch out for:

• Vague contract terms or deposit issues

• Utility billing misunderstandings

• Hidden maintenance costs (e.g. association dues)

Monthly Range:

₱18,000 – ₱45,000 depending on location, furnishings, lease terms

6. ️ Cowork-Living Packages (Live + Work Deals)

For founders who want simplicity, speed, and services

A few coworking spaces in Cebu now offer bundled packages: accommodation + desk space + utilities + perks. Perfect for bootstrappers and product teams who want to arrive and get to work immediately.

Available or Coming Soon:

• The Company Cebu (Mandaue) – Custom corporate housing for founders

• Workplace Café tie-ups – Stay-and-work packages under development

• StartupHaus Cebu – Planned hybrid workspace + lodging concept

Ideal for:

• Remote teams

• Accelerator cohort members

• Business travelers on 1–3 month schedules

What’s Included:

• Desk access, meeting rooms, fiber internet

• Accommodation with basic amenities

• On-call admin or local support

Quick Comparison Table

What to Prioritize as a Startup Founder

Before booking, assess the following:

• ✅ Internet speed: Ask for screenshots or speed tests

• ✅ Power backup: Generator access is crucial in brownouts

• ✅ Desk or workspace: Some units have zero work surfaces

• ✅ Noise control: Avoid party hostels if you need sleep

• ✅ Proximity: Coworking, food, and transport options should be nearby

• ✅ Flexibility: Look for places that allow extensions or early termination

Final Thoughts: Landing Smart in Cebu

Your first 30 to 90 days in Cebu can determine how productive your setup will be. Instead of rushing into long leases, use short-term housing to scout, experiment, and adapt. Whether you’re in prototype mode, assembling a team, or just laying groundwork, Cebu has an affordable and diverse housing ecosystem to support your early-stage needs.

Smart founders choose housing that fits their energy, not just their budget.