Essential Tips for Home Buyers: What to Look for When Purchasing a Property?

Buying a home is a significant milestone, and it's essential to be well-informed to make the best decision. Here are some critical tips and considerations for home buyers to ensure a smooth and successful property purchase.

1. Verify Title Issuance

Ensure the title of the lot or unit is delivered upon full payment. The only additional costs should be for registration, not unexpected fees.

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2. Understand Realty Tax Responsibilities

Real estate tax is paid by the owner/developer until the title is transferred to you, the buyer.

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3. Beware of Extra Fees

Owners or developers cannot charge additional fees for alleged community benefits without the approval of the homeowners' association.

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4. Ensure Access Rights

You should have free access to any government office or public establishment within the subdivision. Confirm that there is a right of way to public roads, developed and maintained according to government standards.

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5. Form or Join a Homeowners Association

Participating in or initiating the formation of a homeowners association can help in the community's development and maintenance.

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6. Understand Project Phases

Subdivision developments can be divided into phases, each covering at least ten hectares. Be aware of the development timeline and how it might affect your purchase.

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7. Be Aware of Subdivision Plan Alterations

Owners/developers need permission to alter subdivision plans and must get written consent from the homeowners' association.

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8. Protect Your Payments

Know your rights regarding non-forfeiture of installment payments if the developer fails to develop the project according to approved plans.

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9. Verify Advertisements

Ensure all advertisements about the subdivision reflect real facts and are not misleading.

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10. Check Completion Timelines

Owners/developers must complete facilities and infrastructures within one year from the license issuance date. Ensure this is adhered to.

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11. Clear Mortgage Obligations

Ensure any existing mortgage on the lot/unit is cleared by the owner/developer before title issuance.

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12. Garbage Disposal System

Verify there is a sanitary and efficient refuse collection and disposal system in place.

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13. Water Supply System

Ensure the subdivision has a mandatory connection to an appropriate public or community water system.

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14. Electrical Power Supply

Confirm mandatory individual household connections to power sources and street lighting every 50 meters.

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15. Parks and Playgrounds

Look for allocated recreational areas, which should be strategically located within the subdivision.

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16. Community Facilities

Check for areas allocated for community facilities such as neighborhood multi-purpose centers for projects over one hectare.

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17. Land Allocation

Understand the land allocation percentage, ensuring no less than 30% is non-saleable area for parks and community facilities.

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18. Traffic Impact Assessment

Ensure a traffic impact assessment has been conducted for large subdivision projects (over 30 hectares).

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19. Storm Drainage and Sewer Systems

Verify the presence of a properly designed storm drainage and sanitary sewer system.

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20. Site Grading Plan

Check for a site grading plan to ensure proper drainage and prevention of erosion or flooding.

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21. Environmental Compliance

Ensure the project has the necessary Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) or Certificate of Non-coverage (CNC) from the DENR.

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22. Zoning Certificate

Verify the project has a zoning certificate from the DHSUD Regional Office.

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23. Safety and General Welfare

Ensure the planning and designing of the subdivision prioritize safety, efficient road systems, and harmony with existing developments.

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24. Easements

Confirm compliance with easement provisions for water bodies, transmission lines, fault traces, and other public utility requirements.

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25. Choose CHLP Realty for Professional Guidance

Selecting the services of CHLP Realty and its experienced team of over 50 licensed real estate salespersons will provide you with unparalleled expertise and support throughout your home-buying journey. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that you find the perfect property that meets your needs and preferences, while also providing professional guidance on all aspects of the purchase process. From verifying title issuance to understanding realty tax responsibilities and navigating extra fees, CHLP Realty is here to make your home-buying experience seamless and satisfying.

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About the Source

This information is derived from Presidential Decree 957, a law enacted to protect subdivision and condominium buyers from fraudulent practices and to ensure the development of proper facilities and infrastructures. It establishes standards and regulations for developers to follow, ensuring the rights and welfare of home buyers are safeguarded.