Buying a condominium can be tricky. You must consider many factors, including its location, the money you can spend on a mortgage, and many others.

Another important choice is whether you would buy a pre-selling or ready-for-occupancy (RFO) condo, depending on your specific requirements. To help you make an informed decision, discover the ways to determine which condo type is for you by reading this article.

Pre-selling vs. RFO Condos

Before determining which of the two types of condos you are willing to take, it is best to learn the difference between them.

Pre-selling

A pre-selling condo is a property sold before it is completed or ready for occupancy. Developers sell pre-selling condos at a lower price than RFO units to attract buyers, but the completion date may be months or even years away.

Buyers of pre-selling condos must wait before they can move in or start generating rental income from the property. In some cases, buyers can customize the unit to their preferences and choose the location of their unit within the building.

RFO

On the other hand, RFO condos are ones that you can immediately move in. Buyers can occupy the unit as soon as the payment and paperwork have been processed.

The prices of these condos are usually higher than pre-selling units because they are already completed, and buyers can immediately start residing in or renting out the property. However, buyers may have fewer customization options than pre-selling units, and the unit’s location within the building may be limited.

Tips for Choosing Pre-selling or RFO Condos

After knowing the difference between pre-selling and RFO condos, you need to start assessing your personal or family needs and situation to make the most logical and economical choice. To help you make an informed decision, here are seven factors to consider:

Your Timeline

If you need a place to live immediately, an RFO unit may be the best option. However, if you’re willing to wait for the completion of the project and if you intend to buy the unit as an investment, a pre-selling unit could be a practical and economical choice.

Your Budget

Pre-selling units are usually priced lower than RFO units, but you’ll need to consider the additional costs that come with waiting, such as rental expenses or mortgage payments on your current home. Pre-selling condos may be cheaper upfront but may come with additional costs such as taxes and maintenance fees. RFO condos, on the other hand, could be more expensive upfront, but they often come with lower maintenance fees.

Consider the down payment, monthly mortgage payments, and closing costs when determining your budget. You may also need to choose financing options like bank loans and in-house financing. Consider which option works best for you and your financial situation.

The Property’s Location

Consider the property’s location and whether it meets your requirements regarding accessibility, amenities, proximity to your workplace, or other essential factors. Take note, the location of your condo can affect your daily routine, commute to work, access to amenities, proximity to public transportation, safety, and availability of essential services, such as hospitals, schools, and grocery stores, and your overall quality of life.

You can research the location by visiting the area, checking online forums, talking to residents, and reviewing crime statistics. It’s also important to consider the long-term value of the location, as this can affect the future resale value of your condo.

Customization Options

If you want to have control over the design of your unit, a pre-selling condo may be the better option, as you can often customize your unit to your preferences. While you can also modify your RFO units, your capability to redesign your property is reduced.

Future Value, Resale, and Investment Potential

A pre-selling condo often has a higher potential for appreciation in value than an RFO unit. However, this comes with a higher level of risk and uncertainty because of the changes in the economic conditions of your unit’s location.

Another vital factor is your condo’s future value and resale potential. While it’s impossible to predict the future, some factors can affect your condo’s future value and resale potential.

One factor is the location of the condo. A condo in a desirable location is more likely to appreciate over time. Another factor is the reputation of the developer. A condominium built by a reputable developer is more likely to retain its value over time.

You can research a condo’s future value and resale potential by talking to real estate professionals and checking out online forums.

Amenities and Facilities

The amenities and facilities of a condo can significantly improve your quality of life. When choosing a condo, consider its available amenities and facilities, including fitness centers, swimming pools, and playgrounds. These amenities can make your life more enjoyable and convenient. They can also save you money on gym memberships or other recreational activities.

It’s also important to consider the quality of these amenities and facilities, especially if you intend to resell the property. A well-maintained pool or gym can be a significant asset to your condo, while a poorly-maintained one can be a liability.

The Developer

The developer’s reputation is an essential factor to consider when buying a condo. Research the developer’s track record and reputation to ensure they have a good history of completing projects on time and delivering quality properties. A reputable developer like DMCI is likelier to provide top-notch condominiums and excellent customer service. Consider their track record, experience in the industry, and any awards or recognition they have received when researching a developer.

You can research the developer by checking their website, reading reviews from previous customers, and checking their track record with industry organizations such as the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board.

Conclusion

It would help to weigh many things when choosing the best property for your family. Aside from the usual factors in buying a condo in the Philippines, like your budget and financing options, choosing between pre-selling and RFO units is vital. The seven tips above give you things to ponder to zero in on the best property for you and your family.

Ultimately, choosing between the two options depends on your preferences and circumstances. Take the time to carefully weigh your options and consider all the factors before deciding, including the developer’s reputation.