How Much Are Pinoy Moms Willing to Spend for Their First Home?
They mostly search online to find their first home, and they prefer to scout in three locations.
Having a place one could call home is a basic human need. But for many modern moms, "basic" does not even begin to describe what they look for in a home—many consider storage and wardrobe space, some who love to bake or have a food business require a heavy-duty kitchen, and there are others who want a backyard where the kids can run around in.
According to data from top property portal Property24, 77% of those who purchase properties are female, in their 40s, and are married (73%), employed (79%). How much do they set aside for a house? The average budget: P1.5 million.
“Based on the survey, the average budget of the buyer is between Php1.5 million and Php2 million,” Ferdinand Perez, head of operations and real estate for OLX Philippines, told Entrepreneur.com.ph. “Yun yung sinasabi nilang willing silang igastos (That’s what they say they’re willing to spend).”
Perez added these findings point to mothers as the primary property buyers among Filipinos. He related this to how mothers are the typical decision-makers when it comes to matters of the household.
The top three preferred properties are located in Quezon City (27%), Pasig (11.5%) and Manila (10.6%), and it appears that almost half of them are looking for these properties online.
Data also indicate a few more non-negotiables on a mom's checklist when looking for a family home:
Proximity to shopping areas
Mothers are naturally the shoppers in the family. Supermarkets and even convenience stores are practical necessities that help in maintaining the household's day-to-day operations. When it comes to searching for property, a nearby convenience store can give you a feeling of assurance that simple items for meals, chores, or even get-togethers are always within reach.
A nearby store, on the other hand, provides a safety net should you want to replenish stocks to prepare for the rainy days or for the upcoming holidays. Efficiently squeezing in shopping with other responsibilities at home and at work should not be too difficult when these establishments are just a stone's throw away.
Quick access to public transportation
Greater mobility for less means quicker access to public transport systems. Nearby jeepney or tricycle services help you manage simple tasks such as getting out of the village, or even shopping. Shuttle or FX services, on the other hand, may bring you closer to your workplace for a cheaper price, or help you do your errands faster.
It also pays to know if your preferred location can be accessed by a nearby bus or train stop. Take all of these transport options into consideration for both short term and long term purposes. Afetr all, your kids will eventually grow up to be more independent and they will need to utilize these systems too.
Children's infrastructure
Spaces that facilitate child development are important in shaping your child's formative years. Nearby schools, day care centers, or even playgrounds are integral in helping children gain knowledge and social values within the comforts of your property's vicinity.
Ensuring these spaces are easily accessible can also help you efficiently balance other responsibilities. Treat these places as leisure hubs that also allow you to connect with your child outside of your home.
Nearby public services
Public services provide convenience at a minimal cost. Baranggay centers act as platforms that can help you raise any concerns about your immediate surroundings. Postal offices make it easier to send and receive parcels or letters to friends and loved ones. Health centers provide easily accessible services that address first-aid concerns, or minor surgical procedures.
Take note of the proximity of government offices when you search for a property. You will never know when you'll need to avail of these services.
Safety
Raising a family entails commitment in providing an environment that will make them feel secure. Before making that decision to purchase, it pays to research and ask about issues that may affect how you live in that area. Look at potential security issues and measure the possibilities of it affecting your everyday living.
Remember to also trust your gut—if you do not feel comfortable spending most of your time in that property, perhaps you haven't found the right one yet.
This story originally appeared on Smartparenting.com.ph.
* Minor edits have been made by the Realliving.com.ph editors.
