The Rise of the Condo

CEBU, Philippines - These past years it has become commonplace to meet someone who lives in a condo in the city. It's interesting, because just a while back most Cebuanos couldn't imagine being in such limited living space.  Home in the city's recent past conjures images of a front gate, a lawn or garden, then the one-storey house, buffered by a spacious backyard.

Times have really changed in the city as it mimics the other big cities in the country and the world. The growth of various industries has drawn great hordes of people to come. The original residents are becoming outnumbered by those that come to work and study and do business here.

Residential space is running out. If one is lucky enough to find an ideal living space, the price usually is at a premium. The situation gives rise to the condominiums. It's no wonder that condominium developments are sprouting up everywhere.

These residential buildings that rise up to the sky add to the metropolitan character of the city. Viewed from certain angles, Cebu City now would look no different from global Asian cities like Hongkong, Taipei and Singapore. Only that Cebu is not yet as dense and still highly 'livable'.

Those that live in condominiums refute the perception of most people about it being cramped. They cite that condo units are so designed to maximize the use of available space, no idle nook or cranny. Because space is limited, everything is at arm's reach and thus very convenient, they say. They also cite that the excellent design of a unit often creates an illusion of being spacious.

People with a good sense of independence are attracted to condominiums. So are those who are here, alone, for work or on business. Condominium living can be so liberating for those who find living in a group to be quite stifling. And owning a condo unit is more empowering than renting a house, since there is no landlord to have to bow down to.

Nowadays, buying a condo unit is a trend, especially among workers at BPO companies, which has since proliferated in the city. There is reportedly a high demand for both commercial and residential properties from this industry alone. And there are the overseas Cebuanos who want to invest their foreign-earned income in a property at home.

The public perception of condominiums also seems to be changing. Once thought to be a gesture of extravagance, owning a condo is now viewed as a very practical move. It is wise investment - whether the place is to be used as residence or for commercial purposes. (FREEMAN)