To fly the coop, to hightail it to independence and to revel in the discovery and freedom of self-sufficiency — this is what most young people aspire for. The acquisition of their own home has always been one measure of success throughout the generations. It is both an indication and proof that one’s years of education, training and preparation are finally paying off.
“A house is high on the list of what Filipinos aim to buy,” says Anna Ma. “Annie” Guevara, partner in the architectural firm RRPayumo. “Filipinos need to be rooted. Until one can say that he owns something, he hasn’t gotten there.”
Still, she agrees that property values of real estate have skyrocketed in urban areas like Metro Manila, making it more difficult for most to acquire that first dream house and lot.
Fortunately, there are alternatives. Companies like Fil- Estate make it easier for young people to buy their first homes. The Steps is a mid-rise development designed by RRPayumo. It offers attractive amortization packages that make it easier for those who are just starting out. The bonus is that unlike pre-sold developments where a buyer has to wait several years before the project is completed, owners of The Steps can occupy their units within a few months.
Being able to move into one’s own home eliminates the need to rent a place while waiting for a house to be built. This means that the amount that should have been spent on rentals is saved.
The Steps is also PAG-IBIG accredited, and an affordable monthly amortization of approximately P8,000+ makes it easier for more people to decide and take that big step of acquiring a home.
For people who are busy building their careers, condominium living is a wise alternative. “You can just lock up and leave. Security-wise it is much better,” adds Annie Guevara, who shares that she opted to sell her home in the suburbs seven years ago to move into a condominium. Aside from a convenient location that significantly reduces travel time, the energy savings are also substantial. “A well-built and thoughtfully designed unit ensures that electricity and water are used efficiently.” This translates to savings that can be put to better use.
The Steps features upscale neo-classic design architecture. Amenities include an interior court garden, a swimming pool, a playground, and a pavilion, where residents can hold their private parties. An added advantage, says architect Guevara, is that the project is mid-sized. The five-storey development means fewer occupants compared to the usual high-rises. The open space in the middle of the project promotes natural ventilation and lighting, and the units are spacious without too many angles or corners.
The Steps is located at Sto. Domingo, Quezon City, and it is accessible to major shopping centers like TriNoma, SM North EDSA and SM Centerpoint. Students of the University of Sto. Tomas, St. Theresa’s College, St. Mary’s College, Sienna College and Angelicum College will find the location convenient, and for young graduates who have just embarked on their new careers, it is a five-minute drive to the MRT Quezon Avenue station that connects to the Ortigas and Makati business centers.
However retirees who like to have regular medical check-ups may also like the fact that the development is near major hospitals such as St. Luke’s Medical Center, UST Hospital and UERM.. This makes The Steps a possible alternative home for empty-nesters as well.
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For inquiries, call Fil-Estate at 636-1673, 634-2295, 634-4285 or 637-2928.