Mid-rise condos offer greater convenience

MANILA, Philippines - For first-time home buyers, there is always that long-standing debate of “Should I invest in a condo or a house and lot?” With so many different options available, the decision process can be quite daunting.

“The important things to consider when buying a home revolve around similar themes. Is it developed by a trusted company? Is it affordable? What maintenance work would be needed?  Is the location ideal? Is my home well laid out or does it look too cramped?” said architect Arnold de Asis, DATEM Inc. vice president for operations and DATEM Homes president. “For upwardly mobile young professionals and start-up families looking to make their first property investment, mid-rise condos are a very smart choice.”

Mid-rise condos are usually located in highly accessible areas. One can find them in main business and commercial districts, presenting an attractive choice for active young professionals, single or with a family.

“With the hustle and bustle of the city, living in a location close to malls, hospitals, schools with several transportation options available makes it convenient for consumers. This helps lessen the stress that people tend to feel especially when travelling to and from these important places,” De Asis pointed out.

 Living in a mid-rise building is also more intimate. You get to know your neighbors and get that feeling of a community, and when you walk out your front door, you have a neighborhood full of amenities.

What is a home if you do not feel safe in it? Mid-rise condos are gated communities which have CCTV’s and security guards around the clock ensuring the homeowners’ safety.

In addition, living in a mid-rise condo is relatively low maintenance when compared to a house and lot. The unit sizes are just right and the interior space can be well maximized, making it easier for consumers to clean and maintain. The right property developer also guarantees that all common areas are properly cared for all year round.

“Another advantage of mid-rise condos is that some of them are built with the same technology and safety measures used in high-rise buildings. This is why, in choosing which property to buy, it is important to consider the developer. Companies who have been known in building high-rises can be trusted as they will have the capabilities and expertise of making homes stronger and safer,” De Asis added.

One particular technology that adds to the quality of the structure is wallcrete. It is something that first-time homebuyers should consider as it provides condo units with thick and solid walls to ensure durability and resiliency, and as a plus – privacy as it decreases noise and sound from neighboring units compared to standard wall partitions.

Condo units fabricated on pre-cast systems also have a great advantage. This allows structural and architectural elements to be put together offsite resulting in faster and higher output.

Mid-rise condominiums are the preferred investments of young professionals and families because it’s just right for their budget and for their needs. The right mid-rise condominiums now ensure that their owners enjoy a quality home without the unreasonably high charges.

“My advice to first-time homebuyers is to begin the whole process with thorough research and planning. It helps to make a list of all their requirements and non-negotiables in their homes and see which options fit their lifestyle and budget,” De Asis explained.

One thing that adds to living expenses to condominium owners is water. A possible way to minimize water expense is to find a condo that uses bulk water treatment technology. This modern technology filters and removes impurities, making tap water safe for drinking. Along with this is the waste water treatment technology which treats biological and chemical waste products, assuring consumers that the water getting disposed every day is environment friendly.

Another great way to reduce expenses for your home, is finding a condominium that uses solar panels to produce electricity, especially in areas where electricity consumption is high such as the lobby area and amenities. The use of solar panels allows you to run on renewable and sustainable energy, removing the cost of fossil fuel, allowing it to be more self-reliant rather than depending on a power utility for electricity.  In a country with a substantial amount of power outages, the use of solar energy helps continue to supply power to areas in the property.