Buying property from abroad is very doable, but distance makes small mistakes expensive. These are the five I see most often when OFWs and overseas Filipinos start their search.
1. Paying before verifying the agent and the project
Scammers target buyers who cannot visit in person. Before any payment, confirm the broker’s PRC license and that the project is properly registered, and pay only to the developer’s official account. Our full checklist: How to spot a fake agent or developer.
2. Looking only at the sticker price
The listed price is not your total cost. Add reservation, downpayment, transfer-related fees at turnover, monthly association dues, insurance and possible furnishing. Ask for an itemised computation in writing. See payment terms explained.
3. Buying without a clear purpose
A unit that suits a retiring couple may be a poor rental, and the reverse is also true. Decide first whether you are buying for family, for income, or both. Use our decision guide.
4. Assuming rental income is guaranteed
No honest broker can promise returns. Rent depends on location, supply, vacancy and management. Plan so that you can still afford the monthly payment if the unit is empty for a few months. Read a plain-language look at rental yield.
5. Not planning for turnover and management
Who inspects the unit when it is ready? Who finds tenants, collects rent and handles repairs while you are abroad? Decide this before you buy, not after. Pre-selling projects can also take years to complete, so check the developer’s turnover track record.
A simple pre-purchase checklist
- Verified broker and registered project
- Written total-cost computation
- Clear purpose: family, income, or both
- Plan for turnover inspection and management
- Documents ready: full list here
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest mistake OFWs make buying property?
Paying before verifying the agent and the project. Always confirm the broker license, the project registration and the official payment account first.
Can I trust online property ads?
Treat them as a starting point only. Verify the person and the project independently before sending any money.
Keep reading
More guides for overseas buyers
- Ayala Land vs SMDC vs DMCI: Which Developer Offers the Best Investment?
- Pre-Selling vs RFO Condos: What OFWs Should Know Before Buying
- OFWs in Australia Buying Philippine Property: 2026 Guide
Featured properties
- Avida Towers Riala – Avida Condominium in Cebu IT Park, Cebu City
- Parklinks North Tower – Ayala Land Premier & Eton Condo in Ugong Norte, Quezon City
- Vertis Residences – Alveo Land Luxury Condo for Sale at Vertis North, Quezon City
Explore more
- Ayala Land Property Listings – Leasing & Resale | Luxury Homes & Offices for Sale
- Contact
- Free OFW call with Je
Ready to talk? Book a free call with Je
Every OFW situation is different. If you want a straight answer for your budget, your country and your timeline, I will walk you through it personally, with no pressure and no obligation.
Book a free call with Je · WhatsApp +63 917 617 3375 · ursos.roger@ayalaland-intl.com
Roger “Je” Ursos is a licensed Philippine real estate broker (PRC License No. 0028079). This article is general information, not legal, tax or investment advice. Property prices, terms and government rules change, so always confirm current details before you commit.