What Makes A Green City?

A green city believes in eco-efficiency, local economic development, site resilience, and pedestrian and transit connectivity. The city is also clean, healthy, democratic, and well-governed. When an area becomes a green city, it significantly contributes to the citizens at large.

Living in a green urban environment is a trend. Modernization of real estate construction is almost at peak as architecture and development take in the needs of individuals along with the contribution of technology.

Realty developers are staying away from hazardous and unfriendly construction practices to build more sustainable and green properties like those in BGC Taguig. The real estate developments aim to save the environment and make it a top priority to build livable cities which that are easy to maintain.

There are four factors to look forward to in a green city. These factors create lasting property value for customers, investors, and stakeholders. Read more about these factors below to understand what makes a green city.

1. Sanitation

A clean and healthy environment involves establishments. The public and private sector are responsible for the safety and cleanliness of the community. A green city must continuously provide safe drinking water, manage effective wastewater treatment, refresh the air, and, maintain proper waste disposal.

These provisions are also the basic elements of a high-quality life in the city. These make the city liveable despite the negative externalities bought by modernization. Still, achieving a clean and healthy environment is not impossible. When the goal is two-way, fresh and healthy living becomes common to households in the community as well as establishments in the city.

2. Peace

A few marks of an ideal green city are open and intimate green pocket spaces, patrolled streets, and recreational parks. These features are essential for relaxation, sports, and social activities for wellness. They also encourage nature watching which has become a primitive way to enjoy the surroundings according to urban dwellers.

Places with plants and a nourishing environment are prevalent in urban cities because of the excessive noise from people, types of machinery, and vehicles. The environmental noise is a source of stress in the city. The level of stress will not decline as long as the rate of the demand for mobility grows annually. Cars, trains, and planes cause a level of noise that can be too much for the human body.

Reals estate developers must be aware of these stressors to include them in their vision for building a green city. They must fine-tune their advocacy to establish more properties catering to homebuyers and property seekers looking for open areas, peace, solitude, and safety in an urban environment.

3. Sustainability

Sustainability comes with efficiency. People and markets must maximize the resources in the area to conserve them for future inhabitants of the city. Energy and water must be readily available in the present and future as green cities are the ideal places to live and thrive. Doing this also minimizes problems of scarcity in the long run.

Besides water and energy, the presence of organic and naturally-grown products changes consumer habits and consumption patterns. An organic market Manila helps local entrepreneurs and sheds light to their product. Local entrepreneurship is an environmental-friendly way to shop and promote the craftsmanship and ideals in the community.

Several realty corporations push for efficiency and sustainability. They look towards green ways to make and build communities reserving resources and amplifying the importance of local industries. Home buyers and property seekers must research proper engineering and architectural strategies to find the right developer who can provide these services and wholesome green living expectations.

4. Organization

Management and governance is a must in an urbanized area. However, it must be democratic since the homes will be for the people. Citizens must be part of their household property and environmental decision-making. An individual must live in a place under proper management. At the same time, protection must be a priority for the communities.

Safety is one reason why a person buys a property, with the location as its second item on the list. Real estate developers are looking at these points to continue bringing out the best for their customers. They are also being mindful of finding more ways to maintain a well-managed location.


These are some of the examined factors of what makes a green city. Though a highly-urbanized area, green cities promote healthy living. They also contribute positively to society as sustainability became the blueprint to continuously enhance land, enrich the lives of more people, and provide economic benefits for the larger public.

Cooperation between home and property owners, developers and the government to improve existing cities eventually encourages neighboring communities to follow and push for green and eco-living establishments. Helping hands will bring these and other factors of making a green city for a lasting eco-friendly community.

Source: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/europeangreencapital/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Making-our-cities-attractive-and-sustainable.pdf

This post was published on August 18, 2014 with the title "Green Cities: A Liveable and Sustainable Place to Live." This post was revised and updated for comprehensiveness and relevance to urban development.

Home Living: 5 Ways for an Uplifting Bedroom

A happy home starts with well-coordinated parts. Fulfilled families enjoy their kitchen, bonding time in the living room and time of reflection and solitude in the bedroom. Each area has a function and a feature that helps the family towards their desires and goals.

To achieve their dreams and goals, they need ample rest each day. Thus, the home needs to secure its most intimate sanctuary - the bedroom. Rest and rejuvenation happen in the room, so it's essential to create a positive and uplifting aura. You can achieve that by following these five steps.

1. Make the bedroom a sacred place.

The bedroom is made for sleeping. Try not to conduct adrenaline-inducing and highly-stressful activities such as working out, doing homework or catching up unfinished tasks from work. Bringing these pursuits in the bedroom allows the brain to associate the actions to the room.

If there are no other options to conduct these activities at home, you can designate a specific place to work. Using a desk or study table compiles all the necessary things you need while giving you the comfort to work on the things to accomplish.

2. Allow sunshine and fresh air to enter the space.

Sunlight is not only healthy, but it is also an effective mood lifter. Exposure to sunlight helps the body adjust its circadian rhythm to its natural state. Opening the blinds during daytime will bring positive effects to your body. Consequently, allowing the rays of the sun to penetrate the room kills the bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.

Meanwhile, refreshing the quality of air on a daily basis gets rid of the stagnant element in the atmosphere. Fresh air is good for the body as it helps the body function properly.

3. Add a headboard.

A headboard is not only an ornament or decorative piece in the bedroom. It is useful in providing support to your head when sleeping. Installing a headboard is essential in the practice of feng shui as it allows for protection to the subconscious mind as it goes to reestablish energy levels to a balanced state.

4. Paint the walls with pale hues.

Muted and soft colors resemble the color of nature. At the same time, the colors provide calming effects as it has a relaxing impact on the body. For instance, blue slows down the heart rate which in turn decreases the blood pressure and stabilizes breathing levels.

If you want to encourage positive thoughts in your room, paint it with green. Bright yet subdued shades of green are associated with happiness and nature. Other pale colors like pink, lavender, lilac, and peach are some of the colors you can use in the bedroom.

5. Keep it clean

A happy home is a clean home, and a clean home starts with tidy rooms. Take time to organize and declutter your sacred space. A messy room is not only disorganized. It also provides a stressful and unappealing sight. Instead of looking forward to spending time in your room, you will be deterred with the idea as it becomes a head sore to sort the mess.

To prevent unmanageable clutter, dispose of junk and the things you no longer need. Sweep and mop the floor, remove cobwebs and place the items in their respective storages.

Making the bedroom the most comfortable and the most appealing space at home is vital to a happy home. With sunlight, suitable colors and storages for all distracting items in the room, you can achieve a relaxing bedroom in your house and lot in the area of Cavite. There are various house and lot for sale in Cavite that are sure to help you get a good night’s sleep.

A Guide To Buying Property in the North’s Posh Community

Vertis North, one of Ayala’s pioneering mixed-use community in the North, should be your next address. The sanctuary of green, rising residential towers, and retail options are all within reach. The development thrives on a self-sustaining model - living, work life, and recreation all in one place.

Vertis North brings luxurious living the Quezon City with its high-rise condominiums. There’s Avida Towers Vita and Sola which has generous space in its units and common areas. Both towers are near the Corporate Center and Vertis North Gardens which allows the residents to relax and pursue leisure activities like running, biking or simply enjoy the free-flowing air and the sun. The highlight of the district’s residential expanse is High Park, an exclusive residential tower by Alveo. High Park has 35-storeys and two towers - Tower One and Two - and offers the opulence of contemporary living. 

With all the development options available, buying a property in Quezon City is a great investment. Thus, here’s a guide on what you should look for in a prime property or a luxury condo.

Consider the architecture

Architecture is what gives the property its value. State-of-the-art condominiums have an air of exclusivity and uniqueness, yet their interiors are practical. The architects and engineer behind well-orchestrated developments should have good track records. The professionals are also credible for they prefer high-grade materials to construct the buildings. Still, look for condos that used natural wood, metals, and stones in its foundations. These materials last longer than unnatural substitutes and replicas.

Go for minimal details

Photo by Naomi Hebert

Most luxury condominiums are fully furnished. The place may resemble a work of art, but the additional fixtures and finishes only add to the cost. These extra “bling” raise expenses once its life cycles come to an end. Besides these touches, make sure that the unit has clear separations for each room. The rooms should have a smart layout meaning the bathroom should be accessible for the guests. Avoid condos with awkward columns and space-wasting hallways.

Ceiling Height and Storage

Photo by Philipp Berndt

When it comes to ceilings, the higher, the better but for condos, it should be 14 feet on average. Ceilings above or below that height aren’t conducive to space.

There should be ample storage areas in the condo, and when additional storage is needed, there should be provisions to build closets. Storage areas should be measured in square footage while ceilings should be in the cubic footage.

Choose the essentials

Photo by Wil Seaman

Living in the city demands time, so dwelling in a residential unit with an in-house laundromat saves the hassle of keeping up with dirty clothes. If a laundromat isn’t available, a laundry area helps. Besides a laundry area, go for a condo with a fitness area. Some residential developments have pools, playing courts or biking and running tracks instead of a gym. These features are more valuable than a pet spa or mini-golf which are exclusive to the affluent. Those amenities also don’t have lasting value. High Park has interactive amenities like its al fresco lounge, fitness gym, pool and play rooms. Their notable feature is the Sky Lounge which is ideal for chilling indoors.

Pick the right view

The view depends on the condo’s location. The best view is a view that gives peace and serenity to the homeowner. Beware of any future developments that may obstruct the view and natural light. 
Vertis North is within the proximity of QC’s central business district. Therefore residents will have a glimpse of the bustling district. Choose a condo unit with an unobstructed view. Tower One has Sky Gardens while Tower Two has Sky Park which are both within the scenic Vertis Park.

Are You Ready to Buy a Condo?

You might be so interested in buying one of Manila properties, or if not, you are considering that condo for rent Bonifacio Global City. You are probably thinking of living on your own, settling down with your better half or contemplating on the thought of investing. We have different reasons and stories why we are tempted to buy or rent a condo unit. Whatever your rationale is, you should ask yourself: “Am I ready to buy a condo?”

Just like any other big things you do, buying a condo unit needs to be thoroughly reviewed. In this article, let us focus on your financial readiness. Time to review your bank accounts and assets, and see if you can afford to buy a condominium unit.

How much can I afford?

We can't give you a definite answer on that big question as different factors or variables affect individual capacity on buying a condo unit.

According to real estate experts, you can use the “2.5 rule” to estimate how much you can afford. How does it work? Note your net monthly income, and multiply it by 12. After getting the product, multiply it by 2.5, and the answer will be the maximum amount of condo unit you may afford to pay or buy.

Example:

Your net monthly income is ₱ 30, 000.

₱ 30, 000 x 12 = ₱ 360, 000

₱ 360, 000 x 2.5 = ₱ 900, 000

Maximum amount of condo you may afford: ₱ 900, 000

This is just a rough estimation on the amount of condo unit you may purchase.

Not all people can buy a condo unit with one-time-big-time payment (you must be really lucky!), so most of us go to our banks and see how can they finance our condominium. But don't forget how banks love to know the exact figures and calculations. They will carefully compute your income against your expenses. More than the computations and numbers, the banks also love rules. One of which is that only 25% of your net monthly income should be devoted to housing.

Using our previous example, given that your net monthly income is ₱ 30, 000, you can save ₱ 7, 500 for your condo unit. Unfortunately, if you are earning ₱ 30, 000, you might want to think of other ways of earning to afford your dream condo unit since the computed ₱ 7, 500 should cover not only the amortization but also the other costs of living and owning in a condominium.

You should also remember that we can quickly know your net income but not your expenses. Our spending practices vary from time to time. There are a lot of factors that may affect your budgeting – emergency needs, needs and wants, and other priorities.

Along the way of getting your dream condo unit, sacrifices are inevitable. If buying a condo unit is your top priority, you might postpone your expensive vacation or delay your plan of purchasing a new car, or other pricey liabilities.

Another thing for you to note is what will happen if you suddenly lose your primary source of income? Even though this may be out of your control, you should be able to keep your commitment to pay no matter what happens. That is why you should also have a generous amount of savings allocated for your condo unit expenses. You should have saved at least six months worth of your monthly amortization just in case you will be losing your job or have a drastic change in your monthly spending.

For example, your monthly allocation for your condo is ₱ 20, 000, you should have at least ₱ 120, 000 in your savings account.

After knowing all these things and thinking about your current situation, can you confidently say “yes” if you're asked, “are you ready to buy a condo?” No worries if you can't answer that yet. You got enough time to start looking for more cost-effective condo units or have other sources of income to finance your goal of owning a condominium.

Philippines as an Avian Archipelago

The Philippines is one among the very few countries that is considered to have mega-diversity, from flora and fauna specifically when it comes to birds and mammals. Birdwatching in the Philippines is the current trend among the birders worldwide. Let’s discover further what these birders love about the avian diversity in the country.

A look at the statistics

In the Philippines, the avifauna totals to about 657 species, 214 species of which are endemic. Of these endemic species, 68 are globally threatened, 52 are accidental or rare, and 5 are introduced by humans. Specifically, there are 48 non-passerines and 35 passerines.

According to a Science Daily article, biologists worldwide already considers the Philippines as a ‘biodiversity hotspot.’ They also claim that the country might have a unique bird species than what is already known. About 31% of all bird species found in the Philippines are regarded as Philippine-only (or can be found in the Philippines exclusively).

Where to bird watch

Further, there are more than 200 bird-watching sites in the country in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao with special mention in Palawan and Batanes.

The top bird-watching sites in the country are found in: Ilocos Norte, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan, Pangasinan, Zambales, Bataan, Cavite, Pampanga, Laguna, Manila, Quezon, Bicol, Occidental Mindoro, Palawan, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Batanes, Cebu, Bohol, Samar, Bukidnon, Agusan del Sur and Zamboanga.

For those who occupy Manila properties, the closest bird watching paradises are in Mt. Makiling Forest Reserve in Laguna, Mt. Palay-Palay National Park in Cavite and Las Piñas-Parañaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism Zone. Another avifauna haven is in Wildlife and Bird Watching Sanctuary in Nuvali where you can see hundreds of bird species including herons and otters.

When to bird watch

Birding is possible all-year-round. However, it is best to visit the Philippines between December and July (dry season). During the wet season, it is tough to spot the majority of the birds though you can still watch or observe some species like pittas. Not to mention, terrains can get muddy, traveling to and fro the site will be more of a challenge.

Some local bird clubs also conduct bird festivals from time to time. Birders can contact these bird clubs to determine schedules.

The best time to bird watch is during the morning when they start to search for food. You should be up before 5 am.

Must-watch birds in the country

In the city, the most commonly observed birds are Eurasian tree sparrow, Yellow-vented bulbul, Olive-backed sunbird, zebra dove, black-naped oriole, golden-bellied flyeater and Philippine pygmy woodpecker.

However, there are must-see birds as well. Top of the list is the Philippine eagle. Others are Palawan peacock pheasant, steere’s pitta, Philippine cockatoo, scale-feathered malkoha, rufous hornbill, green racquet-tail, spotted wood kingfisher, Apo myna and Bukidnon woodcock.

What to bring when bird watching

When you embark on bird watching in any of the sites mentioned above, make sure to bring binoculars and camera with you. You should also bring a guide and journal where you can document the experience.

Also, bird watching is a hobby that is not for everybody. Patience is a virtue, and it holds true for this hobby. If you cannot stand long hours of silence, you might as well give it up. Respect for the birds and their natural habitat are also necessary.

The Philippines is a home to hundreds of bird species, each one of which has its own distinct beauty. Our avian bionetwork is legendary, making the entire archipelago as the latest bird watching hotspot. There are many choices for bird watching sites even in and around the metro. While bird watching is a worthwhile activity, this is not for everybody. It takes drive patience and passion to be a bird watcher!  

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Five Queries to Determine Your Home Wants and Needs

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It is far better to buy a wonderful property at a fair price than a fair property at a wonderful price. ~Warren Buffet

It has been said that an investment in knowledge pays the best interest. This wise adage was coined by none other than Benjamin Franklin himself, and it still rings true until today—especially when you are in the market for a real estate property.

Much of your decision would be attributed to the state of your pecuniary resources and financial capability, but knowing what you want and need in a home would undoubtedly make the search for a new home a lot less complicated. Searching for a new home would require you to contemplate over some various considerations, and it is imperative that you be incredibly precise with what these are.

Remember, identifying your particular wants and needs are paramount to finding the ideal residence. Ask yourself the five questions below before even commencing the hose-hunt to guarantee that when you do find your perfect home, it strikes the perfect balance between your wants and your needs.

1.)    Will I buy or rent? 

Before jumping the wagon and deciding to buy for yourself, take a minute if you see yourself staying in the same residence for quite a while (say some years). True enough, real estate investment may be one of the most consistent and lucrative investments there is, but you may not necessarily need a permanent home at the moment. If you are ready to establish roots with your family, then go ahead and search the market for your ideal home. Otherwise, consider the alternative and rent for the time-being.

2.)    How much space do I need? 

Do you have children? Are you living alone? Will it just be you and your wife? Do you have a big family or a small one? These are just some of the questions to ask yourself to help you determine the space you need for you and your family. Additionally, it would be wise to consider if you see your family expanding so that you can adequately prepare for that with square footage. Take note, regardless of the type of property you choose, square footage is going to cost you money so determine how much space you need and how much you can afford. The amount of space may also determine whether you should get a house and lot in Cavite, in Bacoor specifically or a 2BR condo in Quezon City.

3.)    What kind of neighborhood do I prefer?

Looking for a new home is not only constrained to two aspects that being your budget and space you need. You would also need to consider what kind of neighborhood you would like to reside in and can see yourself living in. It is a matter of preference and knowing whether you want a community in proximity to entertainment and commercial centers or do you want to live in a neighborhood that may be a bit far-flung, but is laid back and more family friendly? Knowing what these would help you narrow down your property selection and choose appropriately.

4.)    What amenities am I looking for? 

Contrary to the mistaken belief that major facilities are limited to condominium owners, most real estate developments and properties nowadays already come with an array of amenities. These would certainly help properties sell faster and would sweeten the deal for buyers. Determine what amenities you are looking for and see if those are available in your prospective neighborhood as this can be a determining or deciding factor of which property to buy.

5.)    What are the aspects I am willing to compromise on? 

Remember that, unless you have a sizable budget to accommodate all your wants and needs in a home, you are going to have to compromise on some aspects. Ask yourself how much you want to invest in a home beyond the purchase price, whether in sweat equity or monetary terms, if you cannot find what you exactly want. Take note that your needs should take precedence over your wants and know when you can appropriately compromise. This would make the entire logistics of looking for a home much easier.

For Homeowners: How to Introduce Yourself to Your Neighbors after Moving

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If there's one thing that you need to do after moving into your new home, that would be meeting and introducing yourself to your neighbors. However, if you think that it is an easy task for you to do, then you better think again. You definitely do not want your neighbors to brand you as rude. Right?

That is why it does not matter where you live, may it be in a house and lot in Bacoor, Cavite, Philippines or any other real estate properties in the country, you should know what to do for you to effectively get to know your neighbors.

But sad to say, not all homeowners are able to achieve such outcome. Perhaps, they just do not have any idea on what and what not to do when it comes to introducing their selves to their neighbors. And if you are one of those homeowners, then you might as well refer to these tips below. Here's how:

Careful observation

It is a fact that not all neighbors are the same. Some neighbors are friendly enough to warmly welcome you to the neighbor, while others are not. There are also neighbors that you may think they are rude. But as the times goes by, you will eventually realize that they are definitely friendly.  That means, you also have to be careful when it comes to having some greetings on them. Moreover, if you find some common interest with your neighbors, it would definitely be much easier for you to approach the person.

Before go introducing yourself, careful observation is a must. But you also have to make sure not to be obvious about it or act like stalker-ish.

Take a walk

Taking a walk in your neighborhood is also one of the many ways to meet your new neighbors. Since most of them would spend their time outdoors, then this might be your chance to meet and greet with them. Or perhaps, if you have a front porch, you can definitely use it. You will eventually realize and surprised how easy it is to meet people when they approach you first. Of course, taking some walk does not just give you the chance to meet new people, but this is also one of the best times where you can tour around your neighborhood.

Moreover, make sure to spend some time outside your home after working hours or on weekends for you to meet some of your neighbors.

Make your move

Making your first move can also be challenging. Of course, there are just times that we tend to be hesitant enough to approach other people considering what they might think of us. However, do you know that this is also one of the many ways where you can have more friends out from it? Well, some of your neighbors are just shy enough to approach you. That means you have to take the first move in greeting some of your neighbors. With that, they will not be hesitant in the approach you later on.

What to say

When it comes to introducing yourself to your neighbors, you have to be careful about what you say. Well, you can have as simple as how are you and some other things that can make the atmosphere sweet enough to be friendly. Moreover, never say negative things to your neighbors that can create misunderstandings between the both of you. When you do, this is not a good way to start your life in a dispute with your neighbor.

What if you have nothing in common?

Generally, it is not that bad if you and your neighbors do not have something in common. Of course, you just have to respect their likes and dislikes in life. And if you have something that contradicts you in some other ways, you can discuss that particular matter in a polite way. With that, there will be no misunderstandings or hurt feelings between you and your neighbor.

Organized Home: The Qualities All Organized People Have

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Because people are busy with their work or school, arranging and organizing things in their home can eat up their precious time. There are even times that we tend to leave our messy things as it is since there is still no time for organizing them. Well, whether you are maintaining a 1BR condo in Shaw Blvd Mandaluyong or a bungalow house and lot in Laguna, it is sad news to hear. You definitely don’t want to live in a place where all you see is messy and chaotic things around your house. Do you? I’m sure, NOT!

Hypothetically speaking, do you believe that most people who are into organizing things every time they see messy things around them, is a somewhat kind of a lazy person? Well, perhaps, they just don’t want to spend too much of their time arranging things, or sitting through things just to find what they are looking for – it is definitely a waste of time and energy.

For them to avoid these tiring situations, they came up a brilliant idea where they can lessen the overall time they would have to use just to organize a particular thing. Well, if you want to know their little secret, then below are the qualities most organized people usually have and/or do.

They purge often and ruthlessly

Whenever an organized person noticed and saw an unwanted thing that is in a particular place, they will immediately get it and put it in their proper place. For instance, if they see any T-shirts placed on the couch in the living, they will immediately put those particular clothes in their closet and/or in their laundry area. With that, it will help reduce spending too much of their time putting things back in their proper place and in order.

They make or designate a spot for everything

Ok, let admit! Not all things we have at home are used every day, right? So, what organized people usually do is, they make and/or designate a spot for everything. For instance, if you are using closed shoes for work or for school every day, then your high heels are occasionally pushed back. For you not to have any hassles of finding a particular thing, especially when it is most likely to be used all the time, then you have to put is somewhere where it is easier for you to spot.

They embrace labels

One of the easiest ways to spot and identify your belongings is to have labeled it. There are just times that we tend to forget where we put a particular thing in our home. And when we do, this may cause us to have some serious problems, especially when that particular thing is important. Putting or having some labels on your stuff may not be a bad idea at all. In fact, it will be a convenience on your part.

They look for organizational storages

Aside from putting a label on your things, one of the quickest and easiest things for you to do is to place an organizational storage in everything that you have. If you have unused clothes or any other items that are not already in use, then it is better for you to put it in a particular place or storage where it will not be messy for you to have. Moreover, this will help you identify and immediately find a particular thing whenever you want to use it again.

They start and finish projects right away

One of the things that add up the mess in your home is having an unfinished project. Of course, there will be a lot of stuff that will be in your room, and if that isn’t immediately finished and place to its proper place, then it will going to be your hassles later on.

If you are one of those people who have a hard time finding a time for organizing things in their home, then you better apply these qualities above for you to lessen the burden that you have. Of course, this definitely works!