Are you ready to take on another financial responsibility? Are you thinking about buying your first condominium?

Many of us still prefer to live in a house and lot because of the privacy and space it offers. However, in a highly urbanized area like Metro Cebu, condominium living has become one of the most practical options. Aside from being close to business districts, schools, shopping malls, and restaurants, condominiums also offer amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, function rooms, and 24-hour security. These features provide convenience and can help improve your overall quality of life.

Here is one important piece of advice that may help you before making a purchase.

Most buyers immediately ask whether a unit is a Studio, 1 Bedroom, or 2 Bedroom. While this is important, I believe the “total floor area” deserves even more attention.

Have you ever noticed that not all Studio, 1 Bedroom, or 2 Bedroom units have the same size? Some Studio units are actually larger than a 1 Bedroom unit in another project. Likewise, some 2 Bedroom units may have almost the same floor area as a 1 Bedroom unit. It all depends on how the developer designed the project and the market they intend to serve.

Under the Implementing Rules and Regulations of BP 220 and PD 957, housing projects are classified according to different market segments with corresponding minimum standards. However, these regulations do not prescribe a fixed floor area for every Studio, 1 Bedroom, or 2 Bedroom unit. Because of this, developers have the flexibility to determine the size and layout of each unit based on their target market.

This is why I always encourage buyers to check the “total floor area” instead of relying only on the unit type.

For example, one developer may offer a 2 Bedroom unit with only 35 square meters, while another developer may offer a Studio unit with 40 square meters. At first glance, the 2 Bedroom may sound like the better choice. However, after comparing the actual floor area, you may discover that the Studio offers more usable space.

Whenever possible, inspect the actual unit before making a decision. Floor plans can be helpful, but nothing compares to seeing the space yourself. A personal inspection allows you to evaluate the layout, room sizes, storage, and whether the unit will be comfortable for your lifestyle.

Another simple technique I recommend is comparing the “price per square meter”.

🔹 2 BEDROOM

Price: ₱6,800,000
Floor Area: 35 sqm
Price per sqm: ₱194,300

🔹 1 BEDROOM

Price: ₱6,500,000
Floor Area: 35 sqm
Price per sqm: ₱185,700

🔹 STUDIO

Price: ₱5,200,000
Floor Area: 40 sqm
Price per sqm: ₱130,000

This comparison gives you a clearer picture of the property’s value. Of course, price is also influenced by several factors such as location, the developer’s reputation, construction quality, amenities, floor level, unit orientation, and current market demand.

Buying a condominium is a major financial decision. The more information you have, the better your chances of making a smart investment. Before choosing between a Studio, 1 Bedroom, or 2 Bedroom unit, take time to compare the total floor area. You may be surprised that the best value is not always the unit with more bedrooms.

I hope this short article has given you another perspective when buying your first condominium. If you found this helpful, follow me for more practical real estate tips and market insights.