In today’s fast-moving property landscape, if you’re beginning the search for a preselling condo in Manila, you’ll likely be comparing not just locations but also unit pricing, expected turnover schedules, and developer credibility. The decision is more complex than simply choosing a stylish unit—turnover timing can affect when the unit becomes rentable or usable, entry price determines affordability and long-term return, and the reliability of the developer influences completion risk and asset value. For professionals working in Metro Manila who are exploring the market with one eye on residency and the other on return, navigating upcoming condo launches demands careful attention.
This article offers a clear overview of why Metro Manila remains the Philippines’ top property market for both end-users and investors, and why many buyers are gravitating towards upcoming and preselling developments. The appeal of lower-entry pricing, modern amenities, and future-ready features makes a preselling condo in Manila an attractive option for those serious about investing in real estate, whether for living in or leasing out. Despite broader market challenges, recent industry data show that the metropolitan region’s property fundamentals remain strong. For example, a report by Colliers Philippines indicated that although stock is rising, so too is construction activity—with the total condominium stock in Metro Manila’s CBDs reaching 162,510 units in 2024, up from previous years.
The broader value proposition hinges on Metro Manila’s status as the country’s economic heart, with multiple business districts, strong infrastructure investment, and a large professional workforce driving ongoing housing demand. At the same time, buyers now have greater reason to focus on upcoming launches: preselling units often offer lower initial prices compared with ready-for-occupancy units, and provide flexibility for those planning ahead. That said, selecting the right preselling condo in Manila requires looking beyond the glossy brochure—you’ll need to appraise the developer's track record, project delivery timeline, amenity relevance, and cost implications. This piece will support your journey through those considerations, so you can make informed choices on where, when, and how to act in the Metro Manila condominium market.
What’s driving the launch of new condo projects in Metro Manila?
When you’re exploring a preselling condo in Manila as part of your strategy for investing in real estate, it helps to know the broader trends shaping the market. This section gives you a clear snapshot of current condo-real-estate trends in Metro Manila and explains what they mean when you’re evaluating upcoming developments. Understanding the background will help you compare options more confidently and pick projects that align with expectations on condo price Philippines, developer credibility, and long-term rental/investment value.
Overview of current real estate trends influencing new condo developments
One key trend in Metro Manila’s condo market is the rising focus on transit-oriented design, sustainability features, and units designed for hybrid work-ready lifestyles. Developers are increasingly including smart-home systems, EV-charging readiness, and flexible communal workspaces to appeal to professionals who may live, rent, or work from their unit. At the same time, growing awareness of climate resilience, energy efficiency, and location near transport hubs is shaping the way new supply is planned. These shifts reflect how a condo in Manila is no longer just a residential unit—it’s part of a broader lifestyle and infrastructure ecosystem.
Key factors driving developer launches: infrastructure expansion, urban redevelopment, demand for mixed-use townships
Another driver behind the wave of upcoming developments is infrastructure improvement and large-scale urban redevelopment. Projects like new MRT/LRT lines and transport corridors are opening previously peripheral locations to viable condo launch activity. Developers are also packaging residential units in mixed-use townships—integrating shopping, offices, and leisure—to cater to both end-users and investors. With this backdrop, the best condo developers Philippines are leveraging these favourable conditions to launch preselling projects at competitive entry points. The logic is: early-stage units near future infrastructure gains offer potential upside for long-term owners or lessees.
Continued recovery of the condo preselling market post-pandemic, supported by mid-income and luxury segments
While the condominium market in Metro Manila still grapples with oversupply in certain segments, the preselling sector is showing signs of recovery, especially in the mid-income and luxury tiers. According to the latest data, the market absorption in Metro Manila remains stretched—unsold inventory rose to ₱158 billion in recent years, implying about 8.2 years to clear at the current sales pace. Still, developers are adapting with more flexible payment schemes and a sharper focus on quality rather than just quantity, acknowledging that investor and end-user demand is shifting toward future-ready features. For buyers of a preselling condo in Manila, this means opportunity—if you pick the right project.
In essence, when you consider investing in a preselling condo in Manila, you’re placing a bet on its value at turnover and beyond. Early-stage units often come at lower entry pricing and allow for flexible payment terms before full RFO supply hits the market. Given the infrastructure tailwinds and demand for modern amenities, the upside potential for appreciation or rental yield is stronger if you choose carefully. With awareness of market dynamics, you can be better placed to identify which upcoming launches may deliver the best value.
Advantages of investing in a preselling condo property
First, preselling units typically offer lower introductory pricing compared to ready-for-occupancy (RFO) units. Because developers are still constructing them, early buyers often benefit from the “early-bird” window before full market pricing applies. Secondly, preselling offers flexible payment terms and longer installment periods, which makes the investment accessible, especially for working professionals or those looking to allocate capital fluidly rather than commit entirely up front. A recent guide notes that early-sale condos in the Philippines provide more relaxed down-payments and spread-out installments than RFO units. Third, you get an opportunity for property appreciation before turnover: by the time construction completes and turnover occurs, the unit value may have risen due to inflation, infrastructure progress, or increased demand.
This is especially relevant for those looking to lease the unit—young professionals, first-time investors or OFWs aiming for passive rental income are key buyer profiles here. Fourth, the appeal of modern building features—smart-home systems, sustainability certifications, EV-charging readiness, and design for hybrid work–makes preselling units “future-proof” investments aligned with changing lifestyle and tech trends. All of this matters when you are evaluating things to consider when buying a condo in the Philippines, beyond just price.
To recap: new condo-project launches in Metro Manila are being driven by infrastructure expansion, changing buyer preferences (towards sustainability and hybrid-work readiness), and a partial recovery in the preselling space after the pandemic. As a prospective buyer or investor, focusing on a preselling condo in Manila offers advantages like lower entry cost, flexible payment, and potential appreciation, provided you choose smartly. In the next section, we’ll dive into what you should be looking for when evaluating a specific preselling condo in Manila, highlighting the key criteria and due diligence checklist to ensure your investment aligns with both present-day demands and future returns.
What to consider when comparing preselling condos in Metro Manila
When you’re evaluating a preselling condo in Manila, it’s essential to approach the decision with both a clear checklist and a long-term view. Knowing how to compare and assess key features—such as the developer’s reliability, payment terms, location context, and market potential—can give you the confidence to move forward. In this section, we’ll walk through the most important considerations you should use when comparing upcoming condo developments in Metro Manila for investing in real estate, whether as your place to live or a smart rental/resale option.
Developer credibility
One of the first things to check is the reputation of the developer behind the project. A track record of completed projects, a history of timely turnover, and strong customer satisfaction signal lower risk. For example, when buying a condo in the Philippines, it is advised to choose a developer that “should be well-established” and has delivered multiple projects. Firms listed among the best condo developers Philippines in 2025 include Ayala Land, Inc., Megaworld Corporation, SMDC, DMCI Homes, and Robinsons Land Corporation. When comparing preselling condo listings in Manila, check how many past projects the developer has in that district, whether those projects were delivered on time, and what feedback actual unit owners have given.
Turnover schedule
A preselling development means you’re buying ahead of completion. So, the expected turnover schedule is vital. Check the projected completion date, see if there’s a buffer for possible delays (which are common), and ask how that aligns with your investment time-horizon. Given that input costs and supply-chain issues are still pressuring developers in Metro Manila, delays may arise. By aligning your purchase with a realistic timeline, you avoid being exposed to extended vacancy risk or delayed revenue generation if you plan to rent.
Introductory price and payment terms
One of the main draws of a preselling condo property lies in its lower introductory pricing compared to RFO units, and its flexible payment terms and longer installment periods. For example, information from DMCI Homes Projects shows down-payments over construction periods and early reservation fees. When comparing options, evaluate: the reservation fee, the percentage of down payment required, how long the installment period extends, and how financing works after turnover. A favorable payment term can make your investment more manageable while you wait for turnover and potential appreciation.
Unit options and layouts
Next, review the unit mix and layout options available. If you’re targeting an investor-renter profile or hybrid-work occupant, then units configured for work-from-home setups and offering flexibility (e.g., convertible living/work space) may generate better rental appeal. Similarly, for long-term occupancy, a layout that supports comfort, storage, and light is beneficial. As you compare preselling condo projects in Manila, prioritize those that offer layout flexibility, reasonable unit size relative to value, and features aligned with how tenants or you may use the space.
Amenities and sustainability features
Modern buyers and renters are increasingly looking for more than just four walls. A condo in Manila development with co-working areas, smart-home systems, EV-charging readiness, solar power or energy-efficient design can command better appeal—and may support future-proof investment value. Since lifestyle preferences and tech-readiness are rising, developments that integrate sustainability and amenities can stand out in a crowded field of upcoming projects.
Location factors
Arguably the most crucial factor: location. Accessibility—via MRT/LRT stations, major roads, business districts—matters significantly for rental uptake and resale value. Also important: proximity to schools, hospitals and lifestyle hubs enhances occupancy appeal. When comparing preselling condo developments in Manila, prioritise areas with strong transport connectivity or upcoming infrastructure, as these tend to support better condo price appreciation in the Philippines over time.
Resale and rental potential
Finally, assess the longer-term upside: what are the neighbourhood’s current rental yields, what infrastructure is coming, and how supply is evolving. For instance, average condo prices in Metro Manila in 2025 are around ₱150,000 per sqm in certain districts. The challenge: some districts face oversupply (e.g., an estimated 8.2 years to clear unsold condo inventory in Metro Manila). When you compare upcoming projects, pick those in locations where demand remains strong, vacancy rates are low, and infrastructure is set to boost value.
Best locations for upcoming condos in Metro Manila
- Bonifacio Global City (BGC) & Makati – Premium hubs in Metro Manila near major business districts (CBDs), multinational offices, and lifestyle amenities. These are high-entry-price but stable investment zones.
- Pasig & Mandaluyong – Mid-range but transit-accessible areas, with upcoming new developments and improved transport links.
- Quezon City – Offers a strong rental market thanks to proximity to universities, corporate centres, and large residential catchments.
- Manila & Pasay – Redevelopment zones near transport terminals and waterfront areas; can offer value-entry and longer-term upside potential.
When comparing price-per-sqm trends, for example, the median list price per sqm for condos in Metro Manila was reported at about ₱210,819 per sqm. Higher-end districts such as Makati may command ₱364,000 per sqm.
Choosing the right upcoming condo project
Begin by clarifying your investment goal: live-in, rent-out, or resale. Then compare the price-per-sqm of the preselling project with nearby RFO units and expected appreciation. Analyze the turnover timeline and whether it aligns with your horizon. Choose a developer with a strong presence in your target district, and secure financing early (get a loan pre-approval). Don’t overlook seeking professional advice: consulting a property lawyer, an experienced agent, or a financial adviser helps ensure you’re making a well-informed commitment.
To sum up, when comparing preselling condos in Metro Manila, you should systematically assess developer credibility, turnover schedule, payment terms, unit layout, amenities, location, and future rental/resale potential. Prioritise districts with strong infrastructure and demand, and always align your choice with your investment purpose. In the next section, we’ll look at how you can identify the best upcoming projects to watch—highlighting specific launches, developer packages, and timing strategies so that your decision is both timely and considered.
Condo Arena enables professionals in Metro Manila to compare upcoming projects based on developer track record, unit pricing, and turnover schedules — all in one place. To begin your search or compare multiple options, you can visit the Property List and use the Real Estate Comparison features right from the site.
Ready to take the next step? Compare real estate properties on Condo Arena and explore which upcoming Metro Manila projects align with your lifestyle and investment goals today.
