Finding your perfect home in Bohol is one of the most important steps in your relocation journey. Whether you dream of a move-in ready beachfront villa, a custom-built hillside retreat, or a comfortable rental while you explore the island, we provide end-to-end guidance to secure your ideal property. With trusted local connections and careful due diligence, we help you navigate the Bohol real estate landscape with confidence.
Buy vs. Build vs. Rent Comparison
Choosing between buying, building, or renting depends on your timeline, budget, and long-term vision. Here is a straightforward comparison to help you weigh your options.
Buying an Existing Home
Best for: Those seeking a faster move-in, preferring known costs, and wanting established gardens and communities.
Price Estimate:
Modest local-style home: ₱3–6 million ($55,000–$110,000 USD)
Western-standard house in a suburban area: ₱8–15 million ($145,000–$275,000 USD)
Beachfront or luxury villa (Panglao/Anda): ₱20–50+ million ($365,000–$915,000+ USD)
Pros: Move in quickly (often within 1-2 months). Costs are fixed at purchase. You can see and feel the property, neighborhood, and views immediately. Less hassle and managerial responsibility upfront.
Cons: Limited options for customization. May require renovations or updates. Finding the perfect match for all your wants can take time. Must conduct thorough title checks and due diligence.
Our Role: We source properties from trusted networks, conduct comprehensive title verification, negotiate on your behalf, and manage the legal transfer process to ensure a clean, secure purchase.
Building a Custom Home
Best for: Those with a specific vision, flexibility on timeline, and a desire to create their dream home from the ground up.
Construction Cost Estimate (per sqm):
Basic finish (local standards): ₱25,000 – ₱35,000 ($450–$640 USD)
Good finish (Western standards): ₱40,000 – ₱60,000 ($730–$1,100 USD)
High-end/Luxury finish: ₱70,000 – ₱100,000+ ($1,275–$1,825+ USD)
A typical 150 sqm home at “good finish” would range from ₱6–9 million ($110,000–$165,000 USD) for construction, excluding land.
Pros: Total customization of design, layout, and materials. Can incorporate modern, energy-efficient, or typhoon-resilient features from the start. Often strong emotional attachment and long-term satisfaction.
Cons: Longer timeline (see below). Requires more active management and decision-making. Budgets can be less predictable due to material cost fluctuations. Risk of contractor delays or issues.
Our Role: We connect you with vetted architects and contractors, help manage the project timeline and budget, ensure quality control at every stage, and handle permit acquisitions and inspections.
Renting a Home First
Best for: Those wanting to explore different areas of Bohol, maintain flexibility, or simplify their initial move without a major commitment.
Monthly Rental Estimate:
Apartment in Tagbilaran: ₱15,000 – ₱25,000 ($275–$450 USD)
House in a suburban barangay: ₱20,000 – ₱40,000 ($365–$730 USD)
Furnished house/condo in Panglao: ₱40,000 – ₱80,000+ ($730–$1,460+ USD)
* Long-term leases (1-2 years) often secure lower monthly rates.
Pros: Minimal upfront cost and commitment. Allows you to “test drive” a neighborhood and island life. No responsibility for major repairs or property taxes. Flexibility to move or change plans easily.
Cons: No equity buildup. Rent may increase over time. Limited ability to personalize or modify the property. Less long-term stability.
Our Role: We identify rentals that meet your standards, review lease agreements, ensure fair terms, and introduce you to reputable property managers if needed.
Construction Process Timeline
If you choose to build, understanding the realistic timeline is crucial. Building in Bohol follows a distinct process influenced by weather, material sourcing, and local practices. Here is a general overview from concept to move-in.
Phase 1: Planning & Design (2-4 Months)
– Consultation on needs, budget, and style.
– Architect selection and development of preliminary designs.
– Site surveys and soil testing.
– Finalization of blueprints and engineering plans.
Our Role: We facilitate connections and ensure plans are feasible and compliant with local codes.
Phase 2: Permits & Pre-Construction (2-3 Months)
– Submission of plans to the Municipal Engineering and Planning Office.
– Acquisition of building permits, clearances, and barangay approval.
– Final contractor selection and bidding.
– Sourcing and ordering of major materials.
Our Role: We manage the permit application process and liaise with local officials to prevent delays.
Phase 3: Construction (6-12 Months)
– Months 1-2: Site preparation, excavation, and pouring of the foundation and footings.
– Months 3-5: Erection of structural framework, walls, and roof.
– Months 6-8: Installation of windows, doors, plumbing, electrical wiring, and insulation.
– Months 9-12: Interior finishing (drywall, tiling, painting), cabinetry, and fixture installation.
Our Role: We provide regular site supervision, quality control checks, and act as your point of contact with the builder to address issues promptly.
Phase 4: Final Inspection & Move-In (1-2 Months)
– Final utility connections (electricity, water, internet).
– Punch-list creation and resolution of any minor defects.
– Final municipal inspection and occupancy permit.
– Landscaping and exterior finishing.
Our Role: We coordinate the final inspections, manage the punch-list process, and help you prepare for a smooth move-in.
Note: All price estimates are for guidance based on current Bohol market conditions and are subject to change. Final costs depend on specific location, scope, material choices, and exchange rates.
Ready to find or create your Bohol home? Contact us to discuss your property goals and start your personalized search or building journey.