Ready-for-occupancy (RFO) properties offer immediate homeownership, eliminating construction delays. Empire East Land Holdings Inc. provides a diverse portfolio of RFO properties strategically located in Metro Manila and beyond, catering to those seeking swift transitions into their desired lifestyles.
This post will detail the advantages of RFO properties, focusing on Empire East’s offerings. We will explore the convenience, quality, and lifestyle enhancements of choosing an Empire East RFO home. Whether for first-time buyers, expanding families, or investors, these properties provide immediate comfort and fulfillment.
Your Dream Home Awaits
Empire East Land Holdings Inc. (Empire East), a subsidiary of Megaworld Corporation, is a key player in the Philippine real estate industry, focusing on homes for the middle-income segment. Established in 1994, the company has built an extensive portfolio of residential properties near central business districts, schools, shopping centers, and leisure hubs. By prioritizing convenience and accessibility, Empire East aims to cater to aspiring homeowners seeking modern living spaces within dynamic communities. The company integrates innovative lifestyle concepts into its developments to meet the evolving needs of its target market.
Empire East has recently celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of real estate development in the Philippines. The company was also recognized at the Real Estate Asia Awards 2024 for its advancements in digitalization and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. Additionally, it remains committed to corporate social responsibility through its Empire East Cares program, which supports various social and environmental initiatives.
Empire East faces strong competition from Avida Land and DMCI Homes in the competitive mid-cost housing sector. However, the overall market outlook for Philippine real estate remains positive, presenting potential growth opportunities for the company. With a strategic focus on innovation and community-centric developments, Empire East continues to position itself as a trusted developer in the industry.
What exactly are RFO properties?
Simply put, an RFO property is a completed condominium unit or house that is available for you to move into once the necessary processes are finalized. This typically involves settling the reservation fee, down payment, and fulfilling any other requirements set by the developer. Once these steps are completed, you can immediately occupy your new home.
How do RFO properties stand apart from pre-selling or under-construction homes?
| RFO (Ready-for-Occupancy) | Pre-selling | |
| Immediate Occupancy: | RFO (Ready-for-Occupancy) properties allow buyers to move in shortly after purchase. | Pre-selling properties requires a waiting period until construction is completed. |
| Construction Status: | RFO homes are fully built and ready for turnover. | Pre-selling homes is selling them before or during the construction phase. |
| Buyer Priorities: | RFO units are ideal for those who need a home immediately. | Pre-selling units suit buyers who are willing to wait and possibly benefit from early investment. |
| Cost & Options: | Pre-selling properties often come at lower prices and offer early selection of units or locations. | RFO properties may have a higher price point but provide the benefit of instant use. |
What are the significant advantages of investing in a home that is already completed?
One of the most apparent benefits is that you can see the finished product before you buy. This allows you to physically inspect the unit, its layout, and the quality of finishes, providing a tangible understanding of your investment. Furthermore, you can move in much faster compared to buying a pre-selling unit. RFO properties are often located in more established communities with existing amenities, offering a sense of place and convenience from the start. For investors, RFO units present the opportunity to start earning rental income almost immediately after purchase.
Is choosing an RFO property the most suitable option for my current needs and timeline, especially if I need to relocate urgently or start earning rental income promptly?
If your priority is to move into a new home quickly or to begin generating rental income without the waiting period associated with construction, then an RFO property is indeed a very suitable option. The immediate availability of RFO units directly addresses the needs of individuals and families requiring urgent relocation or investors aiming for swift returns on their investments. For example, the South Residences of Empire East’s Covent Garden were already ready for occupancy as early as 2020, illustrating the immediate move-in potential of RFO properties.
Why Choose Empire East for Your Ready-for-Occupancy Home?
Empire East is recognized for developing quality mid-cost housing projects, including condominiums and house and lots, focusing on creating vibrant communities. They are also known as pioneers of “Transit-Oriented Developments” near Metro Manila’s railway stations. Empire East provides a range of RFO properties, including mid- to high-rise condominium units and potentially some house and lot options in suburban areas.
Empire East is committed to building homes that meet the needs of aspiring homeowners and integrating them into dynamic communities with innovative lifestyle concepts. They have a track record of project completion and delivery.
Project Locations and Property Types Offered
Empire East’s development activities are primarily concentrated in key areas within Metro Manila, including Mandaluyong, Manila, Makati, Pasig, and San Juan. The company also has a notable presence in suburban locations such as Laguna, Rizal, and Sta. Rosa, extending its reach beyond the immediate urban center. The property types offered by Empire East are diverse, encompassing mid- to high-rise condominiums, subdivision lots, house and lot packages, and a limited number of commercial units. Some of the specific projects undertaken by Empire East include:
1. Empire East Highland City (Pasig City – Cainta)
This flagship project is envisioned as the Philippines’ first elevated city. Located along Felix Avenue on the border of Pasig City and Cainta, Rizal, Empire East Highland City is a master-planned township that combines residential, commercial, and recreational components. The development includes Highland Park, a green open space for leisure and community events; Highland Mall, a future shopping and lifestyle destination; Highland Residences, a cluster of modern residential towers; and the Chartered Club, an exclusive lifestyle hub with premium sports, fitness, and wellness facilities.
2. The Paddington Place (Mandaluyong City)
Situated along Shaw Boulevard, The Paddington Place consists of four sleek, cosmopolitan condominium towers. It offers easy access to the Ortigas CBD and key areas in Metro Manila. The development features modern amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, landscaped gardens, function rooms, and a central podium with lifestyle and retail components. Its location also places it close to schools, hospitals, and malls like Shangri-La Plaza and SM Megamall.
3. Mango Tree Residences (San Juan City)
Located in a peaceful neighborhood of San Juan City, Mango Tree Residences is a boutique condominium development inspired by the serenity of nature. It is surrounded by mature mango trees and includes open green spaces, a tranquil garden lounge, a fitness gym, a swimming pool, and meditation areas. The design emphasizes sustainability and relaxation while providing quick access to Ortigas and Quezon City.
4. Kasara Urban Resort Residences (Pasig City)
This six-tower residential development is located in Ugong, Pasig City. Designed as an urban resort, it offers a wide array of leisure facilities such as man-made lagoons, cascading waterfalls, viewing decks, and tropical landscaping. Amenities include swimming pools, a clubhouse, jogging paths, fitness gyms, and picnic areas, making it ideal for residents seeking a vacation-inspired living experience within the city.
5. Covent Garden (Manila City)
Situated in Sta. Mesa Manila, Covent Garden, offers a gated residential community with two high-rise towers. The development provides amenities such as landscaped gardens, a children’s playground, swimming pools, fitness facilities, and function halls. Its location is close to major universities, hospitals, and public transport routes, ensuring convenience for students and working professionals.
6. The Rochester (Pasig City)
Located in the residential area of Pasig City, The Rochester is a 2.97-hectare residential complex in the San Joaquin district, composed of mid- to high-rise towers. The development emphasizes a modern lifestyle with earth-toned aesthetics. It features various amenities, including swimming pools, a basketball court, a clubhouse, landscaped walkways, and a fitness gym, catering to families and young professionals alike.
7. Pioneer Woodlands (Mandaluyong City)
This six-tower condominium complex enjoys a prime spot along EDSA corner Pioneer Street in the residential district of Mandaluyong City, directly connected to the Boni MRT-3 station. Pioneer Woodlands is ideal for commuters and working professionals. It offers convenient access to Makati, Ortigas, and BGC. Amenities include a swimming pool, fitness gym, landscaped gardens, and a retail podium with essential shops and services.
8. Little Baguio Terraces (San Juan City)
Strategically located in San Juan City, near Aurora Boulevard and Gilmore, this transit-oriented development is close to LRT-2 stations, making it ideal for students and professionals. It is also near shopping centers, leisure spots, and hospitals. The community includes amenities such as a swimming pool, gym, playground, and landscaped open spaces that enhance urban living in a compact environment.
9. San Lorenzo Place (Makati City)
Positioned within the Makati Central Business District, San Lorenzo Place offers high-rise residential towers with direct access to the Magallanes MRT station. It provides residents with premium facilities such as a lifestyle mall, a swimming pool, a fitness gym, children’s play areas, and function rooms. Its location provides immediate access to top corporations, schools, and lifestyle establishments in Makati.
10. California Garden Square (Mandaluyong)
Strategically located in Highway Hills, Mandaluyong, this mid-rise residential complex offers accessibility to two of Metro Manila’s business districts. The development includes lifestyle amenities such as swimming pools, landscaped gardens, a clubhouse, and function rooms. It provides a comfortable urban living experience with a suburban feel.
11. Cambridge Village (Cainta near Pasig)
Located along East Bank Road in Cainta, near key business districts like Ortigas and Pasig, Cambridge Village is a community of mid-rise residential buildings. It features shared amenities including a swimming pool, clubhouse, tennis court, fitness gym, mini-theater, and retail establishments. It’s designed to offer affordable urban living with a complete lifestyle environment.
12. Laguna Bel Air (Laguna)
Empire East’s first major project in Sta. Rosa, Laguna Bel Air, blends suburban living with urban conveniences. The community features single-detached homes and residential lots, as well as open parks, schools, commercial areas, and community centers. It’s ideal for families seeking a peaceful, master-planned community outside Metro Manila.
13. The Sonoma Esplanade Village (Laguna)
Located in the progressive city of Sta. Rosa, Laguna, The Sonoma offers residential lots within a master-planned suburban enclave. The development promotes a healthy lifestyle with vast open spaces, jogging paths, a clubhouse, swimming pools, and sports facilities. It appeals to families and individuals looking to settle in a growing and eco-friendly neighborhood.
The Empire East Advantage
The significant concentration of Empire East’s projects within Metro Manila, particularly in high-demand areas such as Mandaluyong, Pasig, San Juan, and Makati, reflects the strong demand for residential properties in the country’s primary urban center. However, this concentration also implies a potential exposure to the risks of market saturation and increased competition within these specific locations. The company’s expansion into suburban areas like Laguna and Rizal suggests a strategic move to tap into the growing demand for more affordable housing options outside the city’s core. These suburban developments often attract families seeking larger living spaces and a less congested environment, potentially diversifying Empire East’s customer base and market reach.
Empire East Land Holdings Inc. has established itself as a significant player in the Philippine real estate market, particularly within the mid-income housing segment. The company benefits from a long operational history, a strategic focus on transit-oriented developments, and a commitment to corporate social responsibility. These strengths position Empire East to capitalize on the projected growth of the Philippine real estate market, driven by urbanization and increasing demand for affordable housing. Its growing emphasis on sustainability also enhances its brand image and appeal to a wider range of stakeholders.
