My biggest question is how to find properties for sale in the Philippines?
I found maybe 2-3 different websites but I found they tend to limit to specific islands and list mainly large subdivision houses.
I’m looking for land/houses on small subdivisions or on private property where there are no or limited restrictions.
I’m specifically looking in the Visayas regions.
Are there govt websites that show property records?
My guess is most of the records are paper and are managed at the barangay level, which makes it nearly impossible to research.
I would be lying to you if I said that land and real estate purchases are easy in the Philippines. Honestly, it takes a lot of due diligence and even locals get scammed.
Let's start with Step 1. Are you familiar with the laws around foreigners owning real estate in the Philippines?
Yes, basically can’t happen. My wife is Filipino so property would be in her name.
Good. I wanted to make sure you knew. To answer your question about title searches. I'm not sure what kind of search you are looking for, but you can search the LRA (Land Registry Authority) website to get the official title of a specific property. You need to know the title number, type, and where the title is registered.
But if I understood your original question, it sounds like you are looking for a nationwide filterable database of unencumbered properties. Regrettably, such a database is not available.
@marco-expat Ya looking for a Philippine Zillow 😀 😀 😀 😀
SO what's the answer other than driving around looking for "for sale" signs?
If you can narrow down where you want to live, do you check with local govt offices, barangay's?
My other guess is its more word of mouth and who you know.
If you can narrow down where you want to live, do you check with local govt offices, barangay's?
Yes
My other guess is its more word of mouth and who you know.
Also, yes.
If you are looking in Metro Manila or Cebu (places with high working expat concentrations), professional relocation companies are a good bet. These are generally legitimate businesses accustomed to helping foreign diplomats and expats from multinational companies relocate to the Philippines. I have contacts if you are interested.