Vatics Real Estate

Cebu Holdings to invest P6.5B this year

Richard Batiquin — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 07:13:00 GMT

Cebu Holdings Inc. will roll out P6.5 billion investment in four new projects this year in partnership with Ayala Land Inc.

Cebu Holdings Inc. chief finance officer Enrique Manuel Jr. made the announcement yesterday after the Annual Stockholders' Meeting at the City Sports Club.

Manuel said these projects are additional projects set to be launched within the year.

"We'll have the second tower of Solinea, Park Point Residences, an office tower in Cebu Business Park, and third Avida Tower in Cebu IT Park," said Manuel.

Of the P6.5 billion investment, P2.5 billion will from CHI according to CHI president Francis O. Monera.

Park Point Residences will be located near the new expansion of Ayala Center Cebu, which will have 255 units said Manuel.

The third Avida Tower, which is already in addition to their original two-tower plan, will have about 500 units.

Monera said the third tower will be located in the 2.1-hectare expansion of the Cebu IT Park.

"That 2.1 hectares will have the same concept as that of Serendra in Bonifacio Global City," said ALI president Tony Aquino.

Aquino said they expect more demand for residential condominium units in the area since the outsourcing sector continues to grow rapidly.

Another project that will host office spaces within Cebu Business Park is also planned according to Monera.

In the last two years, ALI poured in a total of P27 billion in investments for projects in the Visayas and Mindanao region with P10 billion in Cebu.

"Another P10 billion is set to be invested until next year, including the P6.5 billion in Cebu," said Manuel.

Aquino said Cebu will have the next biggest concentration of their investments fueled by the very positive response of the market to their projects.

Last year, CHI posted P1.35 billion in revenues with net income of P424.33 million, a 4 percent growth compared to the previous year.

Income from rental in commercial provided the chunk of CHI's revenues last year with P838.13 million or about 61 percent.

Real estate sales brought in 19%, theater with 6%, interest and other income at 4% and 10% respectively./Reporter Aileen Garcia Yap

Resource link: http://www.cdn.ph/news_details.php?id=13255

LRA introduces e-Title Program

Richard Batiquin — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:41:00 GMT

Landowners now have a new means of safekeeping their titles.

The Land Registration Authority (LRA) has introduced its e-Title Program in partnership with the Land Registration Systems, Inc.

The e-Title Program allows people to secure ownership of their land by replacing existing titles (manually-issued titles) into e-Titles (Philaris-issued titles) which are printed on security paper from the Central Bank of the Philippines.

Also called the Voluntary Title Standardization Program, this computerization project of LRA is also aimed at simplifying and hastening land registration procedures.

According to Mr. Eulalio Diaz III, administrator of LRA, “databanks contain practically all the titles but all of these need to be standardized. Standardizing means being able to adapt to the system than we’re implementing.”

LRA is doing aggressive campaign to have people sign up for the e-Title Program.

With the registry copy of the land title electronically stored in three databanks, landowners need not worry about losing their titles.
For more information on this program, visit the Registries of Deeds of Cebu City, Cebu Province, Lapu-Lapu City, Danao City and Toledo City.

Reference: CDN Tuesday, 17 April 2012 p. 22

Amara to launch newest phase in September

Richard Batiquin — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 05:48:00 GMT

Amara, Cebu's premier master-planned community nestled by the sea and undulating hills, opens its gates to even more residents in its growing community.

This September, Amara will launch its newest phase---The Parks, which will have 53 lots for its first tranche which are classified into prime, parklane, park estate, and the coveted park premier lots.

The Parks at Amara is conceptualized to have an emerald-necklace design where the entire phase is surrounded by greens.

The Parks is designed to complement Amara North's active components with seamlessly connected landscaped parks, a central park, and a chapel which provides a peaceful sanctuary for the soul.

Designed as a truly distinctive community, Amara North complements the first-class resort amenities of earlier sold-out phases including the grand clubhouse which features infinity pools, a jacuzzi, social hall, function room, a beach bar and view decks with spectacular views of the Mactan channel.

Other amenities in this seaside oasis include an esplanade, the sports and recreation center, the Serenity Park, Picnic Grove, and the newly-opened sports facilities among others.

Wide roads, underground utilities and superior property management, added with environmental sustainability initiatives give residents a sense of security that their investment comes with hassle-free living and worry-free ownership yet unmatched.

Strict standards of the Ayala Land Premier brand govern every detail of the masterplan to give Amara residents an uncompromising experience of life in this premier community. The Ayala Land Premier brand is set exclusively for the most well-appointed addresses---the likes of renowned communities such as Ayala Alabang, Forbes Park and Dasmariñas Village in Luzon.

Amara is a joint development project of Ayala Land affiliate, Cebu Holdings, Inc. (CHI) with Coastal Highpoint Ventures Development Inc. This scenic community sits on a 46-hectare property located in Barangay Catarman, Liloan, Cebu, approximately 18 kilometers from the city.

Visit The Parks at Amara homepage here

Mark your calendar on September 4. We invite you to an exclusive preview of Amara's newest phase offering---The Parks at Amara. To register your name on our list of expected valued guests on this one day affair, please call 0922-875-2837 or 0920-901-2816 and look for Richard Go Batiquin of Ayala Land Premier Broker's Circle.

RLC kicks off new Cebu City project

Richard Batiquin — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 16:55:00 GMT

Robinsons Land Corp. (RLC) recently launched its fourth residential project in Cebu City under its urban lifestyle brand Robinsons Residences named Azalea Place which is strategically located across the University of the Philippines' Cebu Campus.

RLC's decision to enter Cebu's mid-market segment follows the success of its three other projects in Cebu.

It started with Robinsons Homes' Aspen Heights, the first themed community in Cebu; subdivision lots in Blue Coast Residences, Mactan under Robinsons Communities; and AmiSa, the first leisure residential community in Mactan under the Robinsons Luxuria brand.

RLC president Frederick Go noted that RLC's growing number of residential projects in Cebu reflects the growth in the province and the region. "Our company is very bullish about this promising segment," he said.

"Azalea Place is all about convenience for the market it caters to: Start-up families who desire a centrally located home in the metro, close to work, school and recreational areas, investors seeking good returns from a large pool of potential renters; and parents who want to invest in prime property for their children's future," Go added.

Go added Azalea Place is the only residential condominium along bustling Gorordo Avenue, making it an ideal home for a market that wants everything within easy reach.

The firm said the project has a strong potential for rental income for investors such as businessmen and overseas Filipino workers, as there will be no shortage of students, young professionals and urban Cebuano families looking for a comfortable home at a convenient location.

Source: Danessa O. Rivera [tribune.net.ph / 08.17.11]

For unit availability, pricing and flexible terms, send your request to info@ibrokermo.com. Please call +63 (920) 901-2816 [international calls] or 0 (922) 875-2837 [domestic calls] for reservation bookings.

Avida Land to sell out second tower of Avida Towers Cebu

Richard Batiquin — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 02:11:00 GMT

Confident in Cebu's robust market and the surge of developments in Asiatown IT Park, Avida Land Corp., the affordable housing arm of Ayala Land, Inc., is poised to sell out the remaining 46% inventory of the second tower of its highly successful Avida Towers Cebu before the year ends.

Located in Cebu's most vibrant business and lifestyle hub, Avida Towers Cebu will redefine life for future residents with an integrated "Home, Office and Play" lifestyle.

A joint venture project of Avida and Asian i-Office Properties, Avida Towers Cebu was launched last June 2010 with overwhelming success, nearly selling out the first tower in just three months. Unit price ranges from P1.7M to P4.2M. Studio, one and two-bedroom units are offerred, with monthly amortization starting at P13,600.

Avida Towers Cebu is envisioned to be the best in its class and will be managed and maintained by Ayala Property Management Corporation. It also boasts of features that are considered must haves for all condominium developments. All rooms in each unit have windows for access to fresh air and natural illumination. Both towers have fewer units per floor, which provides residents more privacy and lesses crowding in common areas. Amenities are designed with practicality to minimize maintenance cost that is sure to benefit residents in the long run. Emergency power is available in all units, which means minimal disruption to residents' daily routine during power outages. All of these come with easy and flexible payment terms, making Avida Towers Cebu a home that fits a condo-hunter's needs now and over the long term.

Avida Land will hold the groundbreaking ceremony of Tower Two of Avida Towers Cebu on June 17, 2011. Reserve on the same day and avail of a P10,000 discount and get a chance to win an iPad2.

For seat reservations, please call 0923.432.6122 / 0926.634.5589 and look for Sheila Requinto. For more info on Avida Towers Cebu, please send request to info@ibrokermo.com or visit our website at www.ibrokermo.com.

SUMMER ADVENTURE at AmiSa (Free Registration)

Richard Batiquin — Fri, 06 May 2011 13:22:00 GMT

Vatics Global Properties in partnership with Robinsons Land Corporation
cordially invites EVERYONE to join a fun-filled outdoor adventure and leisure experience at AmiSa.

May 14 & 21, 2011
AmiSa Site at Punta Engaño, Mactan Cebu

Tag along your friends and family! FREE REGISTRATION! Pre-REGISTRATION is now ongoing.

SMS: Write message AmiSa Summer <your complete name>space<name of guest>space<date of activity> Send to 0922-875-2837

See you in your OUTDOOR ATTIRE!

Apartment For Sale in Camputhaw

Richard Batiquin — Fri, 06 May 2011 02:36:00 GMT

Studio with Balcony

• 25 sq. m., 1 bath apartment - $43,568 USD - = PhP 1,865,040

Camputhaw , Cebu City - BASE LINE RESIDENCES (PRE-SELLING STUDIO FLATS)

A destination that generations of Cebuanos have shared. A place you can NOW call HOME.

Come home to the Base Line Residences. Enjoy the unrivaled accessibility and private neighborhood-feel of the Base Line Complex, situated at the heart of Midtown Cebu.

At Base Line Residences, everyday brings an exciting new experience. 205 spacious studio and one-bedroom units, impressive features, superior location---urban living will never be the same again.

Enjoy an impressive host of exclusive amenities including:
* Grand Lobby and Concierge
* 2 Levels of Basement Parking
* 360 Degrees Roof Deck/Open Deck
* Retail Area
* Infinity Pool
* Mail Room
* Function Room
* Fitness Gym

Studio sizes: 22-28 sq.m. (237-301 sq.ft.)
Price range: 1.8M - 2.2M

For as low as PhP14,709 per month, you can now own a comfortable life at the heart of Midtown Cebu and enjoy the conveniences nearby like clubs and restobars, shopping mall, entertainment center, hospitals, colleges and universities, pharmacy, salons and spas and many exciting hotspots both daytime and night time. Midtown area is the only part of the city that never sleeps where stores and shops are open 24/7.

SEND US AN EMAIL to know more about the various affordable financing options and the best units available. Hurry! Don't miss this big opportunity to own a place at Base Line Residences. Only 205 spacious units with balconies on pre-sale.

Get BIG discounts!
Enjoy INTEREST FREE monthly installments!
Avail of WORRY FREE in-house financing (ideal for kababayans overseas)!

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Despite turmoil abroad, PH banks remain healthy

Richard Batiquin — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 01:06:00 GMT

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Philippine Central Bank) wants to assure the depositing public that the country's banking system will continue to be a dependable source of funds to support the economy's funding requirements in light of the turmoil occurring overseas.

The banking sector remains sound and stable, and that industry members are expected to deliver on their role of intermediating funds between depositors and borrowers, BSP Governor Amadeo Tetangco Jr. said in a statement released for an economic forum held yesterday.

The country's economic managers echoed the central bank chief's statement, adding that the country would still post a decent growth rate this year despite the unfavorable developments now happening abroad.

"Our economy faces many challenges, both from global and domestic [fronts]. The BSP is confident that...monetary policy has the necessary flexibility to respond to changes in our operating environment and that our banking system remains sound and stable, and able to efficiently intermediate funds under stressed conditions," Tetangco said in the statement.

The central bank governor served as one of the speakers at the economic forum organized by Security Bank. It was held at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel.

Banks in the country are not only expected to remain profitable this year, they are also expected to lend out more to consumers and enterprises because of rising liquidity, Tetangco said.

The central bank earlier reported that the combined incomes of universal and commercial banks hit P83.4 billion last year, growing by 31 percent from the P63.7 billion seen the previous year.

Rising resources of banks would allow the institutions to lend more. Bank lending last year grew by close to 10 percent.

According to Tetangco, credit is expected to expand this year due to the appetite of banks to extend more loans.

In the first quarter of this year, lending by the country's banking sector expanded by a faster pace of 12 percent year-on-year, bringing outstanding loans to P2.34 trillion, the BSP reported earlier.

Unfavorable developments abroad---particularly the escalating tension in the Middle East and North Africa, and the recent disasters in Japan---are expected to have spillover effects on other countries.

The political upheaval now happening in some oil-producing countries have pushed up oil prices since February. The Philippines is greatly affected by these developments because it imports over 90 percent of its fuel requirements.

Moreover, the disaster in Japan is seen to dampen its demand for imported goods, thus weakening export income of the Philippines. Japan is one of the biggest export markets of the Philippines. PDI, April 16,2011, p. B5-B6

2 Story For Sale in Catarman

Richard Batiquin — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 14:21:00 GMT

Seaside Resort Home w/ Private Pool

• 223 sq. m., 3 bath, 3 bdrm 2 story - $577,447 USD - = Php 25,000,000

Catarman, Liloan - A house is not a home without a happy family but certainly you wouldn't be happy if you find your place noisy and crowded or unsecured and unsafe for your family. But certainly there's one place in Cebu that is less than 30 minutes drive to get to SM City Cebu or 45 minutes drive to Ayala Center Cebu during rush hour.

Welcome to AMARA, the newest seaside resort community by Ayala Land. It is one of the premier resort community in Cebu that provides only the best resort amenities to its privileged resident owners. This gated community is very exclusive and highly secured. So strict is the security you can't even get in without any scheduled appointments inside. You must be pre-registered in the guest list if you aren't a resident.

Luckily, there is one house in this neighborhood that is recently listed for sale. It is a 2-storey house with a modern tropical architecture and a well-landscaped front and back yard. It perfectly suits a family of six with its three large bedrooms, two in the upper floor and one in the lower floor. Each bedroom has ensuite bathrooms except the master bathroom has its own jacuzzi, european grade shower enclosure, imported tiles and customized vanities.

Master bedroom has its own private balcony and floor to ceiling glass windows with views of the amenity park, the Centuries-old American built lighthouse and the sea horizon. It also has its own walk-in closet and a study or mini-office nook.

The high quality kitchen is a chef's favorite corner complete with kitchen wine fridge, built-in hidden refrigerator, built-in oven and water dispenser, built-in stove with rangehood and customized overhead and under the counter top cabinets by Witco Italy. It is simply your ready to move-in resort home your family ever wanted. A rare property find now for sale.

Contact us now to find out how you can own this very rare resort home in Amara. Schedule a showing now and see a close-up view of your dream home today!

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Price Reduced on 2408 Avida Towers Cebu - Tower 2 in Lahug

Richard Batiquin — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 03:25:00 GMT

Lahug, Cebu City - Announcing a price reduction on 2408 Avida Towers Cebu - Tower 2, a 22 sq. m., 1 bath apartment. Now $39,824 USD - = Php 1,728,700.

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Ayala pledges to bring in more investments to Cebu

Richard Batiquin — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 09:27:00 GMT

Property developer Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) said it will bring in more investments to Cebu to contribute to its goal of being the next business hub after Manila.

ALI senior vice-president and head for corporate sales and marketing Rex Mendoza told reporters that the strengthened commitment can be seen in the projects being developed in the Cebu Business Park (CBP) and Asiatown IT Park.

He said they are currently developing the two locations after Ayala's development in Makati City and Bonifacio High Street in Taguig.

"This can be done with careful master-planning with the interplay of mixed-use developments," Mendoza said.

Mendoza noted that the company's plan for the CBP with Ayala Center Cebu as its anchor, is to be the next 24/7 and nightlife location with integrated developments like corporate, retail and residential. He said they can also create a Makati-like development here, where there can be an art district and district and an evening and early morning options for the Cebuano populace.

"We have a lot to offer to Cebu," Mendoza said.

Aside from the company's plan of helping Cebu become the preferred business location, he said the company is also aggressive in bringing their residential brands.

ALI recently brought to Cebu its three residential brands, the Avida Towers Cebu in IT Park, Alveo's Sedona Parc and Ayala Land Premier's 1016 Residences, which are both located in CBP.

Relocation

Mendoza reported a faster sales take-up of these brands. He attributed the surge in sales to the growing preferences of locals and those in the overseas market to relocate here.

For ALP in particular, Mendoza said they are very positive about the overseas market, especially those in the United States, Australia, and Europe.

"We have not conducted roadshows abroad yet but we are receiving so many inquiries from the overseas market looking for properties in Cebu. We feel that inquiries will surge further with the roadshows, especially with Filipinos married to foreigners," Mendoza said.

Aside from its residential brands, Mendoza also reported that the company will be aggressive in addressing the needs of the tourism industry, through their hotel business.

He said they are currently looking at adding new facilities for new hotels either in IT Park or CBP. "We are not yet sure of this but we are studying both locations considering the high occupancy rate of Marriott Hotel," Mendoza said.

ALI recently announced the construction of a 150-room hotel in Cagayan de Oro, the third of the planned nationwide boutique hotels across the country.

Mendoza said there is no target yet for a boutique hotel for Cebu, but the company will be looking at possible locations here.

ALI's boutique hotels will be operated by its subsidiary Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts Corp. to cater to both businessmen and tourists in key "underserved" areas in the country.

Mendoza described the boutique hotels as the company's own hotel brand that is distinctly Filipino. KOC

To know more exciting projects in Cebu Business Park, visit our website at www.ibrokermo.com or send an email to info@ibrokermo.com for more details on Ayala condo projects.

3 Story For Sale in Maghaway

Richard Batiquin — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 15:10:00 GMT

Fully Furnished; With City and Sea View

• 80 sq. m., 4 bath, 4 bdrm 3 story - $161,335 USD - = Php 7,000,000

Maghaway, Talisay - This is a perfect dream home for your family. This four bedroom home includes a master bedroom with ensuite bathroom, a walk-in closet and a private balcony, two extra bedrooms with its own private balcony and wardrobe, and a maid's room with ensuite bathroom. All bedrooms are privately located on the second level while the maid's room is located at the basement.

All bathrooms have sink, toilet and shower. The two extra bedrooms share one common bathroom at the second level. The powder rooms are located in the first level and roof deck at the third level.

This home comes fully furnished with fully fitted kitchen appliances like two-door refrigerator, a double burner gas stove, a hot & cold water dispenser. The living area is equipped with a stylish sofa, a coffee table and a side table with a flower vase accent to create an inviting place to entertain guest or family members.

The dining area comes with a 6-seater carefully selected dining table complete with glasses, ceramic plates, fruit tray centerpiece and spoon & forks. Plus, you get a free flat-screen LCD television that swivels to the dining area or living area. A large mirror and a console borders the air-conditioned living and dining area.

Wooden staircase and large windows added more character and style to this perfect home. Above all, you need to see this listing in person to appreciate the panoramic seaview and city view especially when the sun sets and the city lights start to illuminate the streets and homes below the hills.

Gated and guarded community. Truly a quiet secure and safe place for your family. Inspection times are Sunday and Monday only. Contact us now for a showing or send me an email for more information about this wonderful home in Talisay City, Cebu.

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Dreaming of a year-round vacation

Richard Batiquin — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 09:41:00 GMT

Latest aerial photo of AmiSa project (click image to enlarge)

Think about a soft ocean breeze caressing your cheeks and running through your hair. Think about waking up to a breathtaking view of sun, sand, sea and all that is beautiful about nature. Think about banishing the heat of our tropical climate with a dip in that relaxing pool or, similarly inviting, the sea that lies just a casual stroll away.

Now, think about enjoying all these sublime luxuries... no, not just briefly, as in a vacation, but on a daily basis, like all 365 days of the year?

The stuff of fantasy? Of wishful thinking? Not at all, especially not as far as Robinsons Land Corp. is concerned. The property developer has made the stuff of the sweetest dreams into a living, breathing and most exquisite reality with AmiSa, the masterplanned leisure residential community under the company’s premium property brand Robinsons Luxuria. AmiSa is a Sanskrit term for an object of beauty or pleasure, and the development is well on its way to living up to its name. Sitting on six hectares of precious real estate in the Punta Engaño district of Mactan in Cebu, the same pocket in the Queen City of the South that is also home to such as internationally renowned destinations such as Mactan Shangri-La Resort and Spa and Hilton Cebu Resort and Spa, AmiSa is a mere 10-minute drive from the Mactan International Airport and a 30-minute drive from Cebu City proper.

Cebu was chosen by Robinsons Land as the venue for its first-ever leisure residential community on account of the province’s admirable peace and order, its well-developed and well-preserved natural, cultural and historical attractions that draw a huge number of tourists annually, and its status as a prime business hub in the Visayas-Mindanao region. Of course, Cebu is also the province that witnessed the post-war entrepreneurial skills of the young John Gokongwei Jr., the founder and chairman emeritus of JG Summit Holdings Inc., which includes Robinsons Land Corporation.

Visit our website at www.ibrokermo.com to know more about our AmiSa project or send email to info@ibrokermo.com.

Price Reduced on 20F Sedona Parc by Alveo in Cebu Business Park

Richard Batiquin — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 09:19:00 GMT

Cebu Business Park, Cebu City - Announcing a price reduction on 20F Sedona Parc by Alveo, a 50 sq. m., 1 bath, 1 bdrm apartment. Now $128,397 USD - Php 5,580,000*.

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New Payment Term for 1016 Residences by Ayala Land Premier

Richard Batiquin — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 03:21:00 GMT

(click image to enlarge)

New payment term for 1016 Residences by Ayala Land Premier (applicable to all residential units):

20% - DOWNPAYMENT

20% - CATCH UP (after 60 days from reservation date spread equally until May 2014)

60% - LUMP SUM

5% - LOW INTEREST

For a two- and three-bedroom sample computation under the above scheme, please send your request to info@ibrokermo.com or call +63 922-875-2837.

3 Story For Sale in Pardo

Richard Batiquin — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 02:11:00 GMT

Mountaintop Home Near Golf Course

• 300 sq. m., 3 bath, 3 bdrm 3 story - $527,438 USD - 23M PHP (Negotiable)

Pardo, Cebu City - GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB LIVING

Explore a new life at the mountaintop where everything green is in, where the climate is cooler and the neighborhood peaceful and quiet. Spend your leisure time with friends at the nearby golf and country club. Enjoy the exclusive amenities reserved for you and your family. Stop time. Play with space. This is the perfect place.

This 3-storey contemporary home has 3 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms. The large master's bedroom comes with a private balcony, a walk-in closet and a wonderful bathtub for that exciting morning or evening relaxation. Carefully built to perfection, you're family gets to enjoy the spacious open floor spaces at the living and dining area.

While sitting comfortably at your couch at the living area, listening to your favorite music with the mountain view on sight is such a splendid everyday respite. Even dining with a breathtaking view is a delightful experience that will grow with your family. Now is the time to live the life you want and explore a realized dream at Alta Vista Residences. Contact our listing agents and schedule a showing!

Sales Price: P23,000,000 (PHP) Negotiable

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The five worst investments for 2011

Richard Batiquin — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 23:49:00 GMT

Jewelry is rarely sold for its true value.
You pay a premium for the design, the
overhead of the business and normal
profits of the dealer, so it's actually
bought at a loss.

The phrase, "bull market" has been running through Wall Street circles for all of 2011. As the stock market continues to rise with no end in sight, veteran investors sometimes say that you could close your eyes and throw money at just about anything and the money will multiply many times over.

Although it may be true that in bull markets money seems to grow on trees, there are always investments that simply don't work.

1. Time-Shares

What if your favorite hotel chain contacted you and told you that it has a great deal for you, and all you have to do is prepay your hotel charges for the next two years. That's how popular financial advisor Dave Ramsey describes a timeshare on Money Matters. You would be beter off investing that money rather than giving it to somebody else to hold it for you.

The concept is simple: You are a partial owner of a property, in which you purchase a cetain amount of time each year. But when you don't want to use the property anymore, you can't simply stop paying. Instead, you have to sell your share.

Time-shares are often sold at a 40-60% premium to the true value of the property and, much like new cars, they lose a considerable amount of value. If you can find a buyer for your share (which is often quite difficult), you will lose a lot of money in the deal. In short, you buy high and sell low - exactly the opposite of good investing.

2. Savings Accounts

A savings account isn't a bad investment; you aren't going to file for bankruptcy because you invested in one. Bu, if the game of investing is won by making money, you're going to come up short, simply based on inflation alone.

Each year, the price of goods usually go up, and if your money doesn't grow at least at the same rate as inflation, you will be worse off. The average rate of inflation (the amount of value your dollars lost) was 1.6% in 2010. The average of the last 10 years is about 2.5%. Savings account rates in 2010 didn't pa much more than 1% in 2010, leaving you with a loss of .6% on your real savings. Of course, savings rates are likely to rise in the future, but the rate of inflation will rise with it.

3. Stock Advice by Email

"Great news! I just found out that on Friday, XYZ Labs is announcing a major break-through in a drug that treats cancer. You need to buy as many shares as possible, and they're only 50 cents per share."

If you're eve received an e-mail like this, you know about the pump and dump. The information in the e-mail is completely false, and if it were true it would be considered insider trading. You would be fined and possibly sent to jail if you profited from this information.

The pump and dump scheme is simple: Somebody sends this e-mail to a large amount of people. They "pump" up a stock that they own shares in by saying that it is going to see a big gain in the next few days. If enough people buy into the stock because of the email, the share price will surge. The person who sent the e-mail then sells the stock a few days later (the dump) at the elevated price for a profit. You're left with a big loss once it becomes known the news is false.

4. Jewelry

It's true that diamonds and gold have value that appreciates over time, but unless you're an investor by trade, buy jewelry to enjoy rather than to make money. First, jewelry is rarely sold to you for its true value. You pay a premium for the design and normal profits of the dealer, so it's bought at a loss right away.

Next, jewelry often has sentimental value to the owner. People don't sell jewelry unless they need money fast, and when they do, they head to a pawn shop and sell it for a fraction of its value. Finally, stocks have a state value because of the stock market. No such market exists for custom jewelry.

5. Investments You Don't Understand

In the early days of the financial crisis that has severely impacted our economy since 2008, complex investments called credit default swaps were partly blamed for the large losses and the bankruptcy of several large financial institutions. Later, it was found that even many professional investors knew very little about how they worked, or how they're valued. Reading financial articles of the time, it was clear that very few people knew how these derivatives worked.

You will most likely never partake in investments such as these, but you will probably be basked to invest in something that you don't understand for your retirement account or private portfolio. Investors of all levels of experience has lost hlarge amounts of money investing in something that they don't understand. Expect to spend a large amount of time learning before you invest for yourself. If investing were easy, everybody would do it.

The Bottom Line

All investments come with risk, but some are more dangerous than others. You work hard to earn the money you have, and the best thing you can remember is the old adage that professional investors remember every day: It's a lot easier to lose money than it is to make it.

Reference: www.investopedia.com

Sedona Parc: Promo until April 15, 2011

Richard Batiquin — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 11:26:00 GMT

Sedona Parc – by Alveo Land (standard bearer for innovation and mid-range brand of Ayala Land) is especially designed to address the needs of Cebu's Urban Achievers. Sedona Parc will be a stylish residential condominium of 114 units that will offer upscale lifestyle inspired by style, design and nature; set to rise in a tranquil and highly-accessible park side location in Cebu Business Park with studio (30sqm), 1-bedroom(50sqm) & 2-bedroom(85sqm) units–prices range from P2.8M to P16M.

For unit availability update and sample computation of your choice units, send your request to info@ibrokermo.com or call 0922-875-2837 for viewing schedule.

Investments at a Time of Opportunity (March 15, 2011)

Richard Batiquin — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 12:33:00 GMT

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Global Lifestyle Shaping Up in Cebu as Ayala Launches 1016 Residences

Richard Batiquin — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 12:13:00 GMT

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Program Flow of 1016 Residences Grand Launch

Richard Batiquin — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 07:10:00 GMT

GRAND LAUNCH OF AYALA LAND PREMIER'S 1016 RESIDENCES
The Terraces at Ayala Center Cebu (Tent Area)
5 March 2011 at 6 o' clock in the evening

Program Flow

Arrival and Registration

Cocktails
Performance / Entertainment

Host Intro / Welcome
Audio-Video Presentation
Rex Mendoza's Intro and Speech
Grand Launch of 1016 Residences

Fashion Show / Reveal of Nooks

Closing
Entertainment

Attire: Business Chic

Special Promo:

Cash 60

20% DP
80% Bank Loan
7% Discount
Valid only for bank take-out from BPI-FB, BDO, HSBC and China Bank

10 - 10 (17 months) - 80

10% DP
10% over 17 months
80% Lump Sum
INTEREST FREE

20 - 20 (catch up) - 60

20% DP
20% after 60 days from reservation spread equally until May 2014
60% Lump Sum
9% Interest

Avail of the above special promo and get your own luxury residential suites at the very heart of Cebu Business Park.

For a price quotation and sample computation, please send your request to info@ibrokermo.com together with your choice special promo term listed above. Call 0922-875-2837 for pre-registration and seat reservations for guests in attendance to the Grand Launch of 1016 Residences.

Park Suites for Sale at 1016 Residences

Richard Batiquin — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 10:59:00 GMT

PARK SUITES

Distinctive two-level, three-bedroom units located at the ground floor featuring impressively spacious living areas. Its ground floor level opens out to an expansive private garden and patio. There are only two units of this type, Park Suite 1A and Park Suite 1B.

Park Suites (1A & 1B)
Unit area: approx. 187 sqm
Private garden area (excluding Patio): approx. 60 sqm
Patio: approx. 37 sqm

Unit Features

Walk-in Closet for Master Bedroom
Powder Room
Maid's Room with T&B
Enclosed Utility Area
Private Garden

Be proud to own this highly exclusive Park Suites at the heart of Cebu Business Park and own your trace walking down to the amenities of City Sports Club of Cebu. Imagine a new world of discovery only at 1016 Residences powered by Ayala Land Premier's white glove hassle- and worry-free ownership. Raising the bar of opulent city living only Ayala Land Premier can deliver.

Prices and unit availability subject to change without prior notice. For a sample computation, kindly send your request to info@ibrokermo.com or visit our 1016 Residences homepage. Contact 0922-875-2837 for a private viewing of our showroom.

Tropical vacation lifestyle in Cebu

Richard Batiquin — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 09:59:00 GMT

MANILA, Philippines – Robinsons Land Corporation brings the tropical vacation lifestyle with Amisa, the masterplanned leisure residential community under the company’s premium property brand Robinsons Luxuria.

Amisa is a Sanskrit term for an object of beauty or pleasure, and the development is on its way to living up to its name. Located in a six-hectare property in the Punta Engaño district of Mactan in Cebu, the same pocket in the Queen City of the South that is also home to Mactan Shangri-La Resort and Spa and Hilton Cebu Resort and Spa, the community is a 10-minute drive from the Mactan International Airport and a 30-minute drive from Cebu City proper.

Cebu was chosen by RLC as the venue for its first-ever leisure residential community on account of the province’s admirable peace and order, its well-developed and well-preserved natural, cultural and historical attractions that draw a huge number of tourists, and its status as a prime business hub in the Visayas-Mindanao region.

Cebu is also the province that witnessed the post-war entrepreneurial skills of the young John Gokongwei, Jr., the founder and chairman emeritus of JG Summit Holdings Inc., which includes Robinsons Land Corporation.

The leisure residential community will be home to a hotel, an entertainment center, and Amisa Private Residences, which is comprised of six residential condominium towers. Its Tower A is now ready for occupancy, allowing individuals and families to begin enjoying the luxuries provided by nature from their balconies or at ground level.

The private residences’ clubhouse, swimming pools, and gym have been completed together with the Tower A turnover.

As the entire development’s construction goes along, other amenities shall include: al fresco dining at picnic area, biking and jogging path, game room, mini-theater, multi-purpose court, playground, videoke room, viewing deck, cabana, pavilion, and area for water sports.

Unit owners may also look forward to the amenities and activities at the future hotel development: beach volleyball, Frisbee, infinity pool, restaurant outlets, and spa.

Finishing works for Tower B are currently ongoing, while Tower C is already in the pre-selling stage. The unit cuts offered at Amisa Private Residences range from 39 sqm to 83 sqm, from studios to one-bedroom retreats and two-bedroom family havens, with prices starting at P3.2 million.

With three towers already launched for selling, this means more options for one’s unit’s view, delivery schedule, and payment terms as one selects the perfect investment for his vacation lifestyle.

With the leisure resort property resembling the aesthetic of Australia’s famed Gold Coast, and with the rich leisure experiences to be savored from the entire development, a much desired year-round vacation for the unit owners becomes a reality. Manila Bulletin

For pricing, unit availability and payment terms, send request to info@ibrokermo.com or visit our website at www.ibrokermo.com for our special AmiSa video presentation, construction updates and other project details.

Cebu Business Park: Cebu's premier district

Richard Batiquin — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 06:47:00 GMT

The place to be: Cebu Business Park at the heart of Cebu is the south's premier business, commercial and leisure district. It is a 50-hectare mixed-use development by Cebu Holdings Inc. and Ayala Land and declared a special economic zone. CBP has dedicated 30 percent of its land area to open spaces, allowing for pocket parks and breathing space between the buildings.

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Part 2 of 2

Living La Vida Buena in AmiSa

Richard Batiquin — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 08:23:00 GMT

MANILA, Philippines - Living a life of indulgence does not come easy when you’re used to living in the city.

In the urban jungle, you wake up to the music of honking cars and rise to the smell of gasoline. You deal with traffic and stress, as well as a string of bills to pay. So you grit your teeth, take a deep breath and join the constant struggle to get ahead in the rat race, in the hope of someday reaping your reward: living a life of ease.

But if what if there’s a way to cash in that reward a little early, would you go ahead and take it?

Robinsons Land Corporation presents this tantalizing challenge in AmiSa, a masterplanned community and leisure estate in Mactan Island, Cebu.

Pursuit of happiness

AmiSa is Sanskrit for object of enjoyment, a pleasing or beautiful object. True to its name, AmiSa fashions itself as a Nirvana for those seeking respite from the rigours of urban living, where everyday is a holiday and the pursuit of happiness is a valid exercise.

Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves rolling up to the shore, as fresh air from the sea wafts through the open window. Picture yourself and your loved ones taking long lazy walks along the beach, or refreshing dips in the ocean. Envision an afternoon with nothing but rest and relaxation on your agenda.

Perhaps then you might be able to wrap your mind around the idea of living la vida buena.

With AmiSa, Robinsons Land Corporation offers the prospect of luxury resort living in a destination famous for its gentle climate, azure waters and white sand beaches.

A destination on its own

According to Frederick Go, RLC president and chief operating officer, AmiSa is the perfect beach getaway from the chaos and confusion of the city.

Sprawled across six hectares of prime real estate in the Punta Engaño district of Mactan, Amisa boasts of a 200-meter beachfront. The property is a mere 10-minute drive from the Mactan Airport, and a 30-minute drive from Cebu City’s commercial and business district.

Reference: The Philippine Star, January 29, 2010

For more information, visit our website at www.ibrokermo.com or call 0922.875.2837 or 0908.246.4532 for a guided tour.