Cavite has become one of the hottest real estate markets south of Manila. With CALAX improving accessibility and major developers launching new projects, now is a good time to understand what's available and how to buy smart.
1. Why Buy in Cavite?
Cavite offers several advantages for property buyers:
- Proximity to Manila: 1-2 hours via CALAX, CAVITEX, or SLEX depending on location
- Climate variety: Highland areas like Tagaytay and Silang offer cooler temperatures (22-28C)
- Price range: More affordable than Laguna's prime areas, with entry points from PHP 8,000/sqm
- Growing infrastructure: CALAX, LRT-1 extension, and new commercial developments
- Developer presence: Ayala Land, DMCI, Vista Land, and others have major projects
Market Reality: Cavite appreciation varies significantly by area. Silang and Tagaytay have seen 8-15% annual appreciation, while some Imus and Bacoor areas have stagnated due to oversupply.
2. Popular Areas
Silang
The sweet spot between accessibility and highland living. 500-600m elevation, cooler climate, and improving infrastructure via CALAX Silang East exit.
- Best for: Primary residence, retirement, weekend home
- Price range: PHP 12,000 - 35,000/sqm
- Top subdivisions: Ayala Westgrove Heights, South Forbes Golf City, Verdana Homes
Tagaytay
Premium location with Taal Lake views and established tourism. Highest prices in Cavite but also strongest resale market.
- Best for: Vacation home, retirement, investment
- Price range: PHP 20,000 - 60,000/sqm
- Top subdivisions: Tagaytay Highlands, Tagaytay Midlands, Twin Lakes
Imus
Urban Cavite with commercial development and upcoming LRT-1 extension. More affordable but with traffic challenges.
- Best for: Primary residence, young families
- Price range: PHP 8,000 - 18,000/sqm
- Top subdivisions: Vermosa, Lancaster New City
3. Current Pricing (December 2024)
| Area | Price/sqm | Typical Lot Size |
|---|---|---|
| Tagaytay Highlands | PHP 35,000 - 60,000 | 300 - 600 sqm |
| Silang (Premium) | PHP 20,000 - 35,000 | 150 - 400 sqm |
| Silang (Mid-range) | PHP 12,000 - 20,000 | 120 - 250 sqm |
| Imus/Bacoor | PHP 8,000 - 15,000 | 100 - 200 sqm |
4. Top Developers in Cavite
- Ayala Land: Premium quality, strong appreciation. Westgrove Heights, Verdana Homes.
- Alveo Land: Ayala's mid-to-premium brand. Montala, Serin.
- DMCI Homes: Value-oriented with club amenities. Sorrento Oasis, Accolade Place.
- Vista Land: Affordable housing leader. Camella, Lessandra, Lumina.
- Cathay Land: Local developer with good value. South Forbes, Chateaux de Paris.
5. Due Diligence Essentials
Before committing to any Cavite property, verify:
- Title verification: Check the TCT at the Registry of Deeds in Trece Martires or Imus
- Tax records: Confirm no delinquent taxes at the municipal treasurer's office
- HOA status: Check if the HOA is SEC-registered and well-managed
- Developer track record: Research completion history and buyer feedback
- Access roads: Verify road right-of-way and condition
- Flood history: Ask neighbors and check barangay records
Pro tip: Use our Due Diligence Checklist to track all verification steps.
6. Additional Costs
Beyond the lot price, budget for:
- Transfer costs: ~6-8% of property value (taxes, registration, notarial fees)
- HOA dues: PHP 1,500 - 8,000/month depending on subdivision
- Miscellaneous fees: Move-in fee, club membership, utility deposits
Use our Total Cost Calculator to get an accurate estimate.
7. Buying Process
- Reservation: Sign reservation agreement and pay reservation fee (PHP 20,000 - 50,000)
- Contract to Sell: Sign CTS within 30 days, start monthly payments or arrange financing
- Turnover: For pre-selling, wait for development completion. For RFO, receive lot within weeks.
- Title Transfer: After full payment, process transfer to your name (3-6 months)
8. Insider Tips
- Visit on weekdays AND weekends — traffic patterns differ dramatically
- Talk to existing residents — they'll tell you what the developer won't
- Check rainy season access — some roads become impassable
- Negotiate for corner lots — same price, more space
- Consider resale over pre-selling — you can see exactly what you're buying