Caloocan City Real Estate: Houses and Condos in North Metro Manila

Caloocan is split into a southern part, closest to Manila, and a much larger northern part with newer subdivisions. The LRT-1 extension has improved rail access to the north of the metro, though traffic is heavy. Main roads connect to Manila, Valenzuela and Quezon City, all within the same urban region. Quezon City and Mandaluyong are pricier and more business-oriented; San Juan is small and central.

Tanza is a Cavite town on the south side of Manila Bay and is a long way from Caloocan, so treat it as a separate market, not a neighbour.

Foreign nationals cannot own land in the Philippines. They can buy condominium units, subject to a 40% foreign ownership cap in the building, or lease land for periods generally of 25 years renewable for another 25. Houses sold with land are not directly open to foreigners unless via lease or a Filipino spouse. Typical costs include documentary stamp tax (about 1.5%), transfer tax (0.5% to 0.75%), and registration fees; sellers usually pay the 6% capital gains tax (approx.; verify locally).

Check the title with the Registry of Deeds and the local assessor. Local banks rarely lend to non-resident foreigners; see our Philippines financing page and Philippines buying guide. Country overview: Philippines.