NEWS & INsights

🏙️ Choosing Your Next Apartment: What Really Matters

Looking for your next apartment? Whether you're moving out for the first time, relocating for work, or simply ready for a change, choosing the right apartment is more than picking a place that looks nice. It’s about finding a space that fits your lifestyle, your budget, and your peace of mind.

Here are a few things to keep in mind before signing that lease:

1. 📍 Location, Location, Lifestyle

Don’t just ask “Where is it?” Ask what’s around it.

• How far is it from work, school, or your regular commute?

• Is it near grocery stores, banks, or clinics?

• Is the neighborhood safe and quiet, or more active and social?

➡️ Tip: Visit during the day and at night to feel the vibe.

2. 💰 Set a Realistic Budget — and Include the Hidden Costs

Your rent is only part of the cost. Don’t forget to factor in:

• Utilities (water, electricity, internet)

• Security deposits

• Association or maintenance fees

• Transportation or parking costs

➡️ Be honest about what you can afford. The goal is comfort, not pressure.

3. 🔑 Check the Security and Accessibility

Does the apartment have:

• A gated entrance?

• Working locks, grilles, or CCTV?

• Easy access to tricycles, buses, or parking?

➡️ You want to feel safe — and get home easily.

4. 🧰 Inspect the Condition Before Committing

Looks can be deceiving. Always check:

• Plumbing (do the faucets, showers, and toilet flush work?)

• Electrical outlets and light switches

• Water pressure and drainage

• Any signs of leaks, pests, or mold

➡️ A quick inspection now can save you months of stress later.

5. 🛏️ Size, Layout, and Comfort

Do you need a solo space, or room for family or roommates?
Make sure the space:

• Fits your furniture or comes furnished

• Has enough natural light and ventilation

• Feels like a place you can really settle into

➡️ It’s not about how big it is — it’s about how it makes you feel.

Choosing your next apartment is a big step — but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Take your time, ask the right questions, and imagine your daily life there.

At Happy Homes, we help you find apartments that feel right — not just on paper, but in real life.

🏡 Let’s find the space that fits your next 

Browse Available Apartments or Message Us for a Viewing!

Buying a new home is an exciting milestone — but it’s also one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your life. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking for your next property investment, it's important to go into the process with clarity, caution, and confidence.

Here are five key things to keep in mind before making that big move:

1. Know Your Budget — and Stick to It

Before falling in love with a property, set a clear budget. Consider not just the sale price, but also the hidden costs: taxes, insurance, maintenance, loan terms, and move-in expenses. A home should fit your lifestyle — not strain your finances.

💡 Tip: Get pre-approved for a home loan so you know exactly how much you can afford before you start viewing properties.

2. Location Isn’t Just a Word — It’s a Lifestyle

The right home in the wrong location can quickly become the wrong home. Look beyond the walls — consider proximity to work, schools, hospitals, markets, and transportation. Do you prefer peace and quiet, or want to be near the action?

🌅 Think long term: A beautiful mountain view or peaceful barangay might matter more than square footage.

3. Inspect Before You Invest

That fresh paint might hide cracks. Always schedule a thorough property inspection — especially for resale homes. Check the roof, plumbing, electrical system, and structural integrity. It’s better to spot problems before you commit.

🔎 If buying a newly built home, ask for developer warranties and completion timelines.

4. Understand the Paperwork

From titles and tax declarations to contracts and deeds — buying a home comes with documents that matter. Make sure the title is clean, the property is not mortgaged, and all permits are valid.

📁 Don’t hesitate to consult a real estate professional or lawyer — it’s worth the peace of mind.

5. Don’t Forget the Feeling

Yes, buying a home is a financial decision — but it’s also deeply personal. Can you see yourself living there? Is it a space that makes you feel safe, calm, and proud?

🏠 Sometimes the perfect home isn’t the biggest or flashiest — it’s the one that feels right.

Buying a home doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With the right mindset and the right guide by your side, you can find a space that fits your life beautifully.

At Happy Homes Bohol, we’re here to help you every step of the way — from viewing to keys in hand.

📩 Looking for listings in Bohol?
Browse our available properties or Get in touch today!

🎓10 Tips for Students to Pay Rent Without Breaking the Bank

Living away from home is exciting, but rent can be one of the biggest financial challenges for students. Whether you’re renting near your university or looking for your own space in a quieter area, managing payments smartly can make a huge difference.

Here are 10 tips to help you stay on top of your rent — and still have money for food, Wi-Fi, and fun.

1. 💰 Create a Budget — and Actually Stick to It

Know how much you get monthly (from allowance, part-time jobs, etc.) and plan your expenses around it. Rent should ideally be no more than 30–40% of your budget.

2. 👯 Split Rent with a Roommate

Sharing a space = splitting the cost. Find a responsible roommate you trust, and divide rent, water, electricity, and even grocery costs.

3. 📆 Pay on Time to Avoid Penalties

Late fees can pile up fast. Set a calendar reminder, or schedule automatic bank transfers to avoid unnecessary charges and maintain good standing with your landlord.

4. 🏠 Choose the Right Location

Sometimes, cheaper rent in a quieter barangay saves more than living near campus with high rates. Just balance travel costs (commute, fuel, time) when deciding.

5. 📦 Look for Fully Furnished Rentals

Avoid big upfront purchases like beds, appliances, or furniture by choosing a fully furnished home — it’s easier and often cheaper in the long run.

6. 👨‍💻 Consider Freelancing or Remote Work

Can you write, tutor, design, or manage social media? Many students earn extra cash online from flexible side gigs.

7. 🧾 Track Every Peso

Apps like GCash, Notion, or even a basic notebook can help you track what you're spending. Small things add up — especially snacks, takeout, or unplanned rides.

8. 🧺 Cut Down on Utility Bills

Use fans instead of aircon when possible, unplug appliances when not in use, and wash clothes in bulk. Lower bills = more room for rent.

9. 📚 Ask About Student Discounts or Flexible Terms

Some landlords offer discounts for early payment or longer stays. Ask — you might be surprised how many are willing to adjust terms for responsible students.

10. 🚀 Plan Ahead — Don’t Wait ‘Til You’re Broke

Running short? Don’t wait until it’s an emergency. Talk to your landlord early, explore financial aid options, or adjust your budget before the due date hits.

Adulting starts with rent — and the sooner you manage it well, the easier everything else becomes. At Happy Homes Bohol, we offer student-friendly rentals that are affordable, safe, and feel like home.

📩 Looking for your next student 

Browse Rooms & Rentals or Send Us a Message!

🏖 Find Your Next Vacation House

Dreaming of a peaceful weekend by the sea? A hideaway in the hills? A cozy space that feels like home — but better? Finding the perfect vacation house isn’t just about location — it’s about unlocking the kind of rest, escape, and joy that everyday life rarely allows.

Whether you’re planning occasional getaways or eyeing a long-term retreat, here’s how to find your next vacation home — the one that actually feels like a vacation.

1. 🌴 Know What You Need to Unwind

Do you want a beach view, or do you crave cool mountain mornings? Some people want absolute quiet; others want to be near markets, cafés, or dive spots. Define the kind of rest you're after — then match the home to that rhythm.

🛏️ Will you host family? Do you need multiple bedrooms or just a small studio? Let your lifestyle shape your search.

2. 🧳 Plan for Use — Not Just Looks

It’s easy to fall in love with a stunning view — but how often will you actually use the home? Is it for long holidays, weekend escapes, or passive income as a rental? Choose a space that fits how you’ll use it, not just how pretty it looks.

💡 Pro tip: Look for homes that offer flexibility — space to relax when you're there, but low maintenance when you're not.

3. 🗺️ Explore Hidden Gems (Like Bohol!)

Popular vacation destinations get crowded — and expensive. But lesser-known spots like Bohol offer the same natural beauty, friendlier prices, and a slower, more soulful pace.

🌊 Think mountain-sea views in Alburquerque, quiet coastal roads in Panglao, or lush greenery in Baclayon.

4. 📈 Consider It an Investment, Too

A vacation house can be more than just a place to relax — it can become a rental income source or increase in value over time. Choose a location with growing infrastructure, steady tourism, and strong demand for short- or long-term stays.

🏡 Many buyers now look for homes they can list on Airbnb when they’re not using them.

5. ❤️ It Should Feel Like Yours

More than just a getaway — your vacation home should feel like a part of you. From the view you wake up to, to the corner where you sip your coffee, look for a space that gives you room to breathe and be yourself.

Final Word

The perfect vacation house isn’t just a luxury — it’s a lifestyle choice. It’s where stress pauses, and life opens up.

At Happy Homes, we’ll help you find a retreat that fits your rhythm — whether it's for peace, play, or passive income.

🌴 Let your next vacation home find you.

📩 Browse Available Homes or Get in Touch!