If you are new to the Philippines, it pays to do some homework before you begin your search for property. Check the daily newspapers, buyandsellph.com and ask friends and associates about the expectations and cost of accommodation. Have a feel for what you want and the price you feel is reasonable before you start to negotiate.

In terms of residential requirements, many people start off in Makati because of the convenience but later move out to other suburban areas especially around Sucat and Alabang. Prices paid here are much less than in the Makati area - a real consideration if you are paying your own expenses, less so if a multinational is footing the bill.

When you find what you want. it is negotiating time. You will need to negotiate the price, the term, outgoings, parking space (included or additional charge), outgoings and maintenance.

Do not take the little things for granted, cable TV, recreation facilities, laundry, garbage collection etc. Be prepared to walk away from what is perceived to be a bad deal. You will get good value for money if you shop around and if you try. Make sure the lessor warrants outgoings with respect to the previous tenant, electricity, telephone, water etc. The phone company here will cut you off if you do not pay arrears, then the struggle starts. This can be a nuisance best avoided.

Most lessors ask for a deposit (key money) and this is usually equivalent to two months holding deposit and is refundable upon expiration of the lease.

You will also be asked to pay your lease rental in advance, "say" three months (try for better) you may agree to that but on the basis that the first two months are prepaid hence you second payment is two months out. You will have to struggle.

If you are uncomfortable at reviewing leases than call your lawyer (see directory), check very carefully for additions and omissions use the calculator and when your lease is amended start again from the beginning.

Do not forget the inventory: check it very, very carefully or you will live to regret it when you are struggling to get your deposit back or find you can not get your goods released. Where there is obvious wear and tear it is recommended that you take photographs and have them included with the inventory attached to the lease document. This is one case where a digital camera really comes into its own.

Serviced Offices

Amidst the difficulty affecting developers seeking to sell or rent prime properties, a number of companies have resorted to new marketing techniques in order to find occupants. One such concept of increasing popularity in Manila is the "serviced office," which allows occupants to lease fitted and furnished office space for short periods of time and as needed. Serviced offices are now being widely promoted and in many instances - for newly established businesses especially - offer a more cost-effective alternative to setting up an independent operation.

Serviced offices are generally fully furnished, staffed and equipped for commercial occupation. The rental cost includes not only occupancy of the space but also includes utilities, as well as cleaning and maintenance charges. Rental arrangements are usually very flexible and the space provided can be occupied for periods shorter than a conventional lease and in some cases can be leased on an hourly basis.

Among the target clients of serviced offices are multinationals, startups, corporations that are in the process of restructuring and even those that are expanding and require temporary or transitional accommodation According to one property consulting firm serviced offices rents work out at about 40 percent less than the total comparative rental cost of conventional (prime) office space.

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