Philippine Real Estate Law
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned developer, or a foreign investor exploring the Philippine market, real estate transactions here involve layers most buyers don’t expect – title verification, foreign-ownership rules, zoning, and multiple government offices that all need to sign off before a deal closes. We guide clients through each step, from due diligence to closing.
WHAT WE HANDLE
Property Acquisition & Due Diligence — title verification, tax and lien checks, and representation in purchasing condominiums, resorts, island properties, and development sites.
Title Transfer & Registration — handling deeds of sale, transfer taxes, documentary requirements, and registration with the Registry of Deeds.
Foreign Ownership Structuring — structuring condominium purchases, long-term land leases, and corporate vehicles for foreign nationals and companies investing in Philippine real estate.
Development Projects — advising developers on land acquisition, permitting, and joint-venture structuring for residential, resort, and mixed-use projects.
Lease Agreements — drafting and reviewing commercial and residential leases for landlords and tenants, including long-term investor leases.
Real Estate Disputes — representation in boundary disputes, breach-of-contract claims, homeowners’ association and condominium corporation matters, and litigation when a deal goes wrong.
WHY GUZMAN ACAIN
Val Guzman, a founding partner and licensed real estate broker, has advised on complex development projects for over three decades. Alex Acain brings deep experience advising foreign investors and international clients on Philippine transactions, including the firm’s work on the Huma Island Resort & Spa investment in Palawan. Every real estate matter is handled directly by a founding partner — not delegated to associates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Generally, foreign nationals cannot own land directly, but they can own condominium units (subject to foreign-ownership limits within a project) and can secure long-term leases on land. This often structured for decades with renewal options. Corporate ownership structures are also available for qualifying investments. We help clients choose the right structure for their situation before they commit to a purchase.
We verify the title at the Registry of Deeds, confirm there are no outstanding liens, unpaid taxes, or competing claims, and check zoning and permit status before you sign anything.
