Cebu City

In photo: Cebu investments across the Visayas landscape.

The Cebu Advantage 

Cebu was one of the first regions to be colonized by the Spaniards in 1565. The Spanish explorers recognized the potential of Cebu for its strategic location—allowing trade (either local or global) to get around efficiently; permitting Spanish conquistadores to travel to Manila easily; and establishing a foothold for their colonial ambitions in the Philippines.  

This endowed Cebu with a diverse cultural tapestry and laid the foundation for its modern-day economic significance. Today, Cebu is brimming with history and opportunities, poised to shape its promising future.  

A few of the Cebu advantage that entice travelers and even investors to stay in Cebu for the short and long term are: 

  • Competitive Rental Rates 
  • Bustling Business Districts 
  • Ease of Traveling 

Competitive Rental Rates 

Though affordability can be interpreted subjectively, the cost of living in Cebu markedly contrasts with that of Metro Manila. In Cebu, the median price for Studio apartments (with own toilet and bathroom) stands at around PHP 14,000, significantly lower compared to ≤ PHP 20,000 rate for similar types of units near key business districts of Metro Manila. 

These figures vary based on location and unit size, yet negotiating with landlords remains a viable option to potentially lower costs. 

Bustling Business Districts 

While Metro Manila traditionally dominates as the epicenter of commerce in the Philippines, Cebu has quietly emerged as a vibrant hub for rapidly expanding industries. Over the years, Metro Cebu has solidified its position as a prime location for IT-BPO enterprises, attracting both local and international companies seeking to establish their presence in the country. 

Among top business hubs in Cebu are:  

  • Cebu Park District 
  • Filinvest Cyberzone Cebu 
  • Mactan Newtown 
  • South Road Properties 

Setting Up Offices in Cebu 

Cebu’s districts are a great consideration for an office location for companies looking to expand or even offshore. As a matter of fact, Santos Knight Frank’s latest real estate report highlights Cebu’s dynamic business landscape, showcasing abundant business space and a wealth of opportunities in the region.  

Boasting a competitive rate of PHP 627/sqm/mo for office spaces and a substantial 1.2 million sqm office stock, Cebu beckons new businesses to navigate the Philippine business terrain with access to fresh talent and a thriving tourism industry. 

Santos Knight Frank’s Cebu arm can help find the ideal office space for rent for any business. With an extensive track record in various real estate services from brokerage, advisory, property management, and the like, your Cebu investments are in good hands. 

Ease of Traveling 

CCLEX as a gateway to Cebu investments

Navigating through Cebu and beyond is made effortlessly convenient with key transportation features like the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) and the Mactan-Cebu International Airport.  

The CCLEX, set to become a vital artery connecting Cebu City to the municipality of Cordova, promises swift and efficient travel, reducing commute times and easing traffic congestion.  

Meanwhile, the Mactan-Cebu International Airport serves as a bustling gateway to domestic and international destinations, facilitating seamless air travel for business and leisure purposes. 

Underrated Cebu Investments to Seize in 2024 

Apart from this 15-bedroom estate in Danao, we’re also shining a spotlight on the lesser-known but promising real estate ventures that the Queen City of the South has to offer. 

  • Commercial Lot in Colon, Cebu 
  • Warehouse/Industrial Property in San Roque, Cebu 
  • Residential Compound in Brgy. Sambag, Cebu 

For Sale | Commercial Lot in Colon, Cebu 

This 3,696 sqm property has three lots, the largest of which is Lot 677 along Colon Street. The two other lots are separated from Lot 677 by Estero Tinago and are accessible via Vicente Gullas Street. The bounding streets have widths spanning from 12 to 18 meters.  

Additionally, it is in between Gaisano Mall and 138 Mall, and across from the University of the Visayas—promising a lot of foot traffic for business ventures set in place for the property.  

For Sale | Warehouse/Industrial Property in San Roque, Cebu 

This property is located along the southeast corners of Lapu-Lapu, Legaspi, and Urdaneta Streets in Brgy. San Roque. It also has access along M.J. Cuenco Avenue. The land comprises 6 adjoining lots with an aggregate area of 4,346 sqm and is improved by a warehouse structure.  

Since it is located in the historical part of the city, it is protected under the Heritage Protection Ordinance. 

For Sale | Residential Compound in Brgy. Sambag, Cebu 

A residential compound in Brgy. Sambag, Cebu City.

This 6,789 sqm residential compound offers a potential income-generating residential complex or townhouse development. Now, it has several residential buildings, including three residences and a garage or stock room.  

This compound is located at the southwest end of the Uytengsu Extension, partly extending to R. Landon, within Brgy. Sambag in Cebu City. It is near The Seven Archangels Pension House, the Villalon Building, Cebu City Sports Complex, and Cebu Normal University.  

Spot Cebu Investments with Santos Knight Frank 

Rely on our expertise for real estate insights and investment guidance in navigating market dynamics effectively. Partner with Santos Knight Frank for prime Cebu investments—seize emerging trends and uncover hidden opportunities.

Contact us to learn more about our services today! You can also follow our Instagram @santosknightfrank to see more property listings to invest in.  

Find media contacts, and get access to news releases and announcements.

About Santos Knight Frank

The world of real estate can be a difficult place to navigate. Whether property is your investment or a tool that drives your business success, you need a partner who can guide you in every step of the way.

Since 1994, Santos Knight Frank has been guiding Fortune 1000 companies, BPOs, private clients, and institutions in all facets of real estate. We advise companies on their best office, retail, and industrial location, oversee commercial fit-out projects, and manage facilities. We have facilitated over 4 million sqm of office transactions on behalf of clients and managed over 40 million sqm of real estate under our property & facilities management arm.

Our residential brokerage platform and wide collection of bespoke homes allow our private clients to buy, lease, and sell properties within their budget, timeline, and lifestyle.

For landlords and investors, we provide valuations and appraisal, consultancy and research, sales and leasing, and property management services across the Philippines.

Santos Knight Frank is part of the global Knight Frank network of over 384 offices in 51 markets, including the strategically important U.S. partnerships with Cresa (commercial real estate) and Douglas Elliman (residential real estate).

We are locally expert and globally connected, end-to-end and best-in-class – as any great partner in property should be.