Buyer Guide
How Foreigners Buy Property in the Philippines (Aurelia Residences Guide)
Foreign nationals and overseas Filipinos can legally own condominium units at Aurelia Residences in Bonifacio Global City. This guide explains the Philippine condominium ownership rules, the 40% foreign-ownership limit, and the practical buying process for an ultra-luxury residence.
The 40% foreign-ownership rule
Under the Philippine Condominium Act (Republic Act No. 4726), foreigners may own condominium units provided that foreign ownership across the entire condominium project does not exceed 40% of the total units. Unlike land — which foreigners generally cannot own — a condominium unit is fully ownable by a foreign buyer because what is owned is the unit plus a share in the condominium corporation, not the land itself.
For a limited-collection building like Aurelia Residences (285 bespoke residences), the 40% foreign cap is a finite pool. Buyers should confirm the current foreign-ownership headroom for the specific unit with the developer or the licensed broker before reserving.
The buying process, step by step
A typical acquisition runs: (1) reservation and payment of a reservation fee to secure the unit; (2) submission of buyer documents (passport/ID, TIN, proof of funds); (3) signing of the reservation agreement and, subsequently, the Contract to Sell; (4) payment per the agreed terms; and (5) turnover, title transfer and registration of the Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT) in the buyer’s name.
Overseas buyers can complete most steps remotely with a Special Power of Attorney (SPA) appointing a representative in the Philippines. A PRC-licensed broker coordinates due diligence, documentary requirements and the developer process throughout.
Why Aurelia suits the overseas UHNW buyer
Aurelia Residences is developed by Shang Robinsons Properties (a joint venture of Shang Properties and Robinsons Land), designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill with interiors by FM Architettura d’Interni of Italy. It was named Best High Rise Condo Development (Asia) at the 2023 PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards. For an overseas buyer, the combination of a blue-chip developer, an internationally recognised design team, and a finite collection in BGC offers both a trophy residence and a defensible store of value.
Frequently asked
Can a foreigner buy a condo at Aurelia Residences?
Yes. Foreign nationals may own condominium units in the Philippines as long as total foreign ownership in the building remains within the 40% legal limit set by the Condominium Act (RA 4726).
Can a foreigner own the land under Aurelia Residences?
No — foreigners generally cannot own land in the Philippines, but a condominium unit is fully ownable because ownership is of the unit and a share in the condominium corporation, not the land.
Can I buy from overseas?
Yes. Most of the process can be completed remotely via a Special Power of Attorney; a PRC-licensed broker coordinates documents, due diligence and turnover.
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