http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/Picture035b.jpg

I'd really appreciate all the input you could post regarding Citylights Gardens Complex Phase 2.

credits to rusty18 for the photo which he originally posted under the Cebu thread.

Citylights launches Phase 2
Friday, September 16, 2005

Singaporean-owned Who Hup Group launched Phase 2 (Towers 3 and 4) of the Citylights Gardens Condominium project in Cebu, targeting multinational company executives and holidaymakers from Europe, Southeast Asia and the United States in the next three years.

Up to 216 condominium units in the two towers that will be built for P1.3 billion are targeted for completion before the end of 2008, said sales and marketing manager Anita Blanco.

“We are confident we will make it better than expected in Cebu,” she said referring to the city’s rapid development pace as the international business process outsourcing mecca after Manila.

Phase 1 comprising Towers 1 and 2 was completed in 2000 and its 144 condominium units had since been completely sold out.

Developed by Syntech Properties, Inc., the project offers a breathtaking view of Cebu – sights of the sea, the city and the mountains. Inside the gated community of its own with 24-hour security service, computerized surveillance and fire protection systems, Citylights offers exquisite lifestyle in comfort and safety at Veterans Drive in Nivel Hills, Lahug.

Upscale home

The management said buyers prefer the site for an upscale home in an exclusive residential condominium with resort-style club facilities, including free-form swimming pool, Jacuzzi, and sauna rooms, jogging trail, and indoor and outdoor sports amenities within its sprawling 42,000 square meter landscaped area.

With its design and construction specialization built around high-rise luxury class condominiums and mass railway transit stations and tunnels, Woh Hup had undertaken 15 property development and investments valued at S$1,000 (P33 billion) in Australia, China, United Kingdom, Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines. Its group annual revenue turnover is estimated at S$200 million (P6.6 billion).

The second biggest city after Manila and a few minutes’ drive from the country’s second biggest export processing zone hosting more than 400 foreign-owned industries, Cebu has the fastest growing economy in the country.

Citylights Gardens Condominium is currently offering a 10% discount as a launching promo valid until Sept. 23. For inquiries, one may call 231-3060, email sales@citylightsgardens.com or visit www.citylightsgardens.com.



http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/SSC/skyscrapercity-cebu.jpg

The Citylights Garden
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a340/Jimbu/citylightsgarden.jpg

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a340/Jimbu/citygarden.jpg

2 Bedroom Units 107.96 square meters

http://www.citylightsgardens.com/images/2-BedroomLiving_2.jpg http://www.citylightsgardens.com/images/2-BedroomBedroom_2.jpg
http://www.citylightsgardens.com/images/2-BedroomDining_2.jpg http://www.citylightsgardens.com/images/2-BedroomKitchen_2.jpg

3 Bedroom Units 138.13 /139.15 square meters

http://www.citylightsgardens.com/images/3-BedroomLiving_2.jpghttp://www.citylightsgardens.com/images/3bed1_2.jpg
http://www.citylightsgardens.com/images/3-BedroomDining_2.jpghttp://www.citylightsgardens.com/images/3-BedroomKitchen_2.jpg

^ When you buy a unit, is it fully furnished? I heard in Lancaster you can only buy fully furnished units. Anyway my mom's boss has a unit in one of the old buildings and she said the unit is pretty cozy/small, but the views are really stunning and the place is just really a relaxing place to live in.

^ When you buy a unit, is it fully furnished? I heard in Lancaster you can only buy fully furnished units. Anyway my mom's boss has a unit in one of the old buildings and she said the unit is pretty cozy/small, but the views are really stunning and the place is just really a relaxing place to live in.

Sloid, where is Lancaster? Is this an option versus Citylights Gardens?

^ When you buy a unit, is it fully furnished? I heard in Lancaster you can only buy fully furnished units. Anyway my mom's boss has a unit in one of the old buildings and she said the unit is pretty cozy/small, but the views are really stunning and the place is just really a relaxing place to live in.

I dont have info's but my buddy's dad got it fully furnished :)

Sloid, where is Lancaster? Is this an option versus Citylights Gardens?

Lancaster condominium is in Mactan island. this isn't an alternative or "versus" Citylights since this is near the beach as opposed to Citylights' top-of-the-mountain location :) but both are premier condominium projects in Cebu.

Lancaster condominium is in Mactan island. this isn't an alternative or "versus" Citylights since this is near the beach as opposed to Citylights' top-of-the-mountain location :) but both are premier condominium projects in Cebu.

rusty, thanks for the info. now that you said that lancaster is in mactan, that easily scraps citylights out of the picture. you know, for guys like me who have not much affinity to cebu, mactan is considered as a halfway point between manila and cebu.

i can fly into "Cebu" (cebu province that is) without really being IN Cebu (Cebu City). business can be conducted within the day all on mactan island without having to cross the marcelo fernan bridge at all. as mentioned in another thread, i find the streets of Cebu City too small and suffocating. hence, for me, if i can do my itinerant business in mactan, i'd do it there.

i guess this may be my last post for Citylights Gardens. let's meet at the Lancaster Condominium thread. i'd like to know more about that.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/citylights.jpg
Citylights Tower I close up photo

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/cebupics/marcopolo_citylights.jpg
Citylights Gardens will look massive when all 7 towers are built :okay:

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b105/cebupics2/metropolis/highrise-citylights.jpg

In the Hills of the Hawk, 136 meters above sea level, known to the Cebuanos as Nivel Hills rises Cebu’s most sought after residential condominiums, Citylights Gardens. It boasts of a sprawling master planned community and wide open spaces located just 6 kilometers from downtown Cebu.
Its lush gardens provide its residents unparallel repose, with nature trails, lookout points and pavilions; A luxury found only at the Citylights Gardens.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/159/340679166_4b9ece0faa.jpg

CITYLIGHTS GARDENS
The garden in the sky

Wake up early morning and peek out your window. What you see from your unit at Citylights Gardens is a breathless sight to behold: the Visayan sea like molten silver and Mactan’s wide sandy beaches catching the sun’s first rays with a shimmer of pure gold.
Citylights Gardens reigns at a height of 136 meters above sea level in the slopes of Nivel Hills. A sprawling 4.2 hectare community of glearing high-rise condominiums, it is an exclusive, well-secured, self-contained community approximately 20 minutes drive to downtown Cebu.

EXPRESSION OF STYLE

Citylights Gardens features an architectural style reminiscent of Europe’s glorious past and Cebu’s colonial history designed with all the modern day amenities to provide its residents the comforts of home.
From its well-appointed porte cochere, its elegant lobby, to the individual residences, Citylights Gardens is a result of extensive planning and design work.

EXPRESSION OF SANCTUARY

Located in a private 42,000 square meter park with open spaces, gardens and treelined boulevards, Citylights Gardens is a nature lover’s paradise.
Its new residents will find this setting a breath of fresh air, a setting like no other in condominium living. This gated community is provided with 24 hour security, state of the art surveillance systems, extensive fire protection systems as well as high speed elevators.

EXPRESSION OF LIVING

Citylights Gardens offers a number of fine residences from the luxurious bi-level penthouse units to the elegants 3-, 2-, 1-bedroom homes. All the units are provided with designer’s kitchens, spacious living/ dining room areas and individual balconies that give a breathtaking view of the gardens below and the citylights beyond.
Its low density ratio with over 18,000 square meters of open space, is unprecedented and is unrivaled by other communities.

EXPRESSION OF ACTIVE LIFE

Citylights Gardens is more than just a complex of residences. It is a leisure community where you can commune with nature and your children can run to their heart’s content.

Picnic with your family and friends, play tennis, basketball or exercise along the winding jogging trail with exercise stations or work out inside the well equipped gym complete with steam and sauna facilities. Take a relaxing dip in the main swimming pool or bring the toddlers swimming at the equally spacious children’s pool. Watch your kids enjoy the outdoors and the playground facilities.

Or simply unwind in one of the many viewing decks and lookout points that offer a panoramic view of Cebu’s skyline and the Visayan sea.

Citylights Gardens above it all…

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/158/340679165_bf08484583.jpg

Under construction is Tower 3 and 4 (first and second from left)

Site Development Plan

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/162/340679167_b254dc6046.jpg

Full Condominium Facilities:


Clubhouse
Fitness Center
Sauna
Swimming Pool with Jacuzzi and Kiddie Pool
Multi-purpose Hall
Kid's Playground
Basketball Court
Tennis Courts
Jogging Trail
Barbeque Pit
Landscaped Garden
Golf Putting Green (roof-deck of 2nd floor bet. tower 3 & 4)


Facilities & Building Services:


2 Passenger Lifts (for each tower)
1 Service Lift (for each tower)
Stand-by Generator
Gated Community
24-Hour Security Service
Computerized Surveillance System
Extensive Fire Protection System

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Estimated Completion Date: December 2008

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/143/340679169_d77ac459e5.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/145/340679173_c2549a86f5.jpg

Basement Parking

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/152/340728334_be2fe1267c.jpg

Citylights Gardens
Fact Sheet

Total Number of Condo Units: 216
Total Number of Floors : 20
Bedrooms Available : 2 & 3 BR

Number of Units per Type:

Type 2 BR : 68 units
Type 2A BR : 4 units
Type 3 BR : 72 units
Type 3A BR : 72 units


Floor Areas:

Type 2 BR : 107.96 sqm / 1162 sq.ft.
Type 2A BR : 108.67 sqm / 1170 sq.ft.
Type 3 BR : 139.15 sqm / 1498 sq.ft.
Type 3A BR : 138.13 sqm / 1487 sq.ft.

Clubhouse
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/62/219047085_1a0ed47402_m.jpg

Swimming Pool
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/57/219043572_a5dd928609_m.jpg

Kid's Playground
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/134/340768880_2923b21d3b_m.jpg

Basketball & Tennis Courts
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/134/340768881_3d0541a99e_m.jpg

Multi-Purpose Hall
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/144/340768879_c3a3477117_m.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1070051.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1070058.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1070061.jpg


photos by: rage@cebu

the project is now at the 7th floor.

Kinda cool!

the project is now at the 7th floor.

Tower 3 you mean?

^^ yes, tower 3. however, the marketing supervisor of citylights personally informed me that both towers 3 & 4 will be completed simultaneously and delivered at the same time.

^^ yes, tower 3. however, the marketing supervisor of citylights personally informed me that both towers 3 & 4 will be completed simultaneously and delivered at the same time.

sweet! sounds like it's doing really good. there's still hope for towers 5, 6 and 7! who knows :)

@vatics: Okay, thanks for the information

<<@rusty>> the development plan for syntech properties [developer of citylights] shows only two phases for the project - phase 1 (tower 1 & 2) and phase 2 (tower 3 & 4), which is the final phase. so i presume there are no other expansions for towers 5, 6, & 7 with the same site.

there is a possibility though that the singaporean developer [woh hup pte ltd.] of citylights will invest in another high-rise project in cebu. like their condo projects in singapore, namely - le cresendo, queens park, white water executive condominium, and icon - all the above condo projects are world-class venturing into resort-type condo projects.

High-end condo developer expects more Fil-Am buyers
By Ehda M. Dagooc
The Freeman 01/15/2007

High-end condominium developer Citylights Gardens Condominium, Syntech Properties, Inc.(SPI) expects more Filipino-American buyers, after the company's sales team concluded its overseas marketing blitz in the United States.

Led by its director, Janice Ngiam-Chong, SPI embarked on its sales and marketing effort by exhibiting at the three-day Philippines International Trade Expo (PITE) held at the Hawaii Convention Center, in Honolulu.

The team launched SPI's Phase 2 project to the prospective Filipino-American condominium buyers and investors there.

"Prospective investors greeted the project with much interest, as most were Fil-Ams who had their roots in the Visayas region" said SPI sales and marketing manager Anita Blanco.

Organized by the Fil-Am community, PITE was the first of its kind to be held in Hawaii.

Blanco said City lights is so far the first project which is personally introduced to the Hawaiian market, especially Filipino-American.

After the Honolulu aggressive sales effort, the group headed to other cities in USA, such as Las Vegas, San Francisco and Chicago.

Syntech Properties had invested at least P2.6 billion for the creation of the four towers, situated in a four-hectare property owned by its Cebuano partner located up in the Hills of Nivel.

Its Phase 1 consisting of Towers 1 and 2, were completed and sold out in 2000. The 2nd and final phase which comprises Towers 3 and 4, now under construction, will add another 216 premier residential units to the development.

Located in the Nivel Hills area the project is banking on its panoramic views of Cebu City, the Mactan Bay area and the South China Sea as well as part of the Busay Mountains for all its apartment units.

According to Blanco, pre-selling of Towers 3 and 4 is on-going and choice units are going fast.

Given the positive growth signs of the Philippines economy and rising demand for good class condominiums in Cebu City, the company expects the project to be sold out before its completion in the second half of 2008.

Cebu Investments and Promotion Center (CIPC) managing director Joel Mari S. Yu earlier said that developers especially for residential projects, should start their intensified marketing efforts to lure the huge dollar-earner market, especially in the USA, following the United States government's announcement to open the dual citizenship opportunity.

Yu said from middle range residential products, to super high-end subdivisions, including condominiums, will be the hit products for Filipino-American market, and Cebu is position to take bigger chunk of this market, because of its charming location, and tourism advantage.

According to Yu, the recent pronouncement of the American government to allow dual-citizenship for Filipinos residing in America could further boost real estate and retail industries in the Philippines.

Cebu in particular, Yu said could serve as the center-stage for "Balikbayan" investments because of its charm for tourism and business opportunities.

DEVELOPER FORECASTS GOOD SALES FOR CONDOS
Sun.Star Cebu, 01/31/07 p. 17

As Cebu continues to embrace the need for “self-contained” residential condominiums, an upscale condominium developer expressed confidence that the second phase of its project in Nivel Hills, Cebu City will be sold out even before its completion in the second half of 2008.

Anita Go Blanco, Syntech sales and marketing manager, said 40 percent of towers three and four of the 20-story upscale Citylights Gardens Condominium, located in Nivel Hills, Barangay Busay, are already sold out.

“We are optimistic that before 2008 ends, all units of towers three and four will be completely sold out,” she said.

Construction of the ninth story of tower three has already started while work on the foundation of the basement of tower four is now underway, Blanco told Sun.Star Cebu during the Mamista ta Bai! Sinulog party organized by Syntech for unit owners of both towers last Friday.

Syntech Properties Inc., the developer of the four-tower Citylights Gardens, is now selling 216 selling condominium units of towers three and four.

The 144 units comprising existing towers one and two, which were completed in 2000, have already been sold out, Blanco said.

Eva Kua, Syntech finance manager, said prices for the units of towers three and four have increased by only two percent due to the value-added tax. Pre-selling for these units began last 2004.

A two-bedroom unit is priced at P7 to P8 million while the price of a three-bedroom condo is pegged at P9 to P10 million.

“Towers three and four are improvised layouts from the previous two towers,” Kua said.

According to Blance, potential buyers can purchase the available units for investment purposes.

Earlier, she said some unit owners of towers one and two are renting out their units.

Monthly rental rates of the units at Citylights are pegged at P40,000 to P50,000 for the two-bedroom and P60,000 to P70,000 for three-bedroom units.

Meanwhile, Kua said because SPI has been accredited by the Philippine Retirement Authority, these high-end condominium units are also ideal for retirement facilities.

This is why Syntech has extended its marketing efforts for Citylights phase two in key cities in the United States.

Syntech conducted a series of roadshows last month in Hawaii, Las Vegas, San Francisco and Chicago to prospective foreign investors and Filipino-Americans who have roots in the Visayas.

“We have received many requests from interested parties also in Los Angeles and New Jersey for us to go back there, and we are certainly looking forward to that,” Blanco said.

Aside from security and exclusivity, Citylights boasts of common amenities that include a clubhouse, multi-purpose hall, swimming pools, gymnasium with sauna, golf putting-green, playground, barbeque pits, 24-hour security service and computerized surveillance system, among others.

^^ im so excited for these 2 towers to be completed... the 4 citylight towers would be very stunning then, i believe...

Construction updates as of February 21, 2007:

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1100865.jpg

^^^ 4th tower still underground?

^^

Yeah bro, but they said that both towers will be completed at the same time.. Ummm, :dunno:

tower 1 & 2 at night (with the tower 3 starting to shaping up)


pic by @gilbz of flickr.com
http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m195/diehardbisdako/citylights-night.jpg

Nice project

:)

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/updates/Picture004.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/updates/Picture007.jpg

citylights garden tower III

^^thanks for the pic!

OT: that house looks familiar! :D

dalawa pala citylights thread: http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=257124

^^^ This looks like the original thread. Anyways any chance of tower 5-7 going up?

^ 1st phase & 2nd phase na bai!

Shall we just merge the two threads?

^^pero ang update ay para sa phase 2 dahit tapos na phase 1. why not merge.

^^ yeah!

SleMarKen 05.01.07 update:

Citylights Garden Condominium 05.01.07
http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t140/slemarken/SSCNivel02.jpg

http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t140/slemarken/SSCNivel01.jpg

^^ i agree..

^^ Tower 3 is now on the 14th floor.... Six more floors to the top....:banana:

^^ Tower 3 is now on the 14th floor.... Six more floors to the top....:banana:

How about tower 4 anong floor na ?

mountain skyline are also shaping up

Just talked to the marketing director of Citylights Gardens.

Tower 3 is on the 17th floor. Casting of the ground floor for Tower 4.

The developer expects to have 2 floors constructed every month. Now that is what I call "express delivery."

@ vatics
Whats the status of this project:
Proposed Citylights Tower V, VI, VII,,,

abolished or pursue???

Based from the development plan of Citylights Gardens, the project is until Phase 2 or towers 3 and 4.

http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/3392/img5901dv6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

tower 3 now working on the 16th floor

^^ wow.. so good so fast!. ;)

by Mark Vasquez (http://flickr.com/photos/markvasquez8/) | Flickr

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/214/524513829_ec25000a83_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/210/524496831_5f8746ae51_b.jpg

Taken yesterday at Beverly Hills.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/vatics0916/IMG_2094.jpg

^ Construction is really fast! :cool:

^^ Yeah really fast. How many floors more to go? The fourth building is not visible in that picture yet.

Form the looks of it, might be 6 or 7 more floors to go or about August to the top floor.

Maybe 4-5 its past citylights 1-2, it is only up to 20-stories

Citylights Gardens has been selected by HLURB as the "Leading Developer of Open Market Condominium Development" in the entire region.

Tower 3 is on the 18th floor.
Tower 4 is on the 2nd floor.

Fast development indeed.

thanks sa updates..

Citylights Gardens has been selected by HLURB as the "Leading Developer of Open Market Condominium Development" in the entire region.

Tower 3 is on the 18th floor.
Tower 4 is on the 2nd floor.

Fast development indeed.

for this success
hopefully, Citylights will pursue the original plan of 7-Towers,,,

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/8496/image006pr2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

it is very clear from the bridge that tower 3 is surpassing the height of towers 1 and 2.

^^
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2372.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2369.jpg

thanks for the visual aid @rage!

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2585.jpg

Centcom View Park...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2591.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2585.jpg

Centcom View Park...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/IMG_2591.jpg

tnx for the upadte pix mike... Greeny Sorroundings!

http://img455.imageshack.us/img455/4317/bantayan017jn3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img377.imageshack.us/img377/214/bantayan018kg5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

tower 3 has now topped off

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u177/Jarenz_038/cl.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u177/Jarenz_038/cl-1.jpg

TOP VIEW FROM CITYLIGHTS GARDENS TOWERS 3 & 4
Courtesy of SYNTECH PROPERTIES INC.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/vatics0916/P6080088Small-new.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/vatics0916/P6080109Small-new.jpg

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/vatics0916/P5240010Small-new.jpg

Tower 4 is on the 20th floor. Topping-off is next month, August 2007, after the dome's completion.

Status of Tower 4?

Status of Tower 4?


Tower 4 is on the 20th floor. Topping-off is next month, August 2007, after the dome's completion.

I hope they pursue the 7 tower project and that towers 5, 6 and 7 will surpass 25 or 30 storeys! :banana:

^ I meant the other tower. Its twin

^nag top-off na ata ung tower 3, not sure though.

^^the construction of Tower 3 still on progress ...

Yeah, I think vatics was referring to Tower 3 and not Tower 4 and as he mentioned, it will only top off if the dome is completed. Cheers

http://img478.imageshack.us/img478/3292/img5992ww6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)


the dome of tower 3 is currently being constructed while tower 2 is given a new paint job..

@sinjin... thanks for the correction. tower 3 is topping off this month while tower 4 is on the 3rd level. the developer/contractor expects to construct two floors every month. both towers (3 & 4) will be completed simultaneously on December 2008.

quite fast as expected...

although in other countries, their's is one floor per week.. but considering that Cebu is a growing neophyte in the construction industry, that's relatively fast already.. :D

so, we gonna expect more places in Cebu to be developed

because of the demand

to increase the demand to invest in cebu, let our close friends and relatives tell their friends and relatives to invest in cebu either putting up new concept food joints or outlets, etc. they could introduce concepts found in other countries which these pinoys reside. this is one way of helping the philippine economy grow. go ceboom!

to increase the demand to invest in cebu, let our close friends and relatives tell their friends and relatives to invest in cebu either putting up new concept food joints or outlets, etc. they could introduce concepts found in other countries which these pinoys reside. this is one way of helping the philippine economy grow. go ceboom!

^^ Strongly Agree! :yes:

Citylights tower3 update...
http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m303/michaelragandac/P1140711.jpg

i can now see the dome on top of tower 3.... it's finally topping off....

http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/5637/picturehu6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

as of sept 20..

towers 3 and 4 after comnpletion...
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1160123.jpg

^ So they're slightly different from the 2 existing towers?

^^From the models they do look different. The new towers look like a cross from top view.

I've been following this thread for awhile. Wanted to say THANKS to all the posters. Your info helped me in my decision to buy one of these units. I was looking at two other projects, I'm sure you can guess which ones, and IMHO CityLights has the best two bedroom floorplan. The design allows for a much better view.

In regards to more towers. I was told the city won't allow it because of the weight on the mountain. Don't know if thats true but when I asked that is the reply I got.

Here's a couple of pics. They aren't current but I wanted to contribute something. These are from July, 2007.

I was told Tower Palace will use dual pane glass but CityLights will not.

3m has a new film that filters out UV very effectively. It's not cheap but I am considering having the windows treated with it. I think it would pay for itself relatively quick because I run the aircon alot :)

If you don't have any experience with dual pane glass the difference is amazing.

Thanks again for all the info !!!

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1090/1471325688_c900f18384_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1134/1471325560_fea6b97e2a_o.jpg

^^ GREAT!!! you should see other good projects here in Cebu. :) just invest wisely

tower 4 is also rising.... hehehe!
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j93/ragandacmichael/P1160194.jpg

^^ :applause:

Investing at Towers 3 and 4 is a good decision. All units are just improvised layouts from Towers 1 and 2. All units at Towers 3 and 4 are corner units so expect condo owners to have a better view of the mountain, sea, and cityscape of Cebu. I'm so proud to be a Cebuano now that we have attracted good investors locating to Cebu. Expect more surprises in Ceboom... no place like home....:banana:

^^I hope they build additional towers in the future. I wanna buy a unit once I can afford it.

It is perhaps the best condo to invest in Cebu IMO.

The right time to invest in Cebu is now....

Citylights is developed by Syntech Properties Inc., wholly owned subsidiary of Woh Hup Pte. Ltd. (Singaporean firm). The contractor is Primary Structures, one of the best contractor in Cebu, if not the whole Philippines because of ontime project completion record.

Cebu.... the Philippines Bestseller
Syntech Properties.... Elite Developer from Singapore
Primary Structures.... Contractor with Best Record for Ontime Project Completion

I see, Primary structures, judging from pictures is also the contractor handling the ACC Leisure Oasis project :)

^^ you're right there, great!

Tower 4 is fast rising.. I think they're past 5 stories already... :banana:

^ My goodness, that's really fast!

update on Citylights Towers 3 & 4 (thanks to @schwinggy of flickr!)


http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2150/1744449690_40cd2c9cb3_b.jpg

Citilights Gardens
11-9-2007

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s155/lorensgibb/ssc/Citilights01.jpg

I see, Primary structures, judging from pictures is also the contractor handling the ACC Leisure Oasis project :)

Primary Structures has several projects also especially in Asiatown ITP (the "i" series hehehe) and still a lot more from them in the coming years specifically still in AITP.

^^ Primary Structures has gain confidence from local developers because of its remarkable track record of finishing their contracted projects on time.

^ They even have a website but there isn't much content yet. :)

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u177/Jarenz_038/citylights-1.jpg

Caranzo Photography @ Flickr

http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m195/diehardbisdako/citylights-caranzophotography.jpg

Caranzo Photography @ Flickr

http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m195/diehardbisdako/citylights-caranzophotography.jpg

Cebu , my beautiful Cebu.:banana::banana::banana::banana::cheers::cheers::cheers::cheers::cheers::cheers::cheers:

Are there any other unit owners of CityLights Gardens on this thread. I sure would want to meet some of future neighbors.

Thanks.

JunB

:soon:

^^ @junb: I could refer you to one of the condo owners at Citylights Tower 4, Mr. Forest Gerdes, one of my clients and a friend. Kindly send me a private message so I can give you his email address.

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u177/Jarenz_038/citylights1.jpg

http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/754/cimg9108dg4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Citylights Gardens Tower 3 and 4....

...looks massive compared to Marco Polo Plaza Hotel

^^ it's because of the angle where pic was taken...

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u177/Jarenz_038/citylights4.jpg

Citylights clubhouse, pool and tennis courts

http://www.filproperty.com/images/2006Sep/citylight.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/malls/CIMG9167.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/malls/CIMG9168.jpg

Bai,

Pardon my ignorance. I've been gone for too long. From what point of view is this pic taken from? What's the name of this commercial complex? What street?

And, thanks for posting the pic.

JunB



http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/malls/CIMG9167.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d138/martiano/malls/CIMG9168.jpg

i was at banilad town center [BTC] in banilad bai when i took those shots.. youre welcome junB..

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/608/cimg9176ep2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Bai,

Pardon my ignorance. I've been gone for too long. From what point of view is this pic taken from? What's the name of this commercial complex? What street?

And, thanks for posting the pic.

JunB

i think the foreground structure in the second picture is the Gaisano Bowlingplex which is located in the interior part of banilad (not accessible directly from the banilad road, but through the country mall), across the BTC.

^^ that's right!

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/vatics0916/11-15-07-T3copy.jpg
Image courtesy of Citylights Gardens Sales Group.

Wow... what a change!

I still remember when that lot used to be a vineyard. Then it bacame a cornfield. There used to be a fruit stall/stand right at the corner selling sweet corn and table grapes.

I remember too that there was a home for the blind .. or something, right by there.

I remember as a kid riding in my dad's car one morning to school, a domestic fight broke out in one of the barong-barongs right by that place. I remember there was this distressed lady (I assumed the wife) running towards the middle of the road ahead of us. She suddenly threw herself down on the asphalt wanting to take her life via our family car. My dad slammed on the brakes just in time. That image of poverty, hopelessness and family strife was imprinted in my young mind and left a powerfull impression on me. Even now, when I close my eyes, I can still see the painful expression of her face and the tears of distress on her eyes.

Whew.. gotta shake that thought off. Too much baggage comes with it.

Anyway, thanks Vatics for posting that pic of tower 3 & 4. I can see my unit taking shape from that angle.

JunB



i think the foreground structure in the second picture is the Gaisano Bowlingplex which is located in the interior part of banilad (not accessible directly from the banilad road, but through the country mall), across the BTC.

^^ Your welcome, JunB. By the way, what tower and particular unit did you choose?

That's for me to know and for you to find out :colgate:

Seriously, wouldn't that be to much information to post in here? Naay unya'y manaygon kada pasko ! :rofl:

But you can ask Anita Blanco, :okay:


JunB.

^^ Your welcome, JunB. By the way, what tower and particular unit did you choose?

^^ if it wouldn't be too much to ask, i could check and take some pictures of your unfinished unit and its view. i may post some pics here for other forumers to see.:)

yes pls... i agree with vatics... just don't post here the unit number!

Okay, if you and Vatics insist. I picked the Type3 unit.

Now, between towers 3 and 4, that should make it 80 possibilities. So, kung na-ay manaygon, they'll have 1/80 chance of knocking on my door :lol:

JunB


yes pls... i agree with vatics... just don't post here the unit number!

^^ hahaha! gate pa lang, dili na kasud bai!

i might be interested in getting a unit here. anyone have details on pricing? junB?

Vatics I believe is one of the brokers.

I got mine direct and opted for cash to avail of the n% discount -- plus, because all trends by Dec 2006 showed a rapid appreciation of the Peso opposite the dollar (exchage rate was at the 50s then), I needed to dispose some USDs from my portfolio.

Of course I could always claim financial genius since with the exchange rate alone, I'm already up 25% in a less than a year. But then it could have also gone the other way. So I guess I'll have to attribute 20% to research and 80% to lady luck. In the great realm of investing I'd rather be lucky than good -- as long as luck holds out, it's fine with me :)

JunB



i might be interested in getting a unit here. anyone have details on pricing? junB?

The cost now might be a little bit more than the price quoted below which was a year ago.

DEVELOPER FORECASTS GOOD SALES FOR CONDOS
Sun.Star Cebu, 01/31/07 p. 17

As Cebu continues to embrace the need for “self-contained” residential condominiums, an upscale condominium developer expressed confidence that the second phase of its project in Nivel Hills, Cebu City will be sold out even before its completion in the second half of 2008.

Anita Go Blanco, Syntech sales and marketing manager, said 40 percent of towers three and four of the 20-story upscale Citylights Gardens Condominium, located in Nivel Hills, Barangay Busay, are already sold out.

“We are optimistic that before 2008 ends, all units of towers three and four will be completely sold out,” she said.

Construction of the ninth story of tower three has already started while work on the foundation of the basement of tower four is now underway, Blanco told Sun.Star Cebu during the Mamista ta Bai! Sinulog party organized by Syntech for unit owners of both towers last Friday.

Syntech Properties Inc., the developer of the four-tower Citylights Gardens, is now selling 216 selling condominium units of towers three and four.

The 144 units comprising existing towers one and two, which were completed in 2000, have already been sold out, Blanco said.

Eva Kua, Syntech finance manager, said prices for the units of towers three and four have increased by only two percent due to the value-added tax. Pre-selling for these units began last 2004.

A two-bedroom unit is priced at P7 to P8 million while the price of a three-bedroom condo is pegged at P9 to P10 million.

“Towers three and four are improvised layouts from the previous two towers,” Kua said.

According to Blance, potential buyers can purchase the available units for investment purposes.

Earlier, she said some unit owners of towers one and two are renting out their units.

Monthly rental rates of the units at Citylights are pegged at P40,000 to P50,000 for the two-bedroom and P60,000 to P70,000 for three-bedroom units.

Meanwhile, Kua said because SPI has been accredited by the Philippine Retirement Authority, these high-end condominium units are also ideal for retirement facilities.

This is why Syntech has extended its marketing efforts for Citylights phase two in key cities in the United States.

Syntech conducted a series of roadshows last month in Hawaii, Las Vegas, San Francisco and Chicago to prospective foreign investors and Filipino-Americans who have roots in the Visayas.

“We have received many requests from interested parties also in Los Angeles and New Jersey for us to go back there, and we are certainly looking forward to that,” Blanco said.

Aside from security and exclusivity, Citylights boasts of common amenities that include a clubhouse, multi-purpose hall, swimming pools, gymnasium with sauna, golf putting-green, playground, barbeque pits, 24-hour security service and computerized surveillance system, among others.

^^ the pre-selling price is relatively the same for towers 3 and 4 but the terms of payment has been modified like the deferred installment option is good for 12 months to pay at no-interest from the previous terms of 36 months since its inception two-years ago. i would agree with @junb that the spot cash option is more wiser for investors, you get more savings because of big discounts and the condo equity value [appreciation value] is going up continuously.

citylights garden is a very safe investment since this is developed by a singaporean company. there are still available 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom units with harbor view. just PM me for details or for price lists, you can email me at vaticsglobalproperties@gmail.com.

Okay, if you and Vatics insist. I picked the Type3 unit.

Now, between towers 3 and 4, that should make it 80 possibilities. So, kung na-ay manaygon, they'll have 1/80 chance of knocking on my door :lol:

JunB

^^
type 3
three bedroom
139.15 sqm / 1497.80 sqft

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/vatics0916/3BED_LAYOUT_3.jpg

@junb :okay:
good investment....
good view of cebu's harbor....
romantic night view....

TOWER 4 is now on the 14th floor going up to the 15th floor. Five more floors to go....before topping off! Woohooo! Fast...fast...fast.... indeed!

you picked the right time to buy. congrats!
i'd hate to pay cash right now as the dollar is so low relative to where it was then.


Vatics I believe is one of the brokers.

I got mine direct and opted for cash to avail of the 12% discount -- plus, because all trends by Dec 2006 showed a rapid appreciation of the Peso opposite the dollar (exchage rate was at the 50s then), I needed to dispose some USDs from my portfolio.

Of course I could always claim financial genius since with the exchange rate alone, I'm already up 25% in a less than a year. But then it could have also gone the other way. So I guess I'll have to attribute 20% to research and 80% to lady luck. In the great realm of investing I'd rather be lucky than good -- as long as luck holds out, it's fine with me :)

JunB

^^ have you decided which property to invest already?

wala ba bai. still looking. my sister never got back on your question about what her broker is affliated with.

^^ @joe: you don't need to rush anyway since you won't need it for end use. if you need help or assistance on real estate matters, just pm me.

wala ba bai. still looking. my sister never got back on your question about what her broker is affliated with.

Is building a home in Cebu one of your option bai aside from buying a condo??

wala ba bai. still looking. my sister never got back on your question about what her broker is affliated with.

just be cautious and decide on the merits of every investment proposal from the broker or his/her agent, second opinions from your sister may be worth considering but it is still you the investor/buyer who will benefit from such investment. some agents of brokers, just to close the deal, will influence representatives of the prospect buyer with some pay-out or comm-share. so be selective and be wary of who your sister is dealing with. this happened to one of my client who regreted he didn't heed my advice. he bought a property because his parents told him so....only to find out that his parents benefited from the sale after the agent promised to give them a share of the broker's service fee. the parent's didn't realize the property was under litigation in court. the agent can nowhere be found. the broker in which the agent got his authority to sell is neither registered in any broker or REALTOR association nor with the DTI, thus his existence cannot be determined. the broker is believed to have an expired real estate license.

^^ @joe: you don't need to rush anyway since you won't need it for end use. if you need help or assistance on real estate matters, just pm me.

i sure will bai. if you have something good, you have my email. :okay:

Is building a home in Cebu one of your option bai aside from buying a condo??

it's definitely my preferred option!

^^ Pareho ta bai! How many years do you have left before retiring??

you mean early retirement? i'm still in my mid-30s bai. :lol:

I'm a little bit older than you bai, it doesn't hurt to plan ahead for early retirement di ba??

it's definitely my preferred option!

Why I decided to go for a condo vs. an H&L (House and Lot).

I guess it all boils down to lifestyle. I expect to still be traveling a lot even when I retire --with the kids all grown up and, hopefully, with their own careers here in the US. Therefore:

1. I need a place where I can just lock the door and go. No need to worry about security while I'm gone. No need to ask a relative or a friend to house sit for me.

2. I need a place that has low maintenance. I suck at housework.

3. I need a place that I could rent out while I'm not yet retired. One that is profesionally managed. Not one where I have to ask a relative to watch after -- and once I get home I see my property ill maintained, might just cause friction with the people that are supposed to be dear to me. This goes with one of the cardinal rules about not going in business with your relatives or friends.

4. I want to have a pool, a gym, and all the other amenities without paying full price by owning them since I will not be using these facilities all the time.

These among other things.


JunB

^^ Jun, is your last name Btn?? Are you the brother of Bevs??

Maayo gani ka bai kay you already purchased a unit there, 3 bedrooms pa.

^^ Jun, is your last name Baton?? Are you the brother of Beverly??

Maayo gani ka bai kay you already purchased a unit there, 3 bedrooms pa.


That's too much info. I'll reply on private.

You are just a little bit older than me bai, it doesn't hurt to plan ahead for early retirement di ba??

yes bai nothing wrong with that at all. that's what 401k's are for.

JunB, those are certainly valid and good reasons for buying a condo!

yes bai nothing wrong with that at all. that's what 401k's are for.

My bad, I'm a few years older than you bai.

401, 457's, condo's, lots etc.. there's a lot of option bai.

City Lights Garden targets retirees (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=52&type=2&sec=71&aid=20080128154)
The Freeman
Tuesday, January 29, 2008

City Lights Garden is now eyeing the growing retiree market in the country as a potential target market.

This after it tapped banking institutions for easy financing access for buyers that helped disposed easily its Phase 2 projects composed of Towers 3 and 4 with 216 upscale condominium units.

At pre-selling stage, City Lights Garden already disposed 45 percent of the Phase 2 project, said assistant sales manager Cecille H. Canturias, during the open house held recently.

Last August, City Lights Garden topped-off its third tower while interior works were undergoing and the construction of the fourth tower is at the 17th floor. Canturias said the turn over of units to its owners is expected by second quarter of this year.

Based on positive sales last year, City Lights is quite optimistic to sell at least 60 units this year through their brokers and easy financing scheme provided by their partner banking institutions which now include the Bank of Philippine Islands, Development Bank of the Philippines, Philippine National Bank and Banco de Oro.

PNB, for one, is tapping overseas buyers through its “Own a Filipino Home Loan” program in its branches in Europe, Middle East and in other Asian countries.

City Lights Garden is optimistic that with the help of these banking institutions they will be able to tap preferred clients or the top depositors of banks especially mixed-market segments composed of Pinoy balikbayans, dollar earners or the OFWs and especially the growing foreign retirees market from Japan, America and Europe who intends to stay in the country for good and invest.

On the other hand, local investors are likewise eyed as potential clients at a given ratio of 50 percent domestic and 50 percent foreign buyers. This, Canturias said, only proves that the local market in Cebu has grown sophisticated and now considers buying upscale housing investments such as condo units.

City Lights Garden started their development in 1997 during the Asian crisis but they were able to finish construction of their Phase 1 composed of Towers 1 and 2 despite the financial uncertainties and during the first quarter of 2006, they started the construction of Phase 2 development composed of Towers 3 and 4 which is said to be more upscale than the previous project.

City Lights Garden is a project development by a Singaporean-led Syntech Properties which has allocated about P1.3 billion for its Phase 2 project with total investments now breaching P3 billion including the Phase 1 development which is now 100% sold.

Syntech operates under Who Hup Group, a Singapore-based company which has also undertaken several property developments and investments in Australia, China, United Kingdom, Thailand and Malaysia. – Rhia de Pablo

Why I decided to go for a condo vs. an H&L (House and Lot).

I guess it all boils down to lifestyle. I expect to still be traveling a lot even when I retire --with the kids all grown up and, hopefully, with their own careers here in the US. Therefore:

1. I need a place where I can just lock the door and go. No need to worry about security while I'm gone. No need to ask a relative or a friend to house sit for me.

2. I need a place that has low maintenance. I suck at housework.

3. I need a place that I could rent out while I'm not yet retired. One that is profesionally managed. Not one where I have to ask a relative to watch after -- and once I get home I see my property ill maintained, might just cause friction with the people that are supposed to be dear to me. This goes with one of the cardinal rules about not going in business with your relatives or friends.

4. I want to have a pool, a gym, and all the other amenities without paying full price by owning them since I will not be using these facilities all the time.

These among other things.


JunB

:okay: this is a practical investment guide!

Why I decided to go for a condo vs. an H&L (House and Lot).

I guess it all boils down to lifestyle. I expect to still be traveling a lot even when I retire --with the kids all grown up and, hopefully, with their own careers here in the US. Therefore:

1. I need a place where I can just lock the door and go. No need to worry about security while I'm gone. No need to ask a relative or a friend to house sit for me.

2. I need a place that has low maintenance. I suck at housework.

3. I need a place that I could rent out while I'm not yet retired. One that is profesionally managed. Not one where I have to ask a relative to watch after -- and once I get home I see my property ill maintained, might just cause friction with the people that are supposed to be dear to me. This goes with one of the cardinal rules about not going in business with your relatives or friends.

4. I want to have a pool, a gym, and all the other amenities without paying full price by owning them since I will not be using these facilities all the time.

These among other things.


JunB


Mga bai... we should compile a list of pros and cons on condo ownership vs H&L. I think what I wrote above can be a start.


Here's reason #5 for me:

5. I need a place that has more security where relatives and friends just can't walk in and knock at my door. One unfortunate reality of being a "Balikbayan" is that you become the first person some relatives and friends run to in their time of financial need -- not that I don't want to help. It's just that it puts me in a very awkward situation, and I don't want to feel like a bank because I am not.

JunB

Pix as of December 2007 (Courtesy of Citylights Gardens)

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/vatics0916/12-2007-B.jpg
Tower 4 is rising fast and catching up with the other 3 towers.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/vatics0916/12-2007-A.jpg
I personally love this view, it's like a castle from atop a high mountain. You feel like your on top of the world.... and just wait when it's night time.... the view is very very charming!:nuts:

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/vatics0916/12-2007-A.jpg


Nice Angle... Very nice at night:soon:

wow! nice condos!

The Clubhouse

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2474/dsc00031fw4.jpg

http://img235.imageshack.us/img235/7611/dsc00032jk5.jpg

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/4954/dsc00033mo0.jpg

http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/3613/dsc00034hh3.jpg

Who maintains the clubhouse?

kulang ng repainting.

^^ oh my...

the clubhouse is maintained by the condo owners thru their condo corporation.

The Clubhouse

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2474/dsc00031fw4.jpg

http://img235.imageshack.us/img235/7611/dsc00032jk5.jpg

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/4954/dsc00033mo0.jpg

http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/3613/dsc00034hh3.jpg

Who maintains the clubhouse?

kulang ng repainting.

^^ oh my...

we just had our sales meeting and raised the above concerns. the developer in cooperation with condo corporation for tower 1 and 2 will undergo total refurbishment of all the existing amenities once phase 2 towers (tower 3 and 4) will be completed this year.

due to the current construction of phase 2 towers, the repainting and landscaping was put on-hold to avoid redoing the repainting works all over again once phase 2 towers are completed.

amid some reports of poor maintenance, it was just a matter of delaying the repainting works and landscaping due to the construction of phase 2 towers.

^^ nice to hear that bai!

this is a singaporean-led project, right?

^^ yeah... Syntech Properties...if i'm not mistaken...

that clubhouse looks filthy. i mean seriously, labor is cheap.

^^ just wait and see after all the amenities and facilities will be repainted and refurbished to its original "brand new" condition and the re-landscaping to be done after completion of phase 2 (t3 & t4). the refurbishment was put on-hold due to the construction of phase 2 towers upon recommendation of the contractors. had the refurbishment been done while during the construction of phase 2, after its completion the amenities will have to be repainted and cleaned again due to dust and other small debris in the area.

Ok, Ok.. I've scaled the pics. Happy now? :nuts: :nuts: :nuts: :nuts:


Pic 1
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2201/2496770857_16a861daf0_b.jpg



Pic2
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2227/2496770909_4f80c04e93_b.jpg

Jun, did you just come back from a vacation there??

Jun, did you just come back from a vacation there??

I sure did. But I got these pics from their website at http://www.citylightsgardens.com

The inside of the clubhouse is not as bad as it looks outside. I have to say though that the barong-barongs behind Cebu Plaza (now Marco Polo) is an eyesore, looking southwards. I don't know what you can do with those.

JunB

inside the clubhouse you will find the fitness gym and the sauna. interiors are really great....singaporean elitist standard kasi.

topping off of the 4th tower was yesterday (may 15). singaporeans are noted for being spendthrift but they have the money to spend. this is the reason why you can't hear and/or see so much publicity ads on the newspapers. they would rather focus their time on finishing their project and let people be the judge on their credibility as a developer to deliver their projects on time if not ahead of time.

even during the asian financial crisis in 1998, construction for the 1st and 2nd tower was not affected since they have all the needed resources to fund the project unlike other known developers that depend so much on the investments of would-be buyers of their projects. thus, i am very proud of this project. this is one of the many condo developments in cebu that you can call a real condo unit because of its big livable space ranging from 107 square meters (1,150 square feet) to 130 square meters (1,400 square feet).

another reason why one of my clients chose to live at citylights gardens is the large pool provided to resident owners. not all major condo developments have such a large pool facility. living space at citylights gardens is really big...a really great place to retire and relax.

@junb

my suggestion is to have all the roof tops of those small houses painted uniformly so it wouldn't be an eyesore. if all the roof's color are uniform then it would just look like a newly developed mass housing project. but if you want to get rid of the eyesore....why not invest in tower palace instead. it also provides a large outdoor pool within the condos compound plus your view is just astounding. what you'll see from your window on your living area is the ayala center cebu (lifestyle mall) and the rest of the beautiful high-rise buildings of cebu's business district. mind you all, there are lots of exciting high-rise projects within ayala business park so it is like watching on your living area's window a fashion show and an array of beautiful skyscrapers unfolding right infront of your residence.

pic by @junbgood of flickr!

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2227/2496770909_4f80c04e93.jpg

we just had our sales meeting and raised the above concerns. the developer in cooperation with condo corporation for tower 1 and 2 will undergo total refurbishment of all the existing amenities once phase 2 towers (tower 3 and 4) will be completed this year.

due to the current construction of phase 2 towers, the repainting and landscaping was put on-hold to avoid redoing the repainting works all over again once phase 2 towers are completed.

amid some reports of poor maintenance, it was just a matter of delaying the repainting works and landscaping due to the construction of phase 2 towers.

according to mam cecille, it will be refurbished this july. looking forward to the new paint! :banana:

pic by @junbgood of flickr!

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2227/2496770909_4f80c04e93.jpg

JunBGood and JunB are one and the same person -- ME :):cheers:

JUNB, can I use your citylights photos for my BLog? I'll credit it to your name of course..

:)

...with the GMA 7 Relay Tower

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj104/Vinzentnik/DSC_29022.jpg

JUNB, can I use your citylights photos for my BLog? I'll credit it to your name of course..

:)

Basta ikaw, bai... ngano 'gung "why not". :lol:

had a good time with fellow accredited brokers at the topping off ceremony of tower 4 at citylights gardens in nivel hills, cebu city. we are so excited about this project....6 months to go before turnover.... woohoo!:banana:

So , will the original plan of 7 towers push through?

phase 2 (tower 3 & 4) is the last phase to be developed by syntech properties but they will be looking for other development sites in cebu.

^^ i hope they'll change plans and push through with the Towers 5, 6 & 7...

^^but i think it's best if they build the remaining towers somewhere else in the city instead :)

Condominium developer remains confident about project’s completion (http://http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2008/05/23/bus/condominium.developer.remains.confident.about.project.s.completion.html)

MORE than 60 percent of the bedroom units at Citylights Gardens Condominium Tower 3 and 4 in Nivel Hills, Apas in Cebu City are already bought by a “good mix” of buyers.

The buyers will soon relish the comfort of the units they have reserved for themselves or for their families as the towers’ Singapore-based developer, Syntech Properties Inc., and general contractor, Primary Structures Corp., are confident that the project will be completed by the end of the year.

While Tower 3 and 4, which are the components of Citylights Phase 2, are targeting multinational company executives and holidaymakers from Europe, Southeast Asia and the United States, the developer realized that there is a “good mix” of buyers, both foreign and local.

“There are many reasons they buy our condominium units. Foreigners would come (to Cebu) to stay, invest or marry Filipinos and buy units for themselves. There are also locals (like those from Maria Luisa Subdivision) who want to invest and buy a unit as their second home. There is a whole range of buyers,” said Janice Ngiam, director of Syntech Properties Inc.

Last Tuesday, Ngiam, together with Syntech Properties Inc. chairman of the board Eugene Yong and Wally Liu, president and chief executive officer of Primary Structures Corp., led the topping off ceremony of Tower 4.

The topping off indicates that a building is about to be completed.

Citylight Gardens Phase 1 project, which includes Tower 1 and 2, was completed in 2000 with 144 condominium units that are already sold out.

“We learned a lot from Tower 1 and gathered feedback for the design for Phase 2,” said Ngiam.

Citylights Gardens Tower 3 and 4, both 20-storey buildings with a Singaporean-inspired contemporary architectural design,
offers 216 units. The construction of the towers started in January 2006.

Buyers have the option of getting a two-bedroom unit with an area of 107.96 square meters or 108.67 square meters. They can also choose a three-bedroom unit with an area of 138.13 square meters or 139.13 square meters.

Syntech Properties, Inc., in a statement, described every unit layout as “carefully designed to maximize the use of internal space and to capitalize on the views of the surroundings.”

The developer also observed that the Phase 2 construction progressed on schedule in the last two and a half years, even though a number of condominium projects in Cebu City, which were launched at the same time as Citylights Gardens, “have been stalled or made no physical progress.”

All four towers sit on a sprawling 4.2-hectare gated community, which involves a combined investment of about P2.6 billion.

Yong said amenities at Citylights Gardens include golf putting green, playground, jogging trail, clubhouse, multi-purpose hall, swimming pools, gym and sauna, barbecue pits, and basketball and tennis courts. (NRC)

http://photos-232.friendster.com/e1/photos/23/23/45253232/1_826423433l.jpg

http://photos-232.friendster.com/e1/photos/23/23/45253232/1_341508088l.jpg

Any updates?

Tia

Any updates?

Tia

There's a new pic on their site http://www.citylightsgardens.com/images/whatsnewimg/Topview.jpg

http://www.citylightsgardens.com/images/whatsnewimg/Topview.jpg

Still, I have to admit, the sales and marketing team for this development really overlooked the potential of the Internet in attracting more investors. I just don't understand how complacent they can be. It's really just a matter of taking the pics and posting them on their already existing website and making sure it's always up to date.

Also they should make sure they have a stable and fast web hosting site. Their website is soooo unstable and slow It's down almost always during the last few days of any month. This is probably the cheapest marketing investment they can make. Web developers are a dime a dozen in Cebu. I don't understand why they can't just hire or contract a decent one.

The more noise they make, the more attention they generate. The more attention they generate, the more potential investors they get. It's Marketing 101 ! Maybe they ditched class that day :ohno:

I have another investment in BGC that sold out even before groundbreaking and I credit that to their savvy marketing -- leveraging the power of the internet to reach buyers overseas.

I'm callig on Vatics ! Dude, take some pics and let's post it in here. I bet other investors like me would want to see more updates. Maybe it will even interest other potential buyers.

JunB

^^

Yeah Vatics, make a website and host it here, http://www.000webhost.com/48282.html



..

Who is the general contractor of this towers? local or foreign?
Constructing both towers 3 and 4 simultaneously is very impressive...

^^ Cebu's very own Primary Structures.... abi nako taga Cebu ka bai!

I've been here for 2years now and I enjoy being here, but of course I know Primary Structures Corp. I think they built the Waterfront Buildings (Hotel, Casino and the Convention Center) and they are also the one doing right now the Ayala Center Cebu Lagoon Project and (e-offices, globe tower, the i-series) in AITP. but I haven't been to the project site pa. Makita lang nko ang tower cranes sa layo but can't read the signage so wala ko kabalo sa contractor.

Do you think they're the best contractor here in Cebu? Well, they have done many great projects naman pud cguro to prove it...

^^ i see, foreigner diay ka...hehehhe....no wonder ang mga post nimo na-ay subtle nga tira...hahhaha....ok lang na bai kung na-a ka'y "say" sa mga projects sa Cebu basta constructive criticism lang....ayaw lang dugangi og mga words nga makapungot...mura man gud naka-minus ka sa mga Cebuano....IMO...PEACE!

@structpoint

tell where you are originally from and i'll also give my comments regarding the structures present in your area...

Do you think they're the best contractor here in Cebu? Well, they have done many great projects naman pud cguro to prove it...

yes! Primary Structures is one of the best in Cebu. I think they are Class A if that is how they are classified.
Most if not all manufacturing plants in MEZ were constructed by them. although those are low rise buildings, you can just imagine the trust and confidence if it is being done by them.

I've been here for 2years now and I enjoy being here, but of course I know Primary Structures Corp. I think they built the Waterfront Buildings (Hotel, Casino and the Convention Center) and they are also the one doing right now the Ayala Center Cebu Lagoon Project and (e-offices, globe tower, the i-series) in AITP. but I haven't been to the project site pa. Makita lang nko ang tower cranes sa layo but can't read the signage so wala ko kabalo sa contractor.

Do you think they're the best contractor here in Cebu? Well, they have done many great projects naman pud cguro to prove it...


^^ i find it odd that you have no comment about citylights' color scheme. hmmm... pero peace! :D

@diehardbisdak
Please don't generalize it... we're talking about projects here and not people (cebuanos).
Did I said something about Cebuanos? WALA. As what I have said, we can say our own opinion whether you like it or not. We're in a democratic country... and hope you know it (you must be the foreigner if you did know it).

Some project should be criticized and some should be appreciated... =)

Barukdok even asked me about Citilights color scheme... so Barukdok, what do you think about Citilights color scheme?

^^ bai, simple ra kaayo ka mo-tira...hehehe!

@diehardbisdak
Please don't generalize it... we're talking about projects here and not people (cebuanos).
Did I said something about Cebuanos? WALA. As what I have said, we can say our own opinion whether you like it or not. We're in a democratic country... and hope you know it (you must be the foreigner if you did know it).

Some project should be criticized and some should be appreciated... =)

Barukdok even asked me about Citilights color scheme... so Barukdok, what do you think about Citilights color scheme?

^^ for its price and location, i think it's not classy enough. ;) the ball's in your court...

we're talking about projects here and not people (cebuanos).

unsa man diay nagpa dagan sa project? tao? or dili?

:bash:^^ for its price and location, i think it's not classy enough. ;) the ball's in your court...


I have over 9million reasons to wish this project well. Having admitted my vested interest, I think I can still be a very objective critic to what I've seen so far.

- Price-wise, I don't think the difference is that much compared to other condo projects in Cebu if you compute it by cost/sqm. Other development may get you in at less than 2M, but you're living in a shoe box. Now, since entry level at this project starts at about 7.5M, that puts its target market at a little bit higher income bracket. Classy enough for you?

- It's location being nowhere near the beach or any of the night spots also eliminates most of the rowdy, short-staying, party minded tourists who wouldn't care about trashing the place anyway as they'd be gone by next week. Instead, you get the long term residents who are more than likely businessmen and expats who will prefer a quieter safer and well maintained neighborhood and would more than likely have their kids living with them and going to the nearby exclusive private schools.

- One big value too is the ratio of open land space / building space. This project wins hands down --- no argument there. This is important because that ratio is directly proportional to privacy.

- On a more personal note, those of us who grew up in Cebu especially in the early 80s will always have some nostalgia for this part of town. This is the "BUKID". No need to explain that. If some of you don't get it, then you're no BISDAK. If you still want to know why, that's your homework for the day !

I wrote above that I will be objective, so here goes...

- I hope they will fix the old Casino building and maybe restore it to its past grandeur (what a freaking cliche!). As it stands when I saw it last (April 08), it is an eyesore.

- The traffic by JY Square has "squared" or maybe even "cubed" since I last remember it in the late 80s when I left. Heck, we used to drag race right by there and the cops wouldn't even dare pursue with their old REACT sakbayans !

- Several unplanned and unpainted homes have sprouted behind the old Cebu Plaza giving the Southern view from the condo an eyesore to behold. I don't know what they can do about that.

This is all I can pull out of my sleepy head right now. I know there are more reasons both ways but I'm not graded for this essay so why make the extra effort :nuts:

JunB

^^ bai @junb, do you have any update about Cebu Boardwalk Mall?

:bash:


I have over 9million reasons to wish this project well. Having admitted my vested interest, I think I can still be a very objective critic to what I've seen so far.

- Price-wise, I don't think the difference is that much compared to other condo projects in Cebu if you compute it by cost/sqm. Other development may get you in at less than 2M, but you're living in a shoe box. Now, since entry level at this project starts at about 7.5M, that puts its target market at a little bit higher income bracket. Classy enough for you?

- It's location being nowhere near the beach or any of the night spots also eliminates most of the rowdy, short-staying, party minded tourists who wouldn't care about trashing the place anyway as they'd be gone by next week. Instead, you get the long term residents who are more than likely businessmen and expats who will prefer a quiter safer and well maintained neighborhood and would more than likely have their kids living with them and going to the nearby exclusive private schools.

- One big value too is the ratio of open land space / building space. This project wins hands down --- no argument there. This is important because that ratio is directly proportional to privacy.

- On a more personal note, those of us who grew up in Cebu especially in the early 80s will always have some nostalgia for this part of town. This is the "BUKID". No need to explain that. If some of you don't get it, then you're no BISDAK. If you still want to know why, that's your homework for the day !

I wrote above that I will be objective, so here goes...

- I hope they will fix the old Casino building and maybe restore it to its past grandeur (what a freaking cliche!). As it stands when I saw it last (April 08), it is an eyesore.

- The traffic by JY Square has "squared" or maybe even "cubed" since I last remember it in the late 80s when I left. Heck, we used to drag race right by there and the cops wouldn't even dare pursue with their old REACT sakbayans !

- Several unplanned and unpainted homes have sprouted behind the old Cebu Plaza giving the Southern view from the condo an eyesore to behold. I don't know what they can do about that.

This is all I can pull out of my sleepy head right now. I know there are more reasons both ways but I'm not graded for this essay so why make the extra effort :nuts:

JunB


JunB,

Relax lang. By "classy enough," I meant the color scheme. Please check my exchange with StructPoint: we were talking about the color scheme, particularly the exterior, an offshoot of a discussion on the skyrise buildings in IT Park. I have no complaints with the interiors of the project or it's other features.

You've made a good investment, so you shouldn't be too concerned about our nitpicking on trivial matters such as aesthetics. off to bed now. :cheers:

^^ bai @junb, do you have any update about Cebu Boardwalk Mall?

I drove by there last March. I didn't mind getting updates as I have 'kinda lost interest in investing there.

It's a still a great project and a great concept, but the infrastructure around it didn't feel right. The opening of Cebu Doc will surely bring more traffic (the good kind) in the area but there doesn't seem to be a master plan. Plus I think it's competing directly with SRP.

I hope I'm wrong, though. I really wish this project well. If only they could come up with a master plan for this area. I fear the ubiquitous sidewalk vendors with their stands/stalls sprouting around and eventually choking the entrance to this site. If unchecked, they tend to take up all the sidewalk space.


JunB

JunB,

Relax lang. By "classy enough," I meant the color scheme. Please check my exchange with StructPoint: we were talking about the color scheme, particularly the exterior, an offshoot of a discussion on the skyrise buildings in IT Park. I have no complaints with the interiors of the project or it's other features.

You've made a good investment, so you shouldn't be too concerned about our nitpicking on trivial matters such as aesthetics. off to bed now. :cheers:

No worries, bai. I find it great to hear all sides of the argument. There may be other perspectives that I haven't even thought of. It makes for a more informed decision.

Also, I was trying to be humorous on that post. I guess my sleepiness didn't show my funny side :) :) :)

- I hope they will fix the old Casino building and maybe restore it to its past grandeur (what a freaking cliche!). As it stands when I saw it last (April 08), it is an eyesore.


...bai, don't worry....your wish will come true.. starting this year or early next year, that place will be renovated/refurbished...thanks to Don Christo Club (a British investor) ....it will be Cebu's answer to Embassy Club in Taguig...kaso lang, i don't like the name...hehehhe...

unsa man diay nagpa dagan sa project? tao? or dili?

Hahay... Cge na, daog naka. :nuts:

No worries, bai. I find it great to hear all sides of the argument. There may be other perspectives that I haven't even thought of. It makes for a more informed decision.

Also, I was trying to be humorous on that post. I guess my sleepiness didn't show my funny side :) :) :)

that's why i enjoy this forum :cheers: keep sharing your insights as well. they'd be pretty useful in helping fellow forumers make wise investment decisions :)

I have over 9million reasons to wish this project well.
JunB

You don't have to wish bai, you have made a very excellent choice when you invested in Citylights...it's already a sure winner. Regarding the old casino, havn't you heard about the news on making it the best nightlife destination in Cebu.

Here is the article from Sunstar

Hollywood in Cebu

HOLLYWOOD entertainment would soon be within the reach of Cebuanos.

This, with the plans of a foreign company to develop a Hollywood-type disco club on the site of the old casino at Nivel Hills in Lahug, Cebu City. The disco club, to be named Don Christo K., is expected to become operational by the end of the year and will include a paradise garden and a restaurant.

The disco club will feature international entertainers, said Chris Karageorges, a British citizen who founded the Don Christo K. Inc., the company that will develop the future entertainment facility. He added that the club will also feature the latest trends in gaming.

Karageorges, who chairs Don Christo K. Inc., holds a long-term lease of the old casino, which used to be operated by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) until the late 1990s.

In a news conference last Saturday, Karageorges said the establishment that he will be putting up will be “luxurious.” “I will bring in the top stars like Shakira and Madonna to perform here,” he added.

The entertainment facility will involve a Euro5-million investment. Despite the size of the investment, Karageorges said the company does not want the club to be identified as an exclusive facility.

Instead of just focusing on the A and B market, the company will also target the C segment since this group has “more in terms of numbers.”

“There will be facilities both for the young and the old,” said Jose Gloria, Don Christo K. Inc. executive director.

Corporate events

The club will also open during the day.

Karageorges said the company’s investment would be put to waste if the club will concentrate on night entertainment. He said the establishment will also become a venue for corporate and social events.

At present, the company is finalizing the details of the project’s design concept. Karageorges said the paradise garden and the restaurant are part of the project’s first phase.

The disco, which has the capacity of 1,000 people, can be converted into a concert hall.

“We will be in full operation just before Christmas,” Karageorges stressed.

Aside from the international performers, Gloria said the company will also tap the entertainment industry in Manila and Cebu.

Gloria, who claims to have a long experience in the casino industry, said the company has made a study of the preferences of the Cebuano market.

“This is also a way of educating the people,” he said, referring to the different kinds of entertainment that can be offered.

With its goal to make the club a landmark destination in Cebu, Don Christo K. Inc. will also be applying for a five-star accreditation from the Department of Tourism, said Gloria.

Once in full operation, Karageorges said the club will have “zero competition” as no one in the country can offer the same concept.

Karageorges is involve in international trading and entertainment. He also added that his expertise is in luxury cruise shipping. (DME)


For Bisaya stories from Cebu. Click here.

(June 10, 2008 issue)

News: Tower 3 will be turned over this month... while Tower 4's targeted completion is on December 2008.

News: Tower 3 will be turned over this month... while Tower 4's targeted completion is on December 2008.

This is Great News. So, first thing I did when I read this was go to their website to check for any updates.

As usual, their website is DOWN AGAIN. It's been down for about 24 hours now. :gaah: :gaah: :gaah: :gaah:

News: Tower 3 will be turned over this month... while Tower 4's targeted completion is on December 2008.

how are you connected to primary structures? honestly?

News: Tower 3 will be turned over this month... while Tower 4's targeted completion is on December 2008.


...how come you seemed so very much familiar now with what's going on with Citylights Garden but you don't know the main contractor... remember, you're asking that question? ....are you playing game with us? :ohno:

pic by @lunatech of flickr!

http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m195/diehardbisdako/lunatech_flickr_pic-1.jpg

^^ you want four more? let's cross our fingers and legs!

^^ yeah, i hope Syntech Properties of Singapore will reconsider their original plan to build 7 towers

News: Tower 3 will be turned over this month... while Tower 4's targeted completion is on December 2008.

I got this info from a blog.. I don't remember the link...

@Barukdok, I am not connected to any of construction companies here in Cebu... though I was previously connected to Cebu Holdings (marketing), that's why I have some infos re AITP. But I am now working for NCR in e-office.

pic by @lunatech of flickr!

http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m195/diehardbisdako/lunatech_flickr_pic-1.jpg

Bai... can't seem to find this pic on flickr!. Are there any other pics of Citylights in there? Is there a better quality one.

Thanks for posting the pic, btw.

JunB

^^ it's because the owner of that pic did not put the "Citylights Gardens" as tag... he only used "cebu" as tag of the pic....kung mag search ka, just used the keyword "cebu" or "citylights cebu" and then click "most recent"...

struct

do you know toni ignacio?

@dive-cebu

I think bai that the 4th tower will be the last tower of Syntech Properties because they will pack their things and head back to Singapore after the launching of the fourth tower. This is the last information that I got from the last time that I visited their office and fixed their HP plotter. But who knows, Syntech Properties will change their mind, go back to Cebu and build another condo in the future. You're right, let's cross our fingers and toes because business is just a matter of supply, demand and creating a need!

...there she is!


flickr pic by @suwaway
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3151/2784834467_279055f984_o.jpg

Any new pics? News?

...with the mighty neighbor Marco Polo Hotel

pic by @LordCarnal
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s223/arnold_carl/cebu_travel/downtown_01.jpg

...with the mighty neighbor Marco Polo Hotel

pic by @LordCarnal
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s223/arnold_carl/cebu_travel/downtown_01.jpg


Thanks Bai. I guess Tower 4 is behind Marco Polo, huh.

Marco Polo just doesn't sound right. I guess for my generation it will always be Cebu Plaza :)

^^ unsa diay imo generation bai? :)

^^ unsa diay imo generation bai? :)

Let me just say that during my generation, Cebu Plaza was the place to hang out ... maskin purdoy kay estudyante pa man. Long before there was the "Bai" disco, there was "Boom".... and it used to be on the right side basement of the hotel as you walk in the lobby.. this was before it was moved to the left basement with the entrance outside the lobby.

There was the Tartanilla Cafe ... long before Starbucks. And there was Lantaw restaurant --- and Minus-One ... long before Videoke.

Y101 studio used to be on the low-rise building too.

And of course before hanging out at Boom, inum una sa ABC kay barato man. Then after Boom, mag human dayon sa Bukid which is behind the Casino.

JunB

^^ that was used to be called the lover's lane.And who would ever forget the bazura bar. Remember Citylights Restobar that was before there condo was built and before GMA 7 was built also that place was used to be an alternative hang out instead of Tops where cars that go boom...
laid back and simple.:rock:

...bai @jun, you forgot to mention Racquette's Bar at the Plaza Club next to Lantaw.....Plaza Club was the home of Y101FM for more than 10 years...when Racquette's was closed, it was replaced by Cebu's answer to Republic of Malate (...the Republic of Cebu) ...pero nasarado nga lang when Metrobank foreclosed the property of Cebu Plaza...

Let me just say that during my generation, Cebu Plaza was the place to hang out ... maskin purdoy kay estudyante pa man. Long before there was the "Bai" disco, there was "Boom".... and it used to be on the right side basement of the hotel as you walk in the lobby.. this was before it was moved to the left basement with the entrance outside the lobby.

There was the Tartanilla Cafe ... long before Starbucks. And there was Lantaw restaurant --- and Minus-One ... long before Videoke.

Y101 studio used to be on the low-rise building too.

And of course before hanging out at Boom, inum una sa ABC kay barato man. Then after Boom, mag human dayon sa Bukid which is behind the Casino.

JunB

Ya.. I forgot that one. Bitaw bai no.. life sure was simpler then.

I also forgot to mention that there was the kit-kit before the text craze -- and you didn't have to worry about running out of load then. The drug of choice was more peace seeking then than the current white powder :lol:

This is the "nostalgia" factor of the Citylights area that I wrote in my previous posts. This part of town will always be very special for my generation. Many an 80s teen lost their virginity here :cheers: :lol:

JunB

PS. There used to be a rag tag billiard hall somewhere accross the casino back then. I can't remember what it was called. Does somebody remember?


...bai @jun, you forgot to mention Racquette's Bar at the Plaza Club next to Lantaw.....Plaza Club was the home of Y101FM for more than 10 years...when Racquette's was closed, it was replaced by Cebu's answer to Republic of Malate (...the Republic of Cebu) ...pero nasarado nga lang when Metrobank foreclosed the property of Cebu Plaza...

^^ a few meters away, outside the cebu plaza compound, was the best sisig in town in "manila" something eatery. sarado na siguro

^^ a few meters away, outside the cebu plaza compound, was the best sisig in town in "manila" something eatery. sarado na siguro

you mean D' Manila? kadto naa videokehan?

^^ o kadto. lami to ilang sisig kay nawong jud sa baboi:cheers:

Any new pics or news of Citylights?

^^ we'll try checking their website

^^ we'll try checking their website

Here's some pics from their Multiply page found at: http://citylightsgardens.multiply.com/

http://images.citylightsgardens.multiply.com/image/5/photos/2/1200x1200/1/87.JPG?et=lA2uhQXUyB%2C8guYpbD1S9Q&nmid=116658217

http://images.citylightsgardens.multiply.com/image/4/photos/2/1200x1200/2/67.JPG?et=daZNbuRe%2BXJIKjWRnD9wtw&nmid=116658217

http://images.citylightsgardens.multiply.com/image/4/photos/2/1200x1200/4/92.JPG?et=yRDJEHBtcoPLXdNN1QaFnQ&nmid=116658217

http://images.citylightsgardens.multiply.com/image/2/photos/2/1200x1200/9/88.JPG?et=v6B2M6n27B7Uez9Q8Uo%2BuA&nmid=116658217


JunB

Here's more hi-res pics form http://citylightsgardens.multiply.com/


http://images.citylightsgardens.multiply.com/image/4/photos/2/1200x1200/5/29.jpg?et=hIkMJ5jHC7kRGV5O4avTbg&nmid=116658217

http://images.citylightsgardens.multiply.com/image/3/photos/2/1200x1200/6/61.JPG?et=MXIUeRorbS7Cr7OxwD0ZDw&nmid=116658217


JunB

Wow!!! nice pictures Jun! Are those balcony views from your unit??

^^ kitang kita yung cebu boardwalk mall, unsa na kahay updates ana ron ?

Wow!!! nice pictures Jun! Are those balcony views from your unit??

No. I have a C unit on building 4. Mine has a water and city view, with a clear shot of SRP. I got this pics from their Multiply page.

I think the pic with a view from inside is a Unit A on building 3. I picked up a building 3 unit A initially, but I was worried about buldings 1 and 2 blocking the view. Plus, just in case I'd retire here, I wanted a 3-bedroom unit. I guess it turned out okay after all.

I tried to map all the angles with Google Earth. According to my crude calculations, Waterfront and the rest of CBP will be blocked from unit the units A of bldg 3. Check my makeshift map:

I roughly estimate that the area inside the triangle is the blind spot for Bldg 3 units A.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3029/2886794151_5c517ed717_o.jpg


It's hard to picture sometimes until you really see the finished product.

JunB

Nothing can beat your city and sea view Jun. Did you get a 2Bd unit in Sapphire??

Nothing can beat your city and sea view Jun. Did you get a 2Bd unit in Sapphire??

Yes. How did you know I have a unit in Sapphire?

2bd units in Fort Bonifacio are now going for P83,000 / sqm. I got mine at P 56k /sqm.

On October 8, Avant at the Fort is raising their pre-selling price by 10%-15%. Be careful though if you're just wanting to make a quick buck by buying before they raise prices. Remember, you have roughly 11% overhead when you dispose off your property. 6% is for "Capital Gains Tax" (which is a misnomer), and another 5% for broker fees.

I really don't understand why they call it "Capital Gains Tax" in the Philippines when you're being taxed for more than your profit. You're even taxed even if you lose money. This is simply stupid !

you buy a property for P 100,000.00
you sell property for P 105,000.00
---------------
Your profit or gain is 5,000.00

You should only be taxed for the P 5,000.00 which is the GAIN from your CAPITAL. However, Philippine "capital gains tax" is 6% of the gross selling price Therefore:

Gross selling price = P 105,000.00
Phil. Capital Gains tax = - 6,300.00
--------------
Net from purchase = P 98,700.00

Pagka dakong alkansi ! :gaah: :gaah: :gaah:

Why then would one invest if you take away from my capital even before I make a profit?

This even does not include broker fees, and documentary stamps, notaries, and your misc expenses following up your paperwork kay hinay kaayo manglihok ang mga tawo sa gobeyrno.

A worse case scenario is if you sell at a loss. Not only will you suffer the loss in value but you get panalized 6% on top of it.

JunB

Tower 3 is already done... right?

Tower 3 is already done... right?

As far as I know (and I may be wrong), Tower 3 and 4 will deliver at the same time on December.

JunB

Yes. How did you know I have a unit in Sapphire?

2bd units in Fort Bonifacio are now going for P83,000 / sqm. I got mine at P 56k /sqm.

On October 8, Avant at the Fort is raising their pre-selling price by 10%-15%. Be careful though if you're just wanting to make a quick buck by buying before they raise prices. Remember, you have roughly 11% overhead when you dispose off your property. 6% is for "Capital Gains Tax" (which is a misnomer), and another 5% for broker fees.

I really don't understand why they call it "Capital Gains Tax" in the Philippines when you're being taxed for more than your profit. You're even taxed even if you lose money. This is simply stupid !

you buy a property for P 100,000.00
you sell property for P 105,000.00
---------------
Your profit or gain is 5,000.00

You should only be taxed for the P 5,000.00 which is the GAIN from your CAPITAL. However, Philippine "capital gains tax" is 6% of the gross selling price Therefore:

Gross selling price = P 105,000.00
Phil. Capital Gains tax = - 6,300.00
--------------
Net from purchase = P 98,700.00

Pagka dakong alkansi ! :gaah: :gaah: :gaah:

Why then would one invest if you take away from my capital even before I make a profit?

This even does not include broker fees, and documentary stamps, notaries, and your misc expenses following up your paperwork kay hinay kaayo manglihok ang mga tawo sa gobeyrno.

A worse case scenario is if you sell at a loss. Not only will you suffer the loss in value but you get panalized 6% on top of it.

JunB

I know about your Sapphire investment because I check those threads once in a while.

Bai, you can apply for exemption sa capital gains tax. You can do this by telling them that it's your primary residence and you are using your proceeds to buy another primary residence. You can only avail of this exemption once every 10 years. Some sellers in the Phil. also let their buyers pay for capital gains tax.

Don't forget the property tax too which is 2% of the assessed value (1.5% for condos) and special education tax which is 1% of the assessed value. For most condos, the assessed value normally used is 50% of the actual sale price of unit but this might not hold true to all developments.

There's a philippine assessesors website I found before showing assessment values or zonal values of properties (land, land with improvement or condos) of different cities in the philippines, if I find it I'll post the link for you.

flickr pic by @JimPrince


> > > scroll > > >
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3280/2924069044_3d54f778fe_b.jpg

^^This photo was probably taken from Marco Polo.

I see tower 3 as done na... no more tower crane napud sa tower 4...

for those buyers who have fully paid their condo unit at Tower 3 or Tower 4, there will be a scheduled early turnover this november ahead of the estimated turnover date this december. the units will be delivered in 4 batches. congrats to all buyers!:okay:

^^ bai @vatics...unsa'y news sa Tower Palace?

for those buyers who have fully paid their condo unit at Tower 3 or Tower 4, there will be a scheduled early turnover this november ahead of the estimated turnover date this december. the units will be delivered in 4 batches. congrats to all buyers!:okay:

hanep, ahead of sched pa... congrats! @vatics, do they(syntech) have plans to re-paint tower 1 and 2. hehehe...

Any updates?

Perhaps someone who has already moved in could provide their opinion?

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3296/3078442641_f3cb16fd06.jpg?v=0
pics taken from one of the rooms of marco polo...:)
taken last week...

^^

Finished na ang construction?