I don't know if it will be the same sa Serendra, but in Boni Ridge, we have never been billed building insurance / machinery insurance and real property tax so I assumed that this is already included in the 75.00 dues that they are charging.

However, it's different in GA Tower, we are being billed building/machinery insurance and property tax annually usually from January to March (3 monthly installment) pro-rated to the size of the unit.

With Serendra, definitely, the entire condo building is insured, ie General Building Insurance. The General Building Insurance is usually included in the condo dues that you'll pay. It's best that you clarify these with your Building Admin/Property Manager/Condominium Corporation - just to be sure.

To summarize, you can clarify with your Property Manager if the following are included in your condo dues:

1) Property Taxes on the common areas
2) General Building Insurance
3) Property Taxes on Equipment -- ex. building generator

Better yet, get a detailed breakdown of your condo dues. As a member of the Condominium Corporation, you have the right to know these costs. All the best to all Serendra unit owners here!

....In the long run, good property management will redound to benefits for the unit owner in terms of appreciation of property values for their condo unit.

Condo board of directors is expected to conduct a yearly special assessment for improvements, which may trigger a raise in the condo monthly dues---so based on your experiences as a condo owner for years now (I assume), then may I ask, what is your average annual condo dues increase? Is it within the general 10% to 20%? Do we ever have any laws that control the maximum annual increase? Thanks! :)

I don't know if it will be the same sa Serendra, but in Boni Ridge, we have never been billed building insurance / machinery insurance and real property tax so I assumed that this is already included in the 75.00 dues that they are charging..

Machinery insurance? First time ko yatang narinig ito…. baka naman pati trash chutes may insurance din...:) :)

Machinery insurance? First time ko yatang narinig ito…. baka naman pati trash chutes may insurance din...:) :)

baka machinery maintenance expenses. may periodic maintenance kasing kailangan para sa gensets and elevators.

something is amiss when condo dues in the philippines equal those in the USA. labor is cheap there, cost of living low, no multi-million dollar litigation insurance to worry about.

it might be better if unit owners in bgc unite and scrutinize all the expenses of various property managers and opt for the ones that can do the best job at the most reasonable price as soon as legally possible. let them compete.

mahal kasi electricity dito sa atin.. kaya mahal ang dues lalo na pag airconditioned ang lobby.. and madaming security guards ang kailangan.. more than half of the dues napupunta lang siguro sa man power..

yung machinery insurance eh para yata sa elevators..

so far hindi pa naman nagtatataas nang dues ang Boni Ridge, still pegged at 75.00 / sqm for 3 years na.

upscale kasi ang one serendra. kaya medyo mataas ang HOA.

I used to live in a middle class condo in the early 90's (princeville in mandaluyong).

sus, impiyerno duon. the son of the owner of the unit above me used to play basketball sa unit nila. I'd complain to the admin, wala namang nangyayari. So I'd to go up to that unit each and every time that spoiled kid bounced his stupid ball. Every time naman he'd stop pero ulit ng ulit. This went on for so long that I was already hoping na iyong erpats na ang makausap ko para magka-suntukan na kami at matapos na.

So I don't mind paying a premium for efficient property managers. I'm older now and my bones take longer to mend :lol:

^^ Di ka lang pala nudist Gen1, basagulero pa! Hehehe...:lol: :lol: :lol:

Uy I came across your post sa Fort Boni Thread in Samahan. Atenista ka rin pala bro and a batch mate too I assume (still guessing who). Yup kitakits tayo sa Ateneo Grand Reunion in 2009 or sooner naman in and around Fort Boni of course. Btw Chito M. also bought in Serendra. Isa rin yong pilyo gaya mo! :) :) :)

^^ nuong bata ako pala away. ngayon, hindi na.

batch mo ang 150th, kaya big time ang reunion niyan. we spent 2.5M for the homecoming last year plus 1M for our beneficiary.

kayo siguro mga 5 M ang gagastahin, homecoming pa lang.

Condo board of directors is expected to conduct a yearly special assessment for improvements, which may trigger a raise in the condo monthly dues---so based on your experiences as a condo owner for years now (I assume), then may I ask, what is your average annual condo dues increase? Is it within the general 10% to 20%? Do we ever have any laws that control the maximum annual increase? Thanks! :)

In general, condo dues are reviewed on a yearly basis, usually at the end or start of the year. Then the Condominium Board of Directors will decide whether to increase the dues or not. Combination of so many factors --- the number of amenities in your condo, manpower needed, open spaces in your condo building, how cost efficient is the property management company. Plus there are are other factors like inflation (ie, increase in wages, increase in electrical rates, increase in materials).

There are no laws that control the maximum annual increase on condo dues.

For your guide, place a 5%-10% increase per year.

so gen1 and 3cr are ateneans pala. sanay na sila sa mahal na gastusan kaya hindi sila nagugulat sa skyrocketing homeowner dues.

^^ No not true. Infact I was actually quite surprised at how expensive the estimated overhead costs can be living in Pinas. Aba mala-America na rin sa mahal ang mga gastusin pala diyan! Grabe tol! :nuts: :nuts: :nuts:



Yikes dapat pala ngayon palang maumpisahan na ang fundraising ng batch namin for the 150th. :) :) :)
^^ nuong bata ako pala away. ngayon, hindi na.

batch mo ang 150th, kaya big time ang reunion niyan. we spent 2.5M for the homecoming last year plus 1M for our beneficiary.

kayo siguro mga 5 M ang gagastahin, homecoming pa lang.

wow!! 5M for a reunion!! pati ba reunion mahal din sa ateneo! hehehe

so gen1 and 3cr are ateneans pala. sanay na sila sa mahal na gastusan kaya hindi sila nagugulat sa skyrocketing homeowner dues.

hindi naman. one of the things we asked our realtor prior to buying was the HOA fee. she told us then mga Php 70-80, so since alam namin na salesperson estimate iyon we allowed Php100 for budget purposes.

@3cr. Last year pa nag-hahanda ang batch mo. This year nagsisimula na ang homecoming committee ninyo sa pagplano ng event itself. tutok si fr. nebres dyan dahil sesquicentenial anniv ng ateneo sa 2009. missing in action ka nga kaya ko pinost yung high school picture mo sa BGC thread :)

^^ Wanted na ba? Hehehe... :) :) :)
Actually just waiting for the unit turnover.
Hopefully by early 2008 I can move back to Manila.

^^(OT) uy 3cr, what's your batch?

^^ Prep to HS (batch 84). Then spent a year and a half of college there too afterwhich my family migrated na. Hopefully balik Pinas na ulit in 2008! :) :) :)



Btw saw Urban Zone yesterday where they showed the model units at Serendra as well as a tour of the shops below including Boni High Street. Very nice. Ganda!

your parents must have thought long and hard before they finally decided to emigrate to the USA the reason not being economic. my case is a no brainer, my family was living in an apt. in sampaloc some rooms of which we had to sublet so we could afford the rent.

^^ Actually sayang naman daw kasi yung American Citizenship ng Tatay ko and the kids can go back naman anytime after that. It was suppose to be a short stay but time went by rather quickly and all of a sudden didn't even notice more than 20 years na pala. Anyway I've been gone for too long already so I thought it's an opportune time to go back to the motherland. Looking forward to going back to Pinas na to explore other opportunities and start enjoying living in Fort Boni as well. Excited na nga eh especially after seeing the Urban Zone episode on Serendra and Boni High Street. Ang Ganda! :) :) :)

Looking forward to going back to Pinas na to explore other opportunities and start enjoying living in Fort Boni as well. Excited na nga eh especially after seeing the Urban Zone episode on Serendra and Boni High Street. Ang Ganda! :) :) :)



speaking of which... IMO, the gardens at One Serendra looks really nice now :okay:

^^ Lauren are the trees around Fort Boni growing nicely and giving good shade already on the pedestrians who walk along the side walk? I saw some pics and looked like the trees are shading the sun pretty good already! :) :) :)

Fort Boni
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v162/pau_p1/around%20manila/DSC04211_1.jpg

^^ unfortunately that may be true for some areas only as most of the trees around BGC are young... maybe in a year or two :)

^^ In that case Umbrella time pa rin pala even when it's not rainy season in Fort Boni. Di bale a year or two is not a long wait. Until then I better make sure I have a decent cap collection to bring back home! :lol:

bring some for us too! hahahha :bash:

^^ In that case Umbrella time pa rin pala even when it's not rainy season in Fort Boni. Di bale a year or two is not a long wait. Until then I better make sure I have a decent cap collection to bring back home! :lol:

^^ Cap at kape. No problem Erwin. :) :) :)

Btw in case anybody is interested here is the latest and greatest Fort Boni project map courtesy of Phoenix_HighRise. Thanks P_H! :) :) :)



Here's an updated map of BGC, inedit ko lang sya thru Photoshop...

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/3205/bgccl0.jpg

Btw in case anybody is interested here is the latest and greatest Fort Boni project map courtesy of Phoenix_HighRise. Thanks P_H! :) :) :)

Wala pa bang thread ang The Aston at Two Serendra ?

^^ Hi Robert. No separate thread yet I'm afraid. All the Aston info so far (including Youtube vids) are all imbedded in this as well as the Fort Boni Global City thread. Hope this helps. :) :) :)

badtrip! nawala crocs ko kanina kasi nasa balcony yun eh may nagaayos daw sa kabilang unit na mga taga eei haay sayang!!

ganon?? ay dapat nireklamo mo sa admin..

tumawag ako agad sa admin mabilis naman silang umaction kaso nasaktuhan ako nagbreak yung mga tao e ininterogate nila pag dating pero wala na talaga e. o well sana nakatulong yun sa nakakuha

i've seen Serendra's court and i was really impressed. very nice. i have yet to see the gym. ang lupit naman ng pang sungkit nung nakakuha nung Crocs.

impressed ako kay 3cr- nagsabi ng batch sa Ateneo. hehe. anyway, OT pero i'm getting annoyed na w/ people who automatically assume that Ateneans are "sanay sa gastusin"... wutdahelldoesdatmean?

impressed ako kay 3cr- nagsabi ng batch sa Ateneo. hehe.

^^ :lol: :lol: :lol: Hehehe...Ok lang yon. Bihira ba umamin ang mga tao sa Pinas Alfonso? Just that the way I look at it, age is but a number and as long as one ages like fine wine, Thank God for all the blessings di ba, Life is too short to sweat over the small stuff! Just like the song says, "Don't Worry Be Happy!" :) :) :)

Thanks for posting the map, Phoenix_HighRise! naks, parang Harry Potter, ah!

Quick question: Serendra is not part of FBDC based on the pink-colored border shown on the map? Is there a diff? I thought the whole grid was part of FBDC.

Shang Grand may not look too grand; I expected a bigger 'Grand' lot for Shang, too. Cheers all! :wave:

Quick question: Serendra is not part of FBDC based on the pink-colored border shown on the map? Is there a diff? I thought the whole grid was part of FBDC.


as far as i know, Serendra is NOT part of FBDC. FBDC is a joint between Ayala & the Campos/Greenfield group. Serendra however is a joint between Ayala and BCDA.

maybe Cynch can clarify :)

Just out of curiosity, I heard pets are so far being allowed/tolerated to roam in and around the park side (middle part) of Boni High Street where kids normally play as well. Just that I'm not aware that there is a dedicated pet/dog park in HighStreet which makes me wonder if pet owners in Pinas are responsible enough to pick up their pet's doo-doo in public places like they are expected to do? I don't know if this common courtesy is practiced there like most people do here in the States which is why I posted the question. Just that it won't be cool to see pet droppings on the ground much more step on them accidentally in such a sosy setting. Just wondering if Ayala has already identified/addressed this potential problem in case this rumor is actually true.

sana nga ganyan sa High Street.. dito sa makati.. yung mga pets nung taga Shang.. nakow.. tuwing hapon na lang nandito sa kahabaan nang Perea St. Tapos pinababayaan lang kung saan saan mag poo poo.. bad trip talaga.. parang mga walang pinag aralan..

Just out of curiosity, I heard pets are so far being allowed/tolerated to roam in and around the park side (middle part) of Boni High Street where kids normally play as well. I am not aware that there is a dedicated pet/dog park in HighStreet which makes me wonder if pet owners in Pinas are responsible enough to pick up their pet's doo-doo in public places like they are expected to do? I don't know why I can't imagine/picture them doing so which was why I posted the question. Just that it won't be cool to see pet droppings on the ground much more step on them accidentally in such a sosy setting. Just wondering if Ayala has already identified/addressed this potential problem.

hindi sila gagasta ng P5M para sa homecoming kung hindi sila exposed sa gastusan. iyan siguro ang ibig sabihin. kung baga ay may tolerance na.

i've seen Serendra's court and i was really impressed. very nice. i have yet to see the gym. ang lupit naman ng pang sungkit nung nakakuha nung Crocs.

impressed ako kay 3cr- nagsabi ng batch sa Ateneo. hehe. anyway, OT pero i'm getting annoyed na w/ people who automatically assume that Ateneans are "sanay sa gastusin"... wutdahelldoesdatmean?

ground floor kasi kami e yung sa highstreet side tabi nung tinatayo na high rise ata ng serendra hindi ko lang sure basta yun hehe magkatabi kami ng balcony with unit 104 ata as in tabi pwede talunin :) haha

yan nga isang observation ko.. yung mga nasa ground floor na units.. eh kayang kayang pasukin yung balcony.. lalo na yung sa side facing market market.. parang hindi secured... don naman sa gitna.. yung ibang balcony parang halaman lang ang takip..

ground floor kasi kami e yung sa highstreet side tabi nung tinatayo na high rise ata ng serendra hindi ko lang sure basta yun hehe magkatabi kami ng balcony with unit 104 ata as in tabi pwede talunin :) haha

Are the garden areas of Serendra for residents only and secured?

I was not a fan of the Serendra exterior before but I must admit its really growing on me now, its looking great :cheers:

too busy (daming vertical stripes gawa ng grills) ang design ng serendra bldg na para bang may ikino-comouflage na objects pero ang landscape naman ay pamatay. pero kung may pera lang ako, bibili parin ako dito.

Are the garden areas of Serendra for residents only and secured?
I was not a fan of the Serendra exterior before but I must admit its really growing on me now, its looking great :cheers:


yes, they are. they can't be accessed without going thru the guarded entrances

too busy (daming vertical stripes gawa ng grills) ang design ng serendra bldg na para bang may ikino-comouflage na objects pero ang landscape naman ay pamatay. pero kung may pera lang ako, bibili parin ako dito.


actually, if beauty of architecture were my primary consideration... i would have bought at TRAG or Shang Grand... but, the laid back atmosphere of Serendra won me over... in the end it was a choice of lifestyle over architecture

^^ Yup BGC is a lifestyle choice indeed! And a very nice one at that! Fort Boni is simply fantastic! :okay: :okay:



Btw saw this ad in Craig's list... Wow P19M (almost P103T/SQM) na ang 3 bdrm unit sa Serendra ngayon. Lucky are those who invested early. Tiba-tiba na by the time you get the keys to your respective units. :okay: :okay:

For Sale: RFO P19M, 3BR One Serendra unit, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: 2007-07-18, 10:52PM PHT

For Sale: RFO P19M, 3BR One Serendra unit, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City

For Sale P19M, 3BR One Serendra unit
185 sqm, 8th floor unit, facing garden and pool, includes 2 parking slots

o sige sasakay na ako sa time machine at rollback natin sa year 2003 para makabili ako ng 3 br. for investment. oops may konting problema. arin nga pala akong pero noong pnanahong niyon... tulad ngayon. lol

^^ eto pa problema #2, ni launch ang serendra 2004 :lol:

as far as i know, Serendra is NOT part of FBDC. FBDC is a joint between Ayala & the Campos/Greenfield group. Serendra however is a joint between Ayala and BCDA.

maybe Cynch can clarify :)

Alam ko Ayala + Campos combined to get the controlling stake for FBDC, and not combined-to-form-FBDC.

hindi sila gagasta ng P5M para sa homecoming kung hindi sila exposed sa gastusan. iyan siguro ang ibig sabihin. kung baga ay may tolerance na.

OT: hindi ka pa siguro nakakapunta sa homecoming ng xavier at ng sa la salle greenhills kaya mo sinasabing malaki ang ginagasta ng atenista sa homecoming :)

we, the sponsoring batch, spent 2.5M for the homecoming last year which was acknowledged as the best grand alumni homecoming in recent memory. it wasn't extravagant and we penny pinched in places where it wouldn't show, but what can i say, 'twas the best :lol:.

badtrip! nawala crocs ko kanina kasi nasa balcony yun eh may nagaayos daw sa kabilang unit na mga taga eei haay sayang!!

shouldn't the security agency have to pay for that loss ? Most contracts with security agencies has that clause.

^^Bakit nangyari yung nakawan na yun? Ngayon pa lang, meron nang ganun, pano pa kaya pag may mga gamit na??

They should beef up their security and be accountable for losses..yan nga ba, ang mahal ng units eh, the security should be foremost in the agenda.

marami pa kasing ginagawa.. maraming construction workers.. kaya ganyan.. sa halos lahat nang condo naman common yan.. pag may mga workers pa.. may mga problemang ganyan..

But STILL!!....... :ohno:

........anyway, baka alam na ang crocs eh P 1,400 sa Bonifacio High Street..hehehe....Ingatan nalang ang mga gamit ng mga nakatira na sa Serendra in the next months kasi may mga gumagawa pa...

:bash:

sabi ng admin nahanap na daw nila pero papalitan nalang daw nila. hehe

I put in an offer for a resale unit at One Serendra Section B. The seller is still thinking about it. If anybody know or have a 1 bedroom unit for sale, PM me.

I put in an offer for a resale unit at One Serendra Section B. The seller is still thinking about it. If anybody know or have a 1 bedroom unit for sale, PM me.

What is your bid per sqm?

What is your bid per sqm?

Going rate is 100k per sq m.

sabi ng admin nahanap na daw nila pero papalitan nalang daw nila. hehe

Nahanap na?!?! Saan, o kanino? Eh bakit papalitan pa nila eh akala ko ba nahanap na "daw"? Ang labo ha.

baga papalitan ng bago kahit nahanap na bayad sa "pain and suffering" ni asdn at hindi na siya magreklamo sa higher up.

kasi parang ang reason nila ninakaw na yun e so ayaw na nila isoli kasi evidence ata dun sa nagnakaw. they saw it sa bag nung worker they asked us pa nga kung ipapakulong namin e shempre sabi ko hindi, sana nga hindi nila tinangalan ng job e natempt lang naman siguro yun.

Going rate is 100k per sq m.

I think you'd be lucky to find a seller at that level. Subtract taxes and there isn't much profit.

^^ P100T/SQM sounds fair imho. Just that the way I look at it the reason is not usually profit driven as to why a certain unit owner will be selling/re-selling their unit in a very desirable project like Serendra this early in the game. It's usually some other (more compelling) reason and they just want to re-coup if possible what ever has already been invested (sunk-cost) so far.

I put in an offer for a resale unit at One Serendra Section B. The seller is still thinking about it. If anybody know or have a 1 bedroom unit for sale, PM me. Going rate is 100k per sq m.

^^ ^^ sorry boe, i'd have to agree with taff on this one
before i left manila last month, cynch was telling me that 1BR resells for serendra are at 9M; whereas only 6 months prior, the rate was at 7.5M

^^ same here... i agree with tafftrader too... about a month ago, i was told that the smallest 1 br (65 sqm) could go for something like 8.2

^^ ^^ sorry boe, i'd have to agree with taff on this one
before i left manila last month, cynch was telling me that 1BR resells for serendra are at 9M; whereas only 6 months prior, the rate was at 7.5M
^^ Wow if that's the case how much per square meter would that come out then Bart? Without a doubt Cynch is pretty much on top of things so I'm sure her numbers are spot on. Did she mention if that rate/pricing she quoted is with parking included in the resale unit price already? I knew Serendra has appreciated much but to my pleasant surprise not by that much. Lucky are those who have invested early! Congrats! Now I'm quite intrigued to know what's the current general acceptable mark-up between pre-sell units and ready to move-in units within the same Fort Boni development/project? Hopefully such demand for RTM (ready to move-in) units is not only true of Serendra's case but also pretty much across the board for similar class projects in Fort Boni. :)

^^ same here... i agree with tafftrader too... about a month ago, i was told that the smallest 1 br (65 sqm) could go for something like 8.2 ^^ Wow over P125T/SQM for a RTM (ready to move in) unit. Is this with or without VAT and parking slot Lauren? Lalong nagmahal na talaga sa Serendra. :)

Guess mura pa pala ito kung ganoon...

Btw saw this ad in Craig's list... Wow P19M (almost P103T/SQM) na ang 3 bdrm unit sa Serendra ngayon. Lucky are those who invested early. Tiba-tiba na by the time you get the keys to your respective units. :okay: :okay:

For Sale: RFO P19M, 3BR One Serendra unit, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: 2007-07-18, 10:52PM PHT

For Sale: RFO P19M, 3BR One Serendra unit, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City

For Sale P19M, 3BR One Serendra unit
185 sqm, 8th floor unit, facing garden and pool, includes 2 parking slots

^^ Wow over P125T/SQM for a RTM (ready to move in) unit. Is this with or without VAT and parking slot Lauren? Lalong nagmahal na talaga sa Serendra. :)


Boe, all units at One Serendra automatically come with parking slots depending on the size (1 slot for 1 br)... no VAT if the reseller is not engaged in buying & selling of real property... the seller has to pay capital gains tax though (among others)

August 11, 2007

Two Serendra's 11th Avenue drop off

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/SSC_0472.jpg

Boe, all units at One Serendra automatically come with parking slots depending on the size (1 slot for 1 br)... no VAT if the reseller is not engaged in buying & selling of real property... the seller has to pay capital gains tax though (among others)
^^ Thanks for the info Lauren. Ahh so the current rate of P125T/SQM is inclusive of parking already and no VAT for the said resale units. I assume it will be even more expensive if the unit is in section A because it's suppose to be the more exclusive and higher class section Right?

^^ hehe! i wish! nah, all sections of One Serendra have the same finish etc... we share all the amenities too so we're all practically equal... the only difference is we got our units first :)

^^ Ahh OK mali nanaman ako. Take three...So is it One Serendra visavis Two Serendra that has different size units and better ammenities between the two? I'm batting 0 for 2 and about to strike out! Hehehe...:lol: :lol: :lol:

^^ tumpak! :lol: One Serendra and Two Serendra are targetted at different markets so, yup, finishes, amenities, unit sizes, etc... are different

^^ Thank You Lauren. :)

August 11, 2007

Sections C & D, One Serendra

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/08112007016.jpg

There's been a 2br unit on craigs list for quite some time priced at 14.5 million.

^^ P100T/SQM sounds fair imho. Just that the way I look at it the reason is not usually profit driven as to why a certain unit owner will be selling/re-selling their unit in a very desirable project like Serendra this early in the game. It's usually some other (more compelling) reason and they just want to re-coup if possible what ever has already been invested (sunk-cost) so far.

The full cost of the unit would have been invested already. Sure, there are some people who will have financial issues, rush sales etc. But, even those would be foolish to sell for a loss unless desperate.

...and this is only Serendra 1. :lol:
I wonder what would be the future prices when all phases of Serendra is completed?

Congrats to the early investors! :banana:


What implications will this do to the BGC condo prices?
I wonder if its going to pull everybody's prices up?

Can anybody still afford these condos in the future? :lol:
(especially if they have to pay in cash or get a loan with high interest rates)

I hope that the Real Estate (especially BGC) won't be like some parts here in the US.
After 3 or 4 years of intense appreciation in the real estate market, thing have cooled down and prices have dropped.
I know its a different market, I'm just saying that I hope and pray that this BOOM will last a long time.

imo,bababa rin iyan kapag naging negative na namn ang outlook sa economy. pero over time pag napuno na ang bgc, lalong tataas na iyan dahil wala ng lugar mag build. jackpot na ang mga landowners/homeowners sa perimeter dahil malaki na ang magiging offers sa properties nila.kawawa naman ang mga squatters dahil paaalisin na sila.

There's been a 2br unit on craigs list for quite some time priced at 14.5 million.

Yes. Seen that one. But, HOW BIG IS IT??? Why advertise a condo with no measurements. The price means nothing without the size of the unit!:ohno:

I'm not sure. Also seen a 2 bedroom (135 sqm) for
Php 15M on Ayalaland homes web site.

wow 8.5 mill for a one bedroom. what was the preselling price of the one bedroom?

the seller may lower his asking price based on how desperate and quickly he wants to dispose of the unit.

more relevant question is how much did the latest similar unit sold? anyone is free to sell his/her property at any amount he/she wishes but will it sell?

Well, with the market meltdown in the US, I think you will be seeing a few resales popping up in the near future. Many are overleveraged and if the choice is losing one's home in the US or their condo in the Philippines, most will sell at a loss or at the same price they paid for 2-3 years ago in USD terms. You can advertise 8M for a 60 sq m condo, but there won't be a lot of takers.

I got offered another 2.5 bedroom + maid in Fort Boni Ridge for 9.5M including parking.

^^ how bad is the meltdown ?

I'm of the impression though that the subprime borrowers would be the younger, less financially astute buyers of their first homes. Many of the BGC fil-am buyers are in their late 40's and early 50's and are nearing full payment of their stateside homes' mortgages.

Well, with the market meltdown in the US, I think you will be seeing a few resales popping up in the near future. Many are overleveraged and if the choice is losing one's home in the US or their condo in the Philippines, most will sell at a loss or at the same price they paid for 2-3 years ago in USD terms. You can advertise 8M for a 60 sq m condo, but there won't be a lot of takers.

I got offered another 2.5 bedroom + maid in Fort Boni Ridge for 9.5M including parking.

i hate to point out the obvious, but boni ridge is NOT serendra

^^ add to that... boni ridge units are all 2.5BR at 113 sqm... during my condo hunting days 2 years ago, they were selling at between 7.5M to 10M depending on the view of the unit (at that time a similar sized 2BR at One Serendra was going at 9.5M).

Boni Ridge was a Metro Pacific project and Ayala merely took over the marketing and property management.

Yes. Seen that one. But, HOW BIG IS IT??? Why advertise a condo with no measurements. The price means nothing without the size of the unit!:ohno:

wow 8.5 mill for a one bedroom. what was the preselling price of the one bedroom?

the seller may lower his asking price based on how desperate and quickly he wants to dispose of the unit.


1 BR at One Serendra range from about 65 sqm to 85 sqm so yeah price quotes should come with sqm too so as not to mislead

^^ the veranda is also included in the square footage, so the interior space is commonly between 9 - 14 square meters smaller if it has a veranda (most one serendra units have them).

is the veranda also included in property tax computation? homeowner dues computation?what about the garage?

ang pacific-plaza ay metro pacific project din ba?

if all units have a parking slot, the size of the parking slot is NOT usually added to the dues. It's only added when parking slot is an option, so when you have a parking slot, you pay dues for the parking in this case. Just based on my experience.

is the veranda also included in property tax computation? homeowner dues computation?what about the garage?

i hate to point out the obvious, but boni ridge is NOT serendra

I have been to Serendra and the low rise apartments (no offense) look like new public housing in the City of Chicago...I have not seen Boni Ridge but aren't they in the same neighborhood?

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.designadvisor.org/images/wentworth_1.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.designadvisor.org/green/wentworth.htm&h=347&w=450&sz=125&hl=en&start=55&um=1&tbnid=VKtWafebN3vBIM:&tbnh=98&tbnw=127&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dpublic%2Bhousing%2Bin%2Bchicago,%2BIL%26start%3D40%26ndsp%3D20%26svnum%3D10%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26ie%3DUTF-8

ang pacific-plaza ay metro pacific project din ba?


yup! but they're definitely not for the same target market... IMO, kind of like Century Properties' essensa versus soma/soho projects

boni ridge is at the other side of BGC (near kalayaan flyover).. approx 1KM away from Serendra..


I have been to Serendra and the low rise apartments (no offense) look like new public housing in the City of Chicago...I have not seen Boni Ridge but aren't they in the same neighborhood?

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.designadvisor.org/images/wentworth_1.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.designadvisor.org/green/wentworth.htm&h=347&w=450&sz=125&hl=en&start=55&um=1&tbnid=VKtWafebN3vBIM:&tbnh=98&tbnw=127&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dpublic%2Bhousing%2Bin%2Bchicago,%2BIL%26start%3D40%26ndsp%3D20%26svnum%3D10%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26ie%3DUTF-8

I have been to Serendra and the low rise apartments (no offense) look like new public housing in the City of Chicago...I have not seen Boni Ridge but aren't they in the same neighborhood?

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.designadvisor.org/images/wentworth_1.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.designadvisor.org/green/wentworth.htm&h=347&w=450&sz=125&hl=en&start=55&um=1&tbnid=VKtWafebN3vBIM:&tbnh=98&tbnw=127&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dpublic%2Bhousing%2Bin%2Bchicago,%2BIL%26start%3D40%26ndsp%3D20%26svnum%3D10%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26ie%3DUTF-8


you've been inside serendra? IMO, ^^those are more Cityland sized units & finishes... BTW, apartment, flat, pad... don't they all refer to the same thing?

Hello to everyone! I'm new to this forum and I really love all the information and ideas from you guys. Been reading everything from Serendra to entire BGC plan. I think BGC is the best location so far, away from other congested areas in Metro Manila.

^^ the veranda is also included in the square footage, so the interior space is commonly between 9 - 14 square meters smaller if it has a veranda (most one serendra units have them).


not so for sections D & E... there's only a handful of 1 BR with balcony and they're only approx 5 sqm... most if not all the special 1 BRs have pop out (bay) windows instead

you've been inside serendra? IMO, ^^those are more Cityland sized units & finishes... BTW, apartment, flat, pad... don't they all refer to the same thing?

You can actually check out the other low-cost housing developments...click the arrow on the left hand side to see other the projects and you will find nicer project designs.

Yes, I have seen the standard finishes of the units at Serendra...I was in Manila last June...I was told that buyers have to spend another million pesos just to make the units livable...maybe an exageration... but the units are sold definitely not on turn-key basis...

"BTW, apartment, flat, pad... don't they all refer to the same thing?" - don't get what you mean?

I like public housing in the US. It's very solidly built and utilitarian. Very cheap to rent too.

My tita (first generation fil-am) used to live in one of those buildings in oakland and my cousins held on to the unit for as long as they can.

the neighbors can be nasty though.

who said that??

serendra units are turned over fully finished.. so you can already move in and stay there.

You can actually check out the other low-cost housing developments...click the arrow on the left hand side to see other the projects and you will find nicer project designs.

Yes, I have seen the standard finishes of the units at Serendra...I was in Manila last June...I was told that buyers have to spend another million pesos just to make the units livable...maybe an exageration... but the units are sold definitely not on turn-key basis...

"BTW, apartment, flat, pad... don't they all refer to the same thing?" - don't get what you mean?

flat - brit term for a rental unit in a residential building
apartment - yank term for a rental unit in a residential building

@ lazybum - the two points you brought up don't really mean much
there are a bunch of developments within fort bonifacio but they are targeted to different markets (and are therefore priced differently). just within serendra, as has been previously stated, One and Two serendra are very different. now with regards to chicago public housing, do they come with all the amenities serendra offers?

serendra units only come with the range hood. The rest of the appliances and furniture, you have to buy.

1M is a pretty good estimate of what you'll spend for a 1Bdrm if you plan on keeping up with the jones's.

If you plan on shopping at SM for furniture and basic appliacnes, I guess 250K would be enough.

very interesting discussion. everyone has a point. although i sense some tension, participants are very civil and are sticking to the issue. how professional!

actually some newer low cost housings in the states look pretty good. very trendy and modern. I don't think it comes with the same amenities and convenience of location as Serendra though.

who said that??

serendra units are turned over fully finished.. so you can already move in and stay there.

I sensed that I am getting myself in trouble here..."finished" is a relative term...ceramic tiles in kitchen or laminate flooring is not the same as hardwood flooring... airconditioning units are installed on windows...cabinetries in kitchen/bedroom are made of fiberboard materials...lighting fixtures are bare bulbs? Will it really take a million pesos in upgrades to make the unit look like those out of Architectural Digest?

in santa cruz california, for condo developers to get a bldg permit, they must allocate between 5 to 10% of their unit to low income people. they can select which unit they like. this is a better way of integrating families of different income levels. they are trying it in san jose too.

wow i wish they did that in the phils too. :lol: it will never happen. maybe when hell freezes over. the supermarkets can't even give you a free extra plastic bag.

flat - brit term for a rental unit in a residential building
apartment - yank term for a rental unit in a residential building

:lol: No I mean I don't get the relevance of th question...

in santa cruz california, for condo developers to get a bldg permit, they must allocate between 5 to 10% of their unit to low income people. they can select which unit they like. this is a better way of integrating families of different income levels. they are trying it in san jose too.

uhmmm. . . ehrmmmm. . . how is one be selected for that privilege ?

where can I apply ? :lol:

@ lazybum - the two points you brought up don't really mean much
there are a bunch of developments within fort bonifacio but they are targeted to different markets (and are therefore priced differently). just within serendra, as has been previously stated, One and Two serendra are very different. now with regards to chicago public housing, do they come with all the amenities serendra offers?

I thought BGC is the new modern Forbes park??? So the mixed markets allow low-lifers to rub elbows with the high-flyers? :lol: :lol:

finished as in hardwood flooring, toilet tiles, kitchen cabinets, tops, painted wall.. point is, it's liveable.. but if you like it to be like a model unit.. then sky is the limit on how much you can spend.

I sensed that I am getting myself in trouble here..."finished" is a relative term...ceramic tiles in kitchen or laminate flooring is not the same as hardwood flooring... airconditioning units are installed on windows...cabinetries in kitchen/bedroom are made of fiberboard materials...lighting fixtures are bare bulbs? Will it really take a million pesos in upgrades to make the unit look like those out of Architectural Digest?

gen1, one must be a legal resident of santa cruz, in the low income bracket and has good credit rating. the waiting line is long though. for the lucky ones, they won't be able to sell their units at the prevailing market price until after 30 years. If they decide to sell them early, the city dictates the price and award the unit to whoever is next in line. the sellers will still make money but not as much as those who paid full price for it.

this seems fair to me.

finished as in hardwood flooring, toilet tiles, kitchen cabinets, tops, painted wall.. point is, it's liveable.. but if you like it to be like a model unit.. then sky is the limit on how much you can spend.

Dvorak - you hit it right in the head...I know you are the smart one around here. so you have to pay what 7-9 million pesos for a unit that is...well...liveable???:lol:

you always have a choice.. there are units at other condos in BGC that are offering model unit finishes for the same price (even lesser) of those units at Serendra.

Dvorak - you hit it right in the head...I know you are the smart one around here. so you have to pay what 7-9 million pesos for a unit that is...well...liveable???:lol:

not so for sections D & E... there's only a handful of 1 BR with balcony and they're only approx 5 sqm... most if not all the special 1 BRs have pop out (bay) windows instead

Hi Lauren! I'll need to verify this with my sales resource, but I remember my balcony was not included in the footage calculation. :) btw, thanks for the latest pics!

I sensed that I am getting myself in trouble here..."finished" is a relative term...ceramic tiles in kitchen or laminate flooring is not the same as hardwood flooring... airconditioning units are installed on windows...cabinetries in kitchen/bedroom are made of fiberboard materials...lighting fixtures are bare bulbs? Will it really take a million pesos in upgrades to make the unit look like those out of Architectural Digest?

Hi Lazybum! You are not in trouble at all; this is all about learning and connections.
Tiles and laminate flooring are usually called 'standard finishes' and are included in the 'finishing' of a home/condo here in SoCal. 'Upgrades' of finishes can be hardwood, travertine, tumbled-stone floorings, marble, corian or granite countertops, plusher carpets, mirrored wardrobes, casement windows, shutters, crown mouldings, built-ins, (Architectural-Digest-wanna-be), etc. All these come with additional costs. Kitchen cabinetries' interiors are usually fiberboard materials except the facia -flat or raised wooden panels which again means added cost. Along with pre-wired for latest and greatest gizmo tech, soft water treatment, temperature-controlled wine cellar, temp-controlled master closet, the latest lighting and sound systems set-up, fiber-optic cables, etc. You get what you pay for. One can spend as much as one wants to spruce up one's pad, it all depends on priorities and personal choices. If I'll live in it full-time, I just might splurge, but if not, the most minimum will be the logical way.

Serendra is all about amenities, beautiful grounds, and location, location, location! I did not put the highest expectations with the materials and its a hope-for-the-best attitude with regards to its construction (think earthquake). That being said, I have no regrets and would do it again; it is still a great investment - financial as well as personal - look at all the friends I've found and cherish - timeless, priceless! cheers :)

Dvorak - you hit it right in the head...I know you are the smart one around here. so you have to pay what 7-9 million pesos for a unit that is...well...liveable???:lol:

It’s “livable” all right, but “I can’t stand the inside features of my condo” is what I am expecting. For instance, I’m not a big fan of Serendra’s kitchen cabinetry’s “frame and panel” door style, along with the ugly maple color—the cabinetry appears mediocre and cheap. Ayala could have at least used the “recessed” cabinet door panel style IMO.

The more I need to renovate, the more time I loose. Time is of the essence work-wise, especially when you live 15,000 miles away!

Hi Lauren! I'll need to verify this with my sales resource, but I remember my balcony was not included in the footage calculation. :) btw, thanks for the latest pics!



Hi Lazybum! You are not in trouble at all; this is all about learning and connections.
Tiles and laminate flooring are usually called 'standard finishes' and are included in the 'finishing' of a home/condo here in SoCal. 'Upgrades' of finishes can be hardwood, travertine, tumbled-stone floorings, marble, corian or granite countertops, plusher carpets, mirrored wardrobes, casement windows, shutters, crown mouldings, built-ins, (Architectural-Digest-wanna-be), etc. All these come with additional costs. Kitchen cabinetries' interiors are usually fiberboard materials except the facia -flat or raised wooden panels which again means added cost. Along with pre-wired for latest and greatest gizmo tech, soft water treatment, temperature-controlled wine cellar, temp-controlled master closet, the latest lighting and sound systems set-up, fiber-optic cables, etc. You get what you pay for. One can spend as much as one wants to spruce up one's pad, it all depends on priorities and personal choices. If I'll live in it full-time, I just might splurge, but if not, the most minimum will be the logical way.

Serendra is all about amenities, beautiful grounds, and location, location, location! I did not put the highest expectations with the materials and its a hope-for-the-best attitude with regards to its construction (think earthquake). That being said, I have no regrets and would do it again; it is still a great investment - financial as well as personal - look at all the friends I've found and cherish - timeless, priceless! cheers :)

May I ask how many bedroom(s) is your condo at Serendra?

I thought BGC is the new modern Forbes park??? So the mixed markets allow low-lifers to rub elbows with the high-flyers? :lol: :lol:


this is the first time i've ever heard of that :lol: Forbes Park is an exclusive residential enclave while BGC is supposed to become a CBD

serendra condo owners having bought an expensive property should have been given an option to upgrade their units prior to turnover. most of these a people are willing to spend a good sum of money anyway.

I thought BGC is the new modern Forbes park??? So the mixed markets allow low-lifers to rub elbows with the high-flyers? :lol: :lol:
there are low lifes in every income level
let's just say some are able to fly higher than others :)

serendra condo owners having bought an expensive property should have been given an option to upgrade their units prior to turnover. most of these a people are willing to spend a good sum of money anyway.
and who would take the responsibility if during the upgrades things get messed up? who would supervise the upgrades being undertaken BEFORE the turnover?

the contract between ayala and the purchaser is for a delivery of a unit with certain features. from my experience, ayala has done their best to ensure customer satisfaction within contract limitations. take the wood parquet floor as an example, if the owner sees objectionable imperfections, ayala has been willing to either repair or remove and replace accordingly.
ask lauren about her floor. :)
folks, one of the reasons one serendra was a little late for occupancy is ayala's meticulous QA. i was there almost everyday from the last week of april til the last week of july. seemingly perfect marble tiles were being replaced just because of subtle shade differences, etc.

It’s “livable” all right, but “I can’t stand the inside features of my condo” is what I am expecting. For instance, I’m not a big fan of Serendra’s kitchen cabinetry’s “frame and panel” door style, along with the ugly maple color—the cabinetry appears mediocre and cheap. Ayala could have at least used the “recessed” cabinet door panel style IMO.

The more I need to renovate, the more time I loose. Time is of the essence work-wise, especially when you live 15,000 miles away!
didn't you know beforehand about the "features you can't stand"? yet you bought anyway. enough said.

this is the first time i've ever heard of that :lol: Forbes Park is an exclusive residential enclave while BGC is supposed to become a CBD

Exactly, Forbes Park is a super exclusive village/gated community (houses) while BGC is a city.
Apples and oranges!

When I see a model unit and get WOWed by it. I sometimes forget that its the model unit and not the actual unit.
So I have to know what really goes into the turnover unit...
In an ideal world I wish they could have the turnover unit and the model unit side by side. But I know that will never happen...

If you are up to it. It would be better to buy a unit at "ready to recieve" cost. So when you end up finishing it,
you don't have to pay double (for the stuff that you want to replace).

Mahal talaga sa Serendra (per sq.m) - Di kaya ng powers ko :lol:
I really thought hard about it but I opted to go on a different direction.
It was a hard choice but I think with my investment plan it was right for me.

+ Factors
* Ayala is the developer (enough said)
* Big Garden in the Middle.
* Close to Bonifacio High Street and Market Market.
* High appreciation in value.
* It will an Icon in living lifstyle.

- Factors (Hope I don't offend anybody)
* Location (was too close to C-5)
* Has a tenement house look (no offense - that was my 1st impression) (but now as I look at it more - i'm starting to like the look)
* High monthly dues
* If I ever sell in the future. I might have limited buyers.

My point is... before you spend and commit to something this expensive try to know as much detail as you possibly can.
So you are aware what you are buying and getting yourself into.
So there would be no suprises.

didn't you know beforehand about the "features you can't stand"? yet you bought anyway. enough said.

Wow I don’t want to be near BartMan when he’s ticked-off...:lol: Well, read my message again. I just said that I’m looking forward to moving in to a condo that won't be in conformity with my personal preferences--which I expect a redesign. I am not complaining; I’m merely pointing out that the cabinetry (IMO) is below average--and that's criticizing and not complaining at all.

Of course I've read and understood the STANDARD features. Oh btw, since Ayala's products are customer-centric, it's best practice and constructive IMO to criticize big businesses like Ayala (they learn from their buyers like us). Hmmmm, I wonder why you haven’t posted a message criticizing Ayala yet—marami ka bang Ayala shares na nabili? Just kidding—peace!

and who would take the responsibility if during the upgrades things get messed up? who would supervise the upgrades being undertaken BEFORE the turnover? [the developer, AYALA! In the U.S.,buyers have options to upgrade, which is provided by the developers]
the contract between ayala and the purchaser is for a delivery of a unit with certain features. from my experience, ayala has done their best [ but not good enough IMO. Delays, (3 months) would be unbearable for some of us] to ensure customer satisfaction within contract limitations. take the wood parquet floor as an example, if the owner sees objectionable imperfections, ayala has been willing to either repair or remove and replace accordingly.
ask lauren about her floor. :)
folks, one of the reasons one serendra was a little late for occupancy is ayala's meticulous QA--[Quality Assurance IMO is not there yet for Ayala]. i was there almost everyday from the last week of april til the last week of july. seemingly perfect marble tiles were being replaced just because of subtle shade differences, etc.

reply

Wow I don’t want to be near BartMan when he’s ticked-off...:lol: Well, read my message again. I just said that I’m looking forward to moving in to a condo that won't be in conformity with my personal preferences--which I expect a redesign. I am not complaining; I’m merely pointing out that the cabinetry (IMO) is below average--and that's criticizing and not complaining at all.

Of course I've read and understood the STANDARD features. Oh btw, since Ayala's products are customer-centric, it's best practice and constructive IMO to criticize big businesses like Ayala (they learn from their buyers like us). Hmmmm, I wonder why you haven’t posted a message criticizing Ayala yet—marami ka bang Ayala shares na nabili? Just kidding—peace!
believe me, i've pointed out lots of my "observations" to both the serendra admin staff and to ayala's customer relations department.
and about me criticizing ayala? you'll see some if you dig deep enough :)

and who would take the responsibility if during the upgrades things get messed up? who would supervise the upgrades being undertaken BEFORE the turnover? the developer, AYALA! In the U.S.,buyers have options to upgrade, which is provided by the developers
if it's the upgrades that a buyer contracted with ayala to undertake, i agree wholeheartedly. you didn't know ayala did this?

there are low lifes in every income level
let's just say some are able to fly higher than others :)

:lol: natawa naman ako dito....well Im sure, you will not find the thugs, riff-raffs, and gangbangers at the Serendra. In contrast to those who live in the HUD projects where you have a beeline for food stamps and SSI checks at the end of the month. :lol:

:lol: natawa naman ako dito....well Im sure, you will not find the thugs, riff-raffs, and gangbangers at the Serendra. In contrast to those who live in the HUD projects where you have a beeline for food stamps and SSI checks at the end of the month. :lol:


maybe some rich rappers or gangsta drug dealers... :lol: joke joke...

he he he . this will lighten up the discussion a bit.

the only difference between a rich thug and a poor thug is the way his lawyer dresses up :lol:

I also have my beef against ayala land. even prior to construction, they are unwilling to do modifications on your unit. (I had wanted to remove the maids room partition wall to allow for extra space in my living room - no dice, they can't do it)

and my biggest complaint - the sales person who handled my account wanted to penalize me a few hundred grand for an error that was patently not my fault but theirs.

It was a good thing the former head of ayala land, tj limacaoco, was ateneo 2005 homecoming chair and I was part of ateneo 2006 homecoming committee. I asked TJ for the favor so the penalty was waived :).

That should be another reason for you to renew ties with classmates, @3cr :)

the contract between ayala and the purchaser is for a delivery of a unit with certain features. from my experience, ayala has done their best to ensure customer satisfaction within contract limitations. take the wood parquet floor as an example, if the owner sees objectionable imperfections, ayala has been willing to either repair or remove and replace accordingly.
ask lauren about her floor. :)
folks, one of the reasons one serendra was a little late for occupancy is ayala's meticulous QA. i was there almost everyday from the last week of april til the last week of july. seemingly perfect marble tiles were being replaced just because of subtle shade differences, etc.


^^ that sounds like my experience :lol: they replaced all the narra parquet... as in everything from the living & dining area, foyer, hallway, bedrooms & WIC. also replaced the granite counter tops in the kitchen which had a slight greyish streak and the marble counter & ledge in the common bathroom which were less than perfect.

don't forget the windows lauren :)

how did lauren's unit pass qa before showing it to her? were they hoping she will not notice these imperfections?

how did lauren's unit pass qa before showing it to her? were they hoping she will not notice these imperfections?


on the contrary... she saw/pointed out most of them :okay:


add:
just in case you're wondering why they'd ask me to inspect my unit when the QA still saw some defects... actually, they didn't... i told them when i wanted to check out my unit and they accomodated my requests

wow tha'ts very good then. they did not offer any excuses like "ganyan yan talaga" but correct those to your satisfaction instead. i hope soma give me that kind of service too. thanks lauren, i'll keep this in mind during my unit's inspection toward the end of the year.

Hi ProjM,
To answer your Q on what unit I got, I purchased a studio at 2Serendra. I hope I'm getting the most bang for the buck, if the price quips here are true. I did get a parking spot for it.
I went very conservatively, since it is meant to be a half-way house, or possibly a rental. Best! :)

The full cost of the unit would have been invested already. Sure, there are some people who will have financial issues, rush sales etc. But, even those would be foolish to sell for a loss unless desperate.

Well, with the market meltdown in the US, I think you will be seeing a few resales popping up in the near future. Many are overleveraged and if the choice is losing one's home in the US or their condo in the Philippines, most will sell at a loss or at the same price they paid for 2-3 years ago in USD terms. You can advertise 8M for a 60 sq m condo, but there won't be a lot of takers.


^^ That's true Tafftrader. It really boils down on how quick and desperate they are to unload because of whatever reason they may have. And that's my thinking too Arnold (though maybe not at the price they got it for 2-3 years ago) which was why I said P100T/SQM was a fair initial/starting offer since wala naman mawawala though after reading some of the posts, the feedback was it's still not a competitive offer. At P125/SQM, that's 25% equity appreciation from the current pre-selling rate of P100/SQM and these early buyers got their units at an even much lower rate than that so they may be more willing to sell/settle for less than P125/SQM though this does not address the demand side of the equation. Of course the seller will take the highest offer one can get. Anyway it's only an initial offer so it will be easy to offer more if you want when/if the owner rejects/counter-offers, while I can't say the same if you offer top money already this early in the negotiations. Like you, I wouldn't be surprised if there will be more units that will be popping up in the re-sale market given the situation you've mentioned above so you can play the waiting game with the hope that the seller may eventually be more negotiable depending on the actual demand for the unit in the open market. Besides you're the one with the money so you have the luxury of time to wait until the right one comes along. But the flip side of this is prices might go up even higher if you wait too long. This is where a good realestate consultant can come in as she/he can give you the pulse of the market as well as other options out there. Anyway it won't cost you to hire one as the seller will be the one to take care of her/his fees. Just my two cents of course so please take this with a grain of salt. Good Luck on your search! :)

in santa cruz california, for condo developers to get a bldg permit, they must allocate between 5 to 10% of their unit to low income people. they can select which unit they like. this is a better way of integrating families of different income levels. they are trying it in san jose too.
uhmmm. . . ehrmmmm. . . how is one be selected for that privilege ? where can I apply ? :lol:
gen1, one must be a legal resident of santa cruz, in the low income bracket and has good credit rating. the waiting line is long though. for the lucky ones, they won't be able to sell their units at the prevailing market price until after 30 years. If they decide to sell them early, the city dictates the price and award the unit to whoever is next in line. the sellers will still make money but not as much as those who paid full price for it.

this seems fair to me.


^^ Just inquire from the developer of the project you fancy. Aside from residency and selling restrictions, some of the requirements I know are: There's an income limitation (low income daw) as well as one has to fit their definition of a 1st time home buyer. Hope this helps! :)

I also have my beef against ayala land. even prior to construction, they are unwilling to do modifications on your unit. (I had wanted to remove the maids room partition wall to allow for extra space in my living room - no dice, they can't do it)

and my biggest complaint - the sales person who handled my account wanted to penalize me a few hundred grand for an error that was patently not my fault but theirs.

It was a good thing the former head of ayala land, tj limacaoco, was ateneo 2005 homecoming chair and I was part of ateneo 2006 homecoming committee. I asked TJ for the favor so the penalty was waived :).

That should be another reason for you to renew ties with classmates, @3cr :) ^^ Yup that's the plan! :okay: :okay:

is the veranda also included in property tax computation? homeowner dues computation?what about the garage?

The veranda/balcony is included in the property tax computation. (The area quoted in your Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT) includes balcony/veranda/terrace area.)

Homeowners' dues is applied to total unit area (including balcony, terrace).

Parking slot --- Charging of dues on the parking slot varies, depending on the condo corporation. There are condos which charge dues on the parking slot (the regular parking slot area is 12.5 sqm. ) ; other condos do not charge dues on the parking slot.

For those condos which charge dues on the parking slot, some buildings have the same rate for the unit and for the parking slot. Other condo buildings, differentiate the dues for the parking and for the parking slot (ie, the condo dues for the parking slot might be slightly lower vs the dues for the condo unit itself).

[QUOTE=gen1;14774954]I also have my beef against ayala land. even prior to construction, they are unwilling to do modifications on your unit. (I had wanted to remove the maids room partition wall to allow for extra space in my living room - no dice, they can't do it)


If the wall is a non-bearing wall, it can be removed. Ayala approved my requests for them to put a kitchen wall on hold (do not install) because I am putting an island instead. There are other Hold requests because I am putting in upgraded items. There are documents for me to fill out for these changes which I will start after turnover. So you can remove that wall after turnover.

^^ I concluded my purchase in March of 2006. the sales associate who handled the sale told me that any hold requests (tnx for the term :)) cannot be accommodated anymore.

It's odd though because what I'm asking for is a deletion of a contractor pay item and thus they should be happy with it.

But yes I do believe it's a non-bearing wall. The serendra building relies primarily on poured beams and columns for structural integrity.

Aren't you in the 14th floor of section C ?

hi guys dito na kami nakatira ng family ko 102 kami hehe batrip noh wala padin tayong cable hehe.

ang neighbor mo ba sa 101 military or taga gobyerno ?

Am just curious on how the designated BCDA units are handled, if they're sold or given away.

laki pala ng unit ninyo. 64 m2 ang terrace !
kasing laki na yun ng ibang 1 bdrm ah :)

Am just curious on how the designated BCDA units are handled, if they're sold or given away.

The BCDA units are also being sold. Those "BCDA units" are part of the sales inventory sold to the public.

^^ I concluded my purchase in March of 2006. the sales associate who handled the sale told me that any hold requests (tnx for the term :)) cannot be accommodated anymore.

It's odd though because what I'm asking for is a deletion of a contractor pay item and thus they should be happy with it.

But yes I do believe it's a non-bearing wall. The serendra building relies primarily on poured beams and columns for structural integrity.

Aren't you in the 14th floor of section C ?

Yes....turnover in Dec and keeping close watch.

My Ayala broker just informed me Serendra One units are now trading at 112k per sqm!

Passion for Service: The mark of Ayala Land’s after sales service group

With Ayala Land, the mission of providing the best homes for Filipinos moves on with ardent after-sales service through the Ayala Property Management Corporation (APMC).

Ensuring the smooth operation of all its developments, APMC takes care of all facets of residential property maintenance and management.

“It’s anything and everything about operating a property residential site.” This is how Al Legaspi, Senior Vice-President and Head of Operations & Corporate Services of APMC, defines property management in a nutshell.

APMC is the wholly-owned subsidiary of Ayala Land which provides Ayala Land property buyers with efficient after-sales service.

Property maintenance involves a wide gamut of tasks ranging from efficient elevator operations to the management of garbage disposal systems and reliable janitorial services; from the upkeep of gardens and décor features to the maintenance of alternative power supply and communications systems.

The nature of tasks of APMC is, indeed, all-encompassing. With everything about the smooth running of an Ayala Land condominium or subdivision taken care of by APMC, property ownership is worry-free.

All these functions are undertaken by APMC with world-class standards. APMC is the first and only property management company in the Philippines, as well as the only one, amongst a limited few across all industries, to obtain three international certifications. These include two from the International Standards Organization, ISO 9001-2000 for Quality Management and ISO 14001-2004 for Environmental Management. The third is from the British Standard for Occupational Health and Safety, or OHSAS 18001-1999.

APMC ensures that property equipment and machinery such as elevators, generators, security and fire alarm systems, and pool maintenance systems are in tip-top form. It sees to it that sanitary garbage collection goes on unhampered, and that mail and home delivery are done efficiently and safely. It also takes care of the gardens and water features to provide continued delight to both homeowners and visitors.

Where many developers end their relationship with buyers after turning over the units, Ayala Land goes beyond and manages its developments to continue responding to the needs of buyers who are now residents. After-sales service is one of the noteworthy and vital services provided by Ayala Land as a full-line premier real estate company.

With more and more Filipino migrants and overseas workers acquiring and aspiring for Ayala Land properties, APMC, at the option of buyers, can fulfill the tasks of home maintenance, supervision of lease and rent agreements, and fulfillment of tax obligations.

“We can find the tenants for owners who want their units rented,” states Legaspi. “We can even furnish their homes for them.” This array of APMC services are designed for ‘absentee’ owners who remain abroad or come only for intermittent vacations or trips to the Philippines.

These services are also ideal for buyers who prepare for their parents’ retirement in the Philippines, or for their own retirement. They need not worry as to who would take care and manage their units while these are not yet occupied.

Purchases also become worry-free for buyers who don’t want these units rented or leased, opting to have them ready for use anytime they want to come to the Philippines. The lock-and-go kind of set-up works perfectly well for this kind of customer as APMC takes care of the nitty-gritty of home upkeep.

By rendering all these after-sales services, APMC immensely contributes to the general rise in value of all Ayala Land properties. “Properties deteriorate if they are not properly managed,” states Legaspi. Through APMC, Ayala Land ensures buyers value for their investments over a long period of time.

Legaspi adds that unmanaged or mismanaged properties are, in themselves, life-threatening. “Imagine if the fire alarm systems don’t work. Imagine also if the water is contaminated,” Legaspi illustrates. “With everything considered, buying a property really requires guts,” he says, pointing out the sheer importance of having to deal with a highly trusted developer like Ayala Land which takes care of buyers’ needs all the way.

It is, then, no surprise that APMC people acquire superior training. It has a wide base of full-time technical experts that consists of licensed engineers from all disciplines. It counts more than 70 Licensed Administrators among its employees, and all front-liners undergo year-round training programs uniquely crafted by its in-house Service Providers Development Group.

At APMC, the minutest concerns of customers for home upkeep and maintenance are taken care of by qualified people who have a passion for service. Homes are hearths and owners have emotional attachments to their own homes. Because APMC takes to heart its mandate of caring for homes, ownership of Ayala Land homes is worry-free all the way.

ang neighbor mo ba sa 101 military or taga gobyerno ?

Am just curious on how the designated BCDA units are handled, if they're sold or given away.

The BCDA units are also being sold. Those "BCDA units" are part of the sales inventory sold to the public.


yup, Cynch is right! the only difference is that when you pick a BCDA marked unit the checks are payable to BCDA instead of Ayala. i think it's something like BCDA's share of the proceeds

^^ ah, ok. When I was selecting units kasi the condos marked BCDA were verboten. pero with your info now i surmise na siguro hindi lang allowed ang taga ayala land to sell those units.

My Ayala broker just informed me Serendra One units are now trading at 112k per sqm!

is that for resale units or units at section D&E ?

^^ ah, ok. When I was selecting units kasi the condos marked BCDA were verboten. pero with your info now i surmise na siguro hindi lang allowed ang taga ayala land to sell those units.


no, no. Ayala handles the marketing of all units including those marked BCDA. from my experience ALP didn't differentiate BCDA from non-BCDA units... only when it comes to writing the checks

^^ oh well, i may have misunderstood the sales assoc. i'm happy with the unit i got naman, though i would have gone with a high street view unit had i known boni high street would look that cosmopolitan.

August 16, 2007

a closer look at Two Serendra's 11th Avenue drop off

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/08162007030.jpg

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/08162007031.jpg

Hello there, future neighbors,
Can someone please confirm whether there really is a delay on the hand-off of One Serendra Section C units? My family and I will be in the Philippines in February of 2008 and would like to do the walk-through of my unit then.
Thanks!!!:angel:

last time i checked, my ali agent said it might be delayed by 2-3 months.

August 16, 2007

a closer look at Two Serendra's 11th Avenue drop off

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/08162007030.jpg

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/08162007031.jpg

Lauren, na gets mo ba yung PM ko?

Passion for Service: The mark of Ayala Land’s after sales service group

With Ayala Land, the mission of providing the best homes for Filipinos moves on with ardent after-sales service through the Ayala Property Management Corporation (APMC).
..............................of APMC is, indeed, all-encompassing. With everything about the smooth running of an Ayala Land condominium or subdivision taken care of by APMC, property ownership is worry-free.

All these functions are undertaken by APMC with world-class standards. APMC is the first and only property management company in the Philippines, as well as the only one, amongst a limited few across all industries, to obtain three international certifications. These include two from the International Standards Organization, ISO 9001-2000 for Quality Management and ISO 14001-2004 for Environmental Management. The third is from the British Standard for Occupational Health and Safety, or OHSAS 18001-1999.

Truly impressive!:)

APMC ensures that property equipment and machinery such as elevators, generators, security and fire alarm systems, and pool maintenance systems are in tip-top form. It sees to it that sanitary garbage collection goes on unhampered, and that mail and home delivery are done efficiently and safely. It also takes care of the gardens and water features to provide continued delight to both homeowners and visitors.


With more and more Filipino migrants and overseas workers acquiring and aspiring for Ayala Land properties, APMC, at the option of buyers, can fulfill the tasks of home maintenance, supervision of lease and rent agreements, and fulfillment of tax obligations. . Value-added tax assist!

“We can find the tenants for owners who want their units rented,” states Legaspi. “We can even furnish their homes for them.” This array of APMC services are designed for ‘absentee’ owners who remain abroad or come only for intermittent vacations or trips to the Philippines.

Purchases also become worry-free for buyers who don’t want these units rented or leased, opting to have them ready for use anytime they want to come to the Philippines. The :) lock-and-go kind of set-up works perfectly well for this kind of customer as APMC takes care of the nitty-gritty of home upkeep.

Thanks, Boe!

Lauren, cool pics! Could you please take some shots of Two Serendra C, next chance you get? Thanks!

To All: Keep warm, stay dry and don't catch a cold! :wave:

^^ You're very much welcome Susan! :)

Lauren, na gets mo ba yung PM ko?

yes, i did. i'll try to drive by the main gate this weekend... di ko nakikita yung gate kasi don sa usual na dinadaanan ko




Lauren, cool pics! Could you please take some shots of Two Serendra C, next chance you get? Thanks!


sure, Susan, i'll do that :)

Hello there, future neighbors,
Can someone please confirm whether there really is a delay on the hand-off of One Serendra Section C units? My family and I will be in the Philippines in February of 2008 and would like to do the walk-through of my unit then.
Thanks!!!:angel:

last time i checked, my ali agent said it might be delayed by 2-3 months.


@maryknoller, i suggest you call ALP customer relations and coordinate with them. Bartman did before he flew over last April

Salamat uli Lauren. Du bist ein Schatz. Pa translate mo na lang kay Cynch :colgate:.

Salamat uli Lauren. Du bist ein Schatz. Pa translate mo na lang kay Cynch :colgate:.

Ano daw? :-)

You're an angel daw!

Laqua and 3cR - Thanks for your responses. Just received an email from my agent and the turn-over is still projected to go on as scheduled, December 2007. He is currently checking on whether ALP can accommodate us having a later walk-through. We're hoping for the best, seems inconvenient kung kailangan pa naming magpabalik-balik within a 2 month period...:ohno:

By the way, I have been following these threads since T4 and find you guys more informative and faster than Reuters News Corp - really grateful to be having smart and involved neighbors!!! :)

^^ there should be no problem with getting a later walk through. i would even venture to say that a december walk through for section c is on the optimistic side. do you have ayala customer relations contacts?

bartman - no, i don't. my only contact is my agent.

i'll send you contact info via PM. very nice people to deal with :)

You're welcome Maryknoller! You'll definitely be in good hands basta si Bart ang mag refer! :)

_________________________


Btw I just saw Urban Zone and they had a segment on Serendra again, this time on the future highrises naman. It was mentioned that there will be a 50ft olympic/competition size pool and a theme park style swimming pool as well for unit owners in the said highrises. They didn't mention if One and Two Serendra unit owners can use those pools though but I hope pwede. They also mentioned that the architectural bridge/walk-way between the future highrises and Two Serendra will be specifically for private use of Serendra unit owners only.

from Flickr: dferrpsmm1
Design by: Lor Calma Design, Inc.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1275/778331908_adb67b3b35.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1194/778331932_8b96503df5.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1145/778331956_91cacec6ff.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1376/778331972_4d04760f29.jpg?v=0

:grouphug: you guys rock - laqua, gen, 3c, btmn! the t4 thread had a huge influence on me gathering up the confidence to invest in Serendra. thanks in advance, bartman.

Have any of you installed your airconditioning units yet? Any brand recommendations as well as pricing and time estimates?

^^ Lauren/Lacquacherra and Bart/Bartman have already installed A/C in their respective units.

I agree with Maryknoller wholeheartedly-you guys are the best! I purchased a 3BR unit in Two Serendra Section E with a turnover date of Oct 2010 so, I definitely have a long way to go. I hope you guys can keep this thread going until then. Thanks a bunch for the pictures, suggestions, tips, etc. Please keep them coming.

:grouphug: you guys rock - laqua, gen, 3c, btmn! the t4 thread had a huge influence on me gathering up the confidence to invest in Serendra. thanks in advance, bartman.

Have any of you installed your airconditioning units yet? Any brand recommendations as well as pricing and time estimates?

i just PMed you a couple of contact persons' phone and e-mail addresses.

sometime during your walk through process, you will be given a book of rules and regulations. included in the information provided are recommended AC unit number and capacity for your unit's floor area, as well as brand name/manufacturer. be ready to spend between P30K - P40K per unit, split type, depending on size. your retailer will schedule a site inspection, delivery, then installation. the whole process takes a few days, and may extend over a couple of weeks. for each step in the process, there are permits and work/access applications that need to be filed with the building administration. be patient.

@maryknoller & oilmover, welcome, neighbors! :)

Btw I just saw Urban Zone and they had a segment on Serendra again, this time on the future highrises naman. It was mentioned that there will be a 50ft olympic/competition size pool and a theme park style swimming pool as well for unit owners in the said highrises. They didn't mention if One and Two Serendra unit owners can use those pools though but I hope pwede. They also mentioned that the bridge/walk-way between the future highrises and Two Serendra will be specifically for private use of Serendra unit owners only.


i think that's for Two Serendra.





August 19, 2007


Two Serendra Section A facing Market! Market!

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/2serAmarket.jpg

August 19, 2007


Two Serendra Sections B & C

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/2serBCmarket.jpg

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/2serBCmckinley.jpg

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/2serBC26th.jpg




Two Serendra Sections D & E

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/2serDE-1.jpg

August 20, 2007


One Serendra Sections D & E (32nd street side)

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/1serDE.jpg


One Serendra Sections D & E (11th avenue side)

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/1serDE2.jpg

August 20, 2007


Two Serendra Section A, 11th ave

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/2serA.jpg

I feel loved! Love you, Lauren! Love your pics! Kiss kiss hug hug!:kiss:
Thanks so much! Bob and I are really excited it (2 Serendra C) really exists!:tyty:

I have this digi-frame at work and among the pics I see throughout the day are your Serendra and Anvaya Cove pics. They blow the doldrums away coz I get to day dream once in a while... :)

Wow you have such a nice view of Global City / High Street from your Serendra unit Lauren! :) :) :)

August 21, 2007

dusk @BGC

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/dusk.jpg

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/dusk2.jpg

^^ Shots like these make people excited abt BGC! Thanks sistah. My mom saw these images and she got all excited about living in BGC all over again!

When I was there last Feb, Two Serendra Sec E was just a hole in the ground. Now I see rebars! Lauren, thanks to your pics, Oct 2010 seems like - just around the corner.

Hi to Everyone! I'm new here and I would say that this forum is definitely more informative and updated with regards to Serendra's development, compared to any other site. Thanks to all of you here who keeps us informed. :)

To update some of the unit owners fm abroad, Two Serendra started turning over units in Section A, building D last month and we had the privilege of being the 2nd to be turned over (after pushing CII to agree for an early inspection bec.we would only be in Manila for 3 weeks). We did the initial inspection on July 13 and after minor corrections, we got the keys a few days later. Everything went smooth except for the elevator, w/c was not yet operational 24 hrs. Water pressure was good. The basement parking was okay except for excessive leaking when it rains.

After getting the place furnished, we had to leave for a month and asked if upon our return next month, we could stay in the unit? ^^ Similar to what happenned to a few of you from One Serendra, the building admin told us that we won't be able to stay there 'yet' and this was for our safety & security. :ohno:

The latest update that I got today was that they're just doing some finishing touches on the 3 lobbies and some 1st and 2nd floor common areas so that it would be ready by September. About 30 units have been turned over by this time.

On a higher note, the whole BGC looks great! The kids love the proximity of Fully Booked and High Street (bec.of Timezone!) & Speedzone too. Hopefully, most restaurants at High Street would be open next month.

Again, thanks to everyone and have a great week ahead!

What are YOU as owners going to do with your apartments? Will you rent them out, use them as primary home, secondary home, or vacation only?

What are YOU as owners going to do with your apartments? Will you rent them out, use them as primary home, secondary home, or vacation only?

yes, WE will either rent them out, use them as primary home, secondary home, or for vacations

What are YOU as owners going to do with your apartments? Will you rent them out, use them as primary home, secondary home, or vacation only?

I can also sell it and make a handsome profit :lol:

I can also sell it and make a handsome profit :lol:

really? even after taxes? how much per square could you sell for? I paid around 86k per square for mine.

Was Ayala mgt strict in implementing the white curtain/blinds rule (facing out) for One Serendra? They said that all Ayala managed properties had this rule and that they strictly implement it. Is this correct?

Thanks.

What are YOU as owners going to do with your apartments? Will you rent them out, use them as primary home, secondary home, or vacation only?

It will be our home away fm home ^^

really? even after taxes? how much per square could you sell for? I paid around 86k per square for mine.

there's a thread in general property (capital gains taxes thread, i think) which discusses taxes. might be helpful for you if you're thinking of selling.

100k/m2 is not unattainable for a re-sell if your serendra unit has been delivered and has a high street view.

there's a thread in general property (capital gains taxes thread, i think) which discusses taxes. might be helpful for you if you're thinking of selling.

100k/m2 is not unattainable for a re-sell if your serendra unit has been delivered and has a high street view.

When they were marketing/selling Serendra, was there a difference in price for units facing Market Market compared to those facing High Street?

nope. I have the pricelist for units in sections A, B and C, District 1.

I myself didn't know high street would turn out so pretty. I avoided that area because of the afternoon sun.

Was Ayala mgt strict in implementing the white curtain/blinds rule (facing out) for One Serendra? They said that all Ayala managed properties had this rule and that they strictly implement it. Is this correct?

Thanks.


yes, that is being implemented. it's one of the house rules. you can always use white lining if ever you opt for colored curtains.

there's a thread in general property (capital gains taxes thread, i think) which discusses taxes. might be helpful for you if you're thinking of selling.

100k/m2 is not unattainable for a re-sell if your serendra unit has been delivered and has a high street view.

then why would you sell? Small return on your money in my opinion after taxes. Good to know your onside though.

yes, that is being implemented. it's one of the house rules. you can always use white lining if ever you opt for colored curtains.

We chose to have roller blinds and if you need to have the side facing out in white, there were very few options.

Btw, your recent pics were very nice. :)

nope. I have the pricelist for units in sections A, B and C, District 1.

I myself didn't know high street would turn out so pretty. I avoided that area because of the afternoon sun.

In early 2004 when Serendra was still a flat piece of land, we specifically asked our agent what the plans were for that side of the development. He said that ALP was planning to build a high end, low rise strip type mall which turned out to be Bonifacio High Street.

We took his word for it and that was a big factor for us in choosing that side.

High Street / BGC...
http://www.triontowers.com/north.jpg

Does anyone know if the spa service is already operational? And also would that be open to the public?

Also, are any of you planning to install special lighting (recessed, chandelier), ceiling fixtures in your units?

Ang ganda na pala. :okay: thanks to all for those nice photos.

Does anyone know if the spa service is already operational? And also would that be open to the public?

Also, are any of you planning to install special lighting (recessed, chandelier), ceiling fixtures in your units?


No, the spa is not operational as of yet... i was told maybe later this year when there are more residents already. Also, no it is not open to the public... it's exclusively for One Serendra residents only.


If you're planning on installing recessed lighting, you may have to drop the ceiling first. I did have a couple of hanging lights installed direct to the "default" ceiling but they're not the very heavy sort of chanderliers (less than 10 lbs.).

July 2007

BGC after a heavy downpour

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_14-46.jpg

Bonifacio High Street

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-061.jpg

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-06.jpg

BGC / One Serendra's Section A / Ortigas area

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_14-462.jpg

Garden / pool and clubhouse area behind Two Serendra's section A

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-22.jpg

That's rainwater in the kiddie & adult pools :cool:

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-14.jpg

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-143.jpg

Day care / function and game rooms area

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-19.jpg

Basketball and badminton courts (basement)

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-16.jpg

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-17.jpg

Entrance from garden / clubhouse area back to main lobby of section A

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-141.jpg

Driveway along 11th ave.

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-29.jpg

Driveway / main lobby of section A

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-281.jpg

Section A facing Bonifacio High Street

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-291.jpg

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-292.jpg

* All photos taken from Two Serendra. Pardon the quality of my phone cam :skull:

^^ thanks for sharing :)


i see that some finishing work is still going on in the common areas... pretty much like how one serendra was 3 months ago. all the dust flying around was making me :nuts:

:lol:

sa kabilang side pala yun kaya nagtataka ako iba color nung sa courts. sa side namin 2 yung badminton court kaso ang tagal matapos buti pa court niyo tapos na

August 20, 2007


Two Serendra Section A, 11th ave

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i37/llaurenversion3/2serA.jpg

Lauren, Thanks for sharing this photo, i could see my unit in this picture, thanks again for the update. :)

northshore, your phone cam takes better pictures than my digital camera. or the problem lies with me?

aba.. ganda nang basketball court.. kailan tayo maglalaro dyan asdn?? game na yan!

^^ thanks for sharing :)


i see that some finishing work is still going on in the common areas... pretty much like how one serendra was 3 months ago. all the dust flying around was making me :nuts:

:lol:

you're most welcome. :) as far as i know, they've only turned over Section A Tower D (facing 11th st. across Fully Booked). still some work to do on the other towers. the pics were taken about 6 weeks ago so i guess it must be better by now. i learned yesterday that they we're almost done in the 3 lobbies and in all common areas both on the first and second floors. :)


sa kabilang side pala yun kaya nagtataka ako iba color nung sa courts. sa side namin 2 yung badminton court kaso ang tagal matapos buti pa court niyo tapos na

2 din ang badminton courts doon in front of each other pero i'm not sure kung pwede nang gamitin :cool:

here's the other one...

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc278/Northshore380/07-07-13_15-171.jpg


northshore, your phone cam takes better pictures than my digital camera. or the problem lies with me?

hi vsamba. i think it would just be the settings of your camera. try to adjust it and try it out. i'm sure it takes better pics than my phone :skull:

Courtesy of Aldrin/Double_bee. Thank You! :) :) :)



Serendra

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s282/aldrinbee/SERENDRA02.jpg

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s282/aldrinbee/SERENDRA01.jpg


High Street...

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s282/aldrinbee/HIGHSTREET02.jpg

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s282/aldrinbee/HIGHSTREET06.jpg

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s282/aldrinbee/HIGHSTREET04.jpg

Lauren, NorthshorE & 3cR - what great photographs - thank you!!! Hope we all get together for a party in the clubhouse once everyone's moved in :cheers: ... is the clubhouse done and can we hold parties in there?

aba.. ganda nang basketball court.. kailan tayo maglalaro dyan asdn?? game na yan!

tagal nga matapos e hindi padin daw pwede malaruan kasi hindi daw pumasa yung kulay. pinapatuyo pa hahaha

read this from a friend's blog. ingat lang po.

http://must.multiply.com/journal/item/20/Thieves_in_Serendra_and_High_Street

Hi All,

This is my first post, though I've been a lurker for sometime .... I've purchased at Two Serendra section B, turnover scheduled for 1Q 08 ..... I was in Manila a couple of weeks ago, and my agent was nice enough to arrange a viewing of the grounds ... we managed to walk around despite the rain, and I was able to take a couple of photos which I'd like to share ...

this is taken in the lobby (one of three lobbies) that connects Two Serendra to Shops at Serendra; it's not airconditioned (the other 2 are). You may notice that the floor is wet from the rain. There is a trellis just above the entrance, where I think they plan to grow vines for shade and for protection against the rain. The u/c in the background is section B

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd155/ljetj/CIMG0308.jpg

This is a taken from just outside the same lobby, looking in (lobby at rightmost) ... notice the 'keep of the grass' sign .. haha, don't know how they'll be able to enforce that once kids move in ...

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd155/ljetj/CIMG0304.jpg

photo taken from just outside the lobby ... structure beside the swimming pool houses the gym and changing rooms .... there are also stairs leading down to the basketball and badminton courts; the courts can also be accessed from the underground parking area

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd155/ljetj/CIMG0306.jpg

shot of the expanse of the garden of section A; the pool was on my left when I took this.... nicely manicured grass, somewhat sterile looking as I was hoping for more trees and shade, but I think they'll have those in the gardens of the other sections. The basketball and badminton courts are right under this area.

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd155/ljetj/CIMG0302.jpg

Finally, a shot of the garden with SOMA in the backgound. The cranes are where section D & E will be .. the structure on the top of the photo is the trellis just outside the entrance of the lobby

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd155/ljetj/CIMG0312.jpg

Sorry for the long post, and apologies as well if it took awhile to download the pics due to their size .... cheers!

^^ cool pics !

from Starbucks @ Fully Booked

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c277/patok/FBGC/IMG_0701.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c277/patok/FBGC/IMG_0700.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c277/patok/FBGC/IMG_0699.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c277/patok/FBGC/IMG_0698.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c277/patok/FBGC/IMG_0697.jpg

thanks Dvorak for the photos...

@pebbles and dvorak, thanks for sharing your pictures! :okay:


i think that "keep off the grass" sign is temporary... maybe the grass has just been transplanted? i don't think we have those signs at one serendra or even at boni high street's expansive lawn :)

For sharing these wonderful pics, Lauren, Pebbles and Erwin! And to all those others - you all make them so real to me. Beyond my expectations! Now I wish I had gotten a bigger unit. Maybe the next one (he-he!) Cheers! :)

Thanks to pebbles & dvorak for the pics...

theOCdiva, it's looking good & real indeed! building admin has confirmed :) that we can stay in two serendra when we return to the Phils. in a few days. i guess they've finished all the works in most of the public areas and that it's now "safe & secure".

:cheers1: to the building admin team and Ayala / CII.

It was my pleasure sharing the pics .....

In my first post, I forgot to say a special thanks to you all who have posted pics, shared information and gave helpful comments and suggestions .. as others have expressed, this thread has been very helpful to my partner and I in our decision to invest in Serendra, and as with laquacherra and asdn (and very soon, NorthshorE - congrats!), we look forward to making Serendra our (second) home and enjoying all the amenities that the community has to offer ..... it looks like its going to be quite a spoiled lifestyle ....:)

@pebbles and dvorak, thanks for sharing your pictures! :okay:


i think that "keep off the grass" sign is temporary... maybe the grass has just been transplanted? i don't think we have those signs at one serendra or even at boni high street's expansive lawn :)

Yes it looks like your right, Laquacherra; the grass was probably just laid out ...what fun would the grass be if it was just there for show; grass in meant to be tread on and enjoyed!


BTW my agent mentioned that the management fee for Two Serendra is being set at P90 per sqm per month .... it seems on the high side when compared to what I have read on other threads (I remember a post from Dvorak mentioning that the range was from P30 to P80 for condos in Manila). Would it be that the greenery of Serendra entails higher maintenance cost compared to other condos? Laquacherra, what are they charging at One Serendra? NorthshorE, what have they told you for Two Serendra?

Cheers,

Yes it looks like your right, Laquacherra; the grass was probably just laid out ...what fun would the grass be if it was just there for show; grass in meant to be tread on and enjoyed!


BTW my agent mentioned that the management fee for Two Serendra is being set at P90 per sqm per month .... it seems on the high side when compared to what I have read on other threads (I remember a post from Dvorak mentioning that the range was from P30 to P80 for condos in Manila). Would it be that the greenery of Serendra entails higher maintenance cost compared to other condos? Laquacherra, what are they charging at One Serendra? NorthshorE, what have they told you for Two Serendra?

Cheers,

if that's accurate, one serendra's would probably be the same, maybe even higher. yikes!!!

maka e-mail nga sa serendra at mag hanap ng bagong info....

you get what you pay for; and you pay for what you get.
but i think it's worth the extraP10/ sq meter in dues. yrs from now, serendra might be the only place in bgc that is green. i doubt whether boni high will remain green over time.

in makati, ayala is slowly turning greenbelt into a concrete belt.

if that's accurate, one serendra's would probably be the same, maybe even higher. yikes!!!

maka e-mail nga sa serendra at mag hanap ng bagong info....

Hello Bart!

For One Serendra, their last computation for the dues is Php 105/sqm. Ayala Property Mgt Corp (APMC) is still finding ways to reduce this.

It was confirmed by APMC that One Serendra's dues will be higher compared to Two Serendra's. Actually, the biggest cost component of the dues will be cost of security services (ie, security guards; Serendra is sprawling, so you need more guards) and maintenance of the greenery and landscaping.

BTW, cost of building insurance and property tax on the common areas are not yet included in the above-mentioned dues.

In other words, if you're a Serendra unit owner or a potential buyer, make sure that you have deep pockets (ie, "can afford ka") . :) The bottomline is, you get what you pay for.

^^ speaking of security, the roving guard (on my floor at least) makes something like 2 rounds per hour. security guards are very visible upstairs as well as at the basement level not just at the entry points.

it is understandable how One Serendra's HOA will be higher than Two Serendra's... there are less of us


add: admin office told me the dues are still being finalized and they're working it out to make it below Php100

if you're a Serendra unit owner or a potential buyer, make sure that you have deep pockets (ie, "can afford ka") . :) The bottomline is, you get what you pay for.

deep nga... butas na kasi:nuts:
yung "can afford," bahala na :lol:

Science Museum planned for Bonifacio Global City
By Erwin Oliva
INQUIRER.net
08/27/07
http://inquirerbloggers.net/insidescience/2007/08/27/science-museum-planned-for-bonifacio-global-city/

MANILA, Philippines–A world-class science museum that will be built in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City will feature both science and technology, an executive said.

A project of the Bonifacio Art Foundation Inc., the science museum will feature a “learning center” that will be both interactive and educational, said Manny Blas II, managing director of Fort Bonifacio Development Corp.

Walking distance from Bonifacio High Street, the planned science museum will house a 3,000-square meter exhibit area, a food center, a training center, among others, said Maricel Garcia, science curator of the planned museum.


“The technology that will be featured will be based on human values or the human ingenuity in technology,” said Garcia.

Also dubbed as a “Filipino Science Museum,” it will feature stories of the universe, of nature, of life, and of the atom.

“We will build the first world-class science museum because we believe this will have an impact on tourism, society, and the economy,” said Blas II.

The executive said that local studies have shown that science museums have raised awareness and improved learning on science and technology.

He said that studies have shown that visitors were eventually hooked to science and technology after a visit, said Blas, citing the experience of the Philippine Science Centrum.

wow.. great pictures!! thanks! =)

NorthshorE, what have they told you for Two Serendra?

Cheers,

hi pebbles. last time i heard, it was around P90/sqm. i guess they're still trying to finalize everything. i'll send an email to the building admin staff to see if they have the latest figures.

does anyone know when they'll start charging the dues? in some places, if you pay it a year in advance, they'll give you one month FOC.

deep nga... butas na kasi:nuts:
yung "can afford," bahala na :lol:

Bart, you just have to dig deeper! ha ha ha!

"Can afford" --- it's in the mind...... and in the pocket!! :lol: :lol: :lol:

does anyone know when they'll start charging the dues? in some places, if you pay it a year in advance, they'll give you one month FOC.

At One Serendra, they will start charging dues when 20% of the total units at Section A (approx 60 units) will be accepted by buyers. Therefore, while the 20% acceptance level is not yet achieved, everything's free.

Expect it to be within the 20-30% range for Two Serendra. Ayala Property Management Corp (APMC) is the property manager so I don't expect a big deviation from this figure.

For those unit owners whose units will be turned over soon, it is to your advantage to do your walk-through/acceptance ASAP. You can use the amenities, etc. free (!) for a certain period.

Cheers! :cheers:

Building Admin has just confirmed with me that the dues for Two Serendra would be P90/sqm + P650 per parking slot, computed per month and billed quarterly. There is no set date yet as to when the dues will take into effect as they will still have to establish the condominuim corporation incorporators. They will be sending a circular as to when the dues will take effect. :)

kasama na ba ang 12% Vat sa PhP105/sqm :)

usually inclusive na dyan yung VAT..

kasama na ba ang 12% Vat sa PhP105/sqm :)

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q179/asph80/serendra1.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q179/asph80/serendra2.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q179/asph80/serendra3.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q179/asph80/serendra4.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q179/asph80/serendra5.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q179/asph80/serendra6.jpg

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q179/asph80/serendra7.jpg
I kinda like this pic (I wish it was a clear day though). Somehow, its gives you an idea how great BGC would look like pag marami nang mga building.

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q179/asph80/serendra8.jpg

Here are some of the 3D renderings that I did for Serendra. The Interior Designer is Anton Mendoza. Hope you like it. :)

http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee248/stephenpdavid/_scraps/Serendra_Lobby_b.jpg
Serendra - Lobby 01

http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee248/stephenpdavid/_scraps/Serendra_LobbyCircle.jpg
Serendra - Lobby 02

http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee248/stephenpdavid/_scraps/Serendra_Veranda.jpg
Serendra - Veranda

ang galing mo!

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q179/asph80/serendra7.jpg

this photo, with the mist and all, reminds me of some smog filled city in china...

@drivensteven - parang tunay ang renderings !

saang part ng serendra yan?

anton mendoza is a great ID.

^^ Which one? Just that I heard there are two practicing ID named Anton Mendoza eh. I wonder who actually did Serendra's. Same one kaya who did One McKinley's lobby? Curious lang naman because both lobbies look simply beautiful in a modern zen minimalist kind of way... :) :) :)

the actual lobbies and veranda of one serendra look more laid back and "airy" (i dunno what you call natural ventilation :))... very different from those 3D renderings

^^ Is that so? Mmm...now I wonder for which Serendra lobby/veranda those renderings were/are suppose to be for then? I wonder if the furnishings designed/used in the preliminary renderings above were eventually replaced by something else in the end of the day. :dunno: :dunno: :dunno:

@drivensteven - parang tunay ang renderings !

saang part ng serendra yan?

anton mendoza is a great ID.

Serendra - Lobby 01 is located in TOWER H. Serendra - Lobby 02 is located in TOWER C. Serendra - Veranda is located in TOWER L-F.

^^ Which one? Just that I heard there are two practicing ID named Anton Mendoza eh. I wonder who actually did Serendra's. Same one kaya who did One McKinley's lobby? Curious lang naman because both lobbies look simply beautiful in a modern zen minimalist kind of way... :) :) :)

it's J. Antonio Mendoza :)

^^ Thank You! :)

Is he THE anton mendoza, the anton with the giant crucifix over his table in his bedroom ?

bilib ng mga work ni anton.

are those towers in Two Serendra ? or are you refering to section C, for instance of One Serendra ?

the actual lobbies and veranda of one serendra look more laid back and "airy" (i dunno what you call natural ventilation :))... very different from those 3D renderings
i wanted to post something about those renderings last night
i agree with lauren
those renderings are NOT realistic to serendra's architecture
the circular lines on the renderings look nice; but the reality is that the lobby and veranda alluded to are more straight/linear with the curvature not as pronounced
the other lobby is also open, NOT enclosed