🏝️ How to Buy a Private Island or Resort in the Philippines (Step-by-Step Guide)
by Rhea Zhan | Lifestyle Real Estate Strategist | Rheal Estate PH
🌴 Dreaming of Owning Your Own Island?
If you've ever imagined waking up on your own private island or owning a resort by the sea — this guide is for you. Whether you’re a local visionary, an OFW investor, or a foreign buyer, here's everything you need to know about buying clean-titled islands, beachfront land, and resorts in the Philippines.
🔍 Step 1: Know Who Can Own Land in the Philippines
🇵🇭 Filipino citizens and corporations (at least 60% Filipino-owned) can legally own land.
🌍 Foreigners can:
Lease land long-term (25–50 years)
Buy condo units (up to 40% foreign ownership per project)
Partner in a Philippine corporation (must be 60% Filipino)
💡 Tip: All land buyers should consult a licensed broker and lawyer.
📝 Step 2: Verify Key Documents (Due Diligence)
Before buying any property — island, resort, or beachfront — ask for the following documents:
✅ Certified True Copy of Title
✅ Tax Declaration (latest year)
✅ Tax Clearance & RPT Receipts
✅ Barangay Clearance (if rural)
✅ DENR/EMB Clearance (if environmental concerns)
✅ Zoning Certificate or Land Use Classification
If the owner is deceased:
✅ Extra Judicial Settlement (EJS)
✅ Complete Deed of Absolute Sale signed by heirs
📍 Step 3: Visit the Property (or Hire a Local Partner)
Walk the land or beach line
Check road and water access
Confirm there’s no encroachment, no illegal tenants, and no environmental restrictions
If you can’t visit personally, hire a trusted broker-associate with verified on-ground contacts
🛡️ At Rheal Estate PH, we verify all listings before presenting them to our VIP clients.
💼 Step 4: Secure the Sale — Legally and Safely
Submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) or Offer Sheet
Once accepted, prepare a Reservation Agreement or MOA
Process the Deed of Absolute Sale
Coordinate with Notary Public and Registry of Deeds for title transfer
Pay Capital Gains Tax, Documentary Stamp Tax, and Transfer Fees
🧾 We coordinate the process with legal counsel and trusted notaries.
🌅 Step 5: Develop or Lease It Out
Top use cases for island or resort property:
Eco-resorts, glamping, or luxury surf retreats
Dive/snorkeling destinations (Siargao, Palawan, Cebu)
Landbanking for future tourism development
Airbnb or private vacation rentals
📈 Properties in Siargao, Cebu, and Palawan have experienced consistent demand from both local and foreign travelers.
📣 Final Thoughts
Owning an island or beachfront resort in the Philippines is more accessible than you think — if you work with the right people.
At Rheal Estate PH, I provide direct access to clean-titled, verified off-market listings — from private islands to luxury resort developments. Backed by Earthauz Inc., I ensure every transaction is legally sound and investment-ready.
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