by Butch Carungay
Cebu’s real estate market is experiencing a golden era of growth and innovation, with several high-profile projects in the pipeline and a strong demand across different segments. From ultra-luxurious residences to more affordable yet smartly designed living spaces, the Queen City of the South is shaping up to be a premier real estate destination in the country.
High-End Development Transforming the Skyline
Cebu’s luxury property market continues to attract investors and high-net-worth individuals with prestigious developments reshaping the city’s skyline. Leading the charge is Masters Tower Cebu, Cebu Landmasters’ upcoming 50-story mixed-use development in Cebu Business Park, which will house the city’s first Sofitel Hotel. This project reinforces Cebu’s position as a top-tier destination for business and leisure travelers alike.
Another highly anticipated development is IPI Done Rockwell, which brings a third project from the renowned Rockwell brand to Cebu. This upscale condominium project offers residents an exclusive, resort-style living experience in the heart of the metropolis with an adjoining mall similar to its landmark Rockwell Makati with its own Power Plant Mall.
Taking luxury to new heights is Nustar Resort and Casino. This ambitious integrated resort complex on Kawit Island, South Road Properties (SRP) includes world-class gaming, dining, shopping, and entertainment options. NUSTAR is set to be a game-changer in Cebu’s tourism and hospitality industry, rivaling even the best resorts in Asia.
Meanwhile, Monterrazas de Cebu is redefining hillside luxury living with its stunning residential enclave carved out in the mountains of Guadalupe. This master-planned development offers breathtaking city and sea views, catering to discerning homeowners who seek privacy, exclusivity, and top-notch amenities.
Affordable Yet Smart Developments for the Modern Cebuano
While luxury developments continue to make waves, Cebu’s real estate landscape also presents attractive options for middle-income buyers and young professionals. DMCI Homes’ Kalea Residences in Guadalupe is an exciting addition, offering signature resort-style living at an accessible price point. With generous amenities, lush landscapes, and well-designed units, Kalea Residences provides the perfect urban sanctuary.
Another promising project is Be Pods in Lahug, a new residential concept that focuses on sustainable, community-driven living. This development is perfect for digital nomads, students, and young professionals looking for an affordable yet stylish home in one of Cebu’s most vibrant districts. Meanwhile, tech-driven smart living is now within reach at JTower Residences in Mandaue City. In a groundbreaking partnership with Samsung, JTower Smart Units offer residents state-of- the-art home automation, enhancing convenience and security. This forward-thinking development is expected to set new standards in modern condo living in Cebu.
Infrastructure Boom Driving Growth
One of the most significant catalysts for Cebu’s real estate boom is the recent opening of Mactan-Cebu International Airport’s second runway. This expansion strengthens Cebu’s status as an international gateway, increasing passenger capacity and improving flight connectivity. This enhanced accessibility makes Cebu even more attractive to investors, businesses, and tourists, fueling demand for both residential and commercial properties.
The airport expansion is expected to benefit nearby developments in Mactan, such as high-end resorts, condominiums, and business hubs, further accelerating real estate activity in the area.
Expansion of Premier Commercial Centers
Two of Cebu’s largest malls, Ayala Center Cebu and SM City Cebu are set to unveil major expansions, adding more retail, dining, and entertainment spaces. Ayala Center Cebu is enhancing its lifestyle offerings with multi-million-peso renovations, new high-end boutiques, restaurants, and experiential stores that cater to the growing demand for premium retail experiences.
SM City Cebu’s expansion includes additional office spaces and new retail brands, reinforcing its position as one of the region’s largest commercial centers.
These expansions not only elevate Cebu’s status as a premier shopping and lifestyle destination but also provide a significant boost to the real estate sector. Proximity to these retail giants continues to be a major selling point for residential and commercial developments, further driving property values in surrounding areas.
Cebu: A City that Continues to Rise
With world-class real estate developments, smart and affordable housing solutions, and a booming commercial and infrastructure landscape, Cebu is undoubtedly in the midst of a transformative era. The city’s real estate market is more dynamic than ever, offering diverse opportunities for investors, homebuyers, and businesses. As Cebu cements its position as a global city, its real estate sector remains a powerful engine of economic growth, shaping the future of urban living in the Philippines.