The SM Development Corporation (SMDC) is truly proving to be “the Good Guys” in more ways than can be described. From a macro perspective, its president, Jose Mari Banzon, has declared that there will be no letup in the company’s commitment to invest heavily, and help solve the housing and intelligent investing needs of our growing population.
On a micro-level, SMDC continues to be flexible and ready to adapt, so that its customers have the opportunity to acquaint themselves to, and acquire, their new homes via fun, interactive online shows – and with a portfolio of ready-for-occupancy (RFO) units that fit a diverse range of lifestyles and budgets.
For Banzon, his confidence in SMDC and the real estate industry stems from such factors as the continued shortage in housing, the booming young and educated workforce, and the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who remit over US$30 billion back annually. These OFWs and the young workforce are the future homeowners of tomorrow, and they continue to see SMDC as an appealing investment option.
It’s with them in mind that SMDC continues to build. As Banzon explained, “The residential designs of our developments include powerful connectivity, shared working spaces, accommodating ride-sharing services, and many features geared toward wellness, safety, and security – hallmark features of any modern living space.”
The strategic locations of SMDC is one more factor to add to its strong equity proposition. You’ll find its developments in the central business districts of Metro Manila, such as Makati and the Mall of Asia (MOA); and in growth centers in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. So when you acquire or invest in a SMDC unit, you’re near retail centers, transport hubs, medical facilities, government services, essential goods and services – all maximizing the benefits for residents, and the soundness of the investment.
Even when it comes to non-financial factors, SMDC’s commitment to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) helps us recognize the growth opportunities and staying power of the SMDC projects. All these projects meet standards in resilience and minimizing environmental impact – they’re disaster-ready, energy-efficient, PWD-friendly, and incorporate open spaces abundant of greenery, natural lighting, ventilation, and waste management systems.
Working to empower the communities they create, SMDC serves as a catalyst for community engagement of a high order. Weekend markets of fresh and affordable produce within the premises, COVID vaccination drives, health and wellness caravans – these are just some of the initiatives that SMDC organized to enhance community spirit.
Since the pandemic struck, SMDC has actually launched 10 projects – with two new formats introduced. ICE Tower is a residential-office development, while SMDC JOY Residences is a garden community with four-floor residential units. And there are five new projects to be unveiled before the year comes to an end.
In the opening paragraph, I mentioned the interactive online shows that SMDC developed to get closer to their customers, despite the ongoing pandemic and community quarantines. These are virtual open house tours, that interested parties can choose according to geographical preferences. You’ll be amazed by how much fun, safe, and hassle-free these tours are. It’s all at the tip of your fingers.
A series of virtual shows, “Say Mine to Your Dream Condo,” was launched, starting with “It’s a Shore Thing,” a talk show format that allowed the audience to directly interact with SMDC Shore residents and developers. To ramp up the excitement of this concept, celebrities Sarah Geronimo, Matteo Guidicelli, Luis Manzano, and Alex Gonzaga take the audience and potential buyers on virtual tours of the different properties. For these potential buyers, it may be their first look at their future homes.
The future is definitely bright with the Good Guys of SMDC. With sustainability, ESG, and lower carbon footprint – such important issues for the youth and younger market of today – it’s rewarding to note that all these elements are part of the SMDC DNA and integral to its vision for the future of Philippine real estate.