The Metro Manila residential property market continues to grow more competitive with an expanding range of condominium options available to homebuyers and investors.

In this environment, the challenge lies in identifying developments and ownership schemes that deliver true long-term value—balancing location, quality, and financial flexibility to meet evolving lifestyle and investment needs.

Among the tools developers are using to differentiate themselves are rent-to-own (RTO) schemes, extended lease terms, fully furnished move-in packages, and even large discounts on total contract prices.

“Rent-to-own has helped move RFOs,” property consultancy Colliers Philippines noted in a recent briefing with DMCI Homes.

Colliers Philippines, however, observed that unlike other developers whose rent-to-own schemes are essentially early move-in programs with extended payment terms, DMCI Homes offers what it described as a “fully realized RTO model.”

“As far as we know, it’s only DMCI (Homes) that provides this kind of setup where renters can truly transition from renter to owner, with the flexibility to opt out if they choose,” the firm said.

Unlike many developers whose RTO schemes are essentially early move-in schemes tied directly to a Contract to Sell (CTS), DMCI Homes stands out for giving buyers more flexibility.

Under DMCI Homes’ HomeReady Rent-to-Own program, buyers sign a lease contract rather than a CTS at the outset, which means they have the option to opt out if the property no longer meets their goals.

Living in the unit before purchase also gives prospective owners the chance to experience the project’s location, layout, property management, and community firsthand.

With HomeReady, renters enjoy the chance to test the property while keeping their options open.

Here’s how it works: renters pay monthly lease payments, with at least 60 percent of lease payments deducted from the purchase price of the unit if they decide to buy. By the end of the lease term of up to 36 months (limited offer), they can secure ownership with as little as 10 percent of the contract price, financing the balance through a bank or in-house facility.

If they choose not to proceed, they may walk away with no strings attached.

Currently, over 36 DMCI Homes properties nationwide are available under HomeReady, including Kai Garden Residences in Mandaluyong, Prisma Residences and Satori Residences in Pasig, The Atherton in Parañaque, and Verdon Parc in Davao City.

For investors, HomeReady’s appeal lies in flexibility and minimized risk.

“From renter to owner” is how Colliers Philippines described the model, emphasizing how it provides a win-win: renters gain the chance to transition into ownership with no wasted rent, while developers move inventory in a way that strengthens long-term property values rather than eroding them through heavy discounts.

As the residential market evolves in the post-pandemic era, rent-to-own schemes are expected to play an increasingly important role in helping buyers and investors secure properties without committing prematurely. But with many programs in the market, it’s crucial to distinguish between rebranded payment terms and fully realized rent-to-own models.

For those seeking both security and flexibility, DMCI Homes’ HomeReady stands out as a benchmark program—one that makes property investment accessible today while safeguarding future options.

To learn more about DMCI Homes’ HomeReady program, visit www.dmcihomes.com or call (632) 5324-8888 or +63917-880-8800. News and other updates are also posted on the company’s official website and its social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube.