If you’re seriously considering buying a condo, this is the part most sales pages skip. Let’s talk about the real monthly number. Not just the amortization—the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
In 2026, smart buyers aren’t just asking, “Can I afford the down payment?” They’re asking, “Can I comfortably sustain this for the next 15 years?”
Here is the transparent breakdown of what it actually costs to live in a prime QC development.
1. The Mortgage (The Heavy Lifter)
For a mid-range studio or 1-bedroom (approx. 24–36 sqm) in the Calle Industria area, current market prices hover between ₱4.5M to ₱6.5M.
Assuming a 20% down payment and an 80% loan at a 2026 prevailing interest rate of roughly 7.5% to 8%:
- Monthly Amortization: Expect to pay between ₱32,000 and ₱48,000 for a 15-year term.
- Pro Tip: Always factor in MRI (Mortgage Redemption Insurance) and Fire Insurance, which banks usually add to your monthly bill (approx. ₱500–₱1,200/month).
2. HOA Dues (The “Operational Stability” Fee)
HOA dues in QC high-rises currently range from ₱85 to ₱120 per square meter. For a 30 sqm unit, that’s an additional ₱2,550 to ₱3,600 every month.
In a well-managed development, this isn’t “lost” money. It covers:
- 24/7 Professional Security & Integrated CCTV
- Elevator Maintenance (Critical for high-rise living)
- Pool & Gym Upkeep (Saving you a ₱2,500/month gym membership)
- Common Area Power/Water (The lights in the hallway don’t stay on for free)
3. Utilities (The WFH Reality)
Because units have dedicated meters, your consumption is transparent. For a young professional or couple working a hybrid schedule, here is the 2026 “Real World” estimate:
- Electricity: ₱3,500 – ₱6,000 (Assumes 8–10 hours of Inverter Aircon use daily).
- Water: ₱300 – ₱600 (Condo rates are slightly higher than residential subdivisions).
- Fiber Internet: ₱1,699 – ₱2,499 (Standard 50Mbps–200Mbps plans).
The “Hidden” Yearly Costs
Most buyers forget the Real Property Tax (Amillar). For a condo in QC, the city government collects this annually.
- Estimated Cost: ₱8,000 – ₱15,000 per year (depending on the unit size and fair market value).
- Monthly Budget Impact: Set aside roughly ₱1,000/month so you aren’t hit with a surprise every January.
The Financial Summary: 2026 Monthly Estimate
| Expense Category | Low-End Estimate | High-End Estimate |
| Mortgage (Principal + Interest) | ₱32,000 | ₱48,000 |
| HOA Dues (approx. 30sqm) | ₱2,550 | ₱3,600 |
| Utilities (Power, Water, Web) | ₱5,500 | ₱9,000 |
| Insurance & RPT Sinking Fund | ₱1,500 | ₱2,500 |
| TOTAL MONTHLY OUTFLOW | ₱41,550 | ₱63,100 |
Built-In Cost Offsets (The “Hidden” Savings)
Living near 60–62 Calle Industria Road isn’t just about the view; it’s a mathematical advantage. Compare the costs above to the “savings” of proximity:
- Fuel/Grab Savings: Being 1.4km from Eastwood and 2.4km from Bridgetowne can save you ₱4,000–₱7,000/month in transport costs compared to commuting from Rizal or Northern QC.
- The “Escape” Factor: When you have a pool and sunset deck upstairs, your “weekend getaway” spending at malls or resorts often drops.
- Time Value: If you save 2 hours a day in traffic, that’s 40 hours a month. What is your hourly work rate? Multiply that by 40—that is the “Time Dividend” the condo pays you.
The Calm Financial Picture
The goal isn’t to find the lowest monthly expense. Cheap dues often lead to broken elevators and declining property values. The goal is predictability.
When you choose a development with a strong reserve fund and a strategic location near Pasig, Ortigas, and BGC, you aren’t just buying a ceiling—you’re buying a lifestyle that won’t “surprise” you with hidden costs five years down the line.
Serious question:
Would you rather optimize for the lowest monthly dues—or the highest long-term stability?