As small business owners you need to know the difference between marketing and selling for you to be able to reach consumers. Here are a few pointers
Many business owners and practitioners mistakenly think of selling and marketing as interchangeable concepts. This is particularly true in the case of small businesses, which often equates marketing with selling due to organizational and resource limitations. But even if sales and marketing are intrinsically linked, the fact is that they are two very different business activities.
Selling begins when a product or service becomes available for consumption or use. This function covers placement of products in appropriate distribution/selling channels, building the retailers’ awareness and confidence on the product and cultivating customer advocacy for the maker of the product or service.
Marketing, on the other hand, is much broader in scope and starts long before the selling process takes place. It covers everything about the market, the consumer, and the brand.
Marketing is about creating consumer-relevant brand values that satisfy specific market needs. It is about building product and brand awareness, influencing consumers’ preferences and purchase considerations, and making the consumers repeatedly avail / purchase the marketer’s offering.
Marketing and sales are complementary functions, any one of which can’t achieve its goals without the other. And they need two key elements to make them successfully do this: (1) an extensive understanding of their customers, and (2) the ability to adapt to the changing needs, attitudes, and behaviors of the market.
To ensure continuing sales success, a marketing strategy needs to achieve four specific goals for a particular product or service: strong consumer focus, meaningful segmentation, clear and compelling brand positioning, and a relevant marketing mix.
Strong consumer focus:
Nobody buys anything for what it is. Consumers purchase a product or service for what they think it does to them (benefit). Thus, it is a must for companies to be grounded on solid understanding of the consumer or customer. They should find out as much information about their target through relevant consumer researches or studies. They should be aware of what makes their customers/ consumers want to buy a specific item or service.
Marketers have the tendency to want to develop products that carry superior functional claims. Though this is a good thing, it is not always possible to achieve such demonstrable product superiority such as technical or cost limitations. Moreover, such superiority may not always be sustainable as competitors often try to outperform, if not match, benefits or propositions being offered by competition.
This is why it is important for companies to come up with offerings that more than demonstrate functional superiority, satisfy specific needs or desires of consumers. This can come in various forms—packaging, sizing innovation, distribution, advertising—and dimensions that are functional, sensual and emotional.
Meaningful segmentation:
To really know their target market, marketers need to identify the group of consumers that has the strongest need for or affinity to the brand. Every consumer is, of course, unique. Each has needs that are different from others, so it would be unwise to custom-fit a product or service offering to a single individual. For the same reason, it would be impractical to expect the needs of all consumers to be satisfied by a single product or service offering. Thus, the most cost-effective, practical way to market a product is to target a specific group of customers and consumers with largely similar needs.
This is where market segmentation comes in—identifying and targeting a group of consumers that are in some demonstrable way similar to one another but different from the rest of the market. Determining the most apt group of consumers for its product or service can, of course, be done through an appropriate market segmentation study.
Clear and compelling brand positioning:
Creating an image for your product and clearly positioning it in the minds of the target market—these are musts for establishing a long-term relationship with the consumers. Brand positioning, which sustains the brand image and explains the product’s unique selling proposition (USP), is ultimately what makes the consumers choose a product over its competitors and patronize it over the long term. It is what makes a brand uniquely meaningful to its target markets and what clearly distinguishes it from the other players in the same product category.
Solid marketing mix:
A strong marketing mix that is consistent with the brand positioning is a must for ensuring that a brand will continue to sell. The marketing mix is simply the totality of the activities done by the company that affects the marketing and selling of the brand. Each element of the mix—product, packaging, pricing, distribution, promotions, advertising—has its own characteristics, but each must be carefully considered in its relationship with the other elements and with the overall marketing strategy to ensure that the delivery of the brand promise is maximized.
This marketing mix should be balanced and made consistent with the brand’s desired position and image in the market. To have it any other way would just confuse consumers and weaken the standing of the brand in their minds.
By Ampy Rio
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Sunday, November 9, 2008
INVESTMENT LAWS
Executive Order 226 - The Omnibus Investments Code of 1987
Executive Order No. 226, otherwise known as the Omnibus Investments Code, was enacted in 1987 to develop the country's industries, establish a competitive investment environment and discourage monopolies. The law provides a host of incentives to registered investments and sets into place systematic procedures by which local or foreign companies or business projects can easily register.
An important aspect of the law is the provision of incentives, fiscal and non-fiscal, to preferred areas of investments, pioneer or non-pioneer, export production as well as rehabilitation or expansion of existing operations. Pioneer enterprises are registered enterprises engaged in the manufacture and processing of products or raw materials that are not yet produced in the Philippines in large volume. It also involves the design, formula or system applied as well as agricultural, forestry and mining activities, the services and energy sectors. Non-pioneer enterprises refer to all registered producer enterprises not included in the pioneer enterprise list.
Qualified projects, depending on their category, are granted a host of incentives, including income tax holidays, tax credits, tax and duty exemption for imported raw materials and equipment, hiring of foreign labor, exemption from contractors tax, simplified customs procedure, and other tax incentives. Investors are assured the right to repatriate of profits and earnings, payment of foreign loans and interests, and freedom from expropriation.
Condotel Investment Financing in the Philippines
Non Resident Foreign Nationals and Overseas Filipinos can now avail of mortgage loans for Lancaster Suites Tower I Condotel Suite Investments in the Philippines.
Oct 14, 2008 – This is “really good news” for all existing unit owners and prospective buyers of Lancaster Suites Tower 1 Condotel Suites in the Philippines enthuses Beth Collingz, Director of PLC International, lead marketing partners of Pacific Concord Properties Lancaster Suites Condotel developments in Metro Manila, Philippines.
Banco De Oro (BDO) a commercial Bank in Metro Manila has just approved a buyer’s financing or mortgage scheme for the said project. Collingz stated that “The new financing scheme, a first providing Philippine Mortgages to Foreign Nationals residing overseas for the purchase of Condo units in the Philippines, is now available to unit owners (i.e., Filipinos, Filipino-Americans and Foreign Nationals alike) whom are looking to purchase a Condotel Suite or refinance their investments through BDO’s Home Loan” open to both residential and commercial unit owners and existing buyers of Lancaster Suites Tower I units whom have paid at least 30% of the total contract price of their units can loan up to 70% of the current unit market value.
Existing unit owners who are availing of Pacific Concord Properties in-house financing have the option to pay off their units in 144 months. With BDO’s Home Loan, unit owners can now opt to pay off the balance for up to 15 years [180 months] at only 10.5% per annum. By converting the existing in-house loan to BDO’s Home Loan, buyers will have more flexibility in paying off their loans at a much lower interest rate. What’s more, with BDO’s Home Loan, buyers can loan the full amount equivalent to 70% of the current value of their units regardless if they have already paid more than 30% of the units’ TCP. After paying the balance of the unit price to PCPI, the net amount will then be released directly to them. Buyers can take advantage of this offer to free up some cash as well as to finance the fit-out of their units in the condotel pool or their business set up requirements in their commercial units.
“Many of my previous clients whom have purchased units in Lancaster Suites Tower I are now set to cash in on their equity by availing of the new 15 year financing option to be able to reinvest in new units at Lancaster Atrium which is currently on preconstruction selling” said Collingz.
Collingz continued, “Not only will buyers of units in Tower I have rental income from their units from the middle part of 2008 that will partially offset mortgage payments, they can now free up their equity and take advantage of the current low prices for Condotel Suites in the new Lancaster Atrium and stand to make another 70-80% in property appreciation by the time the building is fully completed. This is really a fantastic offer from BDO and is initially available only to unit owners of Lancaster Suites Tower I Condotel units”
Pacific Concord Properties, Inc. is offering the perfect mix of both the right opportunity and the right timing. In recognizing the financial and emotional value of their investment, PCPI designed a program for all unit owners of Lancaster Suites and Lancaster Cebu that will help them maintain and generate income from their investment. More popularly known as the Condotel Advantage, this program will enable unit owners to gain access to PCPI’s experienced world-class property managers who will make sure of the complete and hotel-quality maintenance of the units enrolled in the condotel pool.
As part of the condotel pool, unit owners can relax knowing that their properties will be managed like hotel rooms. Finding tenants will not be a concern also as the property managers will be tasked in finding tenants for them to make sure that their units will earn a competitive rental income. By joining the condotel pool, unit owners will get to enjoy total hassle-free property management while earning rental income whether they are staying in the Philippines or residing in another country anywhere in the world
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Speculative but Profitable in Philippines
A would-be real estate investor at a conference in New York in April said he'd researched the Philippines property market for five years, considering making a purchase. Meantime, prices appreciated, maybe, 200% in that period. The market became too expensive for him and he never did act.
Another investor at a Real Estate Forum, explained that he'd been watching the market in the Philippines, for more than two years but was still uncertain as to whether or where to buy. He lamented the rate of appreciation of property values during those 24 months.
Two pieces of advice: First, yes, do your homework. But, second, don't become paralyzed by the analysis. Nothing is guaranteed. You'll rarely identify a "perfect" time to buy. You'll never know you're making the right move. In any market, at any time, you could lose everything you invest.
If those things make you uneasy...you shouldn't be thinking about investing in international real estate. This is risky business...often speculative. ..in unregulated, Wild West markets. Dealing with people you wouldn't do business with if you had any choice (sometimes you don't). If something goes wrong, you'll likely have little or no recourse.
That's the game. Investing in foreign real estate is more risky and more complicated than investing in U.S. real estate. Recognize these truths. Choose your markets. Do your research and due diligence
You must have the answers to the six primary factors to consider when making a real estate investment-- and how each one affects your level of income:
1. Why you're making the investment. Do you intend to use and enjoy the property? Or, are you only looking at the investment potential? That's important to your initial outlay and your long-(or short-) term returns. 2. What's your tolerance for risk? Learn your Risk Comfort Level, is this investment within those parameters? 3. Your options for financing. Cash or credit? Your answer helps determine your investment. 4. What fits well in your existing portfolio? To be well-balanced, your portfolio should have a range of assets including real estate-- and your portfolio should include a range of properties. 5. Your level of experience in the market. Experience is the roughest teacher--because it gives the test before it gives the lesson. 6. Your desired level of involvement. Your level of participation will help you determine your type of investment.
Then act. Take a first step. Don't invest money you can't afford to lose. Control the circumstances as much as possible. But don't wait for a sign from above that the timing and the opportunity are ideal. The sign won't come...and the market won't wait. For a first deal you should probably invest no more than $50,000.
Here are some buys you could make right now in the Philippines with that budget:
1. A Freehold Studio Condotel Suite at the Lancaster Atrium Manila for Initial Property Appreciation Investment and Rental Income from 2010 in Metro Manila, Philippines. Floor Area 28.17 square meter [304sqft] at $1,518.00/sqm. Total Contract Price: USD 42,762.06. Pay Cash and take a full 20% discount [Save USD 8,552.41] on the unit price. Pay 90% Now [USD 30,788.68] and the remaining 10% [USD 3,420.96] on unit turnover from December 2009
2. A Freehold Studio Condotel Suite at the Lancaster Suites Manila for Rental Income from 2007 in Metro Manila, Philippines. Floor Area of 27.23 square meters [293sqft] at $1,618.00/sqm. Total Contract Price: USD 44,058.14 [Tax Exempt]. Pay Cash and take a 10% discount on the Contract Price. Save USD 4,405.81 Pay 90% of the contract price now [USD 35,687.09] and the remaining 10% balance [USD 3,965.23] on unit turnover from March 2007
3. A Freehold Studio Condotel Suite at the Lancaster Cebu Resort Residences for rental income from 2007 in Cebu, Philippines. Fully Furnished Studio 36.5625sqm [395sqft] $1,507.00/sqm USD 55,099.69. Pay Cash and take a full 10% discount [Save USD 5,509.96] Pay Reservation [USD 1,820.00] and Cash Balance within 30 days [USD 47,769.72] for an Effective Total Cash Price of USD 49,589.72. Immediate Occupancy
Pacific Concord Properties, Inc., Flagship Lancaster Atrium Suites Condotel [Manila] development located along Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, is one of the hottest Condotel Investments in the Philippines where property investors, apart from real estate appreciation initially reckoned to be 100% for early investors, will get projected Rental Incomes on their units of up to 16% per annum once fully operational from 2010
To be called Lancaster Atrium [which is the second Tower adjacent to the existing "Sold Out" Tower I] Condotel Studios, One, Two & Three Bedroom Suites are currently available to Property Investors adopting International Standard Escrow Trust Account "Buyer Safe" Easy Secure Payment Plans... with 6 year interest free payment terms or up to 12 year no prequalification "In-House" financing [available to all overseas buyers], full condo ownership, no management costs for Condotel Suites, no enrollment charges for joining the Condotel Rental Pool, and minimum monthly maintenance fees, as buyers or sellers of Real Estate you really should take a moment to look at this Philippine Condotel Investment Opportunity
According to Beth Collingz, of PLC International Marketing Networks, a Lead Marketing Partner with Pacific Concord Properties Inc., whom have Condotel developments in Metro Manila and Cebu, and specializes in working with international clients: "My phone has been very busy with buyers from the UK, Scotland and Australia interested in purchasing investment properties and holiday homes here. A lot of this interest is being driven by the relatively cheap market prices in the Philippines compared to Europe, specially UK Housing prices, and the easy payment options available for our Condotel Developments, but there are other factors, too. Offshore Property Investors, Foreign baby boomers as well as overseas Filipinos, are looking for ways to maximize their return on investments as they approach retirement, and so are purchasing second homes, particularly Condotel Investments where they can use the Condo for vacations and rent it out through our In-House Condotel Management when they are not using the unit thereby gaining rental incomes that on today's purchase prices, give a projected ROI on their investments of some 12-16% depending upon the mode of payment for the unit"
Beth Collingz, who runs PLC Global Pinoy, an internet based marketing network specializing in Condotel Investments in the Philippines, indicated that more than 85% of all Condotel sales in Metro Manila were to international clients. While such a level of foreign-purchasing activity is not as high in the Philippines provinces, Cebu in particular, has seen a sharp increase in real estate purchases by international buyers in the past several years.
"These international buyers know it's a buyer's market in the Philippines right now--there are a lot of properties available and fewer local buyers," Collingz said. "I'm working with clients who are purchasing their second property with me. We also have referrals from many of our prior customers and new clients who have found us through our Web sites, lancastersuites. com and plcglobalpinoy. com which include a special section for international buyers"
While Metro Manila is still a popular choice with international buyers, Collingz says clients tell her that it makes more sense to buy in a year-round vacation destination. The Lancaster Cebu Resort Residences Condotel development by Pacific Concord Properties located in Mactan, Cebu -- the area around Cebu International Airport -- fits the bill with all it offers to International buyers.
Accessibility from Europe & the United States is also a factor.
"London to Qatar, London to Amsterdam to Singapore or New York to Hong Kong, direct flights to Cebu and Manila, for example, average just 16 hours, add to that the many airline specials from Qatar Airlines whom probably offer the cheapest air fares, that fly directly into Cebu and Manila, and it's easy to see why the Philippines is becoming an international community."
Unlike other offshore rental properties, where the rental market is largely seasonal, in the Philippines there is a strong market for rental properties year round. This gives buyers greater flexibility in choosing when to use and when to rent their property. The strong rental/second home market also has resulted in a proliferation of professional property managers and rental agents, making property ownership and rental easy. Pacific Concord Properties Inc with it's flagship Lancaster Condotel Developments fit's the bill.
Financing Options and Security open up Philippine real estate market to International buyers.
Previously a stumbling block for some international buyers was the perception that it is difficult --if not impossible -- to obtain financing in the Philippines. As a result, many purchases in the past were cash sales.
Pacific Concord Properties recently introduced the new affordable easy payment plans for the Lancaster Atrium Manila Condotel Suites where a Studio Unit can be purchased without any down payment, and 67% of the contract price payable over 60 months interest free and the 33% balance payable on turnover of the unit or to be extended for another 60 months through PCPI's no prequalification no hassle finance plan, sales of the companies inventory of units will surely sell out quickly to investors seeking to take advantage of the Condotel Investment "Boom" in the Philippines.
A major stumbling block for some Investors from the UK was the perception that purchasing property in the Philippines was risky with nightmare stories of fraud and deception abounding due to the lack of Professional Realtors and Internationally accepted principles' of Real Estate Transactions.
With Pacific Concord Properties Inc adopting International Property Standards and the only Philippine Real Estate Developer to operate the Internationally accepted practice of Escrow Trust Account Banking for all payments made by buyers of it's Condotel Suites, international offshore property investors need no longer worry about the security of their investments
Another drawback to purchasing property in the Philippines was that most overseas buyers of the real estate have become accustomed to normal home buyers standards like putting their money in escrow (which protects them if the developer does not deliver on its commitments) whenever they buy real property.
Pacific Concord Properties Inc., now sets that "International Standard' in the Philippines with the "Buy Safe Payment Policy" of Escrow Trust Account Banking with Equitable PCI Bank, one the Philippines largest Banks, for the purchase of a Condotel unit in either the Lancaster Suites Manila, Lancaster Atrium Manila or Lancaster Cebu developments.
Buyers of Condotel units at the Lancaster Suites Manila, Lancaster Atrium Manila and Lancaster Cebu Resort Residences in Cebu, pay their Reservations, down payments and all monthly payments directly to the Companies Trust Account with the Bank thereby ensuring that funds are maintained and ultimately used only for the purpose of direct construction related costs. This not only guarantees that the buyers money is safe, but more importantly the development will be completed on schedule and within projected time frames for the project.
Collingz highlights the importance of working with those experienced in this type of transaction. "Buying property in the Philippines is significantly different from buying in the UK and other European countries, for example," said Collingz. "The purchase process is more direct, with less stress and more accountability; and we work directly with the buyer or collaboratively with the client's agent or representatives. Our goal--and that of Pacific Concord Properties Inc -- is to make the whole process as easy as possible. Prospective buyers can view properties online on our Web site and save listings they're interested in an online portfolio"
Communication is the key to the process, according to Collingz. "We spend a lot of time communicating with buyers before they visit, so that we all have a clear picture of the type of property that's right for them. We also make travel arrangements and hotel accommodations and provide them with information in advance of their visit so they understand the process and their options. That way they can make the best use of their time here--and we can ensure they have time to get to know and enjoy the area."
In many cases, buyers arrive for a three to five-day visit and sign a sales agreement before heading home. Pacific Concord Properties' staff then handles every detail of the closing so that on their next visit, the buyers can enjoy their new home or investment property.
Written by
PLC Global Filipino Agency
PLC Global Filipino Agency is a global network of Filipinos whether living and working abroad or locally who are interested to invest in Philippine Real Estate.
Another investor at a Real Estate Forum, explained that he'd been watching the market in the Philippines, for more than two years but was still uncertain as to whether or where to buy. He lamented the rate of appreciation of property values during those 24 months.
Two pieces of advice: First, yes, do your homework. But, second, don't become paralyzed by the analysis. Nothing is guaranteed. You'll rarely identify a "perfect" time to buy. You'll never know you're making the right move. In any market, at any time, you could lose everything you invest.
If those things make you uneasy...you shouldn't be thinking about investing in international real estate. This is risky business...often speculative. ..in unregulated, Wild West markets. Dealing with people you wouldn't do business with if you had any choice (sometimes you don't). If something goes wrong, you'll likely have little or no recourse.
That's the game. Investing in foreign real estate is more risky and more complicated than investing in U.S. real estate. Recognize these truths. Choose your markets. Do your research and due diligence
You must have the answers to the six primary factors to consider when making a real estate investment-- and how each one affects your level of income:
1. Why you're making the investment. Do you intend to use and enjoy the property? Or, are you only looking at the investment potential? That's important to your initial outlay and your long-(or short-) term returns. 2. What's your tolerance for risk? Learn your Risk Comfort Level, is this investment within those parameters? 3. Your options for financing. Cash or credit? Your answer helps determine your investment. 4. What fits well in your existing portfolio? To be well-balanced, your portfolio should have a range of assets including real estate-- and your portfolio should include a range of properties. 5. Your level of experience in the market. Experience is the roughest teacher--because it gives the test before it gives the lesson. 6. Your desired level of involvement. Your level of participation will help you determine your type of investment.
Then act. Take a first step. Don't invest money you can't afford to lose. Control the circumstances as much as possible. But don't wait for a sign from above that the timing and the opportunity are ideal. The sign won't come...and the market won't wait. For a first deal you should probably invest no more than $50,000.
Here are some buys you could make right now in the Philippines with that budget:
1. A Freehold Studio Condotel Suite at the Lancaster Atrium Manila for Initial Property Appreciation Investment and Rental Income from 2010 in Metro Manila, Philippines. Floor Area 28.17 square meter [304sqft] at $1,518.00/sqm. Total Contract Price: USD 42,762.06. Pay Cash and take a full 20% discount [Save USD 8,552.41] on the unit price. Pay 90% Now [USD 30,788.68] and the remaining 10% [USD 3,420.96] on unit turnover from December 2009
2. A Freehold Studio Condotel Suite at the Lancaster Suites Manila for Rental Income from 2007 in Metro Manila, Philippines. Floor Area of 27.23 square meters [293sqft] at $1,618.00/sqm. Total Contract Price: USD 44,058.14 [Tax Exempt]. Pay Cash and take a 10% discount on the Contract Price. Save USD 4,405.81 Pay 90% of the contract price now [USD 35,687.09] and the remaining 10% balance [USD 3,965.23] on unit turnover from March 2007
3. A Freehold Studio Condotel Suite at the Lancaster Cebu Resort Residences for rental income from 2007 in Cebu, Philippines. Fully Furnished Studio 36.5625sqm [395sqft] $1,507.00/sqm USD 55,099.69. Pay Cash and take a full 10% discount [Save USD 5,509.96] Pay Reservation [USD 1,820.00] and Cash Balance within 30 days [USD 47,769.72] for an Effective Total Cash Price of USD 49,589.72. Immediate Occupancy
Pacific Concord Properties, Inc., Flagship Lancaster Atrium Suites Condotel [Manila] development located along Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, is one of the hottest Condotel Investments in the Philippines where property investors, apart from real estate appreciation initially reckoned to be 100% for early investors, will get projected Rental Incomes on their units of up to 16% per annum once fully operational from 2010
To be called Lancaster Atrium [which is the second Tower adjacent to the existing "Sold Out" Tower I] Condotel Studios, One, Two & Three Bedroom Suites are currently available to Property Investors adopting International Standard Escrow Trust Account "Buyer Safe" Easy Secure Payment Plans... with 6 year interest free payment terms or up to 12 year no prequalification "In-House" financing [available to all overseas buyers], full condo ownership, no management costs for Condotel Suites, no enrollment charges for joining the Condotel Rental Pool, and minimum monthly maintenance fees, as buyers or sellers of Real Estate you really should take a moment to look at this Philippine Condotel Investment Opportunity
According to Beth Collingz, of PLC International Marketing Networks, a Lead Marketing Partner with Pacific Concord Properties Inc., whom have Condotel developments in Metro Manila and Cebu, and specializes in working with international clients: "My phone has been very busy with buyers from the UK, Scotland and Australia interested in purchasing investment properties and holiday homes here. A lot of this interest is being driven by the relatively cheap market prices in the Philippines compared to Europe, specially UK Housing prices, and the easy payment options available for our Condotel Developments, but there are other factors, too. Offshore Property Investors, Foreign baby boomers as well as overseas Filipinos, are looking for ways to maximize their return on investments as they approach retirement, and so are purchasing second homes, particularly Condotel Investments where they can use the Condo for vacations and rent it out through our In-House Condotel Management when they are not using the unit thereby gaining rental incomes that on today's purchase prices, give a projected ROI on their investments of some 12-16% depending upon the mode of payment for the unit"
Beth Collingz, who runs PLC Global Pinoy, an internet based marketing network specializing in Condotel Investments in the Philippines, indicated that more than 85% of all Condotel sales in Metro Manila were to international clients. While such a level of foreign-purchasing activity is not as high in the Philippines provinces, Cebu in particular, has seen a sharp increase in real estate purchases by international buyers in the past several years.
"These international buyers know it's a buyer's market in the Philippines right now--there are a lot of properties available and fewer local buyers," Collingz said. "I'm working with clients who are purchasing their second property with me. We also have referrals from many of our prior customers and new clients who have found us through our Web sites, lancastersuites. com and plcglobalpinoy. com which include a special section for international buyers"
While Metro Manila is still a popular choice with international buyers, Collingz says clients tell her that it makes more sense to buy in a year-round vacation destination. The Lancaster Cebu Resort Residences Condotel development by Pacific Concord Properties located in Mactan, Cebu -- the area around Cebu International Airport -- fits the bill with all it offers to International buyers.
Accessibility from Europe & the United States is also a factor.
"London to Qatar, London to Amsterdam to Singapore or New York to Hong Kong, direct flights to Cebu and Manila, for example, average just 16 hours, add to that the many airline specials from Qatar Airlines whom probably offer the cheapest air fares, that fly directly into Cebu and Manila, and it's easy to see why the Philippines is becoming an international community."
Unlike other offshore rental properties, where the rental market is largely seasonal, in the Philippines there is a strong market for rental properties year round. This gives buyers greater flexibility in choosing when to use and when to rent their property. The strong rental/second home market also has resulted in a proliferation of professional property managers and rental agents, making property ownership and rental easy. Pacific Concord Properties Inc with it's flagship Lancaster Condotel Developments fit's the bill.
Financing Options and Security open up Philippine real estate market to International buyers.
Previously a stumbling block for some international buyers was the perception that it is difficult --if not impossible -- to obtain financing in the Philippines. As a result, many purchases in the past were cash sales.
Pacific Concord Properties recently introduced the new affordable easy payment plans for the Lancaster Atrium Manila Condotel Suites where a Studio Unit can be purchased without any down payment, and 67% of the contract price payable over 60 months interest free and the 33% balance payable on turnover of the unit or to be extended for another 60 months through PCPI's no prequalification no hassle finance plan, sales of the companies inventory of units will surely sell out quickly to investors seeking to take advantage of the Condotel Investment "Boom" in the Philippines.
A major stumbling block for some Investors from the UK was the perception that purchasing property in the Philippines was risky with nightmare stories of fraud and deception abounding due to the lack of Professional Realtors and Internationally accepted principles' of Real Estate Transactions.
With Pacific Concord Properties Inc adopting International Property Standards and the only Philippine Real Estate Developer to operate the Internationally accepted practice of Escrow Trust Account Banking for all payments made by buyers of it's Condotel Suites, international offshore property investors need no longer worry about the security of their investments
Another drawback to purchasing property in the Philippines was that most overseas buyers of the real estate have become accustomed to normal home buyers standards like putting their money in escrow (which protects them if the developer does not deliver on its commitments) whenever they buy real property.
Pacific Concord Properties Inc., now sets that "International Standard' in the Philippines with the "Buy Safe Payment Policy" of Escrow Trust Account Banking with Equitable PCI Bank, one the Philippines largest Banks, for the purchase of a Condotel unit in either the Lancaster Suites Manila, Lancaster Atrium Manila or Lancaster Cebu developments.
Buyers of Condotel units at the Lancaster Suites Manila, Lancaster Atrium Manila and Lancaster Cebu Resort Residences in Cebu, pay their Reservations, down payments and all monthly payments directly to the Companies Trust Account with the Bank thereby ensuring that funds are maintained and ultimately used only for the purpose of direct construction related costs. This not only guarantees that the buyers money is safe, but more importantly the development will be completed on schedule and within projected time frames for the project.
Collingz highlights the importance of working with those experienced in this type of transaction. "Buying property in the Philippines is significantly different from buying in the UK and other European countries, for example," said Collingz. "The purchase process is more direct, with less stress and more accountability; and we work directly with the buyer or collaboratively with the client's agent or representatives. Our goal--and that of Pacific Concord Properties Inc -- is to make the whole process as easy as possible. Prospective buyers can view properties online on our Web site and save listings they're interested in an online portfolio"
Communication is the key to the process, according to Collingz. "We spend a lot of time communicating with buyers before they visit, so that we all have a clear picture of the type of property that's right for them. We also make travel arrangements and hotel accommodations and provide them with information in advance of their visit so they understand the process and their options. That way they can make the best use of their time here--and we can ensure they have time to get to know and enjoy the area."
In many cases, buyers arrive for a three to five-day visit and sign a sales agreement before heading home. Pacific Concord Properties' staff then handles every detail of the closing so that on their next visit, the buyers can enjoy their new home or investment property.
Written by
PLC Global Filipino Agency
PLC Global Filipino Agency is a global network of Filipinos whether living and working abroad or locally who are interested to invest in Philippine Real Estate.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Overseas Filipino investors
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo reiterated her call to Filipinos living in Japan to “prove our mettle as a nation and as a people and start our economic rebirth wherever we are by thinking Filipino, buying Filipino and investing Filipino.” This she said on September 15 during a gathering with representatives of Filipino organizations as part of her working visit here.
The call was timely as the number of overseas Filipino workers in Japan rose by 21 percent in the first half of the year, the largest increase in overseas deployment to one country, the Department of Labor and Employment said. This increase came amid calls by some sectors of Japanese society for an “open door policy” on foreign workers to fill the gaps left by Japan’s aging population.
Arroyo stressed that the Philippine economy would remain heavily dependent on the 8 billion dollars that overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) remit home yearly, adding that this increased the country’s GNP by 25% during the first half of 2001. On the other hand, she promised to campaign for the ratification of the 1999 UN Convention on the Protection of Rights of Migrant Workers and their families and the adoption of a UN resolution for the protection of female migrant workers. The President said she would also work for the passage of a bill allowing overseas Filipinos to vote.
Arroyo preferred to call OFWs as “overseas Filipino investors” instead, saying that the money that OFIs send home “invigorates the economy” by financing education, business start-ups, construction activities as well as other kinds of economic development.
As 40 percent of the Philippine population is currently mired in poverty compared to only about 30 percent four years ago, at no other time is this call more relevant. While Filipinos back home jump ship at the slightest opportunity, they should never forget that working abroad is a God-given gift. The appropriate response is to share this gift back home through investments that can uplift the quality of Filipino life.
With more than 7 million Filipinos abroad at any given time, this potential is staggering. It should not matter if others do their share, what counts is whether you have done yours.
By: Don Kishote in OFW Blues, philippines.
The call was timely as the number of overseas Filipino workers in Japan rose by 21 percent in the first half of the year, the largest increase in overseas deployment to one country, the Department of Labor and Employment said. This increase came amid calls by some sectors of Japanese society for an “open door policy” on foreign workers to fill the gaps left by Japan’s aging population.
Arroyo stressed that the Philippine economy would remain heavily dependent on the 8 billion dollars that overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) remit home yearly, adding that this increased the country’s GNP by 25% during the first half of 2001. On the other hand, she promised to campaign for the ratification of the 1999 UN Convention on the Protection of Rights of Migrant Workers and their families and the adoption of a UN resolution for the protection of female migrant workers. The President said she would also work for the passage of a bill allowing overseas Filipinos to vote.
Arroyo preferred to call OFWs as “overseas Filipino investors” instead, saying that the money that OFIs send home “invigorates the economy” by financing education, business start-ups, construction activities as well as other kinds of economic development.
As 40 percent of the Philippine population is currently mired in poverty compared to only about 30 percent four years ago, at no other time is this call more relevant. While Filipinos back home jump ship at the slightest opportunity, they should never forget that working abroad is a God-given gift. The appropriate response is to share this gift back home through investments that can uplift the quality of Filipino life.
With more than 7 million Filipinos abroad at any given time, this potential is staggering. It should not matter if others do their share, what counts is whether you have done yours.
By: Don Kishote in OFW Blues, philippines.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Make Money Online
How to Make 20 Dollars Per Day on the Net
by: Joaquin de la Sierra
A nice goal to reach is the 20 dollar mark. I breached that about six months ago, and let me tell you something: The hardest part is to reach 20 dollars. From there it gets easier every time for a very mysterious reason.
My strategy was to write good content ever since the beginning. If you are wondering, this website is not the one which brought me that glorious revenue - it happened from a history site!
Of course I was just learning back then and each click from that history website brings me around 20 cents - but nevertheless, I learnt that there is no limit to the revenue that one can make online.
From that history website I am making up to $50 every day now. That combined with a couple more websites I have have brought that number to the mid XXX. WOW.
That only happened in one year. Of course you can make it happen too and it's not as hard as it seems. All you need is patience and guts because if you lack either, you're getting nowhere.
Here is how to reach that dreaded $20 mark: (from the beginning)
1. Choose a niche
2. Purchase a domain name (read my previous entry for more info).
3. Write as much as possible.
4. Keep writing.
5. Write even more.
6. Place ADS in every page.
7. Optimize.
8. Write more.
9. Repeat everything (that's right purchase another domain name).
This will lead you to success believe it or not.
by: Joaquin de la Sierra
A nice goal to reach is the 20 dollar mark. I breached that about six months ago, and let me tell you something: The hardest part is to reach 20 dollars. From there it gets easier every time for a very mysterious reason.
My strategy was to write good content ever since the beginning. If you are wondering, this website is not the one which brought me that glorious revenue - it happened from a history site!
Of course I was just learning back then and each click from that history website brings me around 20 cents - but nevertheless, I learnt that there is no limit to the revenue that one can make online.
From that history website I am making up to $50 every day now. That combined with a couple more websites I have have brought that number to the mid XXX. WOW.
That only happened in one year. Of course you can make it happen too and it's not as hard as it seems. All you need is patience and guts because if you lack either, you're getting nowhere.
Here is how to reach that dreaded $20 mark: (from the beginning)
1. Choose a niche
2. Purchase a domain name (read my previous entry for more info).
3. Write as much as possible.
4. Keep writing.
5. Write even more.
6. Place ADS in every page.
7. Optimize.
8. Write more.
9. Repeat everything (that's right purchase another domain name).
This will lead you to success believe it or not.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
DigitalFilipino: E-Commerce, Wireless, Outsourcing in the Philippines DigitalFilipino.com is the country's premier e-commerce resource site. |
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Giving up your Day Job
Giving up a steady job for a home business is a dauntless and risky move. But, it is one that all entrepreneurs will eventually have to take, if they are ever going to fulfill their ambitions of being truly successful. No home business can start without its usual risks and that applies to any entrepreneur when he leaves his regular employment. However the risks become calculated ones when you have the right idea, the finances, the right plan and the ability to put in your best efforts, and you could expect great rewards.
Starting your own business is the testing platform for your risk taking ability and if anyone tells you something else, ignore. Provided you quit when you are ready to commit to serious effort and do not expect the world to reward you for minimum effort, the process of handing in your notice shouldn't be too risky. Having your own business is all about taking calculated risks and taking the right decisions at the right time to reap in the profits later. Like many things in life, practice perfects your analytical abilities.
Giving up your job to start a home business can be difficult on a number of levels, despite the fact that it is fundamental to being an entrepreneur. Firstly, this is a painful personal decision to say farewell to old office colleagues and friends. This becomes even tougher when you have an overwhelming sense of loyalty and people tend to depend on you, you could feel really guilty and uneasy. Over and above this, quitting a job also means that your financial resources are drying up and this can be dangerous if you have to pay the bills and take care of people around you.
Overcoming these obstacles is difficult, and will require a great deal of thought and dedication. The decision to quit from your regular job must be taken sensibly and you ought to feel extremely confident about your business plan before you take this critical step. Never quit your 9 to 5 job before all your plans to start the new enterprise is in order including enough money saved up which would help in your day to day expenses till your home business takes off profitably. A partner can help you out in this time if he or she decides to foot all your bills.
You can expect loss in the first year, as is usual, and then if everything goes the way you have planned you could break even in the next couple of years. The fortunate ones start making money in year three. Is it hard starting a new home business?
Starting your own business is the testing platform for your risk taking ability and if anyone tells you something else, ignore. Provided you quit when you are ready to commit to serious effort and do not expect the world to reward you for minimum effort, the process of handing in your notice shouldn't be too risky. Having your own business is all about taking calculated risks and taking the right decisions at the right time to reap in the profits later. Like many things in life, practice perfects your analytical abilities.
Giving up your job to start a home business can be difficult on a number of levels, despite the fact that it is fundamental to being an entrepreneur. Firstly, this is a painful personal decision to say farewell to old office colleagues and friends. This becomes even tougher when you have an overwhelming sense of loyalty and people tend to depend on you, you could feel really guilty and uneasy. Over and above this, quitting a job also means that your financial resources are drying up and this can be dangerous if you have to pay the bills and take care of people around you.
Overcoming these obstacles is difficult, and will require a great deal of thought and dedication. The decision to quit from your regular job must be taken sensibly and you ought to feel extremely confident about your business plan before you take this critical step. Never quit your 9 to 5 job before all your plans to start the new enterprise is in order including enough money saved up which would help in your day to day expenses till your home business takes off profitably. A partner can help you out in this time if he or she decides to foot all your bills.
You can expect loss in the first year, as is usual, and then if everything goes the way you have planned you could break even in the next couple of years. The fortunate ones start making money in year three. Is it hard starting a new home business?
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Future Investment
No one knows what the future will bring but it is not very likely that anyone will be able to rely on the social security handouts or even retirement funds. For the majority of us that means investing in our future as there may come a time when it s no longer possible to work, whether we want to or not
There is nothing wrong with having short term savings in a low interest savings account but you cannot expect these to grow at a rate that will provide for the future. There are also other reasons to invest that might not be relate to retirement like paying to educate your offspring, buying a home abroad or an expensive car for example.
If you have the money to invest and want to see a quick and healthy return on your savings then you can invest in the more risky areas where large short term gains can be made. If you are saving for the far off future, such as retirement, you would want to make safer investments that grow over a longer period of time.
The longer you plan this investment the greater the time period allowed for growth and it also allows for an early or unexpected retirement. A great deal of faith has been lost in retirement funds, and those companies that manage them in recent years and Enron is a prime example of this but nor can anyone rely on social security benefits either so this really only leaves investing as a real alternative.
While investment can be very profitable, realistically it has to be looked upon as a long term project or game, one that the result will not be forthcoming until the time you decide to end it. Games require two things, rules and a plan of how it is to be won and investing needs this strategy too. All this is really is a set of rules and steps you need to carry out to invest your money and receive the planned return a a set point in the future.
Every type of fund has different areas that can be used to suit the needs of the investor and as such makes each fund highly individual. You cannot even discuss this subject without mentioning the stock market with millions of companies around the world where stocks can be purchased for long (and short) term financial gain. This is not an area that should be rushed as like a game there are rules and if you do not know them you will not play very well and the chances of winning, reduced so learn what you can before indulging. Achieving your aim of financial freedom must start with researching the subject then putting into play your plan but there is no point starting this unless you are sure that your present financial needs are catered for.
There is nothing wrong with having short term savings in a low interest savings account but you cannot expect these to grow at a rate that will provide for the future. There are also other reasons to invest that might not be relate to retirement like paying to educate your offspring, buying a home abroad or an expensive car for example.
If you have the money to invest and want to see a quick and healthy return on your savings then you can invest in the more risky areas where large short term gains can be made. If you are saving for the far off future, such as retirement, you would want to make safer investments that grow over a longer period of time.
The longer you plan this investment the greater the time period allowed for growth and it also allows for an early or unexpected retirement. A great deal of faith has been lost in retirement funds, and those companies that manage them in recent years and Enron is a prime example of this but nor can anyone rely on social security benefits either so this really only leaves investing as a real alternative.
While investment can be very profitable, realistically it has to be looked upon as a long term project or game, one that the result will not be forthcoming until the time you decide to end it. Games require two things, rules and a plan of how it is to be won and investing needs this strategy too. All this is really is a set of rules and steps you need to carry out to invest your money and receive the planned return a a set point in the future.
Every type of fund has different areas that can be used to suit the needs of the investor and as such makes each fund highly individual. You cannot even discuss this subject without mentioning the stock market with millions of companies around the world where stocks can be purchased for long (and short) term financial gain. This is not an area that should be rushed as like a game there are rules and if you do not know them you will not play very well and the chances of winning, reduced so learn what you can before indulging. Achieving your aim of financial freedom must start with researching the subject then putting into play your plan but there is no point starting this unless you are sure that your present financial needs are catered for.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Investment Laws and Policies
Foreign Investments Act
Republic Act 7042 as amended by RA 8179, also known as the Foreign Investments Act of 1991, is the basic law that governs foreign investments in the Philippines. It is considered a landmark legislation because it liberalized the entry of foreign investments into the country.
KEY FEATURES OF THE FIA
- Concept of a negative list
- Opened domestic market to 100% foreign investment except those in the Foreign Investment Negative List (FINL)
- Redefined “export enterprise” to mean at least 60% for export
- Allowed 100% foreign ownership of business activities outside FINL but WITHOUT incentives
Under this law, foreign investors are allowed to invest 100% equity in companies engaged in almost all types of business activities subject to certain restrictions as prescribed in the Foreign Investments Negative List (FINL).
The FINL is a shortlist of investment areas or activities which may be opened to foreign investors and/or reserved to Filipino nationals. The Foreign Investments Negative Lists (FINL) are classified as follows:
List A - consists of areas of activities reserved to Philippine nationals where foreign equity participation in any domestic or export enterprise engaged in any activity listed therein shall be limited to a maximum of forty percent (40%) as prescribed by the Constitution and other specific laws
List B - consists of areas of activities where foreign ownership is limited pursuant to law such as defense or law enforcement-related activities, which have negative implications on public health and morals, and small and medium-scale enterprises.
The FIA clearly states that if the activity to be engaged in : is not included in the FINL, is more than 40% foreign-owned, and will cater to the domestic market, the capital required is at least two hundred thousand dollars (US$200,000.00). The capital may be lowered to one hundred thousand dollars (US$100,000.00), if activity involves advance technology, or the company employs at least 50 direct employees
If the foreign company will export at least 60% of its output, or a trader that purchases products domestically will export at least 60% of its purchases, the required capital of US$200,000.00 paid-in is not applicable
If the company is at least 60% Filipino - 40% foreign-owned and will cater to the domestic market, paid-in capital can be less than US$200,000.00
Specific Areas of Equal Investment Rights for Former Filipino Nationals
While most areas of businesses have limits for foreign investors, Section 9 of the amended Foreign Investments Act of 1991 lists the following types of businesses where former natural-born Filipinos can enjoy the same investment rights as a Philippine citizen.
- Cooperatives
- Thrift banks and private development bank
- Rural banks
- Financing companies
Former natural born Filipinos can also engage in activities under List B of the FINL. This means that their investments shall be treated as Filipino or will be considered as forming part of Filipino investments in activities closed or limited to foreign participation.
The equal investment rights of former Filipino nationals do not extend to activities under List A of FINL which are reserved for Filipino citizens under the Constitution.
Former natural born Filipinos have also been given the right to be transferees of private land up to a maximum of 5,000 square meters in the case of urban land or three (3) hectares in the case of rural land to be used for business or other purposes.
SOURCE: Philippine Board of Investment
Republic Act 7042 as amended by RA 8179, also known as the Foreign Investments Act of 1991, is the basic law that governs foreign investments in the Philippines. It is considered a landmark legislation because it liberalized the entry of foreign investments into the country.
KEY FEATURES OF THE FIA
- Concept of a negative list
- Opened domestic market to 100% foreign investment except those in the Foreign Investment Negative List (FINL)
- Redefined “export enterprise” to mean at least 60% for export
- Allowed 100% foreign ownership of business activities outside FINL but WITHOUT incentives
Under this law, foreign investors are allowed to invest 100% equity in companies engaged in almost all types of business activities subject to certain restrictions as prescribed in the Foreign Investments Negative List (FINL).
The FINL is a shortlist of investment areas or activities which may be opened to foreign investors and/or reserved to Filipino nationals. The Foreign Investments Negative Lists (FINL) are classified as follows:
List A - consists of areas of activities reserved to Philippine nationals where foreign equity participation in any domestic or export enterprise engaged in any activity listed therein shall be limited to a maximum of forty percent (40%) as prescribed by the Constitution and other specific laws
List B - consists of areas of activities where foreign ownership is limited pursuant to law such as defense or law enforcement-related activities, which have negative implications on public health and morals, and small and medium-scale enterprises.
The FIA clearly states that if the activity to be engaged in : is not included in the FINL, is more than 40% foreign-owned, and will cater to the domestic market, the capital required is at least two hundred thousand dollars (US$200,000.00). The capital may be lowered to one hundred thousand dollars (US$100,000.00), if activity involves advance technology, or the company employs at least 50 direct employees
If the foreign company will export at least 60% of its output, or a trader that purchases products domestically will export at least 60% of its purchases, the required capital of US$200,000.00 paid-in is not applicable
If the company is at least 60% Filipino - 40% foreign-owned and will cater to the domestic market, paid-in capital can be less than US$200,000.00
Specific Areas of Equal Investment Rights for Former Filipino Nationals
While most areas of businesses have limits for foreign investors, Section 9 of the amended Foreign Investments Act of 1991 lists the following types of businesses where former natural-born Filipinos can enjoy the same investment rights as a Philippine citizen.
- Cooperatives
- Thrift banks and private development bank
- Rural banks
- Financing companies
Former natural born Filipinos can also engage in activities under List B of the FINL. This means that their investments shall be treated as Filipino or will be considered as forming part of Filipino investments in activities closed or limited to foreign participation.
The equal investment rights of former Filipino nationals do not extend to activities under List A of FINL which are reserved for Filipino citizens under the Constitution.
Former natural born Filipinos have also been given the right to be transferees of private land up to a maximum of 5,000 square meters in the case of urban land or three (3) hectares in the case of rural land to be used for business or other purposes.
SOURCE: Philippine Board of Investment
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Philippine Real Estate
If you are thinking of Investing in Real Estate now or in the near future, you've come to the right place. Since 2001, InvestPH has given you the best choice for your investment in Philippine real estate by giving you the widest possible listing (over 15,000) choices with the help of all our over 1,700 affiliates located all over the Philippines. If you are new to this site, you may want to read and join our online forums for more information.
If you are a real estate agent, broker or owner, you can add your real estate property for free by registering online as our affiliate! In 5 minutes, you can take advantage of a worldwide reach of interested buyers - now with over 30,000 unique visitors/month - and growing!
If you are a real estate agent, broker or owner, you can add your real estate property for free by registering online as our affiliate! In 5 minutes, you can take advantage of a worldwide reach of interested buyers - now with over 30,000 unique visitors/month - and growing!
Join Robert Allen in his Ultimate Money Machine
Have you ever thought about adding an extra stream of income to your life? If yes... watch Robert Allen's Ultimate Money Machine Video
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Password: 3739368
And if you might find yourself interested to join his money-pipeline, you can place your details at Robert Allen's Ultimate Money Machine form
www.simplyworkathome.org/robertallen
Password: 3739368
And if you might find yourself interested to join his money-pipeline, you can place your details at Robert Allen's Ultimate Money Machine form
Extra Income
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Check it out! Just click this link: http://tryvindale.com/VehDKz5zA
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