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A traveler’s tale: How a globetrotter found his home in SMDC

• 5 min. read

They say choosing a homestay accommodation when traveling abroad is among the best ways to immerse oneself in the culture of a place. As an avid traveler who has now set foot in over 45 countries, Ben Torres, a Michigan-based certified public accountant, knew that the vacation rental property business is something that he would eventually get into.

Being in the financial industry, Ben is well-versed when it comes to investments. He knew that when it comes to investing, the sure and wise choice is something that gives one a sustainable income and whose value appreciates over time.

Owning an SM Development Corporation (SMDC) property is one of the best investments he has made to move closer to his dream: financial independence.

“I learned about SMDC when I went for a vacation in the Philippines in 2017. I booked a unit at Jazz Residences. The thought of having my own homestay unit in a prime location such as Makati inspired me to invest in the Philippines,”  Ben shared.

 

As an SMDC rentapreneur, Ben opens his Air Residences unit to foreign visitors and balikbayans mostly from America, Europe, and Australia. “They typically stay for about 1 to 3 weeks. I also have locals who rent my unit for a staycation in the city,” said Ben.

air residences living roo,m with a colorful tree wall accent

As an SMDC rentapreneur, Ben opens his Air Residences unit to foreign visitors and balikbayans mostly from America, Europe, and Australia. “They typically stay for about 1 to 3 weeks. I also have locals who rent my unit for a staycation in the city,” said Ben.

Pool inside a condominium complex in makati air residences

SMDC’s Air Residences is located within the Philippines’ premier business and financial district. It is just across Ayala Avenue in Makati, and is near institutions like RCBC Plaza and Makati Medical Center. The property offers residents and guests the chance to live an affluent life in the most prestigious city in the country. Apart from the convenience and accessibility it provides, SMDC’s Air Residences also features resort-like amenities and impressive facilities that enables its homeowners—and their guests—to enjoy life in luxurious comfort.

air residences lobby with shiny floors and chandeliers

“What made me decide to invest in SMDC’s Air Residences is that I can maximize my profit potential by turning it into a rental unit. I can generate monthly cash inflows of up to P75,000 a month, while also enjoying the increase of the value of the property. At the same time, I can use my unit when I visit the Philippines,” Ben explained.

He specifically chose SMDC because the properties are strategically located. “Plus, they encourage investors like me to start a rental investment at a very affordable price point. Right now is the best time to invest in the Philippines. Because of the pandemic, you can invest in great properties at such a modest price. I am very confident that the demand will start to go up now that most businesses are back. You can rent it out, generate income, and then invest again!”

Renting out a condominium property is a great way to earn. Considering it as an investment is one of the best ways to accelerate one’s retirement and start enjoying life and financial independence.

With the success of his first venture into the vacation homestay rental business, Ben is currently in the process of buying another property at Air Residence, and is on his way to achieving his ultimate dream of financial independence.