Introduction
Renting an apartment in Makati City, one of the most bustling urban centers in the Philippines, brings a lot of decisions, one of which is choosing between a furnished and unfurnished unit. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks, and the right choice will depend on your lifestyle, budget, length of stay, and personal preferences.
Whether you’re an expat, young professional, or a student, understanding the key differences between furnished and unfurnished apartments can help you make an informed decision. This guide will explore the benefits and drawbacks of each, offer insights on typical costs, and provide tips to help you determine which is best suited to your needs.
1. Understanding Furnished vs. Unfurnished Apartments
Before delving into the pros and cons, let’s establish what “furnished” and “unfurnished” actually mean in the Makati rental market.
a. Furnished Apartments
A furnished apartment typically includes essential furniture like beds, sofas, tables, chairs, and often appliances such as a refrigerator, microwave, stove, and washing machine. Some may even come with additional items like decor, linens, and cookware, depending on the landlord’s level of furnishing.
b. Unfurnished Apartments
In contrast, an unfurnished apartment may be limited to basic fixtures, such as cabinets, sinks, and perhaps some built-in kitchen elements. They typically lack furniture and appliances, giving renters the freedom to furnish the space according to their own taste.
2. Pros and Cons of Furnished Apartments
Pros
i. Convenience and Immediate Move-In
A furnished apartment allows for an easy, stress-free move. You don’t need to worry about buying or transporting furniture and appliances, which is ideal for those relocating to Makati on short notice or on a temporary basis.
ii. Ideal for Short-Term Leases
Furnished apartments are an excellent choice for those with short-term stays, such as expats, corporate workers, or exchange students. Since furniture is already provided, you avoid the hassle and expense of moving heavy items at the end of your lease.
iii. Lower Upfront Costs
While the rent for a furnished apartment is generally higher, the lower upfront costs make it attractive. You don’t have to purchase furniture, appliances, or basic household items, saving you a substantial amount initially.
Cons
i. Higher Monthly Rent
Landlords of furnished units usually charge higher rent to account for the cost of the furnishings. If you’re planning to stay for an extended period, this can add up quickly and may end up costing more than buying furniture for an unfurnished unit.
ii. Less Personalization
In a furnished apartment, you may have limited freedom to personalize your space. Many leases prohibit changing wall colors or altering decor, and you’ll need to work around the existing furniture layout.
iii. Potential for Wear and Tear Fees
In furnished apartments, landlords often have stricter policies on wear and tear. Since they’ve invested in the furniture, they may charge for any damage or replacement costs at the end of your lease, even for minor scuffs or spills.
3. Pros and Cons of Unfurnished Apartments
Pros
i. Freedom to Personalize
Unfurnished apartments provide a blank slate, giving you the freedom to decorate and furnish the space to reflect your personality and taste. This is ideal for long-term residents who want a home that truly feels like theirs.
ii. Lower Monthly Rent
Unfurnished apartments usually have a lower monthly rent compared to furnished units. Although you’ll have to invest in furniture and appliances upfront, the overall cost may be lower if you plan to stay for a longer period.
iii. Reduced Risk of Wear and Tear Fees
Since the landlord isn’t responsible for furniture, there’s less risk of incurring fees for wear and tear. You’ll only be responsible for the apartment’s fixtures and finishes, not additional items like couches or tables.
Cons
i. Higher Initial Costs
Furnishing an apartment can be costly, especially if you’re starting from scratch. Items such as beds, sofas, appliances, and other essentials require a significant upfront investment.
ii. Moving Challenges
If you plan to move again in the near future, the logistics of transporting furniture can be complicated and expensive. Moving furniture in and out can also cause wear and tear on the property, which might lead to deductions from your deposit.
iii. Time and Effort to Set Up
Unlike a furnished apartment, an unfurnished unit requires more time to set up and get comfortable. From selecting furniture to arranging it, outfitting an unfurnished apartment can take days or even weeks.
4. Cost Comparison: Furnished vs. Unfurnished in Makati
a. Monthly Rent Differences
In Makati, rent prices for furnished apartments are typically 10-20% higher than unfurnished ones. This percentage can vary based on the type of furnishings and appliances provided, as well as the overall quality of the items.
b. Initial Setup Costs
For furnished apartments, the upfront costs are minimal, limited to the security deposit and first month’s rent. For unfurnished apartments, costs can vary greatly depending on the type of furniture and appliances you choose. Budget-conscious renters might opt for second-hand items, while others may choose high-end options.
5. Who Should Choose Furnished Apartments?
a. Short-Term Residents
If you’re only in Makati for a few months, perhaps for work or school, a furnished apartment is ideal as it minimizes the hassle and cost of acquiring furniture.
b. Busy Professionals
Busy professionals who don’t have time for setting up a household may find a furnished apartment more convenient, allowing them to settle in immediately.
c. Expats and Temporary Relocations
Expats, particularly those on temporary assignments, will benefit from a furnished unit as it simplifies the moving process and allows them to leave without worrying about furniture disposal.
6. Who Should Choose Unfurnished Apartments?
a. Long-Term Residents
Long-term residents who plan to stay for a year or more can spread the initial furniture cost over a longer period, making an unfurnished unit more cost-effective in the long run.
b. Home Decor Enthusiasts
If you enjoy customizing your living space, an unfurnished apartment gives you full control over decor choices. You can decorate and furnish to create a personalized sanctuary.
c. Families and Larger Households
Families or groups often have specific furniture needs that can’t be met with standard furnished apartments. Unfurnished units allow for more flexibility in choosing items that fit their lifestyle and space requirements.
7. Factors to Consider When Deciding Between Furnished and Unfurnished
a. Duration of Stay
If you’re staying for a year or longer, investing in furniture might be worthwhile. For shorter stays, a furnished apartment is often more convenient.
b. Lifestyle and Personalization
Consider your lifestyle and how much personalization matters to you. If you want a space that reflects your personality, an unfurnished apartment offers greater freedom.
c. Budget Constraints
While furnished apartments have higher monthly rent, they eliminate the need for upfront furniture expenses. Assess your budget to determine if you prefer spreading costs over time or paying more upfront.
8. Tips for Renting Furnished Apartments in Makati
a. Inspect the Condition of Furniture
Inspect all furniture and appliances before signing the lease to avoid potential disputes regarding wear and tear. Take photos and document any existing damage.
b. Clarify Responsibilities for Maintenance
Ask about who is responsible for maintaining and repairing the furnishings. Some landlords cover maintenance, while others may require tenants to handle minor repairs.
c. Negotiate the Terms
If the rent is slightly above your budget, see if the landlord is open to negotiation, especially for long-term leases.
9. Tips for Renting Unfurnished Apartments in Makati
a. Plan Your Furniture Purchase
Make a list of essential items you need right away versus those you can buy over time. This helps in budgeting and avoids unnecessary purchases.
b. Consider Second-Hand Furniture
Explore local marketplaces and stores for second-hand furniture. Many expats and other residents sell quality items at reasonable prices.
c. Budget for Moving and Setup Costs
If you’re planning to buy and transport furniture, include these costs in your budget. Moving costs can add up, so planning for logistics will save time and stress.
Conclusion
Choosing between a furnished and unfurnished apartment in Makati City is a significant decision that depends on your budget, length of stay, lifestyle, and personal preferences. While a furnished apartment offers convenience and is ideal for short-term residents, an unfurnished apartment provides flexibility and the opportunity to create a personalized space, making it ideal for long-term residents.
Understanding the pros and cons of each option, along with careful consideration of your living needs, can help you find an apartment that best suits your lifestyle. By making the right choice, you’ll ensure that your home in Makati City is both comfortable and aligned with your goals.
