From Rent to Build: The GFL Metro Communities Story

Manila, Philippines -  Metro Manila, Philippines has an excellent gross rental yield of 8.62 percent per annum (total yearly gross rent divided by the house price and expressed as a percentage), putting it above of most of the metropolitan cities in Asia. It is no wonder that rental management is a thriving industry. For some rental management companies, the next move is to go into development, provided the right factors are in place. Such was the case for founders of GFL Metro Communities. “We were offered the opportunity by Manila Bank to purchase a 1,600 square meter lot in Bonifacio Global City. Foreseeing the potential expansion of this prime area Golden Forum Land proceeded with the transaction and conceptualized Seibu Tower,” shares Harvard Yu, GFL Metro Communities’ president.

Golden Forum Land (GFL) Metro Communities Inc. has been developing real estate for almost a decade. Its landmark project, the Seibu Tower, is a premium 28-storey building along millionaire’s row — that strip occupied by high-end condominiums in Bonifacio Global City— is testament to GFL Metro Communities’ vision of giving clients quality, well thought of living spaces that emphasize innovation and leisure, at value for money prices.

So what makes the company tick?

Business strategies

“We work with ASYA Design, an architectural firm with a vision and always delivers something new and innovative to the market,” says Princeton Huang, GFL chief operating officer. As such, the Seibu project offered its trademark design of the 270 degree view on its corner units on top of its great location and impeccable amenities. Its newest project, Elements Eco-efficient Residences showcases a lot of environmentally conscious design elements as well as eco-friendly use of advanced technologies. 

 “Partnering with a reputable AAA contractor and meeting construction deadlines and going beyond customers’ expectations is important,” he continues. Beyond developing well-chosen properties that are good investments, GFL Metro Communities goes the extra mile in making your urban abode a home.

Before choosing to develop land, the things they look for are the same things a prospective buyer will look for. “Location is key. [We check if the place is] accessible to public transportation hubs, schools, hospitals, banks, and highways. It should be centrally located and within reach in Metro Manila. [We look into] the infrastructure like water, electricity, communication and public transportation. And of course, we also note if it has the ability to appreciate at a higher rate than other areas in Metro Manila,” says Huang.

Value propositions

“We are committed to build affordable homes that bring people closer to the city,” says Yu. “So you get to spend more time with your loved ones that is otherwise wasted on battling traffic.”

GFL Metro Communities Inc. is “committed to not only help Filipinos turn their dreams into reality but to also help ensure that their investment is secured for the future.”

But perhaps what sets GFL apart from other developers is that they do not spread themselves thin. “We focus on one project at a time, giving more attention to detail and personalized service to our owners,” says Yu. “We offer aesthetically pleasing, well located projects with innovative features at affordable prices.”

Proof of the Pudding

The Seibu Tower proved to be such a hit. In its first year, 70% of the units were sold. Being situated in Fort Bonifacio Global City, malls, retail shops, banks, offices, and schools are within its proximity. It houses a fitness gym, lap pool, Jacuzzi, children’s pool, rooftop function rooms, and a wooden deck with trellises. All these were offered at reasonable prices.

“It is their attention to detail that won me over. GFL worked with me in making some modifications to make my unit an ideal living environment. They were extremely professional and courteous throughout the entire process, which made me comfortable in purchasing a unit from them,” says Mr. Gene Gutierrez, Director - Customer Relations, Asia Pacific Eurogiro A/S, one of their satisfied Seibu unit owners.