Is It Better to Rent Furnished or Unfurnished? 5 Insights for Smart Manila Rent Decisions

13 October 2025

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When moving into a new home in Manila, one of the first questions many renters ask is simple but important: Should I rent furnished or unfurnished? It's more than a financial decision, it's a lifestyle choice. Whether you're an expat relocating for work, a digital nomad exploring the city, or a local professional seeking a fresh start, your decision can shape how you experience life in the capital.

Let's explore both options and see why each can be the perfect choice for different lifestyles in Manila's vibrant rental market.

1. Furnished Rentals: The Move-In Magic

There's something deeply satisfying about walking into a condo that already feels like home. Furnished rentals in Manila are designed for convenience and comfort, offering everything you need from day one. According to Airbnb (2025), fully furnished condos in Metro Manila typically include ready-to-use kitchens, essential furniture, and even Wi-Fi, allowing tenants to ''live comfortably for a month or longer'' without worrying about setup or logistics.

For expats, students, and professionals who value time and simplicity, this kind of arrangement is ideal. You can move in immediately, skip the hassle of furniture shopping, and start living comfortably. Many furnished condos also come with access to swimming pools, gyms, and concierge services—making everyday life not only easier but also more enjoyable.

2. Unfurnished Rentals: Freedom to Create Your Own Space

If furnished condos represent instant comfort, unfurnished units offer creative freedom. Tenants who rent unfurnished spaces have the liberty to design their homes exactly as they envision them. As RentPad (2025) explains, many long-term renters in Manila prefer unfurnished options because they allow for full customization and the use of personal furniture and décor.

Financially, unfurnished units can also be advantageous. You're not paying extra for the cost of the furniture, and landlords are often more open to negotiating rates or allowing renovations. For people planning to stay in Manila for several years, unfurnished condos offer both flexibility and ownership over how their living space looks and feels.

3. The Right Choice Depends on Your Lifestyle

So which one is better? Furnished or unfurnished? The answer depends on how you want to live in Manila.

If you're a short-term resident, digital professional, or expatriate, furnished condos provide ease, speed, and minimal stress. On the other hand, if you see yourself building a life in the city long-term, unfurnished rentals give you the freedom to personalize every corner of your home.

To summarize briefly:

• Go Furnished if you value convenience, comfort, and immediate move-in readiness.

• Go Unfurnished if you love creativity, flexibility, and long-term savings.

The beauty of Manila's rental market is that it offers strong options in both categories, ensuring that no matter your lifestyle, there's always a home that fits you perfectly.

4. Top 5 Furnished Condos in Manila (2025)

For those who value move-in-ready convenience, several developments stand out as excellent choices according to DotProperty (2025):

1. Eton Baypark Manila – Modern studio units with scenic Manila Bay views, complete with furnishings and sleek design.

2. The Camden Place, Malate – Fully furnished spaces close to major business districts and entertainment areas.

3. Manila Executive Regency – Spacious layouts designed for professionals, complete with amenities and security.

4. Grand Adriatico Residences – Elegant interiors and generous room sizes perfect for longer stays.

5. Manila Residences Tower II – Stylish city-view units featuring modern furniture and cozy living spaces.

   
   

Each of these condos offers not only convenience but also lifestyle appeal, making them ideal for anyone looking to start fresh in Manila without the setup hassle.

5. Top 5 Unfurnished Condos in Manila (2025)

For renters who want to make every design choice their own, Manila also offers fantastic unfurnished options. Based on listings from DotProperty (2025), here are five standout developments worth exploring:

1. Torre de Manila, Ermita – Offers spacious, bright layouts and a prime location near cultural landmarks.

2. Suntrust Parkview, SM Manila – A great balance of location, value, and design flexibility.

3. Eastwood Parkview, Quezon City – Perfect for long-term renters who enjoy a mix of city life and tranquility.

4. Aurora Escalades, Cubao – Minimalist yet flexible units ready to be customized to your liking.

5. The Radiance Manila Bay – High-rise living with the freedom to create a personalized interior aesthetic.

   
   

Each property offers tenants the chance to design their ideal home while enjoying Manila's dynamic city lifestyle.

Two Choices, One Destination — Comfort in Manila

Whether you choose furnished or unfurnished, both paths lead to comfort, independence, and opportunity. Furnished condos give you an effortless start, a space ready the moment you arrive. Unfurnished rentals invite you to craft, design, and grow into your home over time.

Ultimately, the better option isn't about furniture, it's about freedom. Manila's real estate market offers something for every lifestyle, making it one of the most flexible and welcoming rental markets in Asia.