July 31, 2025

6 Tips for Couples Shopping for a Condo Together

By: Melecio Martin G. Arranz IV

Shopping for a condo as a couple is an exciting milestone—it’s more than just finding a place to live; it’s about creating a space where you can build your future together. Whether buying your first home or upgrading to a larger unit, the process requires balancing personal preferences, financial priorities, and long-term goals. 

As first-time home buyers, a married couple must align on key factors such as budget, location, and must-have features while ensuring your purchase supports your lifestyle and future aspirations.

With so many options on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But condo hunting doesn’t have to be stressful! By working as a team, setting clear priorities, and keeping communication open, you can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. In this guide, we’ll walk you through six essential tips to help you find the perfect condo for both of you.

6 Condo Shopping Tips for Couples

1. Define your priorities together

Before you start viewing properties, sit down with your partner to discuss what you both want in a condo. Setting clear, shared goals will help you stay focused and avoid conflicts along the way.

Start by creating a list of must-haves versus nice-to-haves. Consider essentials like:

• Minimum and maximum square footage
• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Features such as a swimming pool, balcony, air conditioning, and laundry facilities
• Storage space, media, or workout rooms

If you and your partner have different preferences, be open to compromise. For example, if one of you prefers a high-rise unit with city views while the other prioritizes easy parking access, find a middle ground that satisfies both. Clear communication will make the decision-making process much smoother.

2. Consider your long-term plans

A condo is also an investment in your future. Consider how your needs might change over the years. If you’re planning to start a family, a two-bedroom condo offers extra space for a nursery or playroom. If children aren’t in the plan, the second bedroom can serve as a home office, guest room, or recreational space.

Beyond family planning, consider career growth and potential relocations. Will your condo still fit your lifestyle five to ten years from now? Look into the area’s property values and strategic developments to ensure your investment will appreciate over time. If you’re thinking about getting a pet, check the building’s pet policies to avoid any surprises.

3. Set a realistic budget

Setting a budget and sticking to it will prevent financial stress in the future. Start by evaluating your joint financial situation, including:

• Your combined income
• Savings for the down payment
• Monthly mortgage payments and condo fees
• Other expenses like utilities, insurance, and maintenance

Explore financing opportunities such as bank loans, government programs, and flexible payment plans. Saving money and developing a strong credit score can also improve your chances of acquiring favorable loan terms. Use mortgage calculators to estimate affordability and ensure you’re making sound financial decisions.

4. Choose the right location

The area of your condo will greatly influence your daily lifestyle. Consider factors such as:

• Proximity to work and schools
• Access to public transportation
• Nearby shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment hubs
• The overall safety and livability of the area

For example, if you’re looking for a condominium in Pasay City, you’ll benefit from its highly commercialized setting, with easy access to central business districts, malls, and reputable schools. Finding a location that aligns with both of your needs will make day-to-day life more convenient and enjoyable.

5. Assess the condo’s features and amenities

Not all condos are created equal, so take the time to evaluate the building’s features and amenities. Some key considerations include:

• Parking availability
• Security measures (e.g., 24/7 surveillance, guards, gated entrances)
• Building maintenance and management services
• Recreational facilities like gyms, pools, and lounges

You must visit the condo in person before making a decision. Illustrations and virtual tours can be helpful, but seeing the unit firsthand will give you a better sense of its size, layout, and overall condition. 

When considering properties developed by Federal Land, you’ll benefit from working with a trusted real estate developer known for delivering high-quality residential, office, retail, and hospitality spaces designed to meet the shifting expectations of homeowners and communities.

6. Communicate openly and regularly

Effective communication is key to a smooth condo shopping experience. Since you’re making a major financial and lifestyle decision together, ensure that both partners feel heard and involved in the process.

To stay organized, consider these strategies:

• Divide tasks based on strengths (e.g., one handles financial research, and the other schedules property visits).
• Use a shared digital folder or app to track documents, communications, and deadlines.
• Check in regularly to discuss concerns, preferences, and changing priorities.
• Celebrate small wins, like shortlisting potential units or securing financing, to stay motivated.

By maintaining transparency and working as a team, you can make the condo-shopping experience an exciting and fulfilling journey rather than a stressful one.

Finding Home, Building Forever

Shopping for a condo as a couple can be challenging. It’s not just about your own preferences but also about aligning with your partner’s vision, budget, and plans. Unlike shopping alone, condo hunting as a pair requires teamwork, compromise, and careful planning. While the process can feel overwhelming, the right approach can make it a rewarding journey.

Ready to take the next step? Let your love story begin in a home built for your future. Explore the well-built and innovative condos at Federal Land Inc. and start creating the dream space where memories and new chapters await.