Planning ranges (construction only): Tier CDO 2026 budget range (₱/sqm) What it usually means BASIC ₱25,000–₱30,000 Clean, durable essentials; standard materials/fixtures STANDARD ₱30,000–₱40,000 Better tiles/fixtures, nicer look, more detail work PREMIUM ₱35,000–₱60,000+ High-end finishes/custom details; widest variance These ranges are anchored on recent CDO contractor guidance  (e.g., basic ₱25–28k , mid ₱29–33k , high-end ₱34–40k+ )  and PH-wide  high-end finish bands that often land...

If you only budget for “construction,” you’re setting yourself up for the most painful surprise: the real bill shows up in the extras —permits, siteworks, utility connections, and furniture you need  just to live. Here’s the all-in cost formula  smart homeowners use: All-In = Construction + Permits/Design Fees + Siteworks + Utilities + Furniture/Appliances + Contingency What usually gets missed: Permits & professional plans  (processing + signed/sealed requirements) Siteworks  (excavation,...

Budget Build Rule: If It’s Not Written, It Will Cost You Later    Most “overbudget” builds aren’t caused by bad luck. They’re caused by unclear scope. If scope is fuzzy, cost becomes elastic.    Do this first: lock floor area. Don’t “add a meter” repeatedly. That’s how budgets die slowly.   Next: demand a BOQ by phase. Even a basic BOQ forces clarity: foundation, structure, roof, walls, MEP, finishes, external works.   Then: confirm inclusions/exclusions in writing. This is where surprise...