Davao City property market stays resilient

Davao City’s real estate market remained strong in 2026, defying economic pressures with diversified demand across sectors, industry leaders said. Arnold Alderite, head of the Real Estate Brokers Association of the Philippines (Rebap)-Davao, highlighted the city’s adaptability during a May 6 forum at Abreeza Ayala Mall, noting shifts in buyer preferences toward agricultural properties, farm estates, and resort-style developments alongside traditional residential housing. The market’s resilience stems from its multi-sectoral nature, including residential subdivisions, industrial parks, commercial districts, and tourism-oriented properties. Alderite emphasized that while fewer buyers opt for traditional homes, demand persists in specialized segments like Panacan and Bunawan—key industrial hubs for warehouses and logistics—while coastal and central districts retain commercial dominance with high-rise condominiums and retail complexes. Southern and upland areas such as Toril, Tugbok, Mintal, and Calinan are seeing rising interest in horizontal housing and farm resorts, reflecting trends toward open-space living and tourism-driven investments. Alderite credited Davao’s zoning system for organizing development across districts, preventing sector oversaturation while supporting long-term property appreciation. Tourism growth and strategic urban planning further bolster investor confidence, with both local and foreign buyers targeting nature-based destinations and leisure estates. Despite broader economic challenges, the city’s dynamic property landscape continues to generate opportunities across residential, agricultural, and commercial sectors.