From broker to developer

SATURDAY, 02 APRIL 2011 17:18 RIZAL RAOUL REYES

After earning his stripes as no-nonsense real-estate agent, Citiglobal Realty and Development Corp. managing director Garfunkel To and his team decided to go on their own with their first real-estate project: the Tagaytay Fontaine Villas, a 1.8-hectare development located in Metro Tagaytay, across the Sacred Heart of Jesus Monte Maria Shrine, a popular destination for worship and retreats.

“Citi Global chose Tagaytay for its first foray into property development because the city is very accessible to residents of Metro Manila. Moreover, the company wants to capitalize on the demand of the baby boomers who are very interested to make Tagaytay as their retirement home,” To said in a recent interview with the BusinessMirror.

“It is perfect for your weekend getaway and family bonding,” he added.

According to To, the master-planned community, with only 98 units, offers an exclusive enclave for those who desire to get away from the hectic pace of the city, yet still want the convenience of modern urban amenities.

With interiors as stunning as its outdoor assets, units at Tagaytay Fontaine Villas are done with contemporary modern mountain-resort architecture, with brick and siding exteriors and hipped roof design, to give the home an impression of a country ambiance.

To said Tagaytay Fontaine Villas is perfect for starting families and couples wanting a retreat from the city life. He said it also provides amenities such as a multi-purpose clubhouse, swimming pool with sundeck, children’s library, Jacuzzi, children’s play area, ecumenical prayer room, gym and fitness center, landscaped meditation garden, round-the-clock security and free shuttle service to nearby establishments.

Furthermore, Citi Global will put up an 8-story hotel for tourists who prefer to stay in a midrange-level hotels. At present, the company is looking with potential partner that will operate and manage the hotel once it opens.

Lot sizes in Tagaytay Fontaine Villas range from 72 square meters to 121 sq m. The 72-sq-m unit has one room, while the 121-sq-m unit has three bedrooms. Prices range from P2 million to P4 million, and the project is expected to be completed by 2013.

Middle-class market

Sharpened by more than 20 years of experience in the real-estate business, To knows exactly how to position the company amid the presence of larger developers such as SM Development Corp. and Robinsons Land.

“We didn’t choose to compete with the big boys by focusing in our niche market: the middle class,” he pointed out.

At the same time, he said the quality of structures and facilities of Tagaytay Fontaine Villas will not be compromised as the company has hired experienced and skilled engineers and developers to help in the construction.

To is bullish about the future of the company because he has been exposed to the different facets of the property-development industry.

Citi Global established itself initially as a marketing, landholding and leasing company with tracks of properties before venturing into real-estate development. The company and its subsidiaries have a combined 54 man years record in the real-estate industry, making it one of the fastest-growing players specializing in the development and marketing of well-planned, quality yet affordable housing projects catering to the Filipino families.

Besides Tagaytay Fontaine Villas, Citi Global and its affiliates have upcoming projects in Subic, Batangas, Manila and Quezon City, among others.

“With innovative ideas and trailblazing concepts, Citi Global and its affiliates aim to provide homes that offer a combination of luxury, comfort and pride, well within reach of its market. Citi Global is committed to work for more good quality developments with its pool of highly trained, professional and experienced management and technical staff,” he said. For more info, call +639173236123
.