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A traveler’s tale: How a globetrotter found his home in SMDC

They say choosing a homestay accommodation when traveling abroad is among the best ways to immerse oneself in the culture of a place. As an avid traveler who has now set foot in over 45 countries, Ben Torres, a Michigan-based certified public accountant, knew that the vacation rental property business is something that he would eventually get into.

Ben Torres, a frequent traveler and a finance professional based in Michigan, invested in an SMDC property and turned it into a vacation rental.

Being in the financial industry, Ben is well-versed when it comes to investments. He knew that when it comes to investing, the sure and wise choice is something that gives one a sustainable income and whose value appreciates over time.

Owning an SM Development Corporation (SMDC) property is one of the best investments he has made to move closer to his dream: financial independence.

As a finance professional, Ben Torres ensures he gets his money’s worth when it comes to his investments. He’s happy that he’s actually getting much more out of his investment at SMDC’s Air Residences

“I learned about SMDC when I went for a vacation in the Philippines in 2017. I booked a unit at Jazz Residences. The thought of having my own homestay unit in a prime location such as Makati inspired me to invest in the Philippines,” he shared.



Ben beautifully decorated his unit at SMDC’s Air Residences and listed it on a property rental service for travellers and balikbayans.

As an SMDC rentapreneur, Ben opens his Air Residences unit to foreign visitors and balikbayans mostly from America, Europe, and Australia. “They typically stay for about 1 to 3 weeks. I also have locals who rent my unit for a staycation in the city,” said Ben.

Providing an escape from the bustling city life, city dwellers need not leave the metro, as SMDC’s Air Residence in Makati offers the perfect spot to rest, relax, and rejuvenate.

SMDC’s Air Residences is located within the Philippines’ premier business and financial district. It is just across Ayala Avenue in Makati, and is near institutions like RCBC Plaza and Makati Medical Center. The property offers residents and guests the chance to live an affluent life in the most prestigious city in the country. Apart from the convenience and accessibility it provides, SMDC’s Air Residences also features resort-like amenities and impressive facilities that enables its homeowners—and their guests—to enjoy life in luxurious comfort.



He specifically chose SDMC because the properties are strategically located. “Plus, they encourage investors like me to start a rental investment at a very affordable price point. Right now is the best time to invest in the Philippines. Because of the pandemic, you can invest in great properties at such a modest price. I am very confident that the demand will start to go up now that most businesses are back. You can rent it out, generate income, and then invest again!”

Renting out a condominium property is a great way to earn. Considering it as an investment is one of the best ways to accelerate one’s retirement and start enjoying life and financial independence.

With the success of his first venture into the vacation homestay rental business, Ben is currently in the process of buying another property at Air Residence,  and is on his way to achieving his ultimate dream of financial independence.

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The article was originally published in Manila Bulleti.

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