Getting married marks a beautiful new chapter—and one of the biggest steps newlyweds face is finding a home to begin their shared life together. ❤️

It’s an exciting journey, but also a challenging one. Between planning finances, choosing the right location, and aligning personal preferences, house-hunting can easily become overwhelming.

Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy apartment in the city or a quiet house in the suburbs, it’s important to approach your first home rental as a team—with shared goals, practical expectations, and open communication.

At RentPH, we help couples like you find homes that fit your lifestyle, love story, and future plans. Here’s a guide to help you make that “first home” decision with confidence and joy.

1. Set a Realistic Budget Together

Before you browse listings or visit properties, talk about your financial priorities as a couple. Determine how much you can comfortably spend on rent without stretching your budget.

A good rule of thumb:

Your total rent should not exceed 30% of your combined monthly income.

Also, remember to include:

💸 1-month advance and 1-month deposit (standard in the Philippines)

⚡ Utilities (electricity, water, internet, gas)

🧾 Extra costs like association dues or parking fees

Discussing these early helps avoid financial stress later on—and ensures both partners are on the same page about money management.

👉 RentPH Tip: Use RentPH’s budget calculator to estimate your affordable rent range. It’s a great way to set limits and stay within your financial comfort zone.

2. Choose a Location That Fits Both Your Lifestyles

Location can make or break your first home experience. Newlyweds often have different needs—maybe one works in Makati while the other’s in Quezon City, or one prefers the quiet suburbs while the other enjoys the buzz of the city.

Find a balanced location that’s fair to both. Consider:

🚌 Proximity to both workplaces

🏥 Access to hospitals, groceries, and essentials

🚗 Nearby transportation hubs or expressways

🕊️ Lifestyle vibe (urban energy vs. suburban peace)

If you plan to grow your family soon, think long-term. Is the neighborhood safe? Are there nearby schools, parks, or churches?

👉 RentPH Tip: Explore RentPH’s listings by location and neighborhood insights to find a home that meets both your convenience and comfort goals.

3. Size and Space: Plan for Now and the Future

Your first home doesn’t have to be huge—but it should be practical. Choose a size that fits your current lifestyle and possible future needs.

Ask yourselves:

Do we need a one-bedroom or two-bedroom home?

Is there space for a home office or guest room?

Can we accommodate a pet or plan for a future baby?

Many newlyweds start with studio-type or one-bedroom units to save on rent, then upgrade later when they’re ready. The key is to ensure you don’t outgrow your space too soon.

4. Safety and Security Come First

As you build your new life together, peace of mind is priceless. Before signing any lease, inspect the property’s safety features and check the neighborhood’s reputation.

Look for:

Secure doors and window locks

Adequate lighting outside the house or apartment

Reliable neighborhood watch or building security

Smoke alarms or emergency exits (especially for condos)

You can also ask current tenants or neighbors about the area’s safety at night.

👉 RentPH Tip: RentPH only features verified listings and trusted landlords, helping you avoid scams and unsafe properties.

5. Inspect Before You Commit

Never rely solely on photos—schedule a visit or request a virtual tour. Use your walkthrough to check:

Water pressure and plumbing

Electrical outlets and appliances

Possible leaks, molds, or pests

Noise levels during different times of the day

Remember, what looks perfect online might need a few reality checks in person. If you find minor issues, ask the landlord to fix them before move-in day.

6. Review the Lease Agreement Thoroughly

Your lease contract protects both you and the landlord. Read every detail carefully—and don’t hesitate to ask questions before signing.

Your lease should clearly state:

Monthly rent and payment terms

Duration of the lease (e.g., 1 year)

Renewal or termination policies

Rules on visitors, pets, and modifications

Both partners should review and understand the terms together—this avoids future disagreements or unexpected costs.

👉 RentPH Tip: RentPH offers rental contract guides and templates so you can confidently review your lease and know your tenant rights.

7. Align on Home Goals and Responsibilities

Moving in together means teamwork—especially when it comes to managing your home. Discuss how you’ll handle chores, bills, and maintenance.

Here are a few questions to talk about:

Who handles rent payments and due dates?

How do we split utility bills?

Who manages grocery shopping and cleaning?

Establishing routines early helps avoid future misunderstandings. Remember: communication is key to a happy home.

8. Think About Lifestyle and Comfort

Your first home sets the tone for your married life. Make sure it aligns with your shared values and daily routines.

Ask yourselves:

Do we want a quiet neighborhood or a lively one?

Do we prefer access to malls and restaurants or a more peaceful environment?

Are we okay with commuting, or do we want to live closer to work?

You may also consider homes with amenities—like a small garden, balcony, gym, or swimming pool—to make your stay more enjoyable.

9. Consider Long-Term Flexibility

While renting gives flexibility, it’s good to plan ahead. Think about how long you intend to stay and whether the home allows room for your future goals.

If you plan to buy a home later, renting within your target area (for example, near Cavite or Bulacan) helps you get to know the community first.

👉 RentPH Tip: RentPH can guide you from renting to owning. When you’re ready, explore RentPH’s home loan and property purchase guides to take the next step toward homeownership.

10. Build a Positive Relationship with Your Landlord

A good landlord-tenant relationship makes renting smoother. Be polite, pay on time, and communicate openly about any issues. In return, your landlord is more likely to be responsive and accommodating.

At RentPH, we encourage respectful, transparent dealings between tenants and property owners—because harmony at home starts with good relationships.

Conclusion: Your First Home, Your First Chapter Together

As newlyweds, your first home isn’t just a place to stay—it’s where memories are built, meals are shared, and dreams begin to take shape.

Take your time finding a rental that fits both your hearts and your goals. With proper planning, honest communication, and guidance from RentPH, you’ll find the perfect space to start your forever.