In addition to a choice of five residential condominium communities in Metro Manila alone and a range of residential subdivisions in six provinces, Avida, the affordable housing arm of Ayala Land, recently launched a promotion offering discounts to buyers.

According to Tess Tatco, Avida marketing manager, "We want our buyers to enjoy the opportunities made available by our ‘Be ahead, Avida na' promo while they last."

Buyers who make reservations for a unit can get as much as P35,000 cash savings. Moreover, all Avida buyers up to Dec. 25 have the chance to win a Manila-Sydney-Manila trip for three including a two-night stay and US$1,000 pocket money as first prize. The second prize is a Manila-Hong Kong-Manila trip for two inclusive of accommodation for two nights.

Tatco explained that middle-class families usually think long-term when they purchase a home. "They prepare for it and are not spooked by downturns," she said.

Despite the economic slowdown of the past year, for instance, Avida reported steady sales from January onwards.

The Avida promotion, she explained, is also a way to give back to buyers who have supported the Avida brand. Meanwhile, balikbayans who reserve units are entitled to additional gift cheques from Ayala Malls and still another set of Ayala Malls gift cheques upon signing a contract to purchase a unit. They simply need to present their passports.

Avida expects its five residential condominium units in Metro Manila to continue enjoying good sales for the rest of the year.

The newest of the projects is Avida Towers San Lorenzo in Makati which is a short walk away from the Makati Business District. Among its house and lots, it reported great buyer interest in Avida Settings Nuvali, the first community to rise in Nuvali, an eco-community envisioned to be a regional growth center by Ayala Land and its subsidiaries.

Tatco said Avida has products ranging from P1 million to P3.5 million. In addition to widening its products lines, it has also expanded its geographical reach.

Avida has a community in Luzon as far north as Cabanatuan and as far south as Quezon province and Naga City.