We Built a House in the Dominican Republic – Series 2 Part # 1
We Built a House in the Dominican Republic – Series 2 Part # 1
The Historical City of Puerto Plata
Join us as we begin the second series of “We Built a House in the Dominican Republic” where we join Calvin and Jana on their exciting adventure as they begin construction of their new home on the north coast of the Dominican Republic.
With a dream of living and retiring on or close to the ocean, Calvin and Jana looked at the various options in order to make that dream come true. Living as they currently are in the United States, they found the cost of beach homes, property insurance and property taxes above their retirement budget and began to look for other options. After a visit to Jamaica in 2024, Calvin and Jana began to explore the options of moving to the Caribbean.
The purpose of this article is to follow Calvin & Jana’s adventure, and to also look at the different areas and investment options available for anyone considering purchasing real estate or building a home on the north coast of the Dominican Republic.
What Was the Search Criteria they used to Determine the Best Option’s Available?
- Cost of living
- Quality of life
- Quality of healthcare
- Property prices
- Residency requirements
- Property Taxes
- Proximity to America & Available Flights
- Economy, Culture / Crime statistics etc…
Calvin and Jana also investigated various YouTube channels, podcasts and interactive forums where they could communicate with expats, and after extensive research, their findings consistently led them to the prospect of buying or building a home on the north coast of the Dominican Republic.
Finding the right property and Location in the Dominican Republic
Where to buy or build a new home on the north coast?
The Dominican Republic is 48,310 km² and has an impressive 1,576 km long coastline and is the second largest nation in the Greater Antilles chain. In terms of where to live, there are many options, from the cities of Santo Domingo and Santiago, to the rolling landscapes of the Cibao Valley, or thriving tourist destinations such as Punta Cana or Puerto Plata.
All in all, the Dominican Republic, in addition to it’s natural beauty, has changed immensely this past 30 years or so in terms of infrastructure. From the interconnecting highways that traverse the island, to the quality of healthcare, private education, supermarket chains and even modern shopping malls for those with a thirst for retail therapy. There really is something for everyone here, as they say “The Dominican Republic has it all”. In order to find the best place to suit your needs, it’s of utmost importance that you do your due diligence and speak to people in the know. Spending time on the ground is also essential in order to understand the culture and lifestyle.
Click here for our guide to Buying Property in the Dominican Republic
The north coast of the Dominican Republic: A Tropical Paradise for Real Estate Investment
The North Coast of the Dominican Republic is a stunning region known for its pristine beaches, lush mountains, and a vibrant blend of Caribbean culture and international influences. Stretching from Puerto Plata to Cabrera, this coastal strip offers some of the most breathtaking scenery and relaxed lifestyle opportunities in the Caribbean. With two thriving cruise ports, a buoyant economy and an ever increasing expat community, the north coast has seen some significant changes these past 10 years or so. There are several coastal communities, all of which are very different and with their own individual charm which are as follows:
Costambar:
Sunrise on Costambar Beach
Costambar is a tranquil beachfront community with prime real estate opportunities and is a hidden gem on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic, just 10 minutes drive east from the vibrant city of Puerto Plata. Known for its quiet beaches, lush tropical landscaping, and relaxed lifestyle, Costambar offers a unique blend of local charm and international appeal, making it a desirable spot for real estate investment in the Dominican Republic.
This gated, self-contained community offers everything you need for comfortable Caribbean living: a beautiful beach, 9 hole golf course, restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacies, and medical services—all within walking distance. With its laid-back vibe and active expat community, Costambar is ideal for retirees, digital nomads, and vacation homeowners.
The Costambar real estate market features a variety of properties to suit every lifestyle and budget, from affordable condos and beachside apartments to luxury villas with ocean views. Whether you’re looking for a second home, a rental investment, or a full-time residence, Costambar delivers exceptional value.
Costambar – Popular Property Types:
• Oceanfront condos with beach access
• Gated villas with private pools
• Income-generating vacation rentals
• Affordable homes for retirement
• Lots and land for custom building
Why Buy Real Estate in Costambar?
• Strategic Location: Just 15 minutes east from Puerto Plata’s city center and 45 minutes to the international airport situated between two major cruise ports, Amber Cove & Taino Bay.
• Gated Community: Security and privacy with 24/7 access control.
• Affordable Prices: Lower cost per square meter compared to other Caribbean destinations.
• Strong Rental Market: Popular with tourists and snowbirds, providing great rental potential.
• Expat-Friendly: English-speaking services with growing beach front amenities and welcoming international community.
Puerto Plata City: Historic Charm Meets Modern Real Estate Opportunity
A Thriving Cruise Ship Destination
Home to the cruise ports of Amber Cove and Taino Bay, Puerto Plata is a now a bustling city, particularly on busy cruise ship days. It’s safe & clean and offers good amenities such as private schools, hospitals, a golf course, and shopping centers—making it a highly livable city for full-time residents and a smart pick for real estate investors. Puerto Plata City is looking as good as it ever has and is improving by the day.
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the lush Cordillera Septentrional mountain range, Puerto Plata is one of the Dominican Republic’s most iconic coastal cities. Known for its colorful Victorian architecture, golden beaches, and vibrant culture, Puerto Plata offers an unmatched combination of lifestyle and investment potential.
As a hub for tourism, business, and international living, Puerto Plata real estate continues to attract both foreign investors and homebuyers seeking Caribbean beauty and lifestyle with a modern infrastructure.
Why Puerto Plata?
The Old Town of Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata offers the perfect balance between authentic Dominican charm and contemporary convenience. Whether you’re exploring the Malecón oceanfront promenade, riding the famous Teleférico cable car up to Mount Isabel de Torres, or enjoying the pristine shores of Playa Dorada, you’ll find a city full of life and potential.
Puerto Plata Real Estate Market Overview
From affordable condos and colonial-style homes to luxury villas, Puerto Plata offers a wide range of property options for every type of buyer. The real estate market here is thriving, driven by growing tourism, infrastructure investments, and a steady influx of expats and remote workers.
Real Estate Options in Puerto Plata:
• Oceanview condos near Playa Dorada
• Colonial homes in the city center
• Beachfront villas and gated community estates
• Turnkey vacation rentals with income potential
• Lots and land for development or custom builds.
Puerto Plata Comes Alive
Why Invest in Puerto Plata Real Estate?
• Affordable Property Prices: Compared to other Caribbean destinations, Puerto Plata offers excellent value.
• Strong Rental Demand: High tourism activity fuels demand for vacation rentals and Airbnb-style properties.
• Growing Infrastructure: Road improvements, port upgrades, and real estate developments boost long-term growth.
• Expanding Expat Community: A welcoming environment with English-speaking services, international schools, and modern amenities.
Whether you’re looking to retire in the Dominican Republic, buy a vacation home, or invest in the growing North Coast real estate market, Puerto Plata is a destination worth considering. With its combination of beauty, history, and opportunity, it’s no surprise that Puerto Plata real estate is on the rise.
Playa Dorada:
Playa Dorada: A Premier Gated Beachfront Community with Exceptional Real Estate Value
Playa Dorada is one of the most prestigious and well-developed beachfront communities on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic. Located just 10 minutes from the heart of Puerto Plata, Playa Dorada combines the elegance of a private resort lifestyle with all the comforts of a modern, secure residential community. Famous for its golden-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and 18-hole championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., Playa Dorada is a top destination for both tourists and savvy real estate investors.
The Playa Dorada real estate market offers a mix of upscale properties perfect for those seeking a Caribbean vacation home, a retirement retreat, or a profitable rental investment. Whether you’re looking for a modern condo with ocean views or a luxury apartment inside a gated resort, Playa Dorada delivers unmatched value and lifestyle.
Popular Property Types:
• Beachfront condos and penthouses
• Golf course villas
• Vacation rentals and income-generating properties
• Turnkey investment condos
• Resort-style apartments with amenities
Why Invest in Playa Dorada?
• Gated Resort Community: 24/7 security, beautifully maintained grounds, and controlled access offer peace of mind.
• Prime Location: Only 20 minutes drive from Gregorio Luperón International Airport and 10 minutes drive to downtown Puerto Plata.
• High Rental Demand: A favorite among tourists, snowbirds, and long-term renters seeking quality accommodations.
Sosua Beach Town: A Vibrant Coastal Town with Strong Real Estate Potential
Sosua Beach Town
Located just 30 minutes drive west from the city of Puerto Plata and just 15 minutes west from Puerto Plata’s International Airport, Sosua is a historical beach town and home to a large ex-pat community. Originally founded by Jewish immigrants in the 1940s, Sosúa has grown into a welcoming, multicultural destination that appeals to expats, retirees, digital nomads, and real estate investors from around the world. Known for its beautiful crescent-shaped bay, crystal-clear waters, and lively international community, Sosúa offers a unique blend of Caribbean charm and cosmopolitan living.
There are a good variety of amenities such as supermarkets, restaurants, cafe’s and bars to choose from as well as the two very beautiful beaches that Sosua is renowned for. Sosua has a good selection of gated villa and condominium communities to choose from. Being equidistant from Puerto Plata City and the water-sports capital of the Dominican Republic Cabarete, Sosua is in a great central location.
Sosúa Real Estate: Affordable Luxury in a Thriving Market
The Sosúa real estate market is thriving due to its affordability, strong tourism industry, and strategic location near Puerto Plata and Cabarete. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, an income-generating rental, or a retirement property, Sosúa offers a variety of real estate options to suit your goals and lifestyle.
Popular Property Types in Sosúa:
• Oceanview condos and beachfront apartments
• Gated community villas with private pools
• Boutique hotels and Airbnb-style investment properties
• Single-family homes near town and the beach
• Development lots and custom-build opportunities
Why Invest in Real Estate in Sosúa?
• Proximity to POP Airport: Only 15 minutes away, ideal for international buyers and renters.
• Vibrant Expat Community: English widely spoken, with international schools, clinics, and services.
• High Rental Demand: A hotspot for tourism and short-term vacation rentals with excellent ROI potential.
• Affordable Prices: Lower cost per square meter than many other Caribbean destinations.
• Great Lifestyle: Beaches, restaurants, nightlife, diving, and water sports all at your doorstep.
Cabarete:
New Build Opportunities in Cabarete
Cabarete is a lively coastal town located just 25 minutes drive east of Sosua, renowned for its golden beaches, water sports, and international community. A top destination for kite-surfing and surfing, Cabarete also offers a relaxed Caribbean lifestyle with modern amenities, making it ideal for both tourists and expats. The real estate market in Cabarete is buoyant, offering everything from beachfront condos and luxury villas to affordable investment properties. With growing demand for vacation rentals and second homes, particularly in high season, Cabarete real estate presents strong opportunities for buyers seeking tropical living, rental income, or long-term investment in the Dominican Republic.
The Cabarete real estate market is at this time, one of the most dynamic in the Dominican Republic. Offering everything from affordable condos to luxury oceanfront villas and apartments, Cabarete attracts buyers looking for full-time residences, second homes, or high-performing rental properties.
Popular Property Types in Cabarete:
• Oceanfront condos and penthouses
• Beach villas in gated communities
• Turnkey Airbnb investment properties
• Boutique hotels and commercial spaces
• Vacant beachfront lots and development land
Why Invest in Cabarete Real Estate?
• High Rental Demand: Cabarete is a year-round tourist destination popular for kiteboarding, wingsurfing, surfing and yoga retreats.
• Strong Expat and Digital Nomad Community: International residents create consistent demand for long-term and short-term rentals.
• Prime Location: Only 45 minutes from POP Airport and close to Sosúa and Puerto Plata.
• Growing Infrastructure: New developments, amenities, and eco-friendly projects are adding value to the area.
Río San Juan: Tranquil Coastal Living with Untapped Real Estate Potential
Located on the northeastern shore of the Dominican Republic, Río San Juan is a charming and tranquil seaside town celebrated for its natural beauty, authentic Dominican culture, and laid-back lifestyle. Just over an hour east of Puerto Plata and close to the luxury enclave of Cabrera, Río San Juan offers an ideal escape for those seeking peaceful beachfront living without the tourist crowds.
With stunning natural landmarks like the famous Laguna Gri-Gri, nearby Playa Caletón, and the dramatic cliffs of Playa Grande, Río San Juan is quickly gaining attention from foreign buyers, retirees, and real estate investors looking for emerging markets with high growth potential.
Real Estate in Río San Juan: Affordable Elegance in a Coastal Paradise
The Río San Juan real estate market is known for its affordability, privacy, and investment value. It appeals to those who want a more serene alternative to busier destinations like Sosúa and Cabarete, and enjoys easy access to a fine selection a selection of unspoiled and breathtaking beaches.
Popular Property Types in Río San Juan:
• Oceanview villas and cliffside estates
• Boutique hotels and eco-lodges
• Beachfront lots and development land
• Private homes near Laguna Gri-Gri
• Custom-built houses in gated communities
Building your Dream Home in the Dominican Republic
Why Invest in Real Estate in Río San Juan?
• Untapped Market: Lower property prices and less competition make this a smart option for early investors.
• Natural Beauty: Home to protected lagoons, lush hillsides, and quiet coves—ideal for eco-tourism and wellness retreats.
• Proximity to Playa Grande: Minutes from one of the Dominican Republic’s most stunning beaches and in close proximity to the exclusive Playa Grande Golf & Ocean Club.
• Privacy & Tranquility: A peaceful environment perfect for luxury estates, retirement homes, and boutique developments.
• Strong Growth Potential: As the North Coast expands eastward, Río San Juan is poised for future development and appreciation.
Real Estate in Cabrera: Elegant Living with Oceanfront Views
The Cabrera real estate market is favored by high-net-worth individuals, retirees, and international investors seeking privacy, beauty, and long-term value. Properties here are known for their large lots, custom architecture, and proximity to both golf and ocean.
Popular Property Types in Cabrera:
• Oceanfront luxury villas and mansions
• Gated community homes in Orchid Bay and Haciendas El Choco
• Boutique hotels and eco-lodges
• Development land and estate lots
• Modern homes with infinity pools and panoramic sea views
Why Invest in Real Estate in Cabrera?
• Exclusive and Private: Fewer crowds, more space, and upscale living make Cabrera ideal for luxury buyers.
• Playa Grande Proximity: Minutes from the prestigious Playa Grande Golf & Ocean Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.
• Gated Communities: Secure, high-end neighborhoods with concierge services, private beaches, and lush landscaping.
• High ROI Potential: Ideal for luxury vacation rentals, retreats, or second homes with strong resale value.
• Unspoiled Natural Beauty: Cliffs, waterfalls, and untouched beaches provide a dramatic and peaceful setting.
• Growing Interest: As buyers look beyond Cabarete and Sosúa, Cabrera is quickly emerging as a top-tier destination.
How to find what and where is best for you?
Due Diligence is a Must
It’s fair to say that some real estate agents here on the north coast leave a lot to be desired in terms of honesty and integrity which is why doing your due diligence is of utmost importance. That being said, there are some great real estate agents here that will steer you on the right path, you just need to do your homework.
DR Property Guys is a boutique real estate company that specializes in buying property, assisting with new builds, and purchasing land for real estate clients & investors on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. We’ll take the time and trouble to find out exactly what it is you’re looking for, from gated community villas and condos in Sosua, to luxury villas and apartments in Cabarete and beyond. If you are of a mind to build a new home in the Dominican Republic, we’ll guide and support you all the way from start to finish. We’ll even help you settle in, set up bank accounts, help set up utility and communications / phone accounts, take you shopping for furniture and even help plug you in to the local community. With a combined total of over 50 years of living and doing business in the Dominican Republic, our knowledge and networking capabilities knows no bounds.
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