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We Built a House in the Dominican Republic – Series 2 Part # 1

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

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?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

If you’ve enjoyed this article, don’t forget to check into our YouTube Channel here for regular property updates and fun lifestyle videos….and please do us a huge favor by hitting the like share and subscribe button.

 

 

Dominican Republic North Coast Visitors Guide

Dominican Republic North Coast Visitors Guide

Are you visiting The Dominican Republic North Coast for the first time?  Have you visited the area before but stayed on a resort and had everything arranged for you?  If so the following downloadable pdf document has some valuable information for you on how to make the most out of your upcoming visit to the area.  If you have been here multiple times, or even live here, this marketing piece will be of value to a friend or family member that might be coming with you or coming to visit you here also, so send them the link!

A roughly 10 minute read, it’s worth taking a look at so that you can get to grips with how things work here on The Dominican Republic North Coast, note this is not a buyers guide, simply a guide for visitors that haven’t been to the area before.

This is what we came up with from over 50 years combined living experience in the area.

Click on the link below or right click and select “Save As”.

Sincerely,

 

Phil and Tay

DR Property Guys Visitor Guide Final Version

Buying Real Estate in The Dominican Republic

Buying Real Estate in The Dominican Republic

Buying Real Estate in The Dominican Republic – The Ultimate Buyers Guide

Introduction:

Buying Real Estate in The Dominican Republic, – The Ultimate buyers Guide: If you are thinking about buying real estate in the Dominican Republic, congratulations, you’ve come to the right place. The process of buying land and owning property in the Dominican Republic in the right hands is simple and straight forward, however, in the wrong hands and with poor advice and zero direction, there can be many hidden pitfalls that are best avoided.

The purpose of this article is to help get you on the right path and to help you make wise choices in terms of making a real estate investment in the Dominican Republic. To follow is a comprehensive guide to help you find the property of your dreams so that you can begin living the kind of fun, free and liberating lifestyle you so richly deserve.

Why buy real estate in the Dominican Republic?

Why Invest in the Dominican Republic?

Take it from us, the Dominican Republic is a great place to live. Situated just over two hours from Miami International Airport and with 7 International airports, it’s a pretty easy place to get to and from. It’s a very diverse country, and being the second largest island in the Caribbean (48,442 km²), there’s no shortage of places to go to or things to do.

The Dominican Republic is also a thriving tourist destination which saw 11,192,042 visitors arrive to the country in 2024, of which 8,535,742 came by air and 2,656,300 by cruise line. The Dominican Republic’s Gross Domestic Product  (GDP) was U$356 billion in 2024 which was an increase of 2.8 percent from 2023 so economically it’s doing pretty well, and given anticipated forecasts, it’s a great place in which to live and invest if done correctly.

“Risk Comes from not Knowing What You’re Doing” – Warren Buffet

Is The Dominican Republic the right destination for you?

The Dominican Republic isn’t for everyone, and so it’s important to understand the history, the culture and the way of life first and foremost. Research is key, in alignment with your needs, requirements and ultimate goals. Begin with the end in mind. Smart investment starts by expanding your local knowledge, and there can be no better introduction to that than spending time on the ground in a variety of different locations.

“Prior preparation prevents poor performance” – James Baker

Start with the end in mind, what are your goals and what is the outcome you want from your new life in The Dominican Republic?

What do you plan to do in the Dominican Republic?

  • Take time to understand the Dominican people, their culture & way of life
  • Establish your goals, needs and requirements, what kind of lifestyle are you looking for?
  • Embrace the prospect of learning a new language, in this case Spanish
  • Take the time to enjoy and have an understanding of the different locations and resorts that might be of interest to you beyond all inclusive hotels
  • If you’re planning to retire, what might be your hobbies & interests and which area might suit that best?
  • Perhaps you would like to volunteer or have a business idea and so you might want to choose your location with that in mind
  • Speak with and create a network of fellow investors and experienced expats that already live and have property investments in the Dominican Republic

Defining Your Budget and Search Criteria

  • Have a clear idea of your budget, and be sure to include fixed and variable costs in your planning. Making sure you have the means to not only purchase your property, but that you can cover living costs comfortably without putting a strain on resources. Investment properties that look for a return on rental income in the Dominican Republic should have a proven track record, in addition to which gross and net return should be clearly defined and take into account general overhead and maintenance. Assuming a property will yield a certain return on verbal guarantees can often disappoint and fall short.
  • What kind of property are you looking for, how many rooms? How big? Price range? A condominium in Cabarete or a villa in Sosua for example or perhaps a surf lodge or rental property in Encuentro? Think the process out, know the pros and cons of each. It’s also important to know kind of amenities are close by and what you will need, for example: hospitals, pharmacies, schools, supermarkets, banks, beaches, recreation, community and of course international airports.

Finding the Perfect Property in The Dominican Republic

Luxury Ocean View Villa

Finding the right home in the Dominican Republic

Having a clear idea of your budget, defining your search criteria, your desired location and required amenities are key components in helping you find the perfect home. A good property in the right location will appraise well, rent well, and when the time comes, sell quickly. Important points to consider are: Security, proximity to the beach and local amenities the rising and setting of the sun in relation to the property, the number of steps and stairs, air circulation, and a comfortable, spacious outdoor living area….and perhaps the most important of all, is the area / property prone to flooding.

With no defined MLS system in place at this time within the Dominican Republic, the process of finding the right property can be time consuming which is why we would always recommend you using a professional realtor with a good reputation to help you on your way.

 

Gated Communities Versus Non Gated Communities in The Dominican Republic

Gated Communities Vs. Non Gated Communities

A gated community is a secure residential area that can offer lots for purchase, new builds, or resale properties. The gated community charges a Home Owners Association or HOA fee which can vary in price and cover a multitude of benefits. For the most part, security, water supply, back up generator, refuse collection and maintenance of roads and public areas are the norm although the variety of available amenities can vary.

Buying a non gated property in the Dominican Republic is generally done by locals or ex pats who have a good knowledge of the way of life, the language, and customs & culture of the country. The obvious advantage is of course that there are no HOA fees to consider although security, 24 hour power, water supply and refuse collection can often come at a cost when done independently.

For the most part we strongly recommend that anyone thinking of investing in property in The Dominican Republic look to some form of gated community unless they have extensive knowledge of living in the country. Also, it’s always important to consider how your investment will appraise and resell when the time comes so location is key.

Understanding The Real Estate Market in the Dominican Republic

Please check out the following links for an in depth view of the buying process and an overview of what can and does go wrong, and what you can do to avoid it:

Buying Pre-Construction Property in The Dominican Republic

Pre-construction properties in The Dominican Republic

Pre-construction with financing opportunities can often sound too good to be true, and in some cases they are. It’s important to proceed with caution and have a good understanding of the reputation of the developer and who it is exactly you are dealing with. Here are a few important points for your consideration.

  • Who is the developer and what is the developers history, is this their first project? (if not check out their previous developments)
  • Does the developer own the property that is being developed and is the property clean and clear in terms of ownership and title?
  • How is the project being financed and by who?
  • Check for references online and do some local networking for reliable feedback regarding the developer
  • If you plan to go it alone, proceed with caution, it is essential to have a good knowledge of the language, local laws and regulations, construction, a good handle on your budget, and the ability to find, manage and direct a competent constructions team. You should make time to be onsite for the majority of the process and expect the unexpected
  • Seek advice from a reputable real estate agent and where necessary use a reputable lawyer to verify contracts
  • There are some good local developers here in the Dominican Republic, but we cannot stress enough the importance of you working with a competent and professional company that have a proven track record.

Dominican Republic Real Estate Agents

For the most part, real estate agents in The Dominican Republic don’t have the best reputations, and for good reason. This is predominantly due to the lack of regulation within the industry which allows basically anyone to promote and sell property throughout the country. In effect someone could arrive to the Dominican Republic and be working in real estate the same day without having any knowledge of real estate laws or procedures.

Getting involved with the wrong people can often end badly and so we urge you the click the link above so that you are aware of the potential pitfalls when buying property in The Dominican Republic. There are in fact many professional real estate agencies here, beneath is a punch list to help steer you in the right direction.

  • Does your real estate agent have any local qualifications and a good understanding of the procedures and legalities of the real estate market in The Dominican Republic?
  • How long has your real estate agent lived in The Dominican Republic?
  • Is your real estate agent a legal resident?
  • Does your real estate agent speak Spanish fluently (both spoken and written) and do they have the capability to understand legal documentation?
  • Does your real estate agent own property in The Dominican Republic?
  • Check for references online and look for feedback in and around the area, this should apply to real estate agents, lawyers and also developers
  • Don’t agree to offers that require non refundable deposits or promise unqualified ROI on investments, if in doubt seek legal advice

FYI – Our team at DR Property Guys have received diplomas through INFI (Instituto Nacional de Formacion Inmobiliaria) and Remax Real Estate Management.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: As a foreigner, can I buy real estate in the Dominican Republic?
A: Yes, as a foreigner you can buy property in the Dominican Republic without any restrictions. Click the link above for a full explanation of the buying protocols in the Dominican Republic

Q: Can I get good medical care and health insurance in the Dominican Republic?
A: There is a public healthcare system in the Dominican Republic however standards can vary throughout the country. It is normal practice for expats to purchase health insurance and seek medical attention privately. A good standard platinum plan can cost around U$200 per month and give a good level of coverage with lower cost plans also available. The quality of healthcare in the Dominican Republic has improved dramatically over the years. Many of the physicians are North American trained and speak fluent English. Medical tourism is on the up and up where procedures can often cost 50-70% less of those offered in Europe or the United States.

Q: How can I apply for residency?
A: The residency process begins in your home country by contacting the Dominican Embassy / Consulate where you can apply for a residency visa. The applicant needs to be in good health, with a clean police record, and be solvent, typically showing income of between U$1,500 – U$2,000 per month. It is not possible to work in the Dominican Republic without residency.

Q: Is it safe to drive in the Dominican Republic?
A: Click here for an in depth overview with regard to driving in the Dominican Republic

Q: Do you pay property taxes in the Dominican Republic
A: An annual property tax of 1% is paid on real estate over and above the threshold of RD$10.19 million pesos, or roughly U$160,000. Property owners over the age of 65 with just one residence are exempt of tax.

 

DR Property Guys are real estate specialists located on the north coast with over 50 years experience of living and doing business in the Dominican Republic. For more information or for any questions you might have about buying real estate in the Dominican Republic, or anything else for that matter, you can reach us at info@drpropertyguys.com or on the following phone numbers:

Tay: 809 756 7611
Phil: 809 707 3598

For new listings or lifestyle videos about the Dominican Republic, check out our YouTube channel, and please don’t forget to hit the like share and subscribe button.

Dominican Republic Real Estate Videos

Dominican Republic Real Estate Videos

Dominican Republic Real Estate Videos

In this video we look back on and celebrate producing our 300th video and review our top Dominican Republic real estate videos. It really has been a great adventure so far with lots of fun and banter along the way. Sometimes we don’t know what to expect and what can seem like a regular day at work can often turn into an adventure. Feel free to join us on our journey so far and enjoy some of the amazing properties and places in The Dominican Republic that we’ve had the pleasure of filming. Just click the link above to see the video.

How it all Began

We met many years ago at local social events, the ex pat community is generally quite small here and we got on very well given our British / Dominican background and love of soccer. World events at that time had us thinking that we could approach the Dominican real estate market with a new and different approach.

It seems most successful businesses in this day and age not only create their products, but develop their own media companies to bring their product to market. We decided to do the same and felt that our combined experience of over 50 years of living and doing business within the Dominican real estate market and tourism industry would provide the ideal platform.

Our Video Production Goal

Our goal was to create professional Dominican real estate and Dominican lifestyle videos with honestly, transparency and personality. We’re both very proud of the results so far, particularly when we look back at the early videos, and we hope that with now over 5k subscribers to our YouTube Channel, that we can continue to grow and flourish with your support.

DR Property Guys – Dominican Republic Real Estate Services

We are a boutique real estate agency operating on the north coast of The Dominican Republic. Our goal is to offer impeccable and seamless service for anyone looking to purchase real estate in The Dominican Republic, and of course to find you your dream home or investment property. Our service extends way beyond that of regular agencies in our search to find you the perfect place. Relocating to The Dominican Republic requires a team on the ground to help with: Banking, residency, finding local amenities, communications, hooking up utilities, insurance, local services / networking and language barriers just to name a few. Working with DR Property Guys provides a network of support to cover all bases and so much more.

Dr Property Guys Videos

With over 5,000 subscribers to our YouTube channel and climbing, our videos are having quite a reach these days. If you are considering selling your property in The Dominican Republic, contact DR Property Guys for a free appraisal and unique video presentation. Alternatively, if you have any suggestions regarding lifestyle videos or places of interest you’d like to see, please feel free to let us know.

Tay: 809 756 7611 tay@drpropertyguys.com
Phil: 809 707 3598 phil@drpropertyguys.com

Building a House in The Dominican Republic Part #3

Building a House in The Dominican Republic Part #3

Building a House in The Dominican Republic Part #3

In this video Building a House in The Dominican Republic Part #3 we decided to add “Trouble in Paradise” after Roger and Annina encountered some minor problems during the construction of their new home. The title was a little tongue in cheek as the issues weren’t major and were resolved quickly and without too much fuss, but it helped that they were on the ground and able to communicate with the builder who was happy to resolve the issue right away. This is not always the case.

The Importance of Being on the Ground During the Construction Period

It has to be said that Roger and Annina thought long and hard in terms of pursuing their dream to build a new villa in The Dominican Republic and planned accordingly. They had a good idea of the home that they wanted to build and the budget they had in mind. They researched online and selected a reputable and experienced real estate agency to represent and guide them through the process, and they planned their time accordingly. Roger and Annina were pretty much on the ground for approximately 80% of the construction period which allowed them to keep a close eye on the progress, the budget, materials supply chain, the quality, and to meet regularly with DR Property Guys and the developer as required.

Important Steps to Success

Is The Dominican Republic the right choice for you?

It’s easy to get carried away with the lifestyle and the beaches on vacation, but living in The Dominican Republic full or part time is a different matter. It’s important to get to know the different areas, understand the culture, ask questions, what kind of amenities are you looking for, how does the banking work, what about healthcare, residency, driving etc…

Research Online:

Look for any information pertaining to investing in real estate and living in The Dominican Republic, the good, the bad and the ugly, there’s lots of information available online. It’s often possible to learn a great deal from the experiences of others.

Finding the best location:

Do your homework, The Dominican Republic is a big country (48,442 km²) with lots of options and possibilities, so take your time and don’t be afraid to ask seasoned professionals for opinions and advice. Vacationing in different areas of the country will help you immensely, particularly going beyond the confines of hotels and resorts.

Get yourself a good Real Estate Agent:

Something we keep mentioning throughout this series however, a good real estate agent will potentially save you a lot of stress and headaches in finding you the right location, in helping with the legal processes, in finding the right architect / developer / builder, help transcend any language barriers, and ultimately, save you a lot of time and money.

That’s all for this  Episode, Don’t Forget to Check Out the other installments of : Building a House in The Dominican Republic Parts 1-8

You can also find listings and other informative videos about buying real estate in The Dominican Republic, or lifestyle videos about The Dominican Republic by visiting our YouTube Channel here, please don’t forget to take a second to hit the subscribe button.

DR Property Guys is a boutique real estate company in The Dominican Republic specializing in Sosua Villas and condos / apartments in Sosua and Cabarete. With over 50 years of living and doing business throughout the island, our no nonsense in depth approach will provide you with all the information you need to make informed decisions when buying real estate in The Dominican Republic.