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”.
Buying Real Estate in the Dominican Republic: Thinking about buying real estate in the Dominican Republic? Excellent choice. With the right guidance, the process can be smooth and rewarding. Without it, however, there are potential pitfalls that could cost you time, money, and peace of mind.
This in-depth guide is designed to help you make smart, secure, and satisfying investment decisions. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, income property, or a full-time Caribbean lifestyle, we’ve got you covered.
Why Invest in the Dominican Republic?
Here’s why the Dominican Republic continues to attract smart property investors and expats:
Easy international access – Just over 2 hours from Miami, and served by 7 international airports.
Vibrant tourism market – Over 11.2 million visitors in 2024 alone, supporting strong demand for vacation rentals.
Economic stability – GDP reached US$356 billion in 2024, with sustained growth forecasts.
Exceptional lifestyle – Warm climate, lower cost of living, great food, and friendly people.
With the right planning and guidance, it’s a wonderful place to live, invest, and thrive.
“Risk comes from not knowing what you’re doing.” – Warren Buffet
Is the Dominican Republic Right for You?
Not every Caribbean island is the same—and not everyone adapts in the same way. The DR is a welcoming, energetic, and culturally rich country—but it’s important to get to know it properly before you commit.
Spend time exploring different towns and regions beyond resort hotels.
Get Clear On Your Goals
Understand local customs, history, and the way of life.
Learn basic Spanish—communication goes a long way here.
Get clear on your goals: retirement, investment, lifestyle, or all three.
Consider volunteering, opening a business, or joining a local expat network.
Talk to experienced residents and investors who’ve already made the move.
“Proper preparation prevents poor performance.” – James Baker
Defining Your Budget and Search Criteria
Set your budget with a full understanding of:
Property purchase price
Living costs (utilities, insurance, etc.)
Property taxes and maintenance
Travel or relocation expenses
Return on investment (if you plan to rent it out)
Ask yourself:
Buying Real Estate in the Dominican Republic
Are you looking for a beachfront condo in Cabarete?
A villa in Sosúa with mountain views?
A surf lodge near Encuentro Beach?
A quiet countryside retreat near Puerto Plata?
Also, make sure you consider proximity to schools, hospitals, supermarkets, beaches, and airports. A great location is key to both your personal enjoyment and resale value.
Finding the Right Property
There’s no centralized MLS system in the DR, so property searches can feel scattered. That’s why working with a knowledgeable and experienced real estate professional is so important.
Key factors to evaluate:
Property orientation (sunrise/sunset, airflow)
Number of steps/stairs and general layout
Outdoor living space and comfort
Flood risk (especially during rainy season)
Security and infrastructure
Resale and rental potential
We help our clients find properties that not only meet their needs—but exceed their expectations.
Gated Communities vs. Non-Gated
Gated Communities vs. Non-Gated
Gated Communities These private neighborhoods typically offer:
They charge a Homeowners Association (HOA) fee, but in return, you enjoy peace of mind and a well-maintained environment. For new residents or part-time owners, it’s often the safest and easiest way to live.
Non-Gated Homes Generally purchased by experienced expats or locals familiar with navigating utilities, security, and maintenance independently. There are no HOA fees, but services like garbage collection, water, power backup, and repairs may require private arrangements and budgeting.
Our Recommendation:
Unless you have deep knowledge of local logistics and systems, gated communities offer a much smoother and safer path—especially from an investment and resale perspective.
Buying Pre-Construction Property
Buying Pre-Construction Property
Pre-construction deals can be tempting—especially with developer financing and new designs—but it’s essential to proceed with caution.
Key questions to ask:
Who is the developer, and what is their track record?
Is the title clean, and is the land fully owned by the developer?
How is the project financed?
Are there verified reviews or testimonials from past buyers?
Is there a completion guarantee or escrow system?
If you plan to build yourself or manage a custom construction project, make sure you understand Dominican building practices, labor, permits, costs, and timelines. You’ll need to be hands-on—or hire someone who is.
Real Estate Agents in the Dominican Republic
Unfortunately, real estate here is not a regulated profession—which means anyone can claim to be an agent. That opens the door to potential issues, especially for foreigners unfamiliar with the system.
Choose an agent who:
Is a legal resident and has lived in the DR long term
Holds recognized local real estate qualifications
Speaks fluent Spanish and understands Dominican legal processes
Owns property themselves and has a network of local contacts
Offers clear contracts and sound advice—not just promises
Has positive, verifiable reviews and client feedback
⚠️ Never send non-refundable deposits or rely on verbal promises. Insist on legal contracts and always consult a reputable attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can foreigners buy property in the Dominican Republic? Yes. Foreign buyers enjoy full property ownership rights. No residency is required.
Q: Are property taxes expensive in the DR? Not at all. You pay 1% annually on property values above RD$10.19 million (~US$160,000). Properties below this threshold are exempt. Retirees 65 years or older with only one home are also exempt.
Q: What’s the CONFOTUR law and how does it help investors? CONFOTUR (Law 158-01) offers incredible incentives: (Not always applicable and only pertains to certain developments))
No transfer taxes
No property tax for up to 15 years
Ideal for tourism-focused investments
Q: Can foreigners get a mortgage in the DR? Yes, through local banks. However, terms may vary, and the down payment is usually higher (30–50%). Many buyers use home-country financing or pay cash.
Q: What documents are needed to buy?
Valid passport
Proof of funds
Legal contract reviewed by a local attorney
Title transfer documentation
Q: Is it safe to drive or live in the DR? Yes, with awareness and preparation, for more information click Driving in the Dominican Republic
Q: How do I apply for residency? You start by applying through a Dominican Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Requirements include:
Clean criminal record
Good health
Proof of income (typically $1,500–$2,000/month) Note: You cannot legally work without residency.
About DR Property Guys
We are a boutique real estate agency with over 50 years of combined experience living, working, and investing in the Dominican Republic. We don’t just sell property—we guide you every step of the way.
RE/MAX Diplomado Gerencia Inmobiliaria
INFI (Instituto Nacional de Formación Inmobiliaria)
Our team holds diplomas from RE/MAX Diplomado Gerencia Inmobiliaria & INFI (Instituto Nacional de Formación Inmobiliaria) and has deep local expertise in:
Sosúa
Cabarete
Encuentro
Puerto Plata
And other key areas along the north coast
Whether you’re seeking a new lifestyle, a smart investment, or your dream vacation home—we’re here to help you do it right, from start to finish.
🎥 Check out our YouTube Channel for lifestyle videos, listings, and real-world insights into island life. Please like, share, and subscribe!
Final Word
Buying property in the Dominican Republic is a fantastic opportunity—but only if done correctly. With the right team, honest advice, and solid planning, you can own a slice of paradise with confidence.
Let DR Property Guys help you make the move you’ve always dreamed about. 🌴
At DR Property Guys, we’ve just hit a huge milestone — our 300th Dominican Republic real estate video! 🥳 What started as a fun idea (and maybe an excuse to play with cameras and drones) has turned into a full-blown adventure across the North Coast of the Dominican Republic.
From showcasing beautiful villas in Sosúa, condos in Cabarete, and investment properties in Encuentro, to sharing the quirks of everyday life here, our YouTube channel has grown into something much bigger than we imagined. Some days filming feels like “just another day at work,” but most days… well, let’s just say we never quite know what surprises the Dominican Republic has in store for us. 🌴🍹
👉 Click the video above to join the journey — and see why so many people are choosing to live, invest, and retire in the Dominican Republic.
How It All Began ⚽
Our story goes back a few years (and a few cervezas 🍻). We met through the expat community — which is fairly small here on the North Coast — and bonded over a mix of British–Dominican humor and a love of football.
Around that time, global events had us thinking: Why not bring a fresh approach to the Dominican Republic real estate market?
These days, the most successful businesses don’t just sell a product — they build their own media companies to tell their story. With our combined 50+ years of experience in the Dominican Republic’s real estate and tourism industries, we felt perfectly placed to do the same.
Our Video Production Goal 🎬
From day one, our mission was clear:
👉 Create professional Dominican Republic real estate videos that combine honesty, transparency, and personality.
Looking back at our early clips (let’s just say we’ve come a long way since those shaky first shots 😅), we’re proud of how far we’ve come. Today, with 5,000+ YouTube subscribers and counting, we’re reaching more people than ever.
Our videos aren’t just about houses — they’re about lifestyle, community, and showing what it really means to call the Dominican Republic home.
DR Property Guys – More Than Real Estate 🏡
We’re not just another real estate agency. DR Property Guys is a boutique real estate service based on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic, specializing in:
Helping buyers find dream villas, condos, and land for sale in Sosúa, Cabarete, and Encuentro
Guiding investors toward the best Caribbean real estate opportunities
Supporting families and retirees looking to relocate to the Dominican Republic
But here’s the kicker — our work doesn’t stop once you’ve signed on the dotted line. Relocating here often means navigating:
💳 Banking & residency paperwork
📞 Communications & utilities
🛒 Local services, amenities & networking
📝 Insurance & legal advice
🌎 Language barriers
We don’t just hand over the keys — we’re right here with you every step of the way.
Thinking of Selling? Let’s Talk. 💡
With our growing YouTube presence, over 5,000 subscribers, and a highly engaged audience, our property videos have become a powerful marketing tool.
If you’re thinking of selling your property in the Dominican Republic, we’ll create a free professional appraisal and unique video presentation to get your listing in front of buyers worldwide.
And if you’re one of our viewers with an idea for a lifestyle video, a hidden gem to explore, or a property feature you’d love to see — tell us! We’re always open to suggestions.
Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or just curious about life here, DR Property Guys is your trusted partner in Dominican Republic real estate.
📺 And if you haven’t already done so, please do us a huge favor andsubscribe to our YouTube channel by clicking the link and hitting the subscribe button ❤️
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.
Building a House in The Dominican Republic Part #2
In this video Building a House in The Dominican Republic Part #2, things are progressing nicely. Roger and Annina are now 4 months into their new build and well on their way to living out their dream of owning a property and living in The Dominican Republic.
Steps to Success
Find a Reputable Dominican Real Estate Agent
A good real estate agent can help guide you through the entire process. They will help you find the right lot at the right price and in the right community. More importantly they will help you find a reputable architect, builder / developer and steer you through the required legal steps to not only buy real estate in The Dominican Republic, but to begin the process of construction. Having someone on the ground that speaks the language, knows the laws and that understands the Dominican real estate market will save you endless headaches and potentially thousands in the long run.
Have a Clear Vision of What Your Dream Home Will Look Like
Buying and developing real estate in The Dominican Republic is a challenging process and requires time and dedication, particularly in the planning process. Being crystal clear regarding your wants, needs and desires will help avoid unnecessary issues down the line. It’s amazing how many people decide to go it alone and end up with the house that Jack built. Again, the team you select on the ground will determine the level of your success, however your own involvement in preparing, planning and budgeting are essential.
Getting the Right Advice
If you plan on living in the tropics, seek advice from someone who has lived in the tropics for many years. Here are a few examples of important considerations that you should make. Is the area prone to flooding? Is the area safe? How is it best to take advantage of air flow and air circulation. Where does the sun rise and set? Where will the shade be throughout the day? The importance of creating a seamless indoor to outdoor living space that will add serious value to your home. Selecting the right swimming pool design, the best tiles for indoor / outdoor living, solar systems, termite prevention / protection etc. Good guidance from boots on the ground is essential.
Buying furniture in The Dominican Republic
Of course when building a home in The Dominican Republic or even buying a resale property in The Dominican Republic, at some point you’ll want to furnish your new home or refurnish an existing property. Over these past few years the number of options for buying both furniture and appliances has increased dramatically here. Prices for furniture in The Dominican Republic are most likely higher than you’re used to, but if you take your time and find the best options, some of the furniture here will last you a lifetime. Good solid beds tables, chairs and sun-loungers are readily available and can even be custom made. Make sure anything you buy is termite proof to avoid any nasty surprises. A good sized covered outdoor living area will increase the lifespan of exterior furniture which if left exposed can deteriorate quickly.
That’s all for this Episode, Don’t Forget to Check Out: 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.
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