Dominican Republic – Buying Property

Can foreign nationals legally buy and own property in the Dominican Republic?

The Dominican Constitution lays out the foundational legal framework: Article 25 expressly grants foreign nationals the same rights and obligations as Dominican citizens — with the sole exception of political participation — while Article 221 guarantees equal treatment under the law for both domestic and foreign investment. These provisions make the Dominican Republic one of the most welcoming property markets anywhere in the Caribbean.

There are no barriers preventing foreign individuals or entities from owning or leasing real estate; the acquisition or leasing of property follows identical procedures for foreigners and Dominicans alike. This open-door approach is firmly established by Foreign Investment Law 16-95.

Foreign purchasers may acquire condominiums, houses, villas, and land for any purpose — personal use, holiday accommodation, or investment — and the Dominican Constitution explicitly safeguards property rights for all nationalities. There is no cap on how much property a foreigner may hold; these protections are enshrined in the constitution and enforced through the Land Registry Law.

In contrast to countries like Mexico — which limits direct foreign ownership within 50 km of coastlines through its “restricted zone” provisions — or New Zealand, where foreign buyer bans have been enacted, the Dominican Republic erects almost no barriers to ownership. The one meaningful geographic limitation is that foreigners may not acquire land within 60 kilometres of the country’s international borders without prior presidential authorisation, as established under Law No. 305, a measure designed to protect national security in frontier regions. In practice this restriction has little bearing on most buyers, since the country’s tourist and residential hubs are located well away from the Haitian border.

Law 64-00, the General Environmental and Natural Resources Law, also contains provisions relating to zoning in specific regions and restricts land use in areas designated as national parks and protected zones. Within protected spaces such as the Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo, design, construction, and the external appearance of buildings must receive prior approval from the Ministry of Tourism; all land-use matters fall under the jurisdiction of municipalities, the Ministry of Tourism (in tourist areas), and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources.

Foreign individuals and entities are required to register with the tax authorities before a property purchase can be formalised. Individual buyers must submit their application directly to the Internal Revenue office, while corporate entities must first register with the Chamber of Commerce and obtain a mercantile registry certificate prior to applying for a tax identification number — these are straightforward administrative steps that can be completed without difficulty.

The country’s official land registry is the Registro Inmobiliario, which oversees title registration nationwide under Property Registry Law No. 108-05. Transfer taxes and ongoing property tax obligations are administered by the Dirección General de Impuestos Internos (DGII), the national tax authority.

What are average property prices, and how do they vary by region?

As of May 2025, apartment prices across the Dominican Republic rose sharply by 10.7% year-on-year, reaching an average of DOP 130,932 (roughly USD $2,202) per square metre, according to data from the real estate listing platform Properstar. House prices climbed by 11.6% over the same period, averaging DOP 104,612 (approximately USD $1,760) per sq m.

The Dominican real estate market is characterised by notable price variation between regions, with coastal tourist destinations typically commanding substantially higher rates than inland cities. The table below provides a regional overview of typical prices as of 2025 — these are market averages, and buyers should always consult current listings on reputable portals such as Encuentra24 or Properstar for the most up-to-date figures:

Measured over roughly a decade from 2016, Dominican Republic property prices have climbed an estimated 90% in nominal terms and approximately 35% in real (inflation-adjusted) terms. This sustained long-term growth reflects persistent tourism demand, ongoing interest from foreign buyers in coastal markets, and broader access to mortgage credit for Dominican families.

Prices within any given region can vary considerably depending on precise location, the property’s condition, how close it is to the beach, and the quality of on-site facilities. Consulting current listings and engaging a knowledgeable local real estate professional will provide the most accurate picture for any specific purchase.

Where are the most popular locations to buy property?

Areas such as Samaná, Punta Cana, and Santo Domingo have established themselves as leading markets, each presenting distinct opportunities for buyers and investors. Below is a closer look at each major destination:

Punta Cana and Cap Cana: Punta Cana is an internationally recognised beach resort that records the highest property prices in the country. Beachfront apartments within luxury residential complexes trade at between $3,500 and $5,000 per sq m, while villas with private pools in secure gated estates routinely surpass $1 million. Affluent buyers are increasingly drawn to exclusive enclaves like Cap Cana. Punta Cana Airport handles 64% of the country’s total air arrivals, making it the most globally connected destination in the Dominican Republic.

Santo Domingo: The capital presents two distinct markets — a thriving urban scene in modern residential districts such as Piantini and Naco catering to those who prefer city living, and the historic Colonial Zone (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) for those attracted to restored heritage properties. The city benefits from robust long-term rental demand generated by professionals and diplomatic staff.

Samaná Peninsula: Samaná has recorded a striking appreciation in property values, with house prices averaging DOP 125,909 per sq m and apartments reaching DOP 139,743 per sq m as of 2024, reflecting the area’s rising profile as an eco-tourism destination. The peninsula draws buyers seeking a quieter, more natural setting supported by improving infrastructure.

North Coast (Puerto Plata, Cabarete, Sosúa): The North Coast’s relaxed lifestyle, established expat community, and growing tourism footprint have elevated it to one of the most dynamic property markets in the Caribbean. Cabarete in particular has a long-standing international character and enjoys particular popularity among water sports enthusiasts and digital nomads.

La Romana: Investment hotspots including Cap Cana, La Romana, and Las Terrenas are experiencing exceptional demand for both commercial and residential properties, propelled by a booming tourism sector and a pronounced focus on upscale, eco-conscious developments.

Are there any emerging or up-and-coming areas worth considering?

A number of prominent international developers have launched projects across areas including Punta Cana, Baní, Miches, Puerto Plata, Santo Domingo, and the southwestern provinces of Pedernales, Barahona, and Peravia. A notable trend has been the use of public-private partnerships to open up new regions to tourism, most visibly through the planned development of Cabo Rojo and Bahía de las Águilas in Pedernales — pristine stretches of coastline slated to host eco-friendly hotels and residential developments.

Miches: Once a quiet fishing community on the northeast coast, Miches is now attracting serious developer interest. Its proximity to unspoiled beaches and the nearby El Catey International Airport have positioned it as a focal point for eco-luxury resort and residential projects. Upgraded road networks linking La Romana and Miches have unlocked access to high-potential land parcels, drawing resort and mixed-use developers to the area.

Pedernales / Southwest: The Dominican government’s flagship southwest tourism initiative — centred on Cabo Rojo and Bahía de las Águilas — is earmarking this previously overlooked region for substantial resort and residential investment. Although the project remains in its early stages, land prices here are still modest relative to the country’s established coastal markets.

Las Terrenas (Samaná): Las Terrenas has evolved from a niche expat hideaway into a well-connected beach town with restaurants, international schools, and a year-round rental market. It continues to attract buyers who are priced out of Punta Cana but seek a comparable coastal lifestyle at a lower cost of entry.

Legal zoning updates introduced in 2024 are accelerating permit approvals for mixed residential-commercial developments, driving land appreciation even beyond the traditional hotspots. Properties situated within 5 km of newly built transport corridors have gained as much as 12% in value over the preceding 12 months.

What are the current trends in the property market?

The Dominican real estate market is on an upward trajectory, with residential property prices rising 5–7% by May 2024 and tourism-fuelled demand for holiday homes intensifying. Residential prices are projected to increase by a further 7% to 12% before the close of 2025.

Tourism-driven demand: The year 2024 set new records for the country’s tourism sector, with air arrivals surging to more than 8.5 million visitors — a 5.9% increase on the previous year and the highest figure ever recorded — while cruise arrivals reached an all-time high of 2.6 million, representing a 16.3% rise. This directly amplifies demand for short-term rental properties and holiday homes.

Short-term rental growth: Platforms such as Airbnb have substantially boosted demand for vacation rentals, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Punta Cana and Samaná. Investors are capitalising on high occupancy rates and appealing returns, with some properties achieving annual gross yields of 6–8%.

Luxury and gated community development: The Dominican Republic has witnessed exceptional growth in the luxury real estate segment, most noticeably in Punta Cana. Demand for turnkey properties and condominiums offering amenities such as pools, round-the-clock security, and beach proximity has grown markedly.

Technology adoption: The real estate sector has embraced augmented reality, drones, and artificial intelligence at a rapid pace, with AR and drone technology leading adoption for property surveys and virtual tours. This enables overseas buyers to carry out thorough property research remotely before setting foot in the country.

Infrastructure investment: Government priorities in 2024 have included further road expansions, airport upgrades, enhanced tourism facilities, and continued improvements to the legal framework governing property transactions.

For the most current market data, consult the Global Property Guide Dominican Republic page and the Oficina Nacional de Estadística (ONE), which publishes official construction cost and housing market statistics.

Is buying property in the Dominican Republic a good investment?

Rental yields are one of the factors that set the Dominican Republic apart from competing markets. In high-demand locations such as Punta Cana and Santo Domingo, gross yields typically range from 6% to 10%, outperforming many neighbouring nations. For context, average gross rental yields in established markets like France or the United Kingdom generally sit between 3% and 5%, making the Dominican Republic’s returns look attractive on both a regional and global basis.

In Punta Cana, yields for one-bedroom units exceed 8%, with net yields after taxes and costs estimated at 5–6%, placing the market on a competitive footing with other Latin American countries. Historical data confirms sustained growth, with real prices rising around 8% over the past decade; in 2024, nominal growth reached 10.2%, translating to a 6.4% real increase.

Although the Dominican Republic has its own currency (the peso), most real estate listings and transactions — particularly at the higher end of the market — are denominated in US dollars. This provides dollar-holding buyers with a degree of currency stability, though those earning in other currencies should account for exchange rate risk when calculating ongoing costs and eventual resale proceeds.

The Dominican government offers tax exemptions on properties in tourist-designated zones under the Confotur Law as an incentive for foreign investment. The country also runs a special programme for retirees and individuals with passive income under Law No. 171-07, while developers may secure up to ten years of preferential treatment under Law No. 158-01.

Challenges include high levels of income inequality, limited housing affordability for the local population, and the potential for overheating in certain market segments. Crime rates in some districts may also give pause to buyers seeking a primary residence, and Transparency International assigned the country a score of 36/100 in its 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index, pointing to persistent governance transparency issues that can complicate property transactions.

As with any property market, values can fall as well as rise, and rental income is never guaranteed. Independent financial advice from a qualified professional who is familiar with both the Dominican Republic and your home country’s tax rules is strongly recommended before committing to any purchase.

What types of property are commonly available?

Apartments and condominiums account for roughly 70% of available properties in the Dominican Republic, followed by houses at around 20%, villas at 5%, townhouses at 3%, and penthouses and studios making up the remainder — a breakdown largely shaped by urban density patterns.

• Condominiums and apartments: The most widely available property type, found across all major cities and resort areas. Purpose-built condo complexes in Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and the North Coast span the spectrum from compact studio units aimed at the rental investor market to spacious penthouse apartments. Many developments include shared pools, gyms, round-the-clock security, and backup generators.
• Villas: Predominantly located within gated communities or resort developments, particularly in Punta Cana, Cap Cana, La Romana, and Samaná. Villas with private pools are a cornerstone of the short-term luxury rental market. With beachfront condos starting at around $100,000 and luxury villas available below $500,000, Punta Cana appeals to both budget-conscious investors and high-end buyers.
• Townhouses: Less prevalent but available in established residential communities in Santo Domingo and selected resort areas. Townhouses typically offer more internal space than apartments along with some private outdoor area.
• Detached houses: Found throughout the country, from suburban Santo Domingo to rural inland towns. More commonly purchased as a primary residence by long-term residents than as a holiday home.
• Land plots: Available across the country. Land can be purchased in your own name with full fee-simple title. Off-plan purchases on undeveloped land carry greater risk and require thorough due diligence on zoning classifications and permits.
• Agricultural land: Foreigners may own agricultural property outright, though buyers should verify the current land-use classification and any applicable environmental restrictions through the relevant municipal authority before proceeding.
• New construction / off-plan: Newly built properties typically cost around 20% more per sq m than existing homes. This premium reflects modern amenities such as parking, lifts, backup generators, security systems, and contemporary finishes, while also sparing buyers the immediate maintenance costs associated with older stock.

What is the typical step-by-step process for buying property?

The Dominican Republic operates under a civil law system, which means the purchasing process differs from that in common-law countries. Unlike buying in Australia or the United Kingdom — where conveyancers or solicitors exchange contracts and legal protection attaches at the point of exchange — in the Dominican Republic ownership is only legally complete once the title has been formally registered at the Registro Inmobiliario. The typical sequence is as follows:

1. Find a property and agent: Select a locally based, area-specific agent with solid knowledge of your target market. There is no national licensing body for real estate agents, so personal recommendations and a verifiable track record carry significant weight.
2. Make an offer: Offers are generally made verbally or in a basic written format. No legally binding commitment exists at this stage.
3. Obtain a Dominican tax number (RNC): You will need a valid passport and a Dominican tax identification number (RNC) before the sale can be finalised or registered. Your attorney can obtain this on your behalf within a matter of days.
4. Hire your own independent lawyer: Retain your own attorney — independent of the seller — at a typical cost of 1–1.5% of the purchase price. This step is critical and should never be skipped.
5. Sign the Promise of Sale (Contrato de Promesa de Venta): Execute the legally binding Promise of Sale agreement and pay a deposit of 10% of the agreed price. This contract specifies the purchase price, conditions, and completion timeline, and is prepared in Spanish.
6. Conduct due diligence: Due diligence encompasses a title search, a no-debt certificate, and a deslinde (land boundary survey). Recommended checks include verification of title status, any existing liens, building permits, and the seller’s tax compliance. The Certificación del Estado Jurídico del Inmueble, obtained from the Registry of Titles, confirms the property’s registered status and boundaries.
7. Sign the Final Sales Contract (Contrato de Venta): The final purchase contract is executed before a notary, with full payment transferred at this stage. Dominican notaries are qualified legal professionals who authenticate and formalise documents; they do not act as independent advisers to either party.
8. Pay the property transfer tax: Remit the 3% transfer tax to the DGII. This is calculated on whichever is greater — the price stated in the contract or the government’s assessed value. If the agreed price falls below the government’s appraisal, tax liability is calculated on the higher figure.
9. Register the title at the Registro de Títulos: Your attorney submits the signed contract and evidence of tax payment to the Registro de Títulos. The registry processes the transfer and issues a fresh Certificate of Title in your name — this step is what makes your ownership legally enforceable. Without it, you do not officially hold the property regardless of any other documents you possess.
10. Receive your Certificate of Title: The registration process requires your passport, Dominican tax number (RNC), notarised purchase contract, and proof of transfer tax payment. The Title Registry Office typically issues your Certificate of Title within 30 to 60 days of submission.

From accepted offer through to final title registration, the end-to-end timeline in the Dominican Republic generally spans 30 to 90 days, depending on how swiftly due diligence is concluded and how efficiently the DGII and Registry process the submitted filings.

In terms of closing costs, buyers should anticipate: 3% transfer tax + 1–1.5% in legal fees + approximately 0.5% for notary services = total closing costs of roughly 4.5–5.5%. For transactions involving escrow arrangements or corporate structures, total buyer-side closing costs can reach 5% to 8% of the purchase price. Always confirm current fee schedules directly with the DGII and Registro Inmobiliario before proceeding.

Do I need a lawyer, and how do I find a reputable one?

Legal representation is not a statutory requirement in the Dominican Republic in the way it is in certain other jurisdictions, but for foreign buyers it is functionally indispensable — you need correctly prepared documents, thorough due diligence, and a professional who can navigate the registry and tax filing processes. Unlike purchasing property in Scotland or Australia, where licensed conveyancers can manage the transaction, the Dominican Republic’s civil law framework and title-registry requirements make it strongly advisable to engage a qualified attorney from the very beginning.

A property lawyer in the Dominican Republic will:

• Carry out comprehensive due diligence, including title searches and verification of all legal documentation. Review and negotiate the Contrato de Compraventa to protect your interests. Ensure all legal requirements are satisfied throughout the transaction — including obtaining necessary permits and approvals — and represent you professionally at every stage of the process.
• Obtain your Dominican tax number (RNC) on your behalf.
• Coordinate with the notary and the Registro de Títulos to handle title registration.
• Arrange power of attorney if you are unable to be present in the Dominican Republic for all stages of the process.

Standard legal fees amount to 1–1.5% of the purchase price (as of 2025 — verify current rates with your chosen attorney). Always agree fees in writing before any work commences.

All attorneys practising in the Dominican Republic must be members of the Colegio de Abogados de la República Dominicana (Dominican Bar Association), the profession’s regulatory body. You can verify membership and search for practitioners on their website: www.colegioabogados.org.do. Well-established law firms such as Guzmán Ariza are widely respected for foreign investor real estate work and publish extensive guidance on their website. Seek referrals from other expat buyers, your home country’s embassy in Santo Domingo, or established expat community networks, and always confirm that your chosen lawyer has no connection to the seller or developer.

What are the most common pitfalls expats encounter?

The Dominican Republic’s property market is genuinely open and investor-friendly, but there are well-documented hazards that catch underprepared buyers off guard. Understanding them in advance is essential.

• Title defects and forged documents: Fraudulent or counterfeit title documents represent a serious risk. Always verify the authenticity of any title directly with the Registro de Títulos, and confirm that the title reflects a single, undisputed owner to avoid protracted and costly legal disputes. Properties that have not been properly registered with the Registro de Títulos lack legal standing and cannot be lawfully transferred.
• Unregistered ownership: Without formal registration, you do not legally own the property — regardless of what contracts or receipts you hold. Never treat a purchase as finalised until your Certificate of Title is physically in your hands.
• Inherited debts and unpaid taxes: Buyers in the Dominican Republic can unwittingly take on the seller’s unpaid property taxes or other outstanding liabilities. Always require the seller to provide proof of current IPI (property tax) payments and any condominium fee certifications before completing the purchase.
• Surprise transfer tax calculations: Unexpected costs frequently arise from transfer tax being calculated on a DGII appraisal that exceeds the agreed purchase price, outstanding condominium dues, additional registry steps for properties with complicated title histories, and the 18% ITBIS applied to professional services.
• Short-term rental restrictions in condominiums: Condominium bylaws may prohibit short-term rentals even when national law permits letting, and DGII withholding rules may apply to rental payments made to non-resident landlords. Proper tax registration and compliance are therefore important from the outset.
• Rushed closings and fraudulent listings: Buyers can face pressure to close quickly without completing thorough due diligence. Always verify ownership through the Registro Inmobiliario and never bypass independent legal review, however urgent the situation may appear.
• Off-plan purchase risks: Buying pre-construction can offer attractive entry pricing, but developer insolvency, construction delays, and changes to the agreed specifications are genuine risks. Always investigate the developer’s track record, ensure deposits are held in escrow rather than paid into the developer’s operating account, and have a lawyer scrutinise the developer’s CONFOTUR approvals and building permits before signing.
• Currency transfer risks: Most transactions are priced in US dollars. Buyers funding a purchase from non-USD accounts face exchange rate exposure. Using a specialist foreign exchange provider rather than a retail bank can meaningfully reduce costs on large international transfers.
• Inheritance law complications: Dominican “forced heirship” rules require that a portion of an estate pass to certain close relatives — children and spouse — regardless of the provisions in a will, although a 2014 law allows foreign nationals to elect their home country’s inheritance rules if this is properly documented in advance. Discuss your ownership structure and succession intentions with a lawyer before completing any purchase.

Can I buy property through a company, and is it worth doing?

Dominican law draws no distinction between commercial and residential properties in terms of the rules that govern acquisition; the same framework applies to both. However, properties held by corporate entities are subject to different tax treatment from those owned by individuals.

Foreign buyers may acquire property through a Dominican Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada (SRL — broadly equivalent to a limited liability company) or a Sociedad Anónima (SA — a share company). Entities must first register with the Chamber of Commerce and obtain a mercantile registry certificate, then apply for a tax identification number at the Internal Revenue office.

Potential advantages of corporate ownership include:

• Inheritance planning: Passing shares in a company rather than transferring the property itself can in some circumstances simplify succession, avoiding the need to re-register the title through the Registro Inmobiliario each time the ownership changes hands.
• Multiple buyers: A corporate structure can be particularly useful when several investors co-invest in a single property, as ownership proportions are recorded in the company’s share register rather than appearing on the title deed.
• Tax treatment: Rental income received through a corporate vehicle may be structured differently, though this requires careful analysis by a qualified tax adviser.

Potential drawbacks include:

• Ongoing corporate administration costs, including annual filings with the Chamber of Commerce and the DGII.
• Companies are not entitled to the individual IPI (annual property tax) exemption threshold — trusts and companies pay a 1% tax on the total assessed value of their taxable property, with no equivalent of the individual exemption of approximately RD$10.7 million.
• Greater complexity at the point of sale, particularly if the purchaser prefers to acquire the property directly rather than buying into the company.

Whether purchasing through a company is advantageous depends heavily on your individual tax situation, country of residence, and estate planning objectives. Always obtain independent legal and tax advice from professionals qualified in both Dominican law and the law of your home country before proceeding along this route.

What taxes and ongoing costs should I budget for?

Below is a summary of the principal taxes and costs that buyers and owners face in the Dominican Republic, as of 2025–2026. Always verify current rates directly with the DGII (Dirección General de Impuestos Internos).

As of early 2026, the annual IPI applies a 1% rate to combined property values exceeding the exemption threshold of approximately RD$10,695,494 (roughly USD $168,000). Annual property tax liability ranges from RD$0 for properties below the threshold to RD$50,000 or more for higher-value homes, depending on how far above the exemption level the assessed value sits.

The IPI threshold is adjusted annually in line with inflation data published by the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic. Payments are made in two equal semi-annual instalments, with the first due on 11 March and the second on 11 September each year.

When accounting for transfer tax, legal fees, registration costs, and any renovation work required, buyers in the Dominican Republic should budget to pay 6% to 15% above the listed purchase price overall. On a $200,000 property, transfer tax, legal fees, and registration costs alone will amount to approximately $10,000 to $12,000.

What are the official sources I should consult?

Always verify information with official Dominican Republic government sources before making any property decision. Key institutions and resources include:

• Registro Inmobiliario (Land Registry)
  The official authority responsible for property title registration and verification throughout the Dominican Republic.
  www.registroinmobiliario.gob.do
• Dirección General de Impuestos Internos (DGII) — National Tax Authority
  Responsible for administering the property transfer tax, IPI (annual property tax), and rental income tax. Publishes current rates and exemption thresholds.
  www.dgii.gov.do
• Consultoría Jurídica del Poder Ejecutivo
  The official repository of Dominican laws and executive regulations, including Foreign Investment Law 16-95 and Land Registry Law 108-05.
  www.consultoria.gov.do
• Centro de Exportación e Inversión de la República Dominicana (CEI-RD)
  The government’s investment promotion agency, providing guidance on the legal framework for foreign investment.
  www.cei-rd.gov.do
• Ministerio de Turismo (Ministry of Tourism)
  Relevant for buyers in tourist-designated zones, CONFOTUR approvals, and the special designation of the Colonial Zone.
  www.mitur.gob.do
• Colegio de Abogados de la República Dominicana (Dominican Bar Association)
  The regulatory body for lawyers; use this resource to verify attorney registration.
  www.colegioabogados.org.do
• Oficina Nacional de Estadística (ONE)
  Publishes official housing construction cost indices and statistical data on the property market.
  www.one.gob.do
• Banco Central de la República Dominicana (Central Bank)
  The authoritative source for official exchange rates, inflation data, and mortgage rate benchmarks.
  www.bancentral.gov.do

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be a resident to buy property in the Dominican Republic?

No. Non-residents and individuals holding tourist visas can legally purchase property in the Dominican Republic without any residency requirement, and a large number of foreign buyers complete their transactions while in the country on a tourist visa. Residency may improve your mortgage terms but is not a prerequisite for ownership.

Can I get a mortgage from a Dominican bank as a foreign buyer?

Residents may have a slight advantage in mortgage applications, with loan-to-value ratios of up to 80% compared to 50–70% for non-residents. Several local banks, including Banco Popular and Banreservas, do extend mortgages to foreign nationals, but applicants must typically supply translated and apostilled documents from their home country as part of the application process.

Is there a capital gains tax on selling property in the Dominican Republic?

The Dominican Republic does not levy a separate capital gains tax on individual property disposals in most circumstances — a feature that adds to the market’s appeal for investors. However, tax rules are subject to change, and treatment may differ for properties held in corporate structures or commercial transactions. Always confirm the current position with the DGII or a qualified tax lawyer before selling.

What is the CONFOTUR law and does it benefit me as a buyer?

The Dominican government provides tax exemptions on properties situated within tourist-designated zones under the CONFOTUR Law as an incentive for foreign investment. These exemptions can include relief from the IPI (annual property tax) for qualifying developments and income tax benefits for eligible tourism projects. Check with the Ministry of Tourism or your lawyer whether a specific property or development meets the qualifying criteria.

What happens if I buy an off-plan property and the developer doesn’t complete?

Off-plan risk is a real consideration in the Dominican Republic. Before executing any pre-construction contract, verify the developer’s CONFOTUR approval and building permits, confirm that your deposit will be held in escrow rather than transferred directly into the developer’s operating account, and investigate the developer’s history of completing previous projects. Have an independent lawyer review all documentation before you commit to anything.

Can I rent out my Dominican Republic property as a short-term holiday rental?

Generally yes, but with important caveats. Condominium bylaws may restrict short-term rentals even where national law permits letting, and DGII withholding rules may apply to rental income paid to non-resident owners. Proper tax registration and ongoing compliance are therefore essential. Always read the condominium’s regulations carefully before purchasing if generating short-term rental income is part of your plan.

How long does the full buying process take from offer to title?

From the point of an accepted offer through to receipt of the final Certificate of Title, the process in the Dominican Republic typically takes between 30 and 90 days, depending on how quickly due diligence is completed and how promptly the DGII and Registry handle submitted filings. Transactions that involve title corrections or corporate structures can take considerably longer.

Are there any restrictions on buying beachfront or coastal property in the Dominican Republic?

Unlike Mexico’s strict restricted-zone rules or Thailand’s prohibition on foreign freehold ownership of coastal land, the Dominican Republic does not specifically prohibit foreign nationals from owning beachfront or coastal property. However, Law 64-00 (the General Environmental and Natural Resources Law) establishes restrictions on the use of land classified as national parks and protected areas. Always verify the environmental and zoning status of any coastal plot before proceeding, as properties lying within protected zones or maritime areas may face significant limitations on construction and permitted use.