Thinking about buying property in the Dominican Republic? Whether you’re a Canadian snowbird, an American investor, or someone chasing the tropical lifestyle dream, the DR is full of opportunity—but also full of avoidable pitfalls for first-time buyers.
At Own Dominican, we help North Americans navigate the process by connecting them with trusted pre-construction projects, reputable developers, and experienced local professionals. Here are seven common mistakes to watch out for—and how to avoid them.
1. Not Using a Local, Independent Lawyer
One of the most common and costly mistakes is skipping legal representation or relying solely on the developer’s lawyer. We connect buyers with independent, English-speaking Dominican lawyers who specialize in working with international clients and understand the local property landscape.
2. Skipping Due Diligence
Every property purchase should involve proper due diligence—including title verification, zoning confirmation, and a review of outstanding taxes or obligations. This critical step helps ensure your investment is secure from the start.
3. Assuming the Buying Process Is the Same as at Home
The Dominican Republic operates very differently from Canada or the U.S.—with no MLS, different legal frameworks, and non-standardized contracts. We help you understand what to expect when buying pre-construction or resale so that nothing catches you off guard.
4. Underestimating Total Costs
The purchase price is just one part of the equation. Other costs—such as closing fees, legal expenses, estimated HOA dues, and furnishing—can add up quickly. We help buyers get a clearer sense of total ownership costs to make more informed decisions.
5. Overlooking Confotur Benefits
The Confotur Law offers incredible tax advantages, such as exemption from property taxes and transfer taxes for up to 15 years on eligible projects. We focus on pre-construction developments that are Confotur-approved and help ensure buyers are aware of these long-term benefits.
6. Relying on Verbal Promises
From furniture packages to rental guarantees, it’s essential that all agreements are clearly documented in writing. If it’s not in the contract, it doesn’t count. We help you understand what to look for so you can move forward with confidence.
7. Failing to Plan for Resale or Rental
Whether your goal is to generate rental income, retire, or eventually sell, it’s important to think long-term. We help buyers identify areas with strong growth potential and connect them with communities that align with their lifestyle and investment goals.
Final Thoughts
Buying in the Dominican Republic can be a smart, life-enhancing decision—but only if it’s done right. At Own Dominican, we help Canadians and Americans make confident purchases by connecting them with vetted developers, trusted professionals, and insider guidance on the best opportunities across the island.
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