FAQ
Are there special rules for buying property for foreigners in the Dominican Republic?
In general, there were no restrictions on foreigners purchasing property in the Dominican Republic. Both residents and non-residents could buy property, including homes, land, and condominiums. Also, the National Congress has created a special law that will help you save money when buying real estate.
The CONFOTUR Law (158-01), also known as the Tourism Incentive Law of the Dominican Republic, is like a friendly boost for the country's tourism industry. It's all about making places with great potential or natural beauty even more enticing for developers and property buyers by offering some pretty sweet tax incentives.
Now, here's the exciting part for real estate investors: If you stumble upon a new development that proudly mentions being under the CONFOTUR Law, you're in for a treat. This could work wonders for your investment because it might qualify you for certain tax exemptions.
As a buyer, you might even catch a break from paying certain property taxes, like that 3% property tax transfer fee (you know, the one you typically pay when you're passing the property title around) and the yearly 1% Real Estate Property Tax (IPI) for a generous 10-15 years. It's like a friendly nod from the government to encourage you to invest and enjoy the beauty of the Dominican Republic even more.
Does the purchase of real estate give advantages when applying for a residence permit or citizenship in the Dominican Republic?
Having a piece of paradise in the Dominican Republic could actually give your dreams of living there a boost! You see, this beautiful country offers different residency options like the "Rentista" and "Pensionado" programs. These programs usually require you to show a steady income or pension. But here's the exciting part: owning property can be like an extra stamp of approval, showing your commitment to the Dominican Republic and potentially making your residency application even stronger.
Now, it's important to note that while owning property is fantastic, it won't magically turn you into a Dominican citizen. To achieve that, you'd typically need to meet certain residency requirements. These might include living in the country for a specific number of years and really becoming a part of the Dominican community. The process for becoming a citizen is a separate adventure, not directly linked to owning property.
So, owning property can be your key to residency in this tropical paradise, but there's still a bit more to the journey if you're aiming for full citizenship. Enjoy the process, and soak up all the wonders that the Dominican Republic has to offer along the way!
Why do I need to invest in Punta Cana?
A Blossoming Gem: Punta Cana shines brightly as one of the Dominican Republic's fastest-growing regions. Its prime location along the eastern coast has played a significant role in its remarkable development. What's truly fascinating is how Punta Cana has evolved over the years, blossoming from a quiet fishing village into a vibrant hub that warmly welcomes both tourists and investors.
Your Dream Real Estate: If you have a penchant for luxurious living, Punta Cana has something special in store for you. It proudly presents a wide array of high-end real estate options. Whether your heart desires a magnificent beachfront villa, a sleek modern condo, or an elegant upscale apartment, Punta Cana has a diverse range of choices tailored to suit your investment preferences.
A Foodie's Paradise: Beyond the captivating beaches, Punta Cana has carved out a reputation as a culinary paradise. Here, you'll discover a delightful fusion of international flavors. As an investor, you can dive into the vibrant gastronomic scene by supporting restaurants, cozy cafes, or unique culinary experiences that cater to the diverse tastes of both locals and tourists.
Entertainment Extravaganza: Punta Cana takes entertainment to a whole new level with its cutting-edge attractions. One shining star is the Dominican Republic's very first VR amusement park, Katmandu, offering immersive experiences for visitors of all ages. Investing in such innovative entertainment ventures can lead to exciting returns, especially as the thriving tourism industry continues to flourish.
Where Luxury Meets Rest: Punta Cana is home to a collection of world-class hotels and resorts, such as the prestigious Barcelo Bavaro Palace Deluxe and the exquisite Melia Caribe Beach Resort. These exceptional establishments not only draw high-end tourists but also offer excellent investment opportunities for those interested in the hospitality sector.
Accessible Paradise: Punta Cana has its very own international airport, making it effortlessly reachable from major cities around the world. This accessibility adds to the region's allure for tourists, ensuring a constant flow of visitors year-round. For real estate investors, it means a steady demand for rental properties.
Beach Bliss: Punta Cana's most iconic feature is undoubtedly its pristine beaches. The powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters beckon tourists from all corners of the globe. Investing in beachfront properties or businesses that cater to beach lovers can be an incredibly rewarding venture.
Whether you're aiming for long-term rental income or capital appreciation, investing in Punta Cana promises a profitable and fulfilling journey. Don't miss out on the chance to be part of this tropical paradise's exciting future.
Do I need to have a Dominican bank account to buy/rent real estate?
When it comes to making your real estate dreams come true in the Dominican Republic, the process is more straightforward than you might think, and you don't necessarily need to deal with the hassle of opening a local bank account.
For those looking for short-term rentals, it's a breeze. You can stick with your trusted platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, TripAdvisor, and others to find the perfect place to stay.
Now, if you're thinking of a longer-term lease, we've got you covered. You can easily make international transfers or go the cash route, whichever suits your comfort level.
But when it's time to make that big purchase, rest assured that the Dominican banks have your back. Most developers work with reputable institutions like Banco Popular, BHD Leon, Banco Santa Cruz, Banreservas, Scotiabank, and others. This means you can confidently make international transfers, knowing your hard-earned money is in safe hands.
What's more, local banks are open to granting mortgages to foreign buyers, and many even have friendly English-speaking staff to assist you. But here's the best part: if you'd rather not deal with the bank intricacies yourself, we're here to offer complete transaction support. From securing financing to handing over the keys to your new property, we've got your back every step of the way. Your dream home in the Dominican Republic is closer than you think!
How does the real estate purchase process work in the Dominican Republic?
Let's make your journey to owning your dream property in the Dominican Republic feel like a friendly adventure, step by step:
STEP 1: Define Your Goals and Budget - Before anything else, think about why you want this property. Is it for permanent residence, rental income, resale, or perhaps a seasonal getaway? Knowing your purpose and budget is your compass.
STEP 2: Explore Properties with Our Experts - Our friendly team of specialists is here to help you navigate the options. Together with an agent, you'll visit the units that pique your interest. If you're not sure which area suits you best, we even offer lifestyle tours of Punta Cana districts in our "Book a Tour" section.
STEP 3: Making the Offer - Once you find your dream house, you and your agent will draft a purchase offer and present it to the seller. In the case of investments, this offer will also outline payment terms and construction details.
STEP 4: Deposit and Legal Assistance - When both parties agree, you'll pay a deposit to secure the unit for yourself. At this point, it's time to bring in your own lawyer. They'll review your documents and the property's papers within a month of the deposit. Don't have a lawyer yet? No worries, we can connect you with trusted experts who speak your language.
STEP 5: Contract Signing and Registration - Once all the checks are complete, it's time to set the date for signing the sales contract. To register the property in your name, you'll need to submit the necessary paperwork to the registration chamber, accompanied by your lawyer. Also, if your property doesn't fall under the CONFOTUR law, you'll pay a 3% property tax. Then, it's time to wait for the Title – the ultimate proof of your ownership. This can take a few months, but rest assured, your lawyer will hand over the document as soon as it's ready.
*Keep in mind: All documents in the Dominican Republic need to be translated into Spanish, apostilled, and signed with blue ink. But don't worry, we've got your back throughout this exciting journey!
How long can I legally stay in the Dominican Republic?
Generally, tourists from many countries are initially granted a 30-day tourist visa upon arrival in the Dominican Republic. This visa can typically be extended for an additional 30 days for a total stay of 90 days. However, this extension is usually subject to a fee, and you may need to provide a valid reason for the extension.
If you plan to stay longer than 90 days or for purposes other than tourism (such as work or study), you should consult the nearest Dominican Republic embassy or consulate in your home country to inquire about the specific visa requirements and application procedures.
For example, US citizens can legally stay in the Dominican Republic for 30 days, while Canadian citizens can stay up to 90 days.
I already have a property in Punta Cana, but I don't have time to do it, what should I do?
If you're a property owner in beautiful Punta Cana and dreaming of extra income, our friendly property management service has an exciting opportunity for you. You can potentially earn up to 12% annually on your apartment's value! No need to worry about your property's safety, even when you're away.
Our skilled team is here to handle all the nitty-gritty details – from paying bills to finding tenants for both short and long stays, taking care of contracts, and addressing any property concerns. Plus, if you'd like, we can even snap some stunning photos and videos of your place to showcase it on popular platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, Expedia, and TripAdvisor. And to top it off, we're happy to assist you in getting property insurance for extra peace of mind. Let's turn your property into a fantastic income opportunity!
You can learn more about property management in the "Services" tab.
How to calculate the profitability of real estate when renting out?
Your property's rental income relies on a few key factors: your initial investment, location, and the amenities it offers. Of course, guests want to enjoy a top-notch experience, and we're here to make that happen. Our team includes cleaners, plumbers, and electricians to keep your place in tip-top shape. Plus, we know that stunning photos and videos are a must, so our professional photographer will work around your schedule.
While short-term rentals can be more profitable, they do come with costs like cleaning, laundry, repairs, and toiletries. However, with our 'full property management' service, we can guarantee you an annual income of up to 12% of your property's value, regardless of your rental choice.
Want to see how it adds up? You can easily calculate your estimated annual income by filling out a quick form on our website. Let's make your property shine and bring in the bucks!
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