Buying property in the Dominican Republic as a foreigner: is it possible?
Yes, without restrictions. Buying property in the Dominican Republic as a foreigner is entirely legal. Unlike some other Caribbean or Latin American countries, the Dominican Republic allows any foreigner to purchase freehold property, with the same rights as a Dominican citizen. You do not need to live in the country, hold a residency visa or partner with a local person. This is one reason why more Spanish and European investors choose the country each year to diversify their assets.
Step 1: Define your investment goal
Before looking at properties, be clear about why you are buying: a personal holiday home, tourist rentals, medium-term capital appreciation, or a combination of all three? Your answer determines the location, property type and budget that make sense for you.
Step 2: Choose the area
Each area of the Dominican Republic has a different character: tourism-focused, residential, urban or unspoilt beachfront. We have dedicated a full article to comparing the country's main areas; if you have not read it yet, it is a good starting point before setting your budget.
Step 3: Check the property's legal documents
This step is critical to the security of your investment. Before committing to any payment, you should confirm:
- That the seller or developer has a property title (Certificado de Título) that is properly registered.
- That the property is free of charges, mortgages or pending litigation.
- If the project is under construction, that it has the required building permits and, where applicable, Confotur approval.
At Nácar Real Estate, we check these documents before presenting any property, but as a buyer you are always entitled to request an additional independent legal review.
Step 4: Sign the preliminary purchase agreement
This preliminary contract sets out the price, payment schedule and transaction conditions. It is usually accompanied by an initial deposit, commonly between 10% and 30% of the property's value, depending on the development.
Step 5: Complete the purchase before a notary
The final sale is formalised through a notarised contract, followed by payment of the Property Transfer Tax (unless the property is exempt under Confotur) and registration of the new title in your name at the relevant Title Registry.
Step 6: Register the property in your name
The final step is registering the Certificado de Título in your name. From that point, the property is legally yours, with the same rights and protections as any Dominican owner.
What additional costs should I allow for?
In addition to the property price, you should set aside a budget for:
- Property Transfer Tax, if not exempt.
- Notary and registration fees.
- Legal fees for checking the documentation.
These costs generally represent a moderate percentage of the property's value. We provide precise details for each property, as they may vary by development.
How long does the whole process take?
From start to finish, buying property in the Dominican Republic as a foreigner usually takes 4 to 8 weeks if the documentation is in order, although developments under construction with instalment payments can take longer.
Final recommendation
Buying from a distance requires trust in whoever represents you. Always work with an agency that supports you at every stage, from selecting the property to final title registration, and do not hesitate to request all legal documents before signing anything.
At Nácar Real Estate we support Spanish investors throughout the property-buying process in the Dominican Republic. Write to us and we will explain, without obligation, how it would work in your particular case.
