Yes. Foreigners can buy property in the Dominican Republic with the same ownership rights as Dominican citizens.

There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of real estate, including condos, villas, land, and commercial property.

To buy property, foreign buyers typically need:

• Valid passport
• Secondary identification
• Purchase funds
• Legal representation

The Dominican Republic remains one of the most accessible Caribbean markets for international buyers.

2. Can I buy property in Las Terrenas without residency?

Yes.

Dominican residency is not required to purchase property.

Many PlayaMax clients purchase while living abroad and complete the transaction as non-residents.

Residency may provide tax and banking advantages, but it is not necessary.

3. Can I buy property remotely from abroad?

Yes.

Many buyers complete purchases remotely through Power of Attorney.

Your attorney can represent you for:

• Contract signing
• Tax payments
• Title transfer
• Closing procedures

This is common for international buyers.

4. Do I need a Dominican bank account to buy property?

No.

Most transactions are completed via international wire transfer.

However, a local bank account can simplify:

• Utility payments
• HOA fees
• Local taxes
• Rental income deposits

5. What documents do I need to buy property?

Generally:

• Passport
• Secondary ID
• Proof of funds
• Purchase agreement
• Tax documents

If buying through a company, additional corporate documents may be required.

6. What is a Promise of Sale?

A Promise of Sale is the legal contract between buyer and seller outlining:

• Purchase price
• Payment terms
• Conditions
• Closing timeline

It legally binds both parties.

7. What deposit is required to reserve a property?

Typically 1% with the offer and 5%–10% with the promise of sale.

The deposit secures the property while legal due diligence is completed.

Terms vary by transaction.

8. Is my deposit refundable?

It depends.

Deposits are generally refundable if:

• Legal issues are found
• Seller cannot deliver clear title
• Agreed conditions are not met

This must be clearly stated in the contract.

9. Who holds the deposit?

Usually the real estate brokerage or the buyer’s attorney in escrow.

At PlayaMax Real Estate, deposits are held securely according to agreed terms until conditions are satisfied.

10. How long does the buying process take?

Typically 15–30 days.

This depends on:

• Due diligence
• Seller documentation
• Payment structure
• Title transfer timing

Cash transactions are usually faster.

11. Should I hire a lawyer?

Yes.

Always.

A qualified real estate attorney protects your interests and verifies legal documentation.

Never purchase without legal review.

12. What is a Certificate of Title?

The Certificate of Title proves legal ownership.

It confirms:

• Ownership
• Property boundaries
• Registry details

Your attorney must verify it.

13. What is a deslinde?

A deslinde is the legal survey that defines and separates the property boundaries.

It creates a clean and transferable title.

Buying without deslinde increases legal risk.

14. What documents should my lawyer verify?

Your attorney should verify:

• Certificate of Title
• Seller identity
• Tax status
• Liens
• Mortgages
• Survey plans
• HOA obligations

This protects your investment.

15. What are closing costs?

Typically 3%–5% of purchase price.

Usually includes:

• Transfer tax
• Legal fees
• Documentation fees

Costs vary by transaction.

16. What is the property transfer tax?

The transfer tax is 3% of the government-assessed property value.

It is paid once at closing unless exempt.

17. What is IPI property tax?

IPI is the annual property tax in the Dominican Republic.

It applies only to properties above the exemption threshold.

The rate is 1%.

18. What is the 2026 IPI exemption threshold?

For 2026, the exemption threshold is approximately RD$10,695,494.

Properties below this amount are exempt from annual IPI tax.

Tax rules may change yearly.

19. What is CONFOTUR?

CONFOTUR is a tourism incentive law that provides tax exemptions for qualifying developments.

Benefits often include:

• No transfer tax
• No annual property tax for up to 15 years

It can significantly reduce ownership costs.

20. Does CONFOTUR apply to resale properties?

Usually no.

CONFOTUR generally applies to approved new developments.

However, some resales may retain remaining benefits.

Verification is essential.

21. Is financing available for foreigners?

Yes, but limited.

Dominican banks may finance foreign buyers, usually requiring:

• Higher down payment
• Income verification
• Banking history

Many buyers purchase in cash.

22. Are pre-construction properties a good option?

They can be.

Benefits include:

• Lower entry prices
• Payment plans
• Appreciation potential

Risks include delays and construction uncertainty.

Due diligence is essential.

23. Is Las Terrenas a good place to invest?

Yes.

Las Terrenas remains one of the strongest tourism and rental markets in the Dominican Republic.

Strong demand comes from:

• Vacation rentals
• Retirement buyers
• International investors

24. Which areas of Las Terrenas are best for investment?

Top areas include:

• Playa Bonita
• Playa Cosón
• Playa Las Ballenas
• Punta Popy
• El Portillo

Each offers different investment profiles.

25. Can I rent my property as a vacation rental?

Yes.

Short-term rentals are common and popular in Las Terrenas.

Many owners generate income through vacation rentals.

Local management is recommended.

26. Can PlayaMax manage my property?

Yes.

PlayaMax Real Estate can assist owners with rental management, tenant coordination, and operational support.

Ask us about management options.

27. Is Las Terrenas safe?

Yes.

Las Terrenas is considered one of the safer and more established expat communities in the Dominican Republic.

As with any destination, location and common sense matter.

28. Can I live full-time in Las Terrenas?

Absolutely.

Many international owners live full-time or seasonally.

The area offers:

• Beaches
• Restaurants
• Healthcare
• Schools
• International community

29. Can I buy land in Las Terrenas?

Yes.

Land remains one of the strongest long-term investments.

Important factors:

• Title clarity
• Zoning
• Access
• Utilities

Always verify development rights.

30. Why work with PlayaMax?

PlayaMax Real Estate offers:

• Local market expertise
• Legal guidance coordination
• Investment insight
• Property sourcing
• Negotiation support
• Rental strategy guidance

With deep local experience, we help buyers navigate the process with clarity and confidence.

If you need more information or have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

We’re here to assist you with clear guidance and expert local advice.