Dominican Republic Real Estate

Villa Mara Serena In Playa Laguna, Dominican Republic

Barry Soloman — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 14:55:00 GMT

Luxury meets paradise in this vacation home along the Dominican Republic's prestigious North Shore. The Villa Mara Serena offers this luxury real estate for sale with all the features you need to feel right at ease.

The feeling begins as you approach via a beautiful stone driveway and white façade set against the lush blues and greens of this tropical destination. Once inside, you’ll find a large living room overlooking the infinity pool and an ocean vista that seems to go on forever. This home also features a family room, breakfast area, master suite, and several bedrooms and bathrooms for up to ten guests. Each room is built with an eye to the outdoors, and sweeping views can be seen from almost every one.

There is also the benefit of location here at Villa Mara Serena, as it is situated just minutes from Cabarete and Sosua, where beaches, shops, restaurants, and city services can be accessed. In fact, the beaches here along the North Coast are world-famous for their sparkling sun and sand, making this home the perfect place to enjoy it all!

Home Insurance in the Dominican Republic

Barry Soloman — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 18:29:00 GMT

As is the case with any investment you make, your Dominican Republic real estate purchase should always be accompanied by a few safety nets. Although the tax and insurance structures are different (and less strict) in this Caribbean nation, many homeowners opt for traditional home insurance—and often from a third-party provider in their home country.

Insurance Brokers in the DR

Home insurance may or may not be a legal requirement of your property purchase, an issue that is dependent on whether or not you have a lender or mortgage company. If you are required to have insurance, you may be directed toward a specific insurance company either in the Dominican Republic or from your country of origin. In most cases, either of these situations is easy to handle.

Getting an insurance policy in the Dominican Republic is similar to the process in most countries. Coverage might include such accidents as:

Fire
Flooding
Break-ins
Earthquakes
Hurricanes

Of these, hurricane policies tend to be the most expensive, since the Dominican Republic has been known to get hit during hurricane season. Coastal homes are more at-risk than those on the interior. Residences in the lower-lying areas may also need additional flood insurance, since heavy rains can impact water levels.

The price of your policy is also dependent on home size, location, and durability. You may be asked to pay annually, quarterly, or monthly, and can expect prices comparable to traditional policies in higher weather risk areas. Local providers tend to be global insurance companies in recognizable names, so you get the assurance of knowing that your policy is secure.

If you'd like additional coverage, you may be able to opt for an international or vacation home insurance policy through a traditional provider.

Protecting Your Home

The chance of you needing home insurance is virtually the same as anywhere else in the world. Although floods and hurricanes are the most likely scenarios, most homes are built to protect against the elements. Safety is also important, especially in the international and tourist areas. Many of the Dominican Republic homes for sale are part of gated communities and other neighborhoods with on-site security guards and systems.

Of course, that doesn't mean bad things can't happen—especially if you don't live in the Dominican Republic year-round. If you live here only seasonally, it's a good idea to have the added protection of a home insurance policy that ensures you'll always have a safe and beautiful place to stay when you return.

Owning Acreage in the Dominican Republic

Barry Soloman — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 18:26:00 GMT

One of the best ways to enjoy privacy in your new Dominican Republic home is to buy a property and the surrounding acreage. Some owners leave the land untouched and untapped, while others might opt to use their land for small farming ventures, keeping bees, or even stabling horses. In the country's interior, especially in the popular Jarabacoa region, land can be used as a way to create a private and tropical retreat for a fraction of the cost of other Caribbean locations. Although acreage here comes at a premium (especially if you're looking to buy along the coast), it's nice to know that your views will remain unimpeded for as long as you hold the title to the property.

Acreage Opportunities in the DR

The Dominican Republic is an interesting place to own property. On the one hand, the country has made it fairly easy for individuals from outside locations to buy and own Dominican Republic real estate. Taxes and laws tend to favor outside revenue, and you'll find that many of the homes for sale in the DR are equipped with international travelers in mind. The land is often well-tended and primed for development, and incentives make it easy to move here for work or for play.

At the same time, part of the reason Dominican Republic land remains so lush and gorgeous, despite its limited resources, is because there are restrictions on what you can do to the land (especially in terms of national forests and other protected areas). Acreage for sale in the Dominican Republic doesn't open up very often, and you may have to spend a little time (and money) waiting for the perfect opportunity to arise. Most lot sizes that include land average between two and four acres each—and once you do have the land you want, there may be restrictions on what you can do to it, including how many animals you can keep or how many trees you can cut down.

Taking care of your Dominican Republic land is fairly easy, thanks to a large labor pool, especially in the service sector. It's not uncommon for homeowners to keep gardeners on staff (even in more modest homes) so that you can keep you landscape well-tended even when you're away from home.

Property Ownership in the Dominican Republic

As is the case with any foreign country, the real estate taxes and property laws here are a little different than what you can expect back home. For example, title transfer fees may be avoided under certain circumstances, and tax reminders are the sole responsibility of the owners themselves (even for past due taxes that might not have been paid by the previous owner).

Any international property purchase, including Dominican Republic real estate, should be overseen by a broker or agent familiar with the local real estate laws. This is especially true when property is being purchased, as there may be regulations regarding assessments, zoning, building, and land preservation efforts. For example, no beach (up to 60 meters from shore) is considered an exclusive property unless a special permit has been acquired. Predominantly tourist areas also have strict building requirements, as well.

Of course, this doesn't mean that you can't enjoy being a property owner here. With the right Dominican Republic real estate firm by your side, you can find the perfect home and navigate the legal system with ease—getting you that much closer to the Caribbean paradise you've always dreamed of!

DR Real Estate: What is House Trading?

Barry Soloman — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 18:08:00 GMT

When you buy a Dominican Republic home for sale, you get so much more than a vacation destination or retirement getaway—life in the Caribbean comes with its own set of perks. One of the less-mentioned perks includes the chance to trade your house up, trade your house down, or even make temporary vacation exchanges.

House trading, or the business of matching two homeowners to buy, sell, or trade one another's homes, is a legitimate business practice, and one that provides the chance to see and do more than you might have ever imagined.

House Trading: Buying/Selling

When you purchase real estate in the Dominican Republic, it's a lot like buying a house anywhere. You might pay cash for the property, or you might take out a mortgage—either way, there is a ratio of what the house is worth and what you owe on it, which is all part of your personal finances and relationship with a third-party lender.

When it comes time to sell your home (whether because you want to upgrade to a larger home on the coast, or if you're downsizing and hoping to move to the country's interior), you might want to try a house trade. In this situation, you and another homeowner buy one another's homes. There is still the same legal paperwork and mortgage process to go through, but you have the ease of mind of knowing that your moving schedules are similar and that there will be no problems associated with having your house sit on the market for months at a time.

House trades in the Dominican Republic don't happen every day, but they are more common than you might think. Oftentimes, a house that seemed roomy might be too small to accommodate all your guests, or a change in finances might make it prudent to move to a more modest residence. Because the expat and international community in the DR is fairly close-knit, it can be fairly easy to find a friend or acquaintance in a similar situation—and the house trade can all be done through a single DR real estate firm or financial provider.

House Trading: Rentals

Another option also exists for those who want to consider house trading on a less permanent scale. Many homes in the Dominican Republic are second or vacation homes that residents enjoy for just a few months out of the year. This practice, though common, leaves the house empty the rest of the time. This can be a waste of valuable rental time or even potentially dangerous, especially if you prefer to have someone on site to look after the house.

Vacation trades allow you to "rent" your house to someone in exchange for their home for the same duration. For example, if you spend your summers in France, and a family in France wants to summer in the Dominican Republic, you can trade houses for just those months. This is often done on an international level and through a third-party house trading company specializing in matching families with similar situations and schedules.

Of course, this can also be done on a smaller scale (between Santo Domingo, Jarabacoa, or Cabarete, to name a few), allowing you to experience more of the Dominican Republic at your own pace. There are always risks associated with this kind of trade, especially if you aren't going through a licensed provider of house trading services, but those who do make a habit of house trading love it. It's a great way to see the world for a lot less money, and to enjoy the perks of Dominican Republic property ownership on a whole new level!

Building Your Home in the Dominican Republic: Finishing Touches

Barry Soloman — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 23:04:00 GMT

For many people who are building a home in the Dominican Republic, the real fun starts once the home's structure is already up and the finishing touches are being put into place. From the woodwork in the kitchen to the paint you choose for the walls, the way you personalize the space is how you turn it into a home. Be aware, though, that this process isn't always easy. Working with subcontractors in the Dominican Republic comes with a few challenges of its own.

Types of Subcontractors

When you hire a contractor to oversee the building of your new Dominican Republic home, chances are he or she hires a team of subcontractors with whom there is already a working relationship in place. This can come with its benefits and its drawbacks. On the plus side, it can save you time to let your contractor find the right professionals for the job—which is also a benefit if you don't' live in the country while your home is being built. On the negative side, you can't always be sure that you're getting the best product for your money.

Because so much of the finishing work on a home is about quality details, it might be a good idea to hire separate subcontractors for each item on your to-do list. For example, many homeowners in the DR choose specialized professionals for:

Woodworking: Choose a carpenter who is familiar working with the native mahogany that makes the Dominican Republic so famous for its forests. Detailed mahogany work can really elevate the quality and look of your home, but it needs to be done by someone with experience.
Electricity: Hiring an electrician can be one of the biggest challenges of building your own home. Safety is a huge issue when it comes to electricity, especially if you're having your home built to international standards on the Dominican Republic grid. While it is possible to enjoy many of the best luxuries here (air conditioning 24-7, the ability to use your personal electronics, etc.), you may have to have your own generator installed to get it all done.
Plumbing: Plumbing issues are similar to the electric ones—what you expect for a comfortable home and what the Dominican Republic is accustomed to providing are often two different things. If you want all the amenities (including a dishwasher, a powerful showerhead, etc.) you may need to find a specialty provider. This is especially true for kitchen equipment, since many Dominicans rely on hired help to do much of the kitchen work, and things like dishwashers seem unnecessary. If you plan to spend a lot of time in your own kitchen, you'll need to take control over how it is set up and all the features are installed.

Decorating and Furnishing

The finishing touches—the paint, furnishings, and draperies—are the final step in preparing your new Dominican Republic home. Many people choose to have many of these items shipped from home, while others opt for a more authentic Dominican look by buying local wares. Either way, you should be able to find plenty of local shops and even interior designers to help you get the job done. Because the expat community continues to grow here, a number of upscale professionals are on hand to help you turn your dream home into a real dream come true.

Building Your Home in the Dominican Republic: Working with Contractors

Barry Soloman — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:50:00 GMT

If you plan on building a home in the Dominican Republic, it's a good idea to have the plans drawn up and an architect on board before you make a land purchase. As mentioned in part one of the Building Your Home in the Dominican Republic series, you want to ensure that your proposed building steps are in keeping with the local regulations, and that has to be done before the title is transferred.

Finding the Right Architect

One of the biggest difficulties in building a home in the Dominican Republic is the language barrier. If you don't speak Spanish, you may need to find a translation service or work through your lawyer, as it will be important to convey your ideas effectively. Other key factors to look for in your architect include:

Membership with CODIA (Colegio Dominicana de Ingenieros, Arquitectos y Agrimensores). This professional association is what the government of the DR relies on to ensure that buildings are in keeping with local codes and regulations.
Recommendations from friends, acquaintances, or your Dominican Republic real estate agency. Word of mouth remains the best way to do business in the DR, especially if there is a certain aesthetic or location planned for your home.
Someone who knows the local terrain. It may be tempting to hire an architect from your home country or who you have worked with in the past. Remember, though, that the Dominican Republic has a unique landscape and weather patterns. You want someone who is familiar with building homes that are equipped to last and be safe through earthquakes, torrential rains, and even hurricanes.

Finding the Right Contractor

In many cases, your architect will serve as your contractor and vice versa. It is up to you whether you want these roles to overlap—people have had success building in the Dominican Republic either way. Once again, you'll want to look for:

Referrals. In an ideal scenario, you will work with a contractor who has considerable experience with others in your property range, and who comes highly recommended. If you do decide to work with someone unknown, be sure that he or she can produce satisfied customers you can talk with first.

A willingness to work with your lawyers. It's best to allow your local lawyer or real estate agency handle the contracts with the builders, since there are many steps and permits required along the way. This is especially important if you will be living in your home country while building is taking place, since you won't be on hand to supervise the process on your own.

Permits and Fees

As is the case with building a physical structure in any country, there are legal requirements that must be fulfilled before you can begin building your new DR home. Although you can have many of these acquired by your lawyer (or the builder or architect), they are ultimately the homeowner's responsibility. Some of the steps required include:

Planning permission from the local City Hall, the Public Works Department, the Municipal League, the Tourism Department, and, in some cases, DEFINPRO
Permission from the Forestry Department for the removal of trees and other growth
Transportation permit for the removal of any mahogany trees cut down from the land (this is an environmental protection requirement)

Additional steps may be required, depending on where you build and the scope of your home. These should be addressed by your architect and/or your lawyer as you go through the process of getting the appropriate papers filled out and the building process gets underway.

Building Your Home in the Dominican Republic: Buying Land

Barry Soloman — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 13:50:00 GMT

In this three-part series, Building Your Home in the Dominican Republic, we will cover the basics of finding the right land, working with contractors, and furnishing your new DR home. Because the Dominican Republic is still such an underdeveloped country in terms of real estate (especially when compared to other locations in the Caribbean), there are great opportunities here for starting your home from scratch.

The Current DR Real Estate Market

Real estate in the Dominican Republic isn't like real estate anywhere else in the Caribbean. On the one hand, home values and prices are on the rise, having been virtually untouched by the housing bubble in the United States and elsewhere around the world. At the same time, you'll find much lower prices than you will for comparable properties on other islands, since the government is in favor of development by second and vacation homeowners.

Buying Land and Property in the Dominican Republic

Since 1998, it has been fairly simple for foreigners to buy land or property in the Dominican Republic. Almost the entire process is the same for overseas citizens as it is for Dominican citizens, with an additional step at the Title Registry Offices to help keep records regarding foreign ownership.

If you are interested in Dominican Republic land, it is best to find a trusted real estate agent, attorney, and/or notario to help you facilitate the process. In most cases, your process of purchase will look something like this:

You will work with your DR realtor to find the perfect property. Whether this is a parcel of land that hasn't been built on before, or if all the infrastructure is already in place, you will go through the same process of purchase.
A Contract of Sale is drawn up between the buyer and the seller and notarized by a notario or other legal professional. The Contract of Sale typically contains a description of the property as well as the agreements of sale (price, conditions, etc.). If you intend to do building or make other changes to the land or home, the plans for construction are often required during this step. Having the plans in writing ensures that you are legally allowed to make the changes you want before the sale is completed. This is also a good time to have your attorney confirm that property regulations and your building plans are compatible. For example, maritime zone and tourist zone restrictions may not allow you to build in areas you wish to, even if you do own the land outright.
Taxes must be paid on the property, usually at around 5 percent of the sale price for both taxes and closing costs combined. If, for some reason, past real estate taxes have not been paid, these will be the responsibility of the new owner, so it's best to look into this in advance.
The Contract of Sale and Title are registered at the Title Registry Office. This is where the sale is officially recorded. This is one of the few unique steps required by foreign purchasers.
The Certificate of Title is issued. Title insurance is required for property in the Dominican Republic, either through the government or a third-party insurance agency. Most foreign investors opt for a third-party title insurance provider. The time span from the filing of the Contract of Sale to the issuing of the new Certificate of Title may vary from a few days to a few months, depending on the Title Registry Office where the sale was recorded.

Depending on your method of payment, this entire process can take a few days (for cash transactions) to a few months (for transactions involving lenders). Either way, once the title has been transferred and the property is in your hands, it's time to start building or doing improvements to your new DR home. Fortunately, services in the country make it possible to get the results and quality you want.

Relocating to DR: What to Expect from the Local Infrastructure

Barry Soloman — Wed, 25 May 2011 16:28:00 GMT

Like any tropical getaway in the Caribbean, the infrastructure in the Dominican Republic is different from what you're used to back home. Although the country has a reputation for being somewhat behind the rest of the world in communications and technology upgrades, the truth is that most expats and vacationers living here are able to live their lives comfortably, affordably, and with all the amenities they're used to.

Here is a quick peek at the local infrastructure for anyone considering buying a Dominican Republic home for sale.

Government: The Dominican Republic is overseen by a representative democracy, and commercial enterprises here are strong. The tourist industry is considered a large part of the local economy, so services and the safety of international visitors are placed high on the list. You can expect a Value Added Tax and, if you move here permanently, an income and corporate income tax of around 30 percent.

Entry and Exit Fees: Tourist cards cost $10 and allow you to stay in the country for up to 60 days at a time. More permanent residence requires that you contact the proper authorities in the nation's capital.

Health Care: In the primary tourist centers (including Cabrera and Jarabacoa), you'll find a private healthcare service geared toward visitors. A private ambulance and several private clinics are staffed by well-trained professionals, and any minor complaints should be well-tended to there. Outside the main cities and within the public healthcare system, things are less structured. Most expat families living here opt for a private insurance that includes medical evacuation to the United States for more formal care.

Real Estate: The Dominican Republic is one of the few islands in the Caribbean that encourages international families to purchase real estate. Although you'll want to work with an agent and attorney to finalize all the paperwork, you should expect a fairly smooth process from start to finish. Homes for sale in the Dominican Republic are also quite affordable, and range from luxury vacation properties to more modest homes.

Shopping: As is the case with health care, you'll find better shopping options in the tourist areas. You should also find plenty of fresh produce and restaurants for all your dining needs. However, you may need to bring personal items and electronics with you, as well as any specialty goods you rely on.

Businesses: In addition to small, locally-owned businesses, the Dominican Republic is home to several big-business factories and offices. You'll find Johnson & Johnson, Verizon, Citibank, and UPS operating some of their facilities here, and services and goods from these companies may be fully available to you.

Travel: There are a total of ten international airports in the Dominican Republic, as well as five major highways. Taxi service can be counted on for many of your travel needs, though expats living here full-time may also opt to bring or purchase a low-maintenance vehicle.

Phone Service: The communications system in the Dominican Republic is operated by such companies as Codetel, Tricom, Orange (France Telecom), and Centennial. Internet service and cell phone reception are best in the major cities and tourist centers, with more spotty service further out.

Because the country is poised for even more growth and development in the next few decades, now is a good time to search the database of Dominican Republic houses for sale for your vacation and second home getaway options. Residents can expect the services and facilities to improve as more and more international visitors choose to make the Dominican Republic home.

Owning a Second Home in the Dominican Republic: Off-Season Home Protection

Barry Soloman — Wed, 18 May 2011 15:59:00 GMT

One of the best reasons to buy a vacation home in the Dominican Republic is for the access to a calmer, easier way of life it gives you. From the cool, crisp Jarabacoa air to the beachside resorts in Cabrera, the features here encourage everyone to lay back, relax, and put their worries on hold for awhile.

While all of this — and more — is possible when you move here either permanently or for your annual seasonal getaways, there are some considerations when owning a second or vacation home in the Dominican Republic. As is the case in any tropical location, there are precautions and upkeep that you will need to take care of for those months or weeks while you're away.

Hire a Caretaker: Many firms and individuals in the Dominican Republic specialize in home maintenance for part-time residents. From monthly visits to ensure that everything is orderly and kept up to more regular visits for gardening and pool cleaning, you should be able to find the level of service you need. In many cases, neighborhood co-ops will provide a portion of this service for you. There are also services that will prepare your home for when you return. From opening up and airing out the house to stocking it with groceries and goods you have indicated, walking through the door to your vacation come can literally be like coming home.

Live-In Help: Hiring full-time maid service is actually quite affordable in the Dominican Republic. You can choose a live-in employee (if you have the space) or more part-time help, and you may be able to rely on this individual for upkeep while you're away.

Create a Departure Checklist: Although it may soon become second nature, it's a good idea to have a list of all the things that need to be shut off, unplugged, or covered before you leave. All electrical appliances should be put carefully away, and security features tested prior to your departure. Be sure to leave this checklist where your guests can find it, as well. Many times, family and friends using your home for their own getaway might not be aware of all the necessary protocol.

Prepare for Hurricane Season: The official hurricane season for the Caribbean is between the beginning of June and the end of November. In the Dominican Republic, most of the hurricane activity occurs in August and September. Although the interior of the island is much less likely to suffer from high-force winds or damages, coastal homes should have precautions in place to minimize damages. Don't leave anything outside that can blow away, turn off all gas to exterior cooking facilities, and be sure to secure all the shutters before you leave. No windows should be left exposed, since there is a high likelihood they will get damaged by wind and debris.

Regular Maintenance: Chances are, you've spent careful time researching Dominican Republic homes for sale, and you know exactly how much money you're willing and able to invest in your tropical paradise. Be sure and look into storm windows, rooftops in excellent repair, and garage and home doors that remain firmly shut against possible storms. Taking care of necessary upgrades through a contractor while you're away is a great way to enjoy your home without any of the hassle.

The best way to enjoy the Dominican Republic is without worrying about home maintenance or upkeep. By preparing ahead and delegating many of the off-season repairs to trustworthy contractors in the area, you can always ensure that you get off the plane and relax all the way to your private vista and luxury home.

Dominican Republic Real Estate: Long Distance Home Buying

Barry Soloman — Wed, 11 May 2011 15:50:00 GMT

If you're considering homes for sale in the Dominican Republic, it's a good idea to understand the process of buying real estate long distance before you make a commitment. Buying property overseas is possible — and it can be low-hassle — as long as you know what to expect and have the financial framework in place to make everything run smoothly.

Know the Area: Chances are, the reason you want to buy a Dominican Republic house is because you've traveled here for work or play and know first-hand just what an incredible place this is. Before you buy, however, be sure and look at all the areas you are considering as well as what features (like stores, restaurants, and transportation) will be available to you here.

Consider the Tax Implications: There are often unforeseen drawbacks to life in a foreign country, including different tax and property laws as well as restrictions in what types of amenities you can get. While the Dominican Republic is one of the few places that promotes overseas home buyers, there will still be additional hurdles you probably wouldn't encounter back home.

Get Local Assistance: Hire a real estate agent and attorney who not only know the Dominican Republic, but who live there (at least part of the year). Not only will these professionals be in a better situation to help you find the best property, but there will also be an existing relationship with legal authorities and customs agents so you can navigate the home buying process much more smoothly.

Have the Money in Hand: In most real estate transactions, there are layers of financing and escrow to get through before you actually get the deed to the home. If you're considering Dominican Republic houses, it's best to avoid all that to ensure that you can get the property in a timely fashion. Even if this means organizing your finances back home for a few months, it's well worth it.

Stay Connected in Person and Online: The Internet makes it easy to search real estate listings overseas and to look at and choose from available properties from your computer. Although this can be great in getting you through the initial stages of your Dominican Republic home search, be prepared to fly out to view several of the properties before you sign on the dotted line.

Of course, the best advice for anyone hoping to purchase real estate from overseas is to find a real estate agency you trust to help you navigate the entire process. Whether you have questions about local laws regarding home ownership, or if you want to find the perfect property in the perfect island setting, you won't be comfortable about buying a Dominican Republic home unless you know that your agent is working hard on your behalf.

RE/MAX Discover Your Destination is happy to be that partner. With years of experience navigating Dominican Republic homes for sale and a long-standing client list from around the world, we specialize in finding your vacation home or residence — even if you currently live thousands of miles away.

Dominican Republic Real Estate: Living Full-Time on an Island Paradise

Barry Soloman — Wed, 04 May 2011 15:34:00 GMT

One of the best reasons to invest in Dominican Republic homes for sale is to slow down your life and take advantage of island time. There is something about setting foot on a white, sandy beach or drinking a cup of coffee overlooking a private mountain view that causes all of us to appreciate a more restful, unplugged way of life. Many homeowners here use this "island phenomenon" as a way to relax and unwind for several weeks out of the year, while others move to the Dominican Republic to retire or to take on an entirely new lifestyle.

Because homes for sale in the Dominican Republic are still so much more affordable and available than real estate on other locations in the Caribbean, this latter option is much more common than you might think. Couples, individuals, and families are all discovering that moving to the Dominican Republic — and building an entire life here — is much more affordable and enjoyable than they ever thought possible. No matter what your budget, you, too, could find the home of your dreams and change your outlook to spend the rest of your life here.

Adopt a New Culture

The proportion of tourists and expats to residents is fairly high in the Dominican Republic. While this means that you may find a better infrastructure and more amenities than on many other island getaways, there is still a very distinct Dominican culture here. For some residents, this is part of the appeal; the warm people, simple yet tasty meals, and vibrant nightlife are easy to adapt to and adopt as their own. For others, it might take a little more time to truly connect with the people.

If you intend to live here full time, you'll want to connect with the people and culture as soon as you can. Since you will rely on locals for all your shopping, repairs, services, and transportation needs, it's a good idea to understand the language and how to communicate with people here. You can also look into expat communities in the Dominican Republic to connect with other people from your country — and from around the world.

Change Your Concept of Time

Time takes on a different meaning when you live in a tropical paradise. And when you pack your bags and settle in for good, you'll need to learn that notions of punctuality, firm appointments, and verbal agreements might not mean exactly what they used to.

The best thing to do is to embrace this shift in the way you view time. One of the best reasons to consider homes for sale in the Dominican Republic is to change your life for the better. This means focusing less on the timetable you have set out for yourself and more focusing on the pleasures you can take from life right now.

Enjoy the Simple Pleasures

Although the large tourist industry means that you'll be able to find modern facilities and technology in most parts of the Dominican Republic, you are never going to be "plugged in" the same way as you are back home. Goods and services are going to be different. The food and drink is going to be different. In most cases, these things are going to be a little bit less elaborate than you're used to.

Again, the best advice is to embrace this way of life to the fullest. Use your time here to get in the kitchen to cook simple, healthy meals at home. Enjoy a quiet drink with friends on your back porch instead of going to the movies or a Broadway show. Spend the day with a good book and the warm sun rather than running errands. Surf the waves rather than the web.

The low cost of living and great Dominican Republic real estate opportunities open the door to visitors from all over the world. Whether you're hoping to retire on the coast, or if you want to set up a business from your home in the mountainous Jarabacoa, life here is an incredible experience. Although you may want to stay connected to your country of origin for things like medical care, insurance, business needs, personal items, and connections with your family, full-time life here is both possible and enjoyable!

What Not to Do Right Before Buying a Home

Barry Soloman — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 18:03:00 GMT

There has never been a better time to consider Dominican Republic homes for sale. In addition to a great buyer's market right now, there are home types to suit just about every lifestyle — the Dominican Republic real estate market offers great variety and even better prices. However, as is the case with any Dominican real estate purchase, there are a list of Dos and Don'ts that will make your new home buying experience that much easier. Some of the key things to stay away from include:

Don't buy anything on credit. If you're like many people, your new home may be paid for through a combination of a down payment and mortgage financing. That means your credit score matters – and often to the tune of tens of thousands of dollars. If you know that you will be considering a home for sale, avoid buying anything that will increase your debt-to-income ratio. This means cars, vacations, appliances, and other big-ticket items. These can always be bought after all your paperwork goes through.
Don't move your money around or change jobs. Just as you don't want to mess with your credit score in the months leading up to your Dominican home purchase, you don't want to make your financial paperwork any more complicated than it already needs to be. This means demonstrating that your money and your potential income are stable — and have been for years. When possible, save the major life upheaval for later. Talk with your potential lender or RE/MAX Discover Your Destination if you need more information on how to best adjust your finances before you buy a house.
Don't "shop" out of your price range. No matter where you live or what type of residence you want, one thing will always be true: more money will get you a better house. If you look at houses for sale in the Dominican Republic that are outside your budget (even if it's just for fun), it will be that much harder to settle for one you can afford. Know your financial limits and stick to them; you will be much happier in the long run by buying a house that doesn't heap a huge financial strain on your life.

Of course, one of the biggest Don'ts on the list is not to connect with a real estate agent you're not 100 percent sure of. Your agent is your partner through the whole Dominican Republic real estate experience, from searching for the perfect home to getting the lowest possible price, and having one you don't trust can make what should be an incredible time both difficult and stressful. Realtors at RE/MAX Discover Your Destination are happy to answer any questions you might have about buying a house along the North Coast of the Dominican Republic, and to help you make the choice that is right for you and your family.

How to Turn a Vacation Experience into a Permanent Real Estate Opportunity

Barry Soloman — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 18:07:00 GMT

Not everyone who visits the Dominican Republic intends to become a homeowner here — but you'd be surprised how many vacationers turn out that way. The scenario is pretty common: visitors to the Dominican Republic come here because of the low costs, the pristine beaches, the mountain adventure opportunities, and of course the incredible food, music, and people. And the first thing they discover outside of just how wonderful life can be here is that a one-week vacation is never enough.

The Dominican Republic has a vast reserve of activities and adventures that even the locals have yet to experience to the fullest. For example, if you spend your time in Cabrera or Rio San Juan, the coastal towns where snorkeling, water sports, and the stretches of untouched beach are yours for the taking, you have yet to explore the mountainous interior. If you take advantage of the whitewater rafting and cool temperatures of Jarabacoa, you still need to find out what the coastal towns have to offer.

Fortunately, buying Dominican Republic real estate is easier than you think it is — and more cost-effective. That's because Dominican Republic homes have yet to become saddled with the same high prices you'll find among other vacation homes in the Caribbean. Both luxury homes and more modest vacation properties here come with low price tags, low taxes, and incredible potential. If you intend to come back again this year, or if you're looking for a way to enjoy the Dominican Republic from the comfort and privacy of your residence, now is the time to consider a Dominican vacation home for sale.

Dominican Republic Real Estate Made Easy

Buying a vacation property from the other side of the globe doesn't have to be difficult, and here at RE/MAX Discover Your Destination, we specialize in second homes for families and individuals from around the world. The international community here is strong and vibrant, and the Dominican Republic is rapidly becoming a place where lifelong friendships are born.

Many homeowners use their vacation time as a home-shopping time — and we can set that up without detracting from your vacation experience. By communicating your needs ahead of time or during your initial visit, we can have a list of properties ready and waiting for when you arrive. Look at them all the first day, or use an afternoon off to consider your options. Seeing the homes while you're relaxed and enjoying the sights is a great way not to rush your decision.

You can also work with us remotely and narrow your list of options from the comfort of your own home. We tap into the latest in virtual technology and real estate listing tools to give you the best idea of what types of possibilities await when you arrive. In fact — if we plan things in advance and you have cash payment options, we may be able to show you a home on your first day's visit and have you safely installed in your new home before the vacation is through!

Beating the Buyer's Remorse Mind Game

Barry Soloman — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 18:10:00 GMT

Buying a home can be exhilarating. It's a great feeling to finally be able to buy your dream home after a long and tiresome search. Perhaps you've spent months in the process of finding the perfect home, taking every option into consideration and weighing it over in your mind. But regardless of how much time and effort you put into your decision, it's not unheard of — even in this Caribbean paradise! — to have some sort of regret soon after a purchase. It's called "buyer's remorse."

If you find yourself second-guessing your purchase of a Dominican Republic home, just remember to take a step back and evaluate the situation as a whole. In nearly every case, buyer's remorse is not a permanent feeling, and it can be overcome in just a few easy steps.

First weigh the positives and negatives of your home. Ideally, you should do this both before you make your Dominican Republic real estate purchase. Regardless of the home and its location, every house is going to have its pros and cons. Just remember not to focus too much attention on either side. Every aspect of the house will combine to turn it into a home.
Next, be sure to personalize the space at the first opportunity you get. Buyer's remorse is usually a mind game — the reasons behind your perceived regret have little to do with the house itself, and more to do with your feelings about it. You're living in an unfamiliar place, with few of the comfortable associations that you've grown accustomed. Turning a house into a home can seem like a daunting task at first, but the best thing you can do is to start with a single room. Make it yours. It doesn't matter whether you do it with paint, family photos, or a bookshelf full of all your favorite decorations. Having at least one place where you feel completely at ease will do wonders in helping you feel better about the house as a whole.
Now you can proceed to address your concerns one at a time. Maybe you just realized that the hot water tank only offers 15 minutes of hot water. Or perhaps you incorrectly measured the living room, and your favorite leather furniture won't fit in the space you slotted for it. Forget about the "what-ifs" of your home purchase and focus on the aspects you can control. With a clear head, figure out the costs associated with modifications. Look at options for how you can adjust your setup to make the space more comfortable. Many of these issues will arise over time anyway — no house is perfect.
Do not keep hunting for other homes. For perhaps months you've most likely devoted a good chunk of time looking at online listings or even visiting properties, so that you could find the perfect home. Now you don't have to worry about that, so don't! It can be a hard habit to break, but it will go a long way to avoid the temptation to keep looking. Chances are, those houses you're looking at aren't as perfect as you think they are. They're just holding you back from loving your new home.
Lastly, take time to relax and enjoy your new purchase. Spend a day on the beach in Cabrera or find a mountain adventure in Jarabacoa. The process of buying a home is a big step, and it can also be very taxing. Take a breather before tackling any home improvements or before moving your belongings. Remember why you fell in love with the house in the first place (it shouldn't be hard in this paradise).

When you finally get settled into your new home, all feelings of buyer's remorse will be long gone. As long as you do your homework ahead of time and work with a Dominican Republic real estate agents at RE/MAX Discover Your Destination, you can rest assured that your home will be the right one for you. Before long you'll be wondering why you ever second-guessed your choice.

Dominican Republic Vacation Homes as Investment Properties

Barry Soloman — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 19:20:00 GMT

One of the best features of life in the Dominican Republic is that everyone comes here for a different reason. For year-round residents, Dominican Republic real estate represents a chance to live in a tropical paradise where the people are as warm as the weather. For seasonal visitors who view their Dominican Republic houses as vacation property, there is a certain kind of appeal that comes from knowing your home away from home is situated among the mountainous backdrop of Jarabocoa or the coastal bliss of Rio San Juan.

No matter what your Dominican Republic ideal looks like, the real estate market here makes it easy to turn your dream into an everyday reality. So much more than a lakehouse in the woods or a metropolitan condo on the opposite coast, a vacation home in the Dominican Republic is an idyllic destination and a way of life all rolled into one.

However, that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your financial security or your livelihood in order to enjoy life here. A large number of the part-time residents consider their Dominican Republic real estate investment a long-term financial move that will not only provide benefits today, but for years and generations to come.

Dominican Republic Rentals

If you are comfortable with sharing your residence with others, you can turn your Dominican Republic home into a rental property when you aren't using it. It doesn't matter whether you own a luxury home overlooking the ocean in the northern coastal town of Cabrera, or if you have a more modest mountainous retreat in Jarabocoa — many vacationers will jump at the chance to live in a well-tended, furnished residence during their stay.

And many of these vacationers are willing to pay top-dollar for these homes, whether they stay for one week or one month. You can choose to let only family members and friends rent your home, or you can have a local real estate agency handle the property for you. The tax ramifications of using your home as a rental property will have an impact on your bottom line, but with the right planning and the Dominican Republic's famous low property taxes, it is possible to generate an income from your Dominican Republic home during those times you don't use it.

Dominican Republic Real Estate: Low Costs, High Potential

Dominican Republic homes for sale also represent a chance for you to experience the ultimate real estate investment: buy low and sell high. Although there are part-time residents and vacationing families here from almost every corner of the globe, the Dominican Republic still remains a largely untapped real estate market, especially when compared to other locations in the Caribbean.

Now is the time to make an investment in a dream vacation getaway that can turn around and provide an incredible revenue ten, twenty, or even fifty years from now. And the best part is, you get to enjoy all that this beautiful, untouched country has to offer in the meantime.

A Tropical Oasis Awaits

Another popular option is to move to the Dominican Republic permanently, and to turn your vacation home into a permanent residence. So many of our local residents started out as vacationers, traveling to the crystal blue waters and tropical mountainside just a few times out of the year before deciding they couldn't imagine living anywhere else.

Thanks to the appeal here — from the food and the flowers to the nightlife and the incredible people — it's easy to see why this Caribbean paradise is too much to resist. The Dominican Republic is a great place to spend your retirement or to live your life according to a true island code, and no matter what your long-term financial plans, you may be tempted to sell your primary residence and stay here forever!