🏡 Real Estate Buying Process in the Dominican Republic for Foreigners: Key Steps

Buying a villa or bungalow in the Dominican Republic isn’t just a transaction—it’s a strategic move into a booming tourism economy, a protected natural paradise, and a tax-friendly investment environment. For international investors from the U.S., Canada, and Europe, here’s a detailed expert guide to acquiring property in this Caribbean hotspot.

François Bénard

6/24/20252 min read

🌍 Why Invest in the Dominican Republic?

  • Consistent tourism growth: Over 30 years of steady expansion, with a 60% rise in visitors from 2019 to 2024.

  • Government-backed priority: Tourism is a national strategy, supported by massive infrastructure upgrades.

  • Political and economic stability: A safe and welcoming environment for foreign investment.

  • Confotur law benefits: Tax exemptions on VAT, property tax, and transfer fees for 15 years.

  • Natural appeal: Pristine beaches, lush forests, and eco-conscious developments like Casablanca Ecolodge.

🏗️ Spotlight on Casablanca Ecolodge

Casablanca Ecolodge offers luxury villas and bungalows designed to blend seamlessly into the natural landscape of Samaná. The project is approved under the Confotur law, making it a rare opportunity for investors seeking high-end, sustainable real estate with strong legal and fiscal protections.

đź’ˇ Example: The Talipot project in Miches, also under Confotur, showcases the success of investing in emerging eco-tourism zones.

đź“‹ Step-by-Step Buying Process for Foreigners

1. 🔍 Property Selection

  • Choose your lot or villa/bungalow model

  • Confirm Confotur eligibility

  • Sign a reservation agreement with initial deposit

2. đź“‘ Legal Due Diligence

  • Conducted by a specialized real estate attorney

  • Verify property title (registered title vs. provisional certificate)

  • Check building permits and Confotur registration

3. ✍️ Sales Contract Signing

  • Contract in Spanish with certified translation

  • Payment schedule tied to construction milestones

  • Register the contract with the Title Registry Office

4. 🏛️ Notarization and Title Transfer

  • Sign before a Dominican notary

  • Pay transfer fees (waived under Confotur)

  • Receive the Certificate of Title in your name

5. đź§ľ Tax Benefits under Confotur

  • 18% VAT exemption on purchase price

  • 15-year exemption from property tax (IPI)

  • 3% transfer tax exemption

🛡️ Legal Security and Professional Support

Foreigners can freely purchase property in the Dominican Republic. Still, it’s essential to be guided by:

  • A real estate attorney

  • A licensed notary

  • A trusted developer, such as Casablanca Ecolodge

đź’¬ Expert Tips

  • Prioritize Confotur-certified projects: They offer unmatched legal and tax advantages.

  • Demand full due diligence: Go beyond the brochure.

  • Vet the developer’s reputation: Casablanca Ecolodge is known for integrity and eco-conscious design.

  • Plan for rental management: Maximize returns by integrating a rental strategy from day one.

🎯 Conclusion: A Strategic Investment

Buying a villa or bungalow in the Dominican Republic means entering a thriving market with strong legal protections and exceptional tax incentives. Casablanca Ecolodge offers a unique opportunity for discerning investors in a protected natural setting under the Confotur program.

🌿 Want to learn more? Reach out to the Casablanca Ecolodge team for a personalized presentation of the project and acquisition process.