Buying in Cabarete: Straight Answers
Can foreigners buy property in the Dominican Republic?
Yes. Foreign buyers have the same ownership rights as Dominicans. No residency, no local partner, no special permit. You buy in your own name, or in a company if that suits your planning better. The full picture is in the foreigners guide.
How much should I budget for closing costs?
Plan on 4 to 6 percent on top of the purchase price: 3 percent transfer tax plus roughly 1 to 1.5 percent in legal fees. The number on the listing is not the number you wire. Line-by-line breakdown in Buying Costs & Fees.
How long does buying take?
Most purchases close in 30 to 60 days once your offer is accepted. Title search and due diligence first, then the purchase contract, then transfer. Rushing the title search is how people get burned, so we do not.
Can I rent my property on Airbnb?
Short-term rentals are legal in the Dominican Republic, but each building’s bylaws decide whether you can. Some buildings welcome it, some ban it outright. I check the bylaws before you make an offer, not after. Neighborhood-by-neighborhood rules in the Airbnb guide.
What rental returns are realistic?
Well-run condos near the beach achieve 50 to 70 percent annual occupancy. Gross yield is the flattering number; net yield after management, HOA, taxes, and vacancy is the one that matters, and I will run the real math with you. Worked example in the rental ROI guide.
Do I need to be in the DR to buy?
No. Plenty of my buyers close from Canada, the US, or Europe. A power of attorney lets your lawyer sign for you, and I do video walkthroughs of anything you cannot see in person.