Question 1

What should I know about zoning and building permits?

Accepted Answer

Every parcel of land in the Dominican Republic falls within a zoning classification that governs permitted uses, building height, density, and setbacks. Before purchasing land for development, verify the zoning with the local municipality. Building requires multiple permits — a municipal permit, an environmental permit (for larger projects), and a final building license from the Ministry of Housing and Buildings (MIVED). All construction plans must be signed by an architect or engineer registered with CODIA, the Dominican professional association for engineers and architects.

Question 2

What are the most popular areas for buying land?

Accepted Answer

Popular areas for land purchases include Punta Cana and Bavaro for resort-oriented development, Las Terrenas and Samana for boutique projects, the north coast towns of Sosua and Cabarete, and emerging areas like Cabrera, Rio San Juan, and Miches where land prices are more accessible. Mountain towns like Jarabacoa and Constanza attract buyers seeking cooler climates and natural surroundings.

Question 3

How do I verify land title (deslinde) in the Dominican Republic?

Accepted Answer

Land title verification in the Dominican Republic involves confirming that the property has a valid Certificate of Title (Certificado de Titulo) issued by the Title Registry. You should also verify that a current deslinde (government-certified boundary survey using GPS coordinates) has been completed, which legally defines the property's exact boundaries. A qualified attorney can conduct a title search, check for liens or encumbrances, and ensure that the land's physical boundaries match official records. Never purchase land without a clear title and a completed deslinde.

Question 4

Can I build on any land I purchase in the Dominican Republic?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Building rights depend on the land's zoning classification, which is regulated at the municipal level. Some parcels may be designated for agricultural use only, located in protected environmental zones, or subject to coastal setback restrictions (construction within 60 meters of the high-tide line is generally prohibited since that land is public property). Always verify zoning and buildability with the local municipality before completing a land purchase.

Question 5

Can foreigners buy property in the Dominican Republic?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Dominican Republic grants foreigners the same property ownership rights as Dominican citizens. You can purchase land, condos, villas, or commercial properties in your own name with full fee-simple title — no special permits, local partners, or government approval required. For a step-by-step walkthrough of the buying process, see our guide to buying property in the DR.

Question 6

Do I need to be a resident to buy property in the Dominican Republic?

Accepted Answer

No. There is no residency or visa requirement to purchase property. You can buy real estate on a tourist visa, and the process typically takes 30 to 60 days from offer to title registration. In fact, owning property can actually help you qualify for Dominican residency if you choose to apply later. Our buying guide covers the full process.

Question 7

What are the closing costs when buying property in the Dominican Republic?

Accepted Answer

Budget approximately 3.5% to 5% of the purchase price in total closing costs. The largest component is the 3% property transfer tax, assessed on the government-appraised value. Legal fees for title search, documentation, and attorney services typically add 1% to 1.5%. There is no VAT on residential property transfers. Properties in CONFOTUR-approved projects may be exempt from the transfer tax entirely.

Question 8

What is CONFOTUR, and how does it reduce property taxes?

Accepted Answer

CONFOTUR (Law 158-01) is a Dominican government incentive program that grants up to 15 years of tax exemptions for properties in approved tourism developments. Qualifying buyers are exempt from the 3% property transfer tax at closing and the 1% annual property tax (IPI) for the duration of the benefit period. The exemption is tied to the development project, not the buyer. Learn more in our detailed CONFOTUR guide.

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