Buying real estate in the Dominican Republic?

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10 reasons why you should buy property in Dominican in 2025

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Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Dominican Republic Property Pack

buying property foreigner The Dominican Republic

Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our The Dominican Republic Property Pack

Are you considering expanding your investment portfolio with a property in the Dominican Republic? Curious about the current real estate trends and potential returns in this Caribbean paradise? Wondering if now is the right time to dive into the Dominican property market?

We will lay down recent insights, providing you with a clear picture of the opportunities and risks involved. Here, no guesswork—our analysis relies solely on solid data.

Actually, we know this market inside and out. We keep tabs on it regularly, and all our discoveries are reflected in the most recent version of the Dominican Republic Property Pack

This article gives you valuable insights, but remember, it’s not and will never be investment advice. We pull data from a range of sources to provide you with the most accurate picture possible, yet we can’t guarantee complete accuracy. Markets are difficult to predict. Make sure to do your own research and consult a professional before making any financial moves. Any risks or losses are your own responsibility.

1) The Dominican Republic has a remarkably stable political environment

The Dominican Republic offers a stable political environment, making it a secure choice for long-term real estate investments.

Thanks to its long-standing democratic governance, the country enjoys regular, transparent elections and peaceful power transitions. This political continuity is a big plus for investors seeking a reliable setting. The Dominican Republic's economy is also on solid ground, with a growth rate of 5.4% in 2024, as noted by the IMF. This steady growth suggests a promising market for real estate.

Inflation rates here are relatively low compared to regional averages, adding to the economic stability. This is good news for anyone looking to invest in property. Foreign direct investment is on the rise, especially in real estate, driven by a growing demand for retail, office spaces, and hospitality developments. The stable political climate and favorable tax regimes are key factors encouraging this influx.

Moreover, the government is committed to infrastructure projects that boost real estate investment potential. Significant investments in real estate tourism projects are underway, enhancing the appeal for investors. The Dominican Republic's political stability is a major draw, providing a secure backdrop for these developments.

For those considering property investment, the combination of political and economic stability, along with government-backed infrastructure projects, makes the Dominican Republic an attractive option. The country's commitment to maintaining a stable environment is evident in its policies and growth strategies.

Sources: BTI Project, Urban Thier, Dominican Today, The Latin Investor, Trading Economics

2) Unlock massive tax breaks with the Dominican Republic's exclusive CONFOTUR program for real estate investors

The Dominican Republic's CONFOTUR program offers significant tax breaks for real estate investors.

In recent years, foreign investment in Dominican real estate has surged, with over $1,400 million flowing into real estate tourism. This boom has created thousands of jobs and spurred the development of many non-hotel accommodations. The CONFOTUR Law plays a big role here, aligning with the government's strategy to attract foreign direct investment in tourism-related real estate.

Thanks to CONFOTUR, property values in certain areas have risen, driven by high tourist satisfaction and ongoing new projects. Investors enjoy major tax perks, like no real estate property tax for up to 15 years and no property transfer tax, boosting profitability and returns.

For international investors, the Dominican Republic is a hot spot, partly because CONFOTUR extends benefits to non-residents and foreign nationals. This makes it a compelling choice for those looking to invest abroad.

With CONFOTUR, the Dominican government aims to keep the momentum going, encouraging more foreign investment and further developing the tourism sector. The program's tax incentives are a key factor in making the Dominican Republic an attractive destination for real estate investors.

Sources: ICLG, Dominican Today, Real Estate in the DR

Everything you need to know is included in our Property Pack for The Dominican Republic

3) The Dominican Republic's strategic location in the Caribbean makes it a hub for international travel and trade

The Dominican Republic is a key player in international travel and trade thanks to its strategic Caribbean location.

In 2024, the country signed the Open Skies Agreement with the United States, which is a big deal for airlines and travel companies. This agreement is set to boost international flight connections, making the Dominican Republic even more accessible for travelers and investors.

The tourism sector is booming, with 4.178 million visitors in just the first four months of 2024. The country is on track to hit 11 million visitors this year, a huge jump from previous years. This influx of tourists is not just good for hotels; it's also driving up demand for real estate as more people look into buying vacation homes or rental properties.

On the trade front, the Dominican Republic is making waves with agreements like DR-CAFTA. These deals are eliminating tariffs and reducing service barriers, which is attracting more foreign direct investment. In 2024, this investment saw a significant rise, showing that investors are confident in the country's economic stability and potential.

The expansion of ports is another exciting development. The Dominican Republic is aiming to become a regional logistics hub, strengthening its role in Caribbean trade. This move is expected to further enhance the country's economic landscape.

With these developments, the Dominican Republic is not just a beautiful place to visit; it's becoming a smart choice for property investment. The combination of increased tourism, strategic trade agreements, and infrastructure improvements is creating a vibrant real estate market.

Sources: Caribbean Journal, White House Fact Sheet, Trading Economics

4) There is stunning real estate, from breathtaking beaches to majestic mountains

The Dominican Republic is a real estate paradise, offering everything from beachfront escapes to serene mountain retreats.

In 2024, property prices are climbing, especially in hotspots like Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and Samana. These areas are buzzing with tourists, thanks to a 36% jump in arrivals compared to 2019. This surge in visitors is making vacation properties a hot commodity.

Tourism isn't the only thing driving the market. The government is also stepping up, improving infrastructure and security in these popular areas, which is giving investors more confidence to dive in.

Foreign investors are flocking to the Dominican Republic, drawn by its strong economic growth and tempting tax perks. With no restrictions on buying property and benefits like lower property taxes, it's a no-brainer for many.

New developments are popping up everywhere, from chic urban apartments to lavish luxury homes, all to meet the rising demand from international buyers.

Sources: Noriega Group, Dominican Today, Simply Dominican

5) Booming tourism in the Dominican Republic skyrockets vacation rental demand and property values

The Dominican Republic's tourism industry is booming, with 10 million visitors in 2023, up from 6.4 million in 2019.

This surge in tourists has led to a higher demand for vacation rentals, as more people look for places to stay. Platforms like Airbnb are thriving, offering diverse lodging options that cater to these visitors.

With new international flight routes, the Dominican Republic is now more accessible than ever, drawing travelers from all over the globe. This accessibility has further increased the demand for vacation rentals, leading to higher occupancy rates in popular areas.

Government efforts to promote tourism and ensure safety have enhanced the country's appeal. New attractions and resorts are popping up, making the Dominican Republic a top choice for tourists. This has naturally pushed property values up in tourist hotspots.

Investors are taking note, as the growing tourism industry means rising property values in areas popular with visitors. The demand for vacation homes and investment properties is on the rise, driven by this tourism boom.

Sources: Travel Week, Eden Roc Cap Cana, Simply Dominican, The Latin Investor

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6) Discover the Dominican Republic's perfect climate luring retirees and expats to their dream homes year-round

The Dominican Republic is a top choice for retirees and expatriates, thanks to its year-round favorable climate.

With average temperatures ranging from 20-27°C, the country offers a tropical escape from colder climates. This consistent warmth is perfect for those looking to enjoy sunny days without the chill.

The weather is predictable, with a wet season from May to November and a dry season from December to April. The dry season, especially in the north, is ideal for outdoor adventures and exploring the island's beauty.

What makes the Dominican Republic even more appealing is its affordability compared to other Caribbean spots. This, combined with the pleasant climate, makes it a hotspot for those seeking a new home.

Economic conditions and favorable tax policies add to the allure, making it a smart choice for retirement. The cost of living is reasonable, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.

For those considering a move, the Dominican Republic offers a blend of natural beauty and financial benefits, making it a compelling option for a new chapter in life.

Sources: World Bank Climate Data, The Latin Investor

7) The government is transforming infrastructure with massive road and airport projects

The Dominican Republic is making big moves to boost its infrastructure, focusing on roads and airports to make properties more appealing.

In 2024, the government approved a budget of DOP1.6 trillion, up by 35% from 2023, showing a strong commitment to infrastructure development. This means more roads, better airports, and a general uplift in the country's accessibility.

One standout project is the Las Américas International Airport renovation. They're building a new terminal that can handle four million passengers annually, costing $250 million. This is part of a larger plan to modernize the airport and make travel smoother.

Vinci Airports is also pitching in with a $30 million expansion at Las Américas, emphasizing sustainability with features like rainwater recovery and a solar power plant. This not only makes the airport greener but also more efficient.

These airport upgrades are set to improve the travel experience, which could give a nice boost to local businesses, especially in tourism and hospitality. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) jumped by 28.8% from 2022 to 2023, showing that investors are keen on the country's infrastructure improvements.

Sources: ResearchAndMarkets.com, Dominican Today, Passenger Terminal Today

8) The Dominican peso's stability slashes currency risk for foreign investors in real estate

The Dominican peso has been quite stable, making it less risky for foreign investors.

Over the past year, the exchange rate between the Dominican peso and the US dollar has seen only minor fluctuations. This consistency is a good sign for anyone looking to invest in property here. The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic has been praised for its effective economic management, which includes allowing for greater exchange rate flexibility and stepping in to smooth out daily exchange rate changes.

Reports from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) highlight the country's stable monetary policy framework. The Central Bank's strategies have been crucial in maintaining this stability, which is a big plus for potential property buyers. Low inflation rates have also played a part in keeping the economy steady. In July 2024, inflation was at 3.6%, which is quite manageable.

Government policies have been supportive too. The Central Bank has been careful with its key policy rate, making sure it doesn't disrupt the currency's stability. This cautious approach helps maintain a stable economic environment, which is exactly what you want when considering a property investment.

For those thinking about buying property in the Dominican Republic, this economic stability is a reassuring factor. The local currency's steadiness means less worry about currency risk, allowing you to focus more on finding the perfect property.

Sources: Wise, IMF, Focus Economics

Everything you need to know is included in our Pack for The Dominican Republic

9) The Dominican Republic's market is a goldmine of untapped potential compared to other Caribbean hotspots

The Dominican Republic's real estate market is a hidden gem in the Caribbean, offering more growth opportunities than its neighbors.

In places like Cabarete and Sosua, you can find condos priced between $1,200 to $2,000 per square meter, which is a steal compared to Puerto Rico or Costa Rica. This affordability is a major draw for potential buyers looking for a good deal.

Foreign direct investment is pouring in, especially in tourist hotspots like Punta Cana and Santo Domingo. This influx is fueling new projects, thanks to government incentives that make investing here a smart move.

Tourism is booming, and with it, the demand for vacation rentals. Platforms like Airbnb are buzzing with activity, as more landlords see the potential. The growing expat community, drawn by the lower cost of living and a laid-back lifestyle, is also boosting the demand for homes.

Infrastructure is getting a facelift, which is great news for property values. The country's economic growth and favorable tax policies are making it an even more attractive spot for real estate investment.

With all these factors combined, the Dominican Republic stands out as a prime location for those looking to invest in the Caribbean without the saturation seen in other markets.

Sources: Noriega Group, Blue Sail Realty, Global Passport

10) Dominican Republic's vibrant culture and lifestyle make it a hot spot for international property buyers

The local culture and lifestyle in the Dominican Republic are drawing more international buyers, making property ownership here increasingly attractive.

In 2023, the Dominican Republic saw a 12.5% rise in international tourists, with 8.1 million arriving by air. This boom in tourism has sparked interest in vacation homes and investment properties, especially in hotspots like Punta Cana and Santo Domingo.

Santo Domingo is becoming a hub for expatriates, offering a cosmopolitan lifestyle with diverse food options, lively nightlife, and excellent healthcare. Meanwhile, Punta Cana attracts a mix of international visitors, many of whom work in the tourism industry.

Foreign investors are eyeing the Dominican Republic's property market, thanks to its booming tourism sector and strong economic growth. In April 2023 alone, the country welcomed over 862,000 visitors, fueling demand for rental properties.

Investors enjoy benefits like no property transfer taxes and rental yields reaching up to 10% annually in prime locations. This makes the Dominican Republic a lucrative option for those looking to invest in real estate.

Sources: Simply Dominican, Dominican Today, The Latin Investor