An international purchase becomes clearer when it is divided into verifiable decisions. The goal is not to rush a signature, but to build a record that explains what you are buying, under which conditions and with which future responsibilities.
1. Define the property’s purpose first
Decide whether you want a second home, a vacation-rental property or a combination of both. That choice affects layout, furnishing budget, management and holding period.
Build an all-in budget covering price, closing costs, professional fees, furnishing, maintenance, insurance and an operating reserve. A prudent model separates emotional value from investment discipline.
2. Engage independent legal counsel
Ask an independent real-estate attorney to verify title, liens, authorizations, seller or developer records, relevant permits and consistency between plans, contract and the offered unit.
For a property under construction, the agreement should address milestones, payments, delivery conditions, specifications, permitted changes, delays and dispute resolution.
- Exact identification of the unit, annexes and parking.
- Payments tied to clear documents and milestones.
- Schedule of finishes, equipment and included areas.
- Condominium, maintenance and rental-use rules.
3. Document payments and transfer
Keep contracts, bank evidence, receipts and material communications. The Dominican tax authority’s transfer guidance includes passports for foreign applicants in applicable files. Its official guide states a general 3% property-transfer tax, while specific exemptions or treatments must be confirmed for the buyer and property.
Never assume a promoted tax benefit applies automatically. If CONFOTUR is mentioned, request the project’s resolution or classification, review its scope and ask a professional to confirm what applies to your transaction.
4. Plan beyond delivery
Before closing, decide who will inspect the unit, record punch-list items, arrange utilities and insurance, and manage the residence while you are abroad.
A well-structured purchase ends with an organized file containing transfer or title records, contract, receipts, inventory, warranties, rules and operating contacts.