Buying property in a foreign country is exciting, but a single mistake can be costly. With 30 years of experience on the North Coast, we have identified the 7 most common pitfalls for international buyers:
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Skipping the Deslinde: Never buy land without a clear, modern GPS-mapped title.
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Not Using an Independent Lawyer: Always hire your own legal counsel, not the seller’s.
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Ignoring the Location Details: A beautiful villa is great, but is it in a secure, well-managed community like Sosúa Ocean Village, Sea Horse Ranch, Residential Hispaniola, Panorama Village, illa Tisa, Hacienda El Choco or Casa Linda?
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Forgetting Closing Costs: Budget an extra 3% to 5% for taxes and legal fees.
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Buying Without a Professional Inspection: Check for structural integrity and electrical standards.
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Underestimating Rental Management: If you are buying for ROI, ensure you have a reliable local manager.
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Skipping Due Diligence: Ensure there are no hidden liens or unpaid property taxes (IPI) before signing.
