Question 1

What types of businesses are commonly for sale in the Dominican Republic?

Accepted Answer

Common business types include restaurants and bars, hotels and guest houses, tour and excursion companies, property management firms, retail shops, laundromats, and car rental agencies. Tourism-driven businesses are especially common in resort areas like Punta Cana, Sosua, Cabarete, and Las Terrenas, while Santo Domingo and Santiago offer service-oriented and manufacturing businesses.

Question 2

Can foreigners own and operate a business in the Dominican Republic?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Foreigners can own 100% of a business in the Dominican Republic in most sectors without needing a local partner. You will need to register the business with the local Chamber of Commerce, obtain a tax identification number (RNC) from the DGII, and secure any sector-specific permits required for your industry. If you plan to work in the business yourself, you will also need a work visa or residency permit.

Question 3

What due diligence should I do before buying a business in the Dominican Republic?

Accepted Answer

Thorough due diligence should include reviewing the business's financial records and tax filings, verifying all permits and legal registrations, reviewing employee contracts and labor law compliance, checking for outstanding debts or legal disputes, and confirming ownership or lease terms for the physical premises. Working with a Dominican attorney and accountant familiar with commercial transactions is essential to protect your investment.

Question 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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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