A Homeowner's Guide to Moving to the Dominican Republic

Yes, you can move to the Dominican Republic, and owning a home here provides a solid foundation for your new life. For future residents of Moon Garden 2, this means starting a new chapter in a fully furnished, turnkey condo in the heart of Cabeza de Toro. This guide walks through the practical steps, from securing your property rights to understanding daily life in one of Punta Cana's most vibrant communities.

Can I own property as a non-resident before I move?

Absolutely. The Dominican Republic welcomes foreign investment and places no restrictions on non-citizens owning real estate. You can purchase a condo at Moon Garden 2 and hold full, freehold (fee-simple) title in your own name, just like a Dominican citizen. This legal framework provides strong security for your investment and is often the first step for those planning a future move. The entire purchase process can be completed from abroad, allowing you to secure your future home before you even pack your bags.

What does day-to-day life look like in Cabeza de Toro?

Life at Moon Garden 2 is centered around the amenities and natural beauty of Coral Golf Resort and Cabeza de Toro. Your home is just a 3-minute trip from the white sands of Playa Cabeza de Toro. The community itself is built around a 12-acre water-sports lagoon, offering kayaking and paddleboarding right outside your door. As a resident, you have access to a private beach club, a spa and wellness center, and the golf course. With Punta Cana International Airport only a 10-minute drive away, travel is exceptionally convenient. This combination of resort living and accessibility is what defines the lifestyle for our residents.

What are the tax implications of owning and living here?

Owning at Moon Garden 2 comes with significant tax advantages thanks to its approval under CONFOTUR (Law 158-01). This tourism promotion law provides key exemptions for first-time buyers from the developer. Your attorney will file for these benefits on your behalf, which are not automatic. It's also important to distinguish property ownership from tax residency. You are generally considered a tax resident if you spend more than 182 days in the country in a calendar year. Your legal counsel can provide detailed advice on how your personal situation aligns with Dominican tax law.

How can owning property lead to residency?

While you don't need to be a resident to own property, ownership can open pathways to residency for those wishing to move here full-time. The Dominican Republic has several residency programs. One is an investment-based route, which has a described minimum investment of $200,000. However, sources conflict on whether, and at what amount, a real estate purchase qualifies for this specific program. Another route, under Law 1683, allows individuals who own real property to apply for naturalization after only six months of residency, though what constitutes "uninterrupted residence" is a matter for legal interpretation. Because regulations can change, it is essential to consult with a Dominican immigration attorney to determine the best path for your circumstances and to confirm if your purchase at Moon Garden 2 can be structured to support a residency application.

What about healthcare, security, and local infrastructure?

Punta Cana's infrastructure is well-developed to support its residents and visitors. According to Global Affairs Canada, ambulances in major tourist areas like Punta Cana are considered more reliable and available than in most other parts of the country. For security, the Dominican Republic maintains a dedicated tourist police force (Politur), which has a permanent presence in the Bávaro-Punta Cana area, including at the airport. Additionally, private security is a regulated industry, providing an extra layer of safety within communities like Coral Golf Resort. These established services provide peace of mind for those making the move.

How does Moon Garden 2 simplify the moving process?

We designed Moon Garden 2 to make your transition as smooth as possible. With a scheduled delivery for September 2027, you have a clear timeline to plan your move. Each of the 108 residences, from 695-square-foot one-bedrooms to larger three-bedroom homes, is delivered fully furnished and equipped with appliances. This turnkey approach means your home is ready to live in from day one, eliminating the complexities of furnishing a home from abroad. The project is developed by Gesproin Group, a firm with a history in Punta Cana since 2017, having delivered 21 projects and over 2,000 units, providing confidence and a proven track record for our buyers.