Buying a Home in Punta Cana

Yes, foreigners can easily buy homes in Punta Cana, as the Dominican Republic permits 100% freehold property ownership with the same rights as citizens. For many buyers in resort areas like Cabeza de Toro, a 'home' is a condominium within a master-planned community like Moon Garden 2, which combines private residential space with shared, resort-style amenities.

What types of homes are for sale in Punta Cana?

While standalone single-family houses exist, much of the new development in Punta Cana, especially in sought-after areas like Cabeza de Toro, consists of residences within gated, master-planned communities. These can be villas or, more commonly, condominiums. This model offers significant advantages for international owners, including enhanced security, professionally maintained common areas, and access to a suite of amenities that would be impractical for a single home to support.

Moon Garden 2 is a perfect example of this modern ownership model. It's a community of 108 residences within the larger Coral Golf Resort. Owners don't just get a private home; they get access to a 12-acre water-sports lagoon, a private beach club, spa and wellness facilities, and resort dining, all within the gates. This turns a simple property purchase into a complete lifestyle investment.

Can a foreigner legally own property in the Dominican Republic?

Absolutely. The Dominican Republic has a very welcoming policy towards foreign investment in real estate. There are no restrictions on foreigners owning property, and you are granted full, freehold title, which is registered in your name at the national Title Registry Office. This is the strongest form of property ownership available.

You do not need to be a resident or citizen to buy, own, or sell property. The legal framework is well-established and provides the same protections to foreign nationals as it does to Dominican citizens. This straightforward and secure process is a primary reason why buyers from the United States and Canada make up a significant portion of the market.

What are the steps to buying a property like Moon Garden 2?

The purchase process is structured and typically managed by a qualified local real estate attorney who represents the buyer's interests. While every transaction has its own specifics, the main steps for a pre-construction purchase are clear.

1. Reservation of a Unit
   Once you've selected a specific residence, you sign a reservation agreement. This takes the unit off the market while your attorney begins the due diligence process.
2. Promise of Sale Agreement
   This is the main binding contract, prepared by your attorney. It outlines all terms, conditions, the property details, and the delivery date. It is signed by both the buyer and the developer, Gesproin Group.
3. Title Registration
   Upon completion of the property and final payment, your attorney will have the title deed officially registered in your name at the Title Registry Office. You will receive a Certificate of Title (Certificado de Título) as proof of ownership.

Are there tax incentives for real estate investors?

Yes, and they are significant. Moon Garden 2 is a CONFOTUR-approved project, meaning it qualifies for incentives under the Dominican Republic's Law 158-01 for the Promotion of Tourism Development. This law is designed to encourage investment in tourism zones.

For a first buyer purchasing from the developer, this provides two key benefits. First, an exemption from the 3% property transfer tax that is normally due at closing. Second, an exemption from the 1% annual property tax (known as IPI). The law grants this exemption to qualifying projects for a period of up to 15 years. Your attorney will confirm how these benefits apply to your specific purchase and ensure the exemption is registered on your title.

What does an owner at Moon Garden 2 actually get?

Ownership here means more than just square footage. Every one of the 108 residences, from the 695 square foot one-bedroom units to the expansive three-bedroom models, is delivered fully furnished and equipped with appliances. They are turnkey and ready for you to enjoy from day one.

Beyond your front door, you have access to the full suite of amenities at Coral Golf Resort. This includes the 12-acre water-sports lagoon, a private beach club just 3 minutes away, multiple pools, a spa, and a fitness center. It's a resort lifestyle where you hold the deed. With delivery scheduled for September 2027, buyers are securing a place in one of Punta Cana's most exciting new communities.

Can I rent my property to generate income?

Yes, owners have the right to rent out their properties. Short-term rentals to tourists are a popular option for generating return on investment. Moon Garden 2 offers an optional managed rental program for a hands-off approach, but owners are also free to manage rentals themselves.

It is important for non-resident owners to understand the tax implications of rental income. Rental revenue is subject to local taxes, which currently include an 18% ITBIS (a value-added tax) on the rental service and a 27% withholding tax on the gross income for non-residents. These are assessed under a separate part of the tax code from the property taxes. What is documented about CONFOTUR is that its exemptions are recorded against the 3% transfer tax and the 1% annual IPI, and no source we hold settles how the two meet for a particular unit and owner, so take that position from your attorney rather than from this page. An accountant can provide guidance on compliance and filing.

Common questions

What's the difference between buying a condo and a house in Punta Cana?

In resort areas, the line blurs. A condo purchase, like at Moon Garden 2, often provides the privacy of a home plus access to shared amenities like pools, security, and beach clubs that a standalone house wouldn't have.

Do I need to be a resident of the Dominican Republic to buy property?

No. You do not need residency or citizenship to purchase and hold full freehold title to property in the Dominican Republic. The process is open to all foreign buyers.

What is CONFOTUR in simple terms?

CONFOTUR is a tax incentive for buyers of new properties in approved tourism projects. For a first buyer at Moon Garden 2, it means an exemption from the 3% transfer tax and the 1% annual property tax, with the project's exemption running for up to 15 years.

When is Moon Garden 2 scheduled for delivery?

The delivery for all residences at Moon Garden 2 is scheduled for September 2027.