What are the total closing costs when buying property in the Dominican Republic?

Total closing costs typically range from 5% to 7% of the purchase price. This includes the 3% transfer tax (the largest component), legal fees (1-1.5%), notary fees (0.25-0.5%), registry fees (0.5%), title insurance (0.5%), and survey/appraisal fees ($500-$1,500). If using bank financing, add approximately 1% for bank charges.

What is CONFOTUR and how does it reduce closing costs?

CONFOTUR (Consejo de Fomento Turistico) is a Dominican government incentive program for tourism-zone real estate. Qualifying properties are exempt from the 3% transfer tax, annual property tax (IPI), and income tax on rental revenue for up to 15 years. Most new developments in Punta Cana, Cap Cana, Bavaro, Samana, and Las Terrenas qualify for CONFOTUR.

Do I need a lawyer to buy property in the Dominican Republic?

While not legally required, hiring a Dominican real estate attorney is strongly recommended and considered standard practice. A lawyer conducts the title search, drafts the purchase contract, handles the transfer tax payment, and registers the new title. Legal fees typically range from 1% to 1.5% of the purchase price.

How long does the closing process take in the Dominican Republic?

The typical closing process takes 60 to 90 days from signing the promise of sale to receiving the new title certificate. Due diligence and title search take 2-4 weeks, signing and notarization 1-2 weeks, and title registration at the Registro de Titulos takes 4-8 weeks.

Are closing costs different for new construction vs. resale properties?

Yes, new construction properties may have a slightly lower assessed value for transfer tax purposes, as the government assessment may not yet reflect the full market price. Additionally, most new construction in tourist zones qualifies for CONFOTUR, which eliminates the 3% transfer tax entirely. Resale properties in non-tourist zones typically pay the full transfer tax.

What is the transfer tax in the Dominican Republic?

The transfer tax (Impuesto de Transferencia Inmobiliaria) is 3% of the government-assessed value of the property, which is usually close to or equal to the purchase price. This is the single largest closing cost. CONFOTUR-eligible properties are exempt from this tax for up to 15 years from the date of the CONFOTUR resolution.

Can I finance closing costs through my mortgage?

Generally, Dominican banks do not roll closing costs into the mortgage. Closing costs are paid separately at the time of transfer. However, some developers offer promotions that cover certain closing costs (like legal fees or transfer tax) as part of their sales package, especially during pre-construction phases.

Dominican Republic Closing Cost Calculator

Estimate the total closing costs for purchasing property in the Dominican Republic. See how CONFOTUR tax incentives can significantly reduce your acquisition costs.

How much are closing costs in the Dominican Republic?

Closing costs in the Dominican Republic typically range from 5% to 7% of the purchase price. The largest component is the 3% transfer tax, followed by legal fees (1-1.5%), notary (0.25-0.5%), registry (0.5%), title insurance (0.5%), and survey fees. CONFOTUR-eligible properties can save the entire 3% transfer tax.

Carlos MendezPublished: March 1, 2026Updated: March 4, 2026

Reviewed by Maria Santos

Closing Cost Estimator

The Dominican Republic Closing Process

1
Sign a Promise of Sale (Contrato de Promesa)
Buyer and seller agree on price and terms. The buyer typically pays a 10% deposit held in escrow. This contract is legally binding and outlines conditions, deadlines, and penalties.
2
Conduct Due Diligence (Title Search & Survey)
Your attorney verifies the property title at the Registro de Titulos, confirms no liens or encumbrances, and commissions a land survey (deslinde) to verify boundaries. This takes 2-4 weeks.
3
Obtain a No-Objection Certificate (Certificacion de Estado Juridico)
The Title Registry issues a certificate confirming the property is free of legal issues. This document is required to proceed with the transfer and is valid for 30 days.
4
Sign the Deed of Sale (Acto de Venta)
Both parties sign the official deed before a notary public. The buyer pays the remaining balance. The notary authenticates the signatures and legalizes the document.
5
Pay Transfer Tax and Register the Title
The 3% transfer tax (or 0% with CONFOTUR) is paid to the DGII (tax authority). The new deed is then filed at the Registro de Titulos to officially transfer ownership. This takes 4-8 weeks.
6
Receive Your New Title Certificate
The Title Registry issues a new Certificado de Titulo in the buyer's name. Total timeline from promise to title: typically 60-90 days, depending on location and complexity.

Closing Cost FAQ

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance and projected returns are not guarantees of future results. Always consult with qualified professionals before making investment decisions.