Investment Strategy

New Construction Condos in Dominican Republic 2025: Pre-Sale Guide & Best Developments

Buying pre-construction can offer significant discounts and built-in equity—but requires careful due diligence. Here's how to navigate new developments in the DR.

Updated

New construction condo development in Dominican Republic
Modern new construction developments offer turnkey condos with resort-style amenities.

Why Buy Pre-Construction in the Dominican Republic?

Pre-construction purchases offer several compelling advantages:

  • Lower prices: Typically 15-30% below completion prices
  • Built-in equity: Property appreciates during construction
  • Payment flexibility: Spread payments over 12-24 months during construction
  • Unit selection: Choose the best floor, view, and layout
  • Customization: Some developers allow finish upgrades
  • Modern amenities: Latest designs, technology, and building standards
  • Warranty: New construction typically comes with builder warranty

Pre-Construction Pricing Structure

Typical Price Progression

  • Pre-launch/VIP: 25-30% below projected completion price
  • Launch phase: 20-25% below completion price
  • During construction: 10-15% below completion price
  • Near completion: 5-10% below completion price
  • Completed/Turnkey: Full market price

Example Price Progression

For a 2-bedroom condo with completion price of US$300,000:

  • Pre-launch: $210,000-$225,000
  • Launch: $225,000-$240,000
  • Mid-construction: $255,000-$270,000
  • Completion: $300,000

Early buyers can realize $75,000-$90,000 in equity by closing.

Payment Plans & Financing

Typical Payment Structure

  • Reservation deposit: $5,000-$10,000 (refundable during due diligence period)
  • Down payment: 30-50% spread over construction period
  • Balance at closing: 50-70% due at completion

Sample Payment Schedule (24-month construction)

For a $220,000 pre-construction purchase:

  • Month 0: $5,000 reservation
  • Month 1: $50,000 (contract signing)
  • Months 6, 12, 18: $15,000 each ($45,000 total)
  • Month 24 (closing): $120,000 balance

Financing Options

  • Developer financing: Some developers offer 3-5 year financing on balance
  • Dominican bank mortgage: Available upon completion for qualified buyers
  • Home country equity: HELOC or refinance to fund payments
  • Cash: Best negotiating position for additional discounts

Top Locations for New Construction

Punta Cana

Development activity: Highest volume of new construction

  • Cap Cana, Bavaro, and Cocotal areas
  • Resort-style developments with golf and beach clubs
  • Price range: $150,000-$800,000+
  • Best for: Resort lifestyle, rental income

Sosúa

Development activity: Moderate, focused growth

  • New condos in established neighborhoods
  • Ocean-view developments on hillsides
  • Price range: $120,000-$400,000
  • Best for: Value buyers, established expat community

Cabarete

Development activity: Select premium projects

  • Beachfront and near-beach developments
  • Focus on kiteboarding/active lifestyle market
  • Price range: $180,000-$500,000
  • Best for: Active lifestyle, digital nomads

Las Terrenas

Development activity: Growing boutique market

  • Smaller, design-focused projects
  • European developer influence
  • Price range: $200,000-$600,000
  • Best for: Discerning buyers seeking unique properties

Santo Domingo

Development activity: Urban high-rises

  • Piantini, Naco, and Bella Vista neighborhoods
  • Modern apartment towers with amenities
  • Price range: $100,000-$400,000
  • Best for: Urban lifestyle, professionals

Due Diligence for Pre-Construction Purchases

Developer Research

  • Track record: Has the developer completed similar projects?
  • Visit completed projects: See quality of previous work
  • Check references: Talk to previous buyers
  • Financial stability: Is the developer well-capitalized?
  • Permits: Verify all construction permits are in place

Legal Review

  • Land title: Verify developer owns or controls the land
  • Contract review: Have a Dominican attorney review purchase agreement
  • Escrow arrangements: Understand how deposits are protected
  • Completion guarantees: What happens if project isn't completed?
  • HOA structure: Review condominium bylaws and projected fees

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Developer with no completed projects
  • Unusually low prices compared to market
  • Pressure to sign quickly without due diligence
  • No clear permit documentation
  • Vague completion timelines
  • No escrow protection for deposits

Risks and How to Mitigate Them

Construction Delays

Risk: Projects often run 6-12 months behind schedule

Mitigation: Build delay expectations into your planning; understand contract terms for extended delays

Developer Failure

Risk: Developer runs out of money before completion

Mitigation: Research developer financials; prefer established developers; understand deposit protection

Specification Changes

Risk: Finishes or amenities differ from marketing materials

Mitigation: Get detailed specifications in writing; visit model units; include specifications in contract

Market Changes

Risk: Market declines during construction

Mitigation: Buy at sufficient discount to buffer market changes; choose prime locations

Step-by-Step Pre-Construction Buying Process

  1. Research developments: Identify projects matching your criteria
  2. Visit site and sales center: See the location and review plans
  3. Select unit: Choose floor, view, and layout
  4. Reserve: Pay reservation deposit (typically refundable for 7-14 days)
  5. Due diligence: Attorney reviews contract and developer documentation
  6. Sign contract: Execute purchase agreement and payment schedule
  7. Make payments: Follow payment schedule during construction
  8. Pre-delivery inspection: Walk through unit before closing
  9. Closing: Pay balance, sign deed, receive keys
  10. Title registration: Register property in your name

Explore Pre-Construction Opportunities

Sadeghi Group vets new construction developments to identify quality projects from reputable developers. We help buyers navigate pre-construction purchases safely.

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