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