by Sylvain Maufrais 
When considering the purchase of real estate, it is imperative to carry out a number of essential checks to guarantee a safe transaction that complies with Dominican Republic legislation.
These checks are as follows:
1. Legal examination
Check the legal status of the property with the relevant Registry of Title Deeds to ensure its legitimacy and legal validity. Check the seller’s legal status, i.e. marital status and whether he/she is authorized to sell the property.
2. Geographical location
Verify the exact location of the property by a chartered surveyor, ensuring that it corresponds to the documents and plans.
3. Transferability
Confirm that the property can be legally transferred and that there are no obstacles or encumbrances to the sale. Check ownership documents and ensure there are no liens, encumbrances or encumbrances on the property.
Verify the property’s tax status: Check that the property is up to date with property taxes.
Obtain a Property Status Certificate (Certificado de Estado de la Propiedad): Request a property status certificate from the National Property Registry to verify the status of the property.
Verify the existence of an IPI certificate (Impuesto sobre la Propiedad Inmobiliaria): Check whether the property is exempt from IPI tax or whether it must pay an annual tax of 1% on the value of the property.
4. Intended use
Ensure that the property can be used for the purpose intended by the buyer, in accordance with local regulations.
Check local living conditions and services: Understand the living conditions in the area and the local services available, such as water, electricity, sewage and security services.
5. Environmental aspects
Investigate the environmental condition of the land or property to identify any restrictions or environmental problems. Check for restrictions on the property: Check whether the property is subject to any specific restrictions, such as protected areas or restricted-use zones.
6. Occupancy
Check the current occupancy status of the property, ensuring that there are no undesirable tenants or possession problems.
7. Legal capacity
Confirm that the person signing the promise and final sales contract has the legal authority and capacity to transfer the property to the buyer.
8. Verify the sales process
Understand the sales process, closing costs and applicable taxes.
9. Hire an experienced real estate lawyer
Have a lawyer verify documents, negotiate contract terms and ensure proper execution of the transaction.
Sylvain Maufrais, AGIREDOM
Versión Español – Version Française
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