International buyers are often surprised by how different the Dominican process is compared to what they know at home. Financing is one of the first differences: most international buyers purchase in cash or through developer payment plans rather than a traditional mortgage, though local financing options do exist for qualified buyers. CONFOTUR is the next major consideration — this incentive law eliminates transfer tax and exempts qualifying properties from annual property tax for fifteen years, but not every project qualifies, and the paperwork needs to be handled correctly from the start. Buyers should also understand that not every 'ocean view' listing is created equal; occupancy and rental performance vary significantly by building and even by floor. Before committing, it's worth reviewing a property's actual rental history rather than a developer's projected numbers. Finally, always work with a bilingual advisor who can coordinate with a licensed attorney and notary through closing — the paperwork, while straightforward once you know it, is not something to navigate alone from abroad.