Selling Your Home in the DR: Costs, Taxes and Documents You Need

Doña Altagracia put her house up for sale convinced that "the buyer pays everything." At closing she learned she owed the agent's commission, a debt certification, and a title with a mistake in her surname that took weeks to correct. The sale was delayed two months.

Selling also takes preparation. Doing it well saves you time and tough negotiations.

Documents the buyer will ask for

• Title certificate in your name, with no errors in names or measurements.
• ID card and, if married, information about the marital property regime and the spouse's signature when it applies.
• Proof of property tax payments, such as the IPI where it applies.
• A no-debt certificate from the condominium, if it is an apartment.
• Up-to-date utility receipts, such as power and water.
• Plans or construction approvals, if you made additions.

The more organized the folder, the faster the sale moves. A careful buyer will check all this, as we explain in how to check a property title in the DR before you buy.

Costs the seller normally covers

• Real estate agent commission, agreed in writing. See real estate commissions in the DR: key questions.
• Paying off prior debts: outstanding mortgage, condominium fees or overdue taxes.
• Your own lawyer's fees, if you hire one.
• Repairs agreed during negotiation.

Taxes: check before you set your price

Depending on your situation, a sale can create tax obligations, for example on the gain you made or because the property has certain conditions. The rules change and depend on each case, so consult an accountant or the DGII before setting the price, so you do not find a surprise at closing.

Steps to sell in an orderly way

1. Gather and review all documents.
2. If you have a mortgage, ask the bank for the payoff balance.
3. Set a realistic price, comparing closed sales and not just listings.
4. Sign an agreement with your agent that includes commission and term.
5. Sign the promise of sale with the expenses clauses. See who pays the transfer tax and sale deed costs.
6. Hand over the property only after you receive the agreed payment.

Red flags as a seller

Buyers who ask to take the property before paying, who want to pay "off the books," or who push to skip the lawyer. Protect yourself with a written contract and payments through verifiable channels.

If after selling you are looking for your next property, browse houses for sale in Santiago or apartments in Santo Domingo.