How to manage your property in the Dominican Republic while living abroad

Foreigners with investments in rental properties in the Dominican Republic often hire a rental management company to oversee their property. This is recommended, especially if you do not live full time in the Dominican Republic.

The management company will take care of everything, including marketing, reservations, rent collection, check-in and check-out, cleaning and maintenance. The only thing you would do is collect your rental income.

A growing number of companies in the Dominican Republic provide this type of service. Some real estate agencies may offer rental management. And lately, more and more property developers are offering this service in-house for their residents.

For investors who own properties in large resort communities that are part of the rental program, hotel operators will move guests into their residence if their hotels are oversold.

Rental management fees range from 15% to 25% of the nightly rate. For example, if you were renting your unit for $100 per night, you can expect to charge between $75 and $85 net.

Even if you don’t plan to rent out your property, you should have a property manager. Anything can weigh down your property while it’s away. The roof could collapse or the water heater could malfunction. You don’t want to show up for a disaster after being away for a few months.

The property manager will check your home weekly to make sure the doors are closed and nothing is broken or damaged. They would handle pest control, cleaning, standard maintenance, repairs and landscaping.

Buying real estate in the Dominican Republic or anywhere outside your home country is a significant investment, and if you are not there full time, you should have a property manager looking after your asset.