Unbelievable great press!

Hello again Harry! I just now saw your email and here’s a quick account, hopefully before your deadline- My husband (61yrs) and I (58) have traveled thruout the world, including Australia, New Zealand, Europe, most Caribbean islands and several countries in North and South America, so we didn’t just buy in the first country we saw. We knew what we DIDN’T want: high rise condos, lots of tourists and strip malls. We DID want a great walking beach, lively town with good grocery stores and restaurants and, most of all, an affordable cost of living. We found all that in Las Terrenas. We loved the mix of French, Italians, Germans and local Dominicans. We discovered a local bar/restaurant named “Kelly’s” after its beautiful Canadian owner, where we met interesting, intelligent and fun people who speak English (we’re still working on our Spanish!) It’s important to have a meeting place like the TV show “Cheers” where “everybody knows your name!” Las Terrenas has over ten miles of beaches and the town is surrounded by beautiful palmtree-covered hills. During our last visit, my husband walked down to the beach and bought some red snappers right out of the fishing boat. They filleted the fish on the beach, we grilled it on our backyard grill that evening and enjoyed it with a fresh baguette from the French bakery and wine and vegetables from Super Mercado Lindo! We actually bought one of the very first properties that Dan Hussmann showed us. We’d seen two condos and a house on the hill, but as soon as I saw the heleconia and wild ginger growing along the wall and the turquoise swimming pool I knew we’d found our piece of paradise! Danny called the owners in the US and we made them an offer and the deal was done in about 48 hours! We realize excellent rental income from our house which we rent for $600/week and advertise on http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p202857 . We just had the entire 900 sq ft villa tiled with white ceramic tiles for only $1500US and we’re planning to add a second bathroom. Again– I invite anyone interested in a wonderful way of life to check out Las Terrenas. Rent our house during your visit and let Danny and Bruce from DR Paradise show you around! Susan Miller

Another recommendation for us!

Hi Harry–
Thanks for your note–
Anyhow…. we first visited Panama with the intention of buying there, (and saw all the places Kathleen has mentioned) but…it wasn’t for us! So we contacted DR Paradise, the RE company in Las Terrenas who was mentioned in the Live+Invest article-
Both Bruce Pierson and Dan Hussmann were fantastic to work with and I highly recommend them and their services! Danny was our realtor for House Hunters and did a super job– These two guys know EVERYthing about Las Terrenas and have become good friends of ours–
I was writing my original letter to report that House Hunters International is looking for more couples who are buying on the Samana Peninsula and to contact Danny if they’re interested!
Please let me know if you’d like more details about our purchase and thank Kathleen for sending us to the DR!
All best-
Susan Miller

—– Original Message —–
From: Harry Kalashian
To: Susanspeaks@bellsouth.net
Sent: Wednesday, April 01, 2009 6:45 PM
Subject: RE: House Hunters International

Hello Ms. Miller,

Thank you for your wonderful email. The house seems spectacular!

I wanted to notify you that your message was actually published in today’s issue of the Overseas Opportunity Letter. You can go here to read it: http://www.liveandinvestoverseas.com/archives09april1.html We hope you receive some good inquiries for the rental.

I also wanted to inquire about the buying process you had in the DR. We are currently working on a report for the Dominican Republic, and our now in the resources phase. To that end, could you give us the name of your Real Estate Agent (or company)? We are constantly seeking honest and dependable agents whom we can research and recommend to your fellow readers and soon-to-be overseas investors.

We’d appreciate any info you can provide.

Thanks again, please do not hesitate to write again.

Best regards,

Harry Kalashian
Marketing Manager
Live and Invest Overseas
________________________________________
From: editorial@liveandinvestoverseas.com [mailto:editorial@liveandinvestoverseas.com]
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2009 3:43 PM
Subject: Fwd: House Hunters International

—–Original Message—–
From: Susanspeaks@bellsouth.net [mailto:Susanspeaks@bellsouth.net]
Sent: Monday, March 30, 2009 04:24 PM
To: Editorial@liveandinvestoverseas.com
Subject: House Hunters International
Hi Kathleen-
As I’ve written previously, my husband and I bought a vacation/rental house in Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic BECAUSE we read about the area in your wonderful newsletter–thank you again! We’re so happy we took a chance and bought our 2 BR house with swimming pool just 300 steps from the beach even though we live in the US and still do not speak (good) Spanish! We rent our house through www.homeaway.com/202857

Susan Miller, Author * Speaker * Trainer
Working in The Positive Zone®
Creating high energy, low stress workplaces
Local: 502-228-5558
Toll-free:1-8-NOT-BORING
http://www.ThePositiveZone.net

House Hunters International airs March 24th at 9pm Eastern Standard Time!

Get a good look at fat Dan here in Las Terrenas.

February 18, 2009 CONTACT: Susan Miller
502-228-6272 502-396-1576 cell

HGTV Hit Show, “House Hunters International”
to Feature Local Couple, Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Concerned by their dwindling retirement funds, Prospect residents Steve and Susan Miller searched last year for a vacation home in a country with low living costs and tropical weather. In July, 2008, they purchased a two bedroom villa with a swimming pool only 300 steps from the beach in the town of Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic.

A production team from HGTV’s “House Hunters International” filmed the Millers at their riverfront home in Prospect and during their search in the Dominican Republic in June and July, 2008. During the program, the couple tours three homes with their local Realtor and discusses the pros and cons of each property.

The half-hour episode will air Tuesday, March 24 (time TBA) on HGTV channel 51.

More pics>

HHI Crew Beach is 300 steps away

Villa has a ¼ acre walled yard Living area in Las Terrenas

Kitchen in Prospect home Kitchen in Las Terrenas

Revolutionary Law in the Dominican Republic

Corporate Alert: New Company Law Enacted
March 14th, 2009, Dominican Republic

President Fernández signed into law on December 11, 2008, a new company law (Law #479-08″) which will revolutionize the way business is done in the Dominican Republic. The most important innovation brought about by the new statute is the creation of two new business entities: the “Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada or SRL” (Limited Liability Company or LLC) and the “Empresa individual de Responsabilidad Limitada or EIRL (Limited Liability Individual Business). The “Sociedad Anónima or S.A.,” currently the entity of choice of 99% of Dominican businesses, has been amended to make it the vehicle for medium or large businesses. Here are the characteristics of the two new business entities (SRL and EIRL) and the most important changes made to the S.A.

Limited Liability Company (SRL):

• Based mostly on the current LLC’s in French Company Law with certain similarities with American LLC’s.
• Chief company officer(s): one or various managers (”gerentes”). Must be individuals.
• Minimum of two shareholders; maximum of 50. Spouses may be the sole shareholders.
• RD$100,000 minimum capital (full amount must be paid up and deposited in a bank in order to be able to record company at Business Registry).
• Shares not readily transferable, depending on wishes of shareholders.
• Shareholders’ liability limited to their investment in the company.
• Ideal for small or family businesses.

Limited Liability Individual Business (EIRL):

• No shareholders; one sole individual owns the business.
• Owner must be an individual; companies cannot be an owner.
• Owner’s liability limited to his or her investment in the company
• No minimum capital.
• Chief Officer(s): the owner and the manager. The owner may be the manager.
• Ideal for businesses owned by a single individual.

Sociedad Anónima (SA):

• Minimum capital: RD$30,000,000 (approx. $850,000 US).
• Board of Managers (“Consejo de Administración) required with a minimum of 3 members.
• “Comisario de Cuentas” required. (The Comisario de Cuentas is an independent company officer in charge of overseeing the company accounts. Comisarios de Cuentas must be Certified Public Accountants).
• Tougher criminal penalties for SA managers compared to SRL managers.

The new law will come into effect on June 19, 2009. By then, every S.A. must comply with the new requirements IF its shareholders wish to remain as an S. A.

If, on the other hand, shareholders wish to convert their S.A. into an SRL (LLC) or an EIRL (Individual Business), the conversion period will start on June 19, 2009.

Guzman Ariza attorneys have been active participants in the changeover process. Fabio J. Guzman-Ariza and Alfredo A. Guzman, senior partner and associate, respectively, in the firm, partnered with the Fermin Taveras Law Firm in the preparation of the regulations that will be used by the Business Registries (”Registro Mercantil”) in the new process. They have also prepared for publication in April 2009 a book of company forms for the SRL’s and the EIRL’s, and a comparative study on the operation of the SRL’s.

Clients who have incorporated in the Dominican Republic are invited to contact their attorney at Guzman Ariza for a FREE consultation on how to proceed.

DR not “feeling” it – economic woes that is!

2. DR still not “feeling it”
Hacienda Minister Vicente Bengoa tells us the DR and Central America have yet to feel the pressures of the world economic crisis, saying that what is being seen is a deceleration of growth in the region’s economies. Bengoa explained that a recession is defined by two consecutive semesters of negative growth, while what is being seen in the region is a period of slower growth. Bengoa predicts that economic growth will be an estimated 3% in 2009 after having registered 8.5% in the last four years.

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March 4, 2009

Two Sweet Spots
South of the Border
Dominican Republic
The International Association of Golf Travel Operators recently named the Dominican Republic “The Golf Destination of the Year 2009″ for the Caribbean and Latin America. It boasts two of the largest golf resorts in the Caribbean:
• The venerable Casa de Campo Resort near La Romana has three magnificent courses designed by Pete Dye: the Teeth of the Dog (see photo), Dye Fore and Links
• Cap Cana, a $2 billion, 8,600-acre resort, has luxury hotels, a marina, residential villages, three miles of beach and three championship golf courses (with plans for three additional courses). The resort hosts the Cap Cana Championship, a Champions Tour event.
Mexico’s Riviera Maya
This region, which includes Cancun, is not just for spring breakers and the cruise-ship crowd. Golfers are increasingly finding great venues to tee it up at places like:
• Greg Norman’s El Camaleon (site of the PGA TOUR’s Mayakoba Golf Classic at Riviera Maya)
• P.B. Dye’s Iberostar Playa Paraiso GC
• and Jack Nicklaus’ 27 holes at the Moon Palace Resort
New courses in the works include the separate layouts by Tom Fazio and Nick Price at the Cancun Country Club and Puerto Cancun by Tom Weiskopf.
FLORIDA SWING TRIP GOLFPAC

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New International Airport at El Cateya and El Portillo Spa and Beach Club

http://www.diariodigital.com.do/articulo,38565,html

Publecitas de Pescadores – Restaurant Row – Las Terrenas, Samana, Dominican Republic

Questions and Answers from a future dominican

Hey Bobbi,

Answers below please

From: bdrexler1@aol.com [mailto:bdrexler1@aol.com]
Sent: Thursday, March 05, 2009 9:42 AM
To: danhussmann@gmail.com
Subject: INFO

Hey Dan,

Got your info and am still going thru it. Looks like Barb has got the right idea.
[Daniel] sure…it is a lot of info…it will answer lots of your questions though – you should subscribe to www.dr1.com as well. Next, when you have time, spend some time on my BLOG…

I’d probably spend some time on the Guzman webpage too…I attached it to last letter

First of all; I am thinking about us moving there. Are you a real estate broker, and do
you live in Florida, or there? Explain how all that works. Where in Florida–Ft. Lauderdale???
[Daniel] I have my Florida Brokers License on voluntary inactive…I live here full time

We would be interested in keeping a home here and having a small place there to see
how we like things. We will visit I hope this summer.
[Daniel] Perfect!
I would like to work there selling
real estate; Barb says it’s an untapped market with lots of newcomers.
[Daniel] how’s your Spanish?

I also want to know about social security checks (my husband’s), and pension checks–
we are on automatic deposit. Would we use a bank in Florida for that and just actually,
how does all that stuff work.
[Daniel] not 100% sure as I am WAY too young for that stuff! I use a Florida Bank, but I also have an account here.
I know some of the income we have (I think it may be social
security for Frank, or maybe his VA pension) is not payable out of the country. I don’t know
for sure, but I have in the back of my mind, that I ran across that in print somewhere.
[Daniel] you probably better get a hold of them.

So, what I want to know right now is about the cost of living vs. our US dollar. Can you tell me.
[Daniel] currently, the Dominican Peso is about 35 pesos to the dollar. Outside of a monthly house payment one can live VERY comfortably here for under $3,000 a month…that would include a maid and a gardener!

Also, are there US banks there, or do you bank in Florida?
[Daniel] none that I know of
Do you actually live there, or do you
go back and forth to Florida.
[Daniel] here 100% of the time…only way I am going back is swim, and if I do tat, I sort of hope I don’t make it!
What franchise (real estate) do you work with.
[Daniel] DR Paradise is independently owned…been here 10 years.
How much does
a great agent make yearly????
[Daniel] ???? It is not as easy as people think…again, how’s your Spanish. The world’s economy has not helped us either. We are not as bad as many places, and we are starting to see people taking their money out of the US and investing it here, but it is difficult. Without two of our partners here who are Dominican and born here on the peninsula we could not do it. Sellers are a mess here…they never have their paperwork ready…it is really hard!

You seem to be an exception though if you did 8Mil last year! Tough times to do that well. How many agents do you have?
Tell me about the new resort/hotel Barb has been talking
about.
[Daniel] Barb? Which one?

What employment opportunites would there be for my son, age 30, and his wife.
[Daniel] Skills? That’s a tough one too because wages are SO low…I attached “Developing Apartments…” above…that’s a sure way! Other than that, live here and find your nitch…figure what is needed (lots) and then fill that need…I myself am opening a Topless Drive-thru liquor store. (Just kidding about the Topless part!)
They have
1 son under one year of age? Schools? Just thinking in time, they may want to move as well.
[Daniel] We have a private French School that is pretty good…all the kids there have at least 2 languages and most 3. There is more to education than just school so living in other countries and learning different cultures adds to ones emotional intelligence

I know all this sounds probably really elementary to you but I need some kind of basis to know
more about what to check into.
[Daniel] again, I’d get on www.dr1.com … join the chat rooms…better info than I can provide and many different experiences, not just mine
How does your real estate commission work
[Daniel] what commission? Just kidding. It depends on the deal…who works it…we really partner on a lot of it. Bruce and I (the two gringos) depend on Pedro and Deiby for their Dominican Knowledge and they depend on us for our computer and networking and marketing skills. We being ‘em in and they help us close…they also get so many more listings tat neither Bruce nor I could touch.
-what percent;
[Daniel] depends

desk fees?,
[Daniel] none
etc.

Are you a ReMax agent or Broker. Is it ReMax. I used to own a quarter interest in a Re/Max
franchise in Ky. It’s a great company.
[Daniel] We have a Remax here…not doing much but maybe they need a go-getter like you! I would have to leave the hiring of another agent to Bruce and Pedro the two principals of DR Paradise
[Daniel] Hope I’ve helped Bobbi…be sure to give DR1 a try.

Can you drop me an e-mail re above info for starters.

Look forward to your call.

Bobbi

1. DR and US Co. go solar

1. DR and US Co. go solar
The Dominican government and Sunovia Energy Technologies from the United States have signed an agreement to install the first solar energy plant in the country, according to a company press release.
In a press release, Carl Smith, the executive director of Sunovia Energy Technologies said that Dominican President Leonel Fernandez has shown a “tremendous passion for resolving the country’s energy difficulties.”
The executive said that the Dominican government has “realized that having a bilateral focus, including responsible renewable energy production combined with a energy conservation program are critical steps that have to be taken in order to get the country on the road to acquiring energy independence.”
The agreement sets an investment of some US$200 million and is said will provide employment for 2,500 workers.
Eddy Martinez, executive director of the Dominican Republic Center for Exports and Investments (CEI-RD) stressed that the agreement is the result of “intense work” that the nation has done over the past few years in its efforts to reduce its dependence on oil.
“And, at the same time, to create new jobs and attract new investments to the island”, he said.
The contract with Sunovia Energy Technologies, which is based in Sarasota, Florida, is part of a wave of new investments in renewable energy in the Dominican Republic, according to the official.
This wave includes other companies from the United States like the Masada Resource Group, STC Engineering and Burbano Recycling have established energy generation and bio-fuel facilities in the country, according to the Dominican official.
Martinez stressed that as well as wanting to attract investors in renewable energy the country also wants to expand investments in sectors relating to stem cells, genetically modified foodstuffs and the creation of hybrid fuel vehicles.

4. Leonel revokes tax increase
The director of Department of Taxes (DGII), Juan Hernandez, has suspended, for the time being anyway, the raise in assessment values on real estate and in its table of reference for calculating the Tax on Property (IPI). He said he did so in response to a request from President Fernandez. The Dominican leader asked the official to wait until the end of debates at the National Unity Summit.
Despite knowing that the values attached to real estate classified as luxurious or as unused urban lots or buildings have not been revised since 2005, Fernandez said that “we need to wait until the process of the working group dealing with the economy and competitiveness is finished.”
Business sectors have said the appraisal is untimely, because many real estate property prices are inflated by the effects of the real estate bubble that has not left the DR unscathed. These sectors say the government should wait and see what effects the global financial and real estate crisis will have on property prices here.These sectors say the government should wait to see what effects the global financial and real estate crisis have on prices of property here.
The DGII director confirmed the request from the President, saying that it was in line with the spirit of the Unity Summit that is seeking a consensus on all major issues.
According to DR1 News yesterday, the tax director ordered a revision of the assessments on urban properties that serve as the base for the IPI, and even though the measure did not imply an increase in taxes, it did modify the baseline for the payment of the 1% tax on assets due to the fact that this works on the difference between the RD$5.0 million established as exonerated and the new value established by the property assessors.

5. Construction materials prices decline
Reinforced bars for construction have dropped from RD$3,000 a quintal two months ago to RD$1,550, reflecting a major decline in demand. Listin Diario reports that nevertheless the bag of cement is holding to around RD$255, despite major declines in imported inputs. Cement producers say that the price of the fuel they use to run their operation has not declined. Prices on cement blocks have also declined. Hardware store owner Jose Jimenez said that Dominicans should make the most of the decline that he believes is only temporary.

DR Banks Strong

DR banks strong
The end of 2008 found Dominican Banks with assets totaling RD$596.5 billion, for an increase of RD$60 billion over 2007. Listin Diario details that the benefit of this is that an increase in liquidity could be advantageous in the result of a financial crisis on the world markets. Bank administrator Rafael Camilo made the declaration on the status of banks during a press conference to discuss the Dominican banking structure, a variety of economic indicators and monetary policy. According to Camilo, banks made RD$12 billion in earnings, RD$2.6 billion more than in 2007. He said banks paid RD$3 billion in taxes in 2008. He also explained that credit increased by 17.2%. Bank solvency rate also recorded an increase of 1.4%, realizing 14.5 in 2008

Halloween & Christmas 2008 – Las Terrenas, Samana, Dominican Republic

Christmas 2008 –

Dominican Republic…Greener than most!

3. Green nation
Administrators of the Plan Nacional Quisqueya Verde say that the Dominican Republic’s forestation levels have improved from 27% in 1997 to 33% in 2008. This means the Dominican Republic is on pace to surpass its goal of 35% forestation by 2015. Technical director Elias Vargas said that new tree planting was going on at a faster rate than projected. Plan Quisqueya Verde director Jose Enrique Baez said that nearly a million trees are being planted around the Dominican Republic during planting season. Baez says that Bolivia, Chile and Costa Rica are interested in learning from the familiarity of the Dominican project with a view to duplicating it in their countries, and have sent officials to study its achievement. The Plan Nacional Quisqueya is working in 70 communities across three provinces of the Dominican Republic and it is projected that Quisqueya Verde will receive RD$70 million in 2009 to carry on its forestation mission.

Dominican Republic…Greener than most!

The arrival of cruise ships boost the economy of Samaná.

SANTO DOMINGO. With the arrival of two ships simultaneously, the Grandeur of the Seas of Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Spirit from the Norwegian Cruise Line, Samaná launched cruise season 2008-2009, a period in which it is projected to receive over 230 thousand passengers a total of 110 cruises.

The information offered Andres Federico Schad, general manager of the major cruise tour operator in Samana Bay Cruise Services, who said that “this season will receive the largest ship to date, and one of the largest of the line Royal Caribbean, which is the Explorer of the Seas, with a capacity for 3,500 passengers. “

He explained that this is a fact that demonstrates the confidence that the cruise lines have placed in our province, “he said. Schad said that” the current period exceeds 13 percent in the previous one, which received 97 vessels, is also of great success for this sub-sector that benefits the tourism industry of Samaná.

He said that the cruise lines promote the area in all their advertising campaigns, providing the public with this cruise is interested in returning for a longer stay.

The executive stressed that Samaná is a destination for cruise ships that have experienced higher growth in the country, and discussed the impact on the economic cruises are for the area.

“They generate a large amount of direct and indirect jobs, a major business with sales of excursions, crafts, paying taxis, cargo shipping, as well as consumption in restaurants, among other products and services that require tourists, “explained.

He said that “one of the priorities of Bay Cruises is security for tourists in transit for free and relaxed.

No poisonous snakes in DR

The Minister of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarena), Jaime David Fernandez Mirabal, denies the existence of any venomous snakes in the Dominican Republic, specifically in Villa Gonzalez, west of Santiago de los Caballeros, adding that there were no snakes that are harmful to humans in any part of the DR. As he headed up the second tree-planting campaign in Santiago’s Central Park, the former Vice-President said that the Boa Hispaniola is endemic to the island and its presence is beneficial, as it does not harm anyone (except for rats and unwary chickens). He said that in organic cacao plantations and in a more general sense, in agriculture, the Boa Hispaniola or green snake acts as a natural insecticide because it eats rats and woodpeckers. He called upon the population to protect its existence. The question came up after a press release from the Spanish news agency EFE that said there was a possibility that poisonous snakes existed in the country

Whitten Caribbean Real Estate

Whitten Caribbean Real Estate has just connected with a major international bank that has begun lending mortgage financing for second vacation home properties in the Caribbean and Central American marketplace.  We will be working with them to expand further this service to encompass all regions throughout the Caribbean and Central America.  Yes ground breaking!

With this mortgage opportunity, expat clients will be able to receive up to 70% financing on the purchase of their new vacation home and with an amortization of up to 30 years. Although the rate is still to be firmed up, I can say the rate will be competitive.

The test market for this mortgage financing will be in Costa Rica and is expected to quickly expand to the rest of the Caribbean and Central America.

To assist in taking this to the next level from the test market, we would like to get some idea of potential volumes and average loan size for mortgages in your country as well as average property values for both homes and condos.   From your experience what kind of numbers would you believe you could expect with this mortgage opportunity per quarter?

Kind Regards,

Donna L. Hood, President
Whitten Caribbean Real Estate

dhood@whittencapitalgroup.com, www.whittencapitalgroup.com, www.multiplelistingservicecaribbean.com

Casitas a la Barbacoa
Samana, Dominican Republic

Executive Summary

Table of Contents:

1. The Opportunity

2. The Property

3. About the Dominican Republic

4. The Project

5. Proposed Investment

6. Proposed Return on Investment

7. Estimated Project Completion

8. Terms of Sale

9. Miscellaneous

10. Others

11. Links and Photos

The Opportunity:

The Seller is offering approximately 6,400 M2 (1.6 Acres) on one of the most beautiful ocean-view properties on the north Atlantic shore of the Samana Peninsula. Already existing on the property is a two-story house of brand new construction, a large pool and Jacuzzi with a waterfall feature, electricity, and water. A road is in place to access the land.

The purchase price is $350,000USD. Seller would consider a Joint Venture. He is a builder here with over 10 years experience. The land adjacent to the north-west is currently being developed into high end villas. There are additional lands available.

The Seller has all titles and dislende. He has also plans and permits for building up to 16 more homes on the parcel.

Architectural renderings are being drawn up at this time. DR Paradise Real Estate www.DRParadise.com is assisting with these drawings, using their knowledge of Samana Peninsula Real Estate to guide both design and pricing. DR Paradise has over 8 years of experience in Real Estate on the Samana Peninsula..

Design emphasis: A modern style villa with plenty of open space, utilizing outdoor areas as living space in a larger than normal accent to take better advantage of our wonderful year around climate. This adds value for very little in construction costs.

The price of each of these new villas should be under $200,000. DR Paradise believes this is the price break with the largest percentage of buyers. DR Paradise also feels the inventory of homes or condos in this price range is increasingly becoming harder to find. DR Paradise knows that sales of the right home for the right price will ensure success in this project.

DR Paradise is inviting one or more equity investor partner(s) to buy the project. The more substantial financial backing, the faster the project can advance in both presales and infrastructure. The sale of the existing home can provide the working capital for the remaining infrastructure, landscaping, two more villas, and leave approximately $50,000 for contingencies. Sales of these 2 villas, and presales of the others can finance the rest.

The Seller believes that he has secured this land prior to an exponential appreciation in value due to the impact from new infrastructure on the Samana Peninsula. There is a recently opened International Airport at El Catey; There is a nearly finished highway from the capital in Santo Domingo. This cuts the driving time from the capital from 4.5 hours to a little over 2 hours. New water treatment facilities, new sewage treatment facilities, new marinas, golf courses and more are all well on their way. Values are quickly escalating as speculators are combing the area in an attempt to capitalize on these new important features.

The Property:

The Property is strategically located just 25 kilometers (15 miles) from the newly inaugurated El Catey International Airport servicing the Samana Peninsula. The property is one of the few beautiful development sites in this northern coast. The government has not only commenced the new highway uniting all points of Samana with the Airport but also a new highway cutting the travel time to the capital of Santo Domingo in half from four hours to under two. Reliable electricity from the city of Samana is available at the property line.

The nearest town to the property is Las Terrenas; a quaint intimate village popular with Europeans. The town has numerous quality restaurants and shops, boat clubs, libraries, medical facilities, banks and markets for year round residents. A golf course and marina are well under way. Development has been concentrated in the flat land areas and also near the bayside city of Samana located just thirty minutes away.

The property is consistent with the popular ecotourism character that Samana is famous for; lush tropical rain forest, waterfalls, pristine beaches with coral reefs and rising elevations more typical of pacific islands instead of the Caribbean. The north Atlantic coast is also famous for Humpback Whale watching, where they breach the surface in their mating ritual. The property is within minutes of over 14 kilometers of gorgeous Atlantic Ocean frontage with numerous areas of white sand beach and bluffs rising inland up to 320 meters in height. The property has a diversity of contours of gentle slopes and hills, and a small valley. Almost every lot will provide ocean views.

About the Dominican Republic:

The Dominican Republic possesses everything required for a high quality vacation or retirement destination experience, including great weather, spectacular ocean views, white sand beaches, dark blue warm ocean water, a growing economy, outstanding medical facilities, a non-oppressive tax structure, and a stable government. It has been a favorite destination for European vacationers, resulting in over 3,000,000 tourists per year. Today Americans are increasing exponentially as word of mouth of a good value for a high quality vacation experience continues to be had by most. The increasing affluent tourism has resulted in a great demand for retirement and vacation homes in an affordable price range. This project intends to capitalize on this trend by offering an option that will appeal to the aesthetic mind as well as to the pocket book.

Recent important institutional, legal and infrastructure improvements have paved the way for; impressive macroeconomic indicators, high international investor confidence and a thriving tourist market. Signing of the CAFTA-DR trade agreement with the United States and Central America and the consistent ideal vacation climate are compelling reasons for optimism for the near future.

Much of the Tourist based development investment boom is a result of both foreigners and Dominicans alike enjoying the Tax free or at least tax reduction status imposed on profits emanating from tourist based development projects. Tax relief has also been extended to rental income and property taxes for the buyers in tourist orientated developments, creating another strong reason to buy property.

Dominican labor pool offers an eager to learn work force willing work with pride. The government has extended the Haitian migrant labor force, who traditionally worked the sugar cane fields, into supplying an abundant labor force to meet the current construction boom demand. Haitians are currently working for wages as low as $12 to $15.00 per day. The never before dreamed of full time maid, gardener and/or cook is now a reality!.

The Project:

The 6,400 m2 (1.6 acres) can be divided into 10 to 16 lots for villas. There is already one completed villa that can be sold or used for a sales center. The projected project yield will be: 11 – 17 2-story villas of approximately 150 m2, all with ocean view. Average unit prices will be $200,000. Prices will depend somewhat on view and preconstruction discounts. Two to three design choices will be available. Living and recreation areas will find lushly landscaped privacy and quiet relaxation amongst a tropical back drop accentuated with fruit trees, and tropical gardens.

Employing a high density impact to further keep pricing affordable is suggested. Because of this, we can utilize condominium and HOA by-laws to maintain the premises and further escalate appreciation in value. This also allows for possible rental programs that can offset expenses for unit buyers.

In a preconstruction promotion, Units are expected to sell out rapidly to investors who hope to catch the first price release and earn high appreciation as the project advances. Additional investor grade buyer sales incentives will include discounts in exchange for an immediate preconstruction advance closing. The project will be propelled on pre-construction sales providing a 30% deposit at contract and released for construction; commissions and marketing budgets for the next unit roll out. Each unit will be treated as an individual project and allow for suitable financial options to execute the completion based on each sales success. Early Bird Buyers will have the opportunity to resell contracts through the Developer if a market is willing to pay more for being nearer to completion. Prices are expected to rise as the project advances and ultimately set record sales due to the lack of comparable competitive development in the immediate area. Buyer financing is available from a local bank for up to 80% mortgage at the rate of approximately 9% for 20 years. Guzman and Associates www.DRlawyer.com can handle all escrow disbursements and title insurance.

To further enhance profits, furniture packages will be offered. We have an associate that imports beautiful furnishings from china at substantial savings. The buyer can pass along some of these savings and still reap profits. This same associate can also supply the buyer with building supplies (i.e. sinks, tubs, doors, windows, faucets and more) at these same steep savings.

PROPOSED INVESTMENT: 10 Villas 16 Villas

Property Acquisition US $ 350,000 US $ 350,000

Cost of Development US $ 675,000 US $1,125,000

Cost of Marketing and Sales US $ 120,000 US $ 192,000

Misc. & Contingencies Costs US $ 20,000 US $ 32,000

Total Investment US $1,165,000 US $ 1,699,000

PROJECTED RETURN ON INVESTMENT: 10 Villas 16 Villas

Villas at $200,000 sales price on average US $2,000,000 US $3,200,000

NET PROFIT: 10 Villas 16 Villas

US $ 835,000 US $1,501,000

ESTIMATED PROJECT COMPLETION:

2-3 Years

TERMS OF SALE:

10% US $35,000 deposit at signing of Contract for Sale and Purchase. Deposit is held by Guzman and Associates. Deposit is fully refundable until Due Diligence is done. 45 days for Due Diligence

15% US $52,500 in 45 days of signing of Contract for Sale and Purchase. This money is NOT refundable unless Seller defaults.

75% US $262,500 in 90 days of signing of Contract for Sale and Purchase. Buyer takes possession immediately at this time.

MISCELLANEOUS:

Development and Construction financing may be obtainable

OTHERS:

Excluded from the project revenue are:

1. The potential revenue & earnings that could be derived from the sale of furniture packages.

2. Revenue from rental programs.

3. Revenue from shops or other concessions.

These revenues are not included and could be estimated under separate study.

Links and Photos

Architectural renderings, title, permits and site plans: http://picasaweb.google.com/DLHussmann/CasitasDePiero

Photos:http://picasaweb.google.com/DLHussmann/PieroSEstate16AcresSeaviewPropertyNearLaBarbacoa

Photos: http://picasaweb.google.com/DLHussmann/LT740PieroInLaBarbacoa

MAP: http://www.drparadise.com/map.html

Getting There: http://www.drparadise.com/getting.html

Legal Aspects: http://www.drparadise.com/legal.html

More Legal Stuff: http://www.drlawyer.com/

New Santo Domingo to Samana Highway

sign depicts the future road being built that will entirely cicumnavigate the Samana Peninsula.

It was a gorgeous day for a ride.

So, I’m driving along, minding my own business

I think I’ll check out a few kilometers for myself…

this is pretty darn nice

SANTO DOMINGO 102 KILOMETERS

Heck, Nagua is almost 20 Kilometers…

It’s a nice day…

And check out this scenery…

“OK, wild hair or not, I’m going for it!”

80 SMILES AN HOUR BA-A-BB-YYYY!!

only 2 unpaved stretches each about 3 kilometers long

Some of the scenery was really astounding

A fringe benefit to living here…practically NO TAXES!

In the good ol’ USA, we pay…
> Accounts Receivable Tax
> Building Permit Tax
> CDL License Tax
> Cigarette Tax
> Corporate Income Tax
> Dog License Tax
> Federal Income Tax
> Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA)
> Fishing License Tax
> Food License Tax
> Fuel Permit Tax
> Gasoline Tax
> Hunting License Tax
> Inheritance Tax
> Inventory Tax
> IRS Interest Charges (tax on top of tax),
> IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax),
> Liquor Tax,
> Luxury Tax,
> Marriage License Tax,
> Medicare Tax,
> Property Tax,
> Real Estate Tax,
> Service charge taxes,
> Social Security Tax,
> Road Usage Tax (Truckers),
> Sales Taxes,
> Recreational Vehicle Tax,
> School Tax,
> State Income Tax,
> State Unemployment Tax (SUTA),
> Telephone Federal Excise Tax,
> Telephone Federal Universal Service Fee Tax,
> Telephone Federal, State and Local Surcharge Tax,
> Telephone Minimum Usage Surcharge Tax,
> Telephone Recurring and Non-recurring Charges Tax,
> Telephone State and Local Tax,
> Telephone Usage Charge Tax,
> Utility Tax,
> Vehicle License Registration Tax,
> Vehicle Sales Tax,
> Watercraft Registration Tax,
> Well Permit Tax,
> Workers Compensation Tax.
>

I’ve lived here for 1.5 years. I can’t remember when I’ve paid a tax here except for my phone and whatever they get for gasoline. My vehicle? No. Workers comp? NO. Unemployment tax? No. Property tax? No. Income tax? No.

I’m not adverse to paying some taxes. I want roads, and fire departments and police departments. I just do not want to be OVERTAXED! Also, I’d like a little more say on where my tax dollars are spent.

Until that happens, I think I will just stick my head in the cool white sand on our beautiful beaches and enjoy not being taxed for a while!

Respectfully yours,

DanDannyDaniel Hussmann

1-829-380-8094

Member ICREA

www.drparadise.com

Skype Address – dlhussmann

blog URL is drparadise.wordpress.com

Las Terrenas, Samana, Dominican Republic

OMSA offers free rides. Today, work off after 12.

OMSA offers free rides
The Metropolitan Bus Service Office (OMSA) will offer free bus rides Friday, to aid voters in getting to and from their voting stations. OMSA administrator Ignacio Ditren Flores told El Nuevo Diario that their fleet of buses would be on hand from 6am until their standard time of closing. The busses will be obtainable in Santo Domingo and Santiago de los Caballeros. They take their Democracy seriously in the Dominican Republic.

Today, work off after 12
The Presidency has confirmed that starting today, May 15^th at noon, will begin a holiday and will extend thru Saturday May 17^th at 6:00 am. Decree 193-08 makes clear that the time off is designed to make it easier for Dominicans to vote. Thousands of Dominicans live far from their voting stations because of never changing their addresses. Public services, such as police and fire stations, hospitals, and businesses that obviously can’t close (like hotels) will carry on as usual. Most schools also determined to allow their students the two days off as well.

Tourism continues to do fine. Foreign investment stable.

Tourism continues to do fine
Climbing energy prices and the financial problems in the United States hinted at uncertainties that the Dominican tourism sector would see a fall in 2008, the opposite has happened. The Ministry of Tourism announced that in the first quarter of the year, 1,430,034 visitors have arrived. This is 6.73% more than in the 1^st quarter of 2007, when 1,339,836 tourists arrived.
April traveler flow numbers single-handedly show a 2.54% swell compared to 2007, and there is a inclination for arrivals to continue to outpace 2007 figures. This year, 315,721 tourists visited in April, as opposed to 307,914 in April 2007.
El Caribe reports that most people are coming from the US, Canada, Spain, France, Switzerland and Belgium.

Minister of Tourism, Felix Jimenez reported that Canadians are showing their strength. Canadians accounted for 398,023 arrivals in the first four months of this year, balanced against 358,638 last year.

Foreign investment stable
The DR has received a total of US$12.1 billion in foreign direct venture capital (FDI) during the past 15 years. This data was derived from the Foreign Investment Association (ASIEX) and the Central Bank, the Dominican Republic Center for Exports and Investment (CEI-RD). 2007 alone the Dominican Republic received US$1.7 billion in FDI, a little less than Costa Rica, but higher than any of the other four DR-CAFTA countries. Tourism and telecommunications were the chief areas of outlay. Net proceeds for services have sustained an unvarying consistency. Net revenues registered 95% in 2007. Free trade zones equaled 4% net revenues in 2007. Macroeconomic stability in the DR has been the means in increasing FDI says Listen Dario

US$100 million to be invested in DR by IDB

The IDB, better known as the Inter-American Development Bank has recently indicated they will invest US$100 USD million to aid with the educational desires of the DR and to build up what is called “institutional infrastructures.” The  representative for IDB in the D R, Manuel Labrado, spoke regarding the program through a stopover at the Chamber of Deputies. Mr. Labrado held that the agenda would be completed in affiliation with the government and after analyzing the priorities of the people.

Santa Samana weekend fiesta

Santa Samana weekend fiesta

Watching Whales

Where else in the world can you have tropical breezes while watching whales from your property?

Las Terrenas gets paved!!!

Mar 15, 2008
by DanDannyDaniel Hussmann
Bailla en La Calle – people were actually dancing in the streets as we FINALLY get paved roads!

Horses downtown Las Terrenas

1950´s re-lived again.

Happy buyers John and Barbara Irving of Myrtle Beach Florida

Happy buyers John and Barbara Irving of Myrtle Beach Florida
Las Terrenas, Samana, Dominican Republic – Mar 15, 2008
by DanDannyDaniel Hussmann
Bought 3 bedroom unit in Paraiso Las Terrenas

Another Fine Catch

Tourism going strong

Tourism Minister Felix Jimenez says Dominican Republic Tourism could surpass 2007’s awesome figures in 2008. In January and February of this year, a total of 725,238 people visited Republica Dominica. This represents a  9.14% boost in tourists as compared to the January and February of 2007.
Senor Jimenez pointed out  that figures from Central Bank specify that in February alone 372,002 visitors traveled to the DR, which represents a 12.74% increase on last year. For the period of the first two months of the year Canadians comprised the greatest amount of visitors with 13.9%. This was closely followed by US visitors at 10%,  Europeans made up 2.12%. Russians, 9.3%, people from Belgium, 7.2, then Great Britain with 2.7%.
The Tourism Minister also said this swell in travel was perpetuated by the Dominican government’s improved spending on promotion. He added that throughout the past three years the normal spending on tourism advertising came to about US$23.3 million.

Cost of Website Design in Dominican Republic

There are many variables to be considered when designing a custom web site. Your actual price will vary according to what type of site you want. Custom programming will increase the cost. Doing some planning before actual production begins will limit the need for changes and save time and money. You should decide what your budget is before you request web design quotes. The purpose of your web site is to attract new customers. Often one or two new customers is all it takes to recoup your money.
The Basic Package is ideal for individuals looking to make the leap onto the web with a easy yet stylish presence. This package includes up to 6 pages, all the graphics, and one contact form. Starting from us$ 299 !

Please visit NC Web Design for details.

For a small investment your company can have a website that levels your competition. With effects like advanced graphic design, nice buttons, and/or flash animation.

Happy Buyers and Seller

Happy buyers Joseph and Joan Supino of Canada celebrate their closing with seller Kathy Rich of Las Terrenas.

Subject: LT 745 property

Subject: LT 745  http://www.drparadise.com/detail/sale/s745.html
 
 
Hi Danny,
Thanks for your info.
Is LT 745 in a gated community?
[DL Hussmann] LT 745 is not in a gated community in the traditional sense. It is in a relatively high traffic area. The road in is a dead end so there is only one way in and out. There are two other large homes behind it so any outlaws would have to enter, cross two other homes…do their nefarious deed and then escape carrying their ill-gotten gains all the way back through two yards complete with 8 foot walls and lights etc. Owner told me just yesterday when we showed it to this couple from South Carolina that they had never had any trouble. Owners have security lighting at each corner, the windows are all barred with the ornate iron work, the doors all have locking-latching mechanisms that would make it virtually impossible to penetrate without a tank. I would leave my 6-year old alone in this house!
 
 Do you have photos of 745 lot / garden area and any photos of nearby homes and beach area?
[DL Hussmann] I have many photos of the lot…night time too…will forward. No photos of nearby homes but they are really nice – the beach has typical Las Terrenas beauty and with over 14 kilometers of beach to choose from you can pick open and busy to private and secluded. I will get some photos of both of these. Please allow a little time as we are in our High Season here. Actually sold 2 this week!
Are there any health spas, clubs with pools and movie theaters and in this town?
[DL Hussmann] There is a gym. There are many hotels with pools and they are lenient about usage. There are a couple spas. All these things are in the works! More and more things coming online every month. No “Real” movie theatre here but there is one restaurant that has a screen set up on the beach and every night he shows different movies, or maybe 1980’s MTV (imaging Boy George, Cindy Lauper, Big Hair and biker shorts! It’s a hoot!)
I hope to be coming around March if I can get away.
[DL Hussmann] Come on down!
 
What is the difference between the two areas? and how do beaches differ between where you are and Bavaro?
[DL Hussmann] I’ll let Andy tell you that since I have never been to Bavaro.
Sand beaches in Las Terrenas area seems to be more brown colored than Punta Cana & Bavaro beaches which are white…Is this so?
Our beaches range from nearly white like in the Playa Rincon area to a pretty Honey-color. They are spectacular.

Respectfully yours,
DanDannyDaniel Hussmann
1-829-644-8094

purchase of property in the Dominican Republic

Thank you for your interest in our services. We would be more than happy to assist you in the purchase of property in the Dominican Republic. For general information on buying real estate in the Dominican Republic, please refer to our articles on that subject found in our website www.drlawyer.com . You may go directly to them by clicking here: http://www.drlawyer.com/txt/articlesreal.html .
 
As an initial advice we recommend all of our clients to not have any monies wired to the seller before our attorneys have either conducted the due diligence on the property and/or a promise of sale has been signed conditioning the final sale to the due diligence findings. Please obtain a copy of the Certificate of Title from the seller in order for us to begin the title investigation.
 
As for fees, our standard fixed fee for real estate purchases ranges from 0.1% to 1.0% of the gross purchase price, depending on the value of the transaction. Our fees for purchases below $500,000 US is 1% with a minimum fee of US$850 for cash purchases requiring only one contract and US$1500 for purchases requiring more than one contract. The fixed fee covers the following: (a) title investigation and due diligence, (b) negotiation, preparation, authentication and recording of the deed of sale, (c) short-term escrow services and (d) obtaining from the Internal Revenue Department an appraisal of the property purchased in order to ascertain the amount of transfer taxes to be paid, (e) payment of taxes, (f) recording of the deed of sale at the Registry of Titles, and (g) obtaining the Certificate of Title in the name of the buyer.
 
Not included in the fixed fee are transfer taxes (approx. 3.1% of appraised value), surveyor’s fees ($150+ depending on the size of the property) incorporation costs ($1400 + depending on the capitalization), fees and expenses related to the representation of the client by power of attorney in case the client will not be present at closing ($250). We strongly recommend using a corporation for the purchase for the reasons found in our website article. Legal fees in the Dominican Republic are subject to a 16% service tax. 
 
Finally, we would be most grateful, if you could take a second of your time and fill out this quick four-question Prospective Client Survey by clicking on the following link or pasting it on your browser’s address bar.

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=9XNkUvId0fX992xoYqFuDg_3d_3d
 
Respectfully yours,
DanDannyDaniel Hussmann
1-829-644-8094
www.drparadise.com
Skype Address – dlhussmann
Las Terrenas, Samana, Dominican Republic

Agreement with a AAA Prime Bank in NYC

Wanted to let you know we have been able to reach an agreement with a AAA Prime Bank in NYC. This is not a local lender. They offer three types of mortgages: purchase, refinance and cash out (sorry no construction loans). Offer is limited to U.S., Canadian & UK citizens. See the below requirements.

• The property must have a clear title. If the title is not available, the buyer can be approved and the file held until the title becomes available.
• Completely filled application (lender application form)
• Signed credit report release form
• 2 years full tax returns
• Most recent four (4) pay statements
• Most recent asset statements (ex. Stocks, 401k, brokerage account, etc.), must include support documentation
• Minimum loan is $150,000.
• LTV is 70% of appraised value, meaning if the property appraised at $250,000, the most they would finance is $175,000.
• The loan will be a 30 year mortgage fixed for 5 years at 7.95% that changes to an ARM (Adjustable Rate Mortgage) for the final 25 years. Prepayment penalty in place for the first 5 years that begins at 5%, and reduces by 1% per year until the end of the 5th year.
• Buyer should know within 72 hours about the loan status once the documents are in the lender’s hands.
• Fee structure – lender charges a 2% origination fee, we are paid by the lender. Based on the above example total mortgage fees would be $3,500.
• Mortgage Insurance is NOT required
• Property Insurance IS required (obtained by the borrower)
• Property should be within a gated community
• Americans and Canadians can write off the loan interest on their income tax.

The lender is interested in moving fast and if the buyer is qualified should have their loan in about 30 days. If you have someone who requires a mortgage please let us know, we can help you make your sale.
Regards

Larry Rogers
Dominican Mortgage Broker C por A
Oficina #203, Calle Alejo Martinez
Sosua, El Batey, Puerto Plata DR
Ph: (809) 571-3161
Internet Ph: (772) 539-9662
Fax: (809) 571-4009
E-Mail: info@dominicanmortgagebroker.com
Internet: www.dominicanmortgagebroker.com

Aguilas Win!!! 2007 Playoffs!

 

I was for Licey!

Too bad for me!

 

I wonder what would have happened if Licey would have won?!

 

Total Mayhem!

 

There must have been a thousand bikes. Everyoine was jumping up and down on them.

 

You should have been here to feel the beat. The music was so loud my chest was thumping!

 

People were shouting, screaming, whistling, blowing their horns, waving banners and showing their pride.

 

Thsi is a parade right after the victory.

 

This is in Las Terrenas…no where near the action so to speak, but the Baseball fever was high!

 

Aguilas win!! Aguilas win!

 

Quality Education takes Priority in The Dominican Republic

The Ministry of Economy, Planning and Development  celebrated its first anniversary by organizing a day-long Economic Perspectives Seminar. At the seminar, it was determined that the most important item to recommend was to increase spending on education. What they are hoping to do is to ensure a quantum leap in the quality of Dominican Education.

Economic consultant Carlos Asilis emphasized that there was a call for improvement in the quality of education  in the DR. Former Central Bank governor Bernardo Vega cited education as the DR’s greatest opportunity. He stressed that the DR cannot keep up with the competition with the way things are now. He warned that unless changes are quickly made, Cuba, who has a highly educated populace will take even more business. High wages but unskilled labor has already resulted in a loss of manufacturing income.

Former Central Bank governor Carlos Despradel said that ultimately, to realize superior productivity in the workplace, essential improvements in the educational system are necessary. Isidoro Santana also said that increasing social spending to elevate human skills should not be restricted to producing misinformation about government spending on education. Santana said that the country’s supreme disappointment is that while international surveys show the dismal assessment of education in Dominican students, the general public seems to be happy with what it is receiving. He surmises this is just an indication of the general population’s low level of education.
 
 
Respectfully yours,
DanDannyDaniel Hussmann
1-829-644-8094
www.drparadise.com
Skype Address – dlhussmann
blog URL is drparadise.wordpress.com
Las Terrenas, Samana, Dominican Republic

Health care

Health care is an issue all of us baby-boomers (wow, lots of booming going on here!) have on our minds. I can tell you from personal experience health care here is pretty darn good and very cheap. I personally have had some minor stuff done…a pretty serious burn and a sever bronchial problem that were taken care of rapidly, efficiently and cheaply. I know of a girl that had a miscarriage and she was quite satisfied with her treatment. My friend Monchey had a hernia repaired and my friend John had a gall bladder removed…all here in Las Terrenas!
My dental work was spick and span and cheap. A rear-lower molar root canal was quoted to me in the states at “at least $1,500″. Mine was $300 here and the office was full of modern equipment and complete with a University of Wisconsin Dental School diploma on the wall.
 
 
Respectfully yours,
DanDannyDaniel Hussmann
1-829-644-8094
www.drparadise.com
Skype Address – dlhussmann
blog URL is drparadise.wordpress.com
Las Terrenas, Samana, Dominican Republic

Emerging markets

I studied emerging markets for over a year. I read everything I could read, I attended seminars in many cities, I even went for five days to the National Association of Realtors convention in New Orleans. This was held in November ’06.

While at this convention, I spent my entire time in the International Pavilion. I looked at Real Estate opportunities in every nook and cranny of our globe. I took this stuff back to my room at night and poured over the literature and I kept narrowing my choices down…and kept narrowing and kept narrowing…until…

I landed here, in the Dominican Republic…and not only here, but on the Samana Peninsula on the famed North Coast. I believe this to be one of the top 2 or 3 Real Estate opportunities in the world today and that it’s close (< 2 hour plane ride from Miami) proximity to the US definitely puts it at number one for anyone in the Western Hemisphere.

I’ve been living here off and on for nearly a year now (first trip February, ’07) and permanently since mid July, 2007 and you know what I’ve discovered?? I’ve discovered that almost everything I studied, read and heard has come true.

I was told we would have a new International Airport…well, we have one at El Catey. American Airlines is already doing daily flights there from Miami (via Puerto Rico) and I just heard this week Jet Blue has direct flights from New York!

I was told we would have a new road connecting this new airport to Las Terrenas and the Samana Peninsula and it has already been cleared.

I was told we would have a new road connecting the capital of Santo Domingo in the south to the Samana Peninsula and though it is not paved entirely people are already driving it. This cuts what was about a 4 hour drive down to about 1 ½ hours!

I was told we would have new golf courses and several are already being built and several more have been approved.

I was told we would have a marina and land has already been purchased, cleared and even rivers moved. Talk about your Dubai-like scale!

I was told we would see an increase in Cruise travel and that is happening. We went from 2-4 cruise ships a week in season to now over 10 a week.

I was told we would have new water treatment facility and pipeline and that’s 75% done.

I was told we would have new sewer treatment and city sewer and that’s nearly complete.

Other things like Fee Simple Land title (you actually OWN your purchase), awesome tax benefits, new medical and dental facilities, American Engineering firms, Architects and designers all flocking here. Environmental obligations are being embraced. Education is at the top of every politicians mind.

And The Donald says it’s pretty good too. He sold over $300,000,000 USD at has Cap Cana project in JUST ONE DAY!!

Check out the other articles in this BLOG for more details. Look at the “Why Buy Here” piece, the Forbes Magazine articles, the Wall Street Journal article.

If you are still doubtful then you need to come on down…heck, you need to come on down anyway. “We’ll leave a light on”.

Right after I arrived the first trip I was introduced to Bruce Pierson and the fine people at DR Paradise and DR Caribbean Real Estate (www.drparadise.com and www.drcaribbean.net respectively). They are an excite group of people completely knowledgeable after over 8 years serving the Dominican Republic and the Samana Peninsula.

Please call or write…we’re very happy to help with travel arrangements!

Respectfully yours,
DanDannyDaniel Hussmann
1-829-644-8094
www.drparadise.com
Skype Address – dlhussmann
Las Terrenas, Saman, Dominican Republic

Bring your coats!

If you’re visiting the Dominican Republic this winter please bring any and all old jackets, coats, mittens and scarves you can part with. You can bring them directly to us in El Paseo Mall in Las Terrenas or take them yourselves to the mountain town of Constanza.

Reports are that temperatures are just a few degrees above freezing in the morning. The people living in and around this area will certainly appreciate having them. Can you imagine snow-capped mountains in the Caribbean? Strange isn’t it.

Midnight temps linger around nine degrees, but have recurrently dropped to the six degree mark. Many residents say it gets much colder and even without the benefit of temperature gauges, I can certainly feel for these people!. They often report riverbanks, ponds, lakes and puddles frosting over, sometimes with a fairly hard freeze.
Francisco Radhames Perez, a farmer, estimates that he has seen hard freezes four times already this year. This part of the country is always known as the coldest area and several days of below freezing temperatures have already been recorded.
Duarte Peak is the highest in the Caribbean and I have been told many times it is snow-capped year around. However, there is no weather measuring equipment there. Perhaps that is a good thing. We wouldn’t want people looking for warm sandy beaches getting the wrong idea would we?
So, with record low temperatures, it looks like we can put the Global Warming Theory on the back burner for now…well, at least until tourist season is over!
E-mail me if you would like to donate coats and need hard info on how to get them here! We’d love to chat with you!

Respectfully yours,
DanDannyDaniel Hussmann
1-829-644-8094
www.drparadise.com
Skype Address – dlhussmann
blog URL is drparadise.wordpress.com
Las Terrenas, Samana, Dominican Republic

Why buy here?

Real Estate Investment Opportunities

  Las Terrenas, Samaná

  Dominican Republic

Prepared by: DanDannyDaniel Hussmann

  829-644-8094

Las Terrenas Real Estate Investment Opportunities

  This document has been prepared to show potential investors a unique location of the Dominican Republic called Las Terrenas in Samaná. In this area a number of beachfront properties are still available for sale by their original owners through various representatives.

The next few pages contain:

  • Introduction to the Dominican Republic, Samaná, and Las Terrenas

• Transportation to the area

• Why invest in Las Terrenas

• Q&A section

• Brief guide to investing in the Dominican Republic

• Conclusion

Introduction to the Dominican Republic, Samaná, and Las Terrenas

The Dominican Republic

  A tropical destination, the Dominican Republic is a Caribbean gem located in the Lesser Antilles, on the island of Hispaniola. Sunny days and cloudless skies attract visitors from all over the world, where they arrive to the welcoming sound of gentle waves rising and falling along the soft powdery sands. In the carefree atmosphere of the Dominican Republic you will quickly feel at home. Cheery locals, fresh food, fabulous weather, immaculate beaches and stunning terrain combine to create the ultimate island get-away.

There is no better place to get your feet wet, as you partake in water-sports of all kinds – windsurfing, kayaking, snorkeling, jet skiing, scuba diving, surfing and more.

Or stay dry on land and climb up verdant sloping hills, hike through fascinating nature preserves, and photograph rare species amidst thriving blooms and trees.

And, of course, you always have the option of simply dozing off on a hammock on the beach, the sun warming your skin while the breeze keeps you refreshed. In the Dominican Republic you will discover remarkable things you’ve never before experienced.

The Dominican Republic, only a two hour flight from the U.S., is one of the largest tourism destinations of the Caribbean, and is still growing rapidly. With a stable economy and the rapid expansion of the tourism industry, the Dominican Republic is a strategic place for

  property investments. Low cost of labor and an affordable cost of living make this country a smart choice for the development of any tourism or real estate projects.

Samaná

  Along the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic lies the Samaná Peninsula, an immaculate region stretching into the clear blue Atlantic Ocean. Here you will find lush rainforests amidst flowing waterfalls and gentle mountains. Charming villages dot the area,

  providing excellent destinations awaiting your discovery.

In addition to being known as a haven for birds and wildlife of all kinds, the Bay of Samaná is most commonly renowned for welcoming the stunning humpback whales during their annual migration, in the months of January through March. These large whales swim from

  Greenland and Iceland to the Samaná Bay for a warmer winter, and to mate and feed. Mid-March, they head back to where they came from, only to return a year later so that the females can give birth in the warm Dominican waters.

In view of the outstanding natural beauty of the region and its unique natural and cultural resources, the initiative has been taken to have the contiguous area of the peninsula, the bay, and Los Haitises recognized as a Biosphere Reserve. This program operates at different levels: naturalist guide training, community education, working together with and advising the local and national tourism industry, government organizations and development agencies. The mid-term aim is to develop tourism which brings economic benefits to the local communities and the region, and conserves the outstanding natural beauty and resources for posterity and the long-term viability of the tourism sector.

  Biosphere Reserves are protected areas in terrestrial, coastal, and marine environments that have been selected to serve as representative examples of a country´s natural and cultural patrimony. Reserve designation is provided by the United Nations Educational, Scientific

  and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) Man and the Biosphere Program (MAB), initiated in 1971. The Biosphere Reserve is the oldest and only internationally recognized program which designates protected areas with the objective of making conservation compatible with economic and social development.

Las Terrenas

  It is said that the most beautiful region in all of the Dominican Republic is the Samaná Peninsula… Jutting out along the northeastern coastline, it is home to a wealth of tropical nature’s boundless beauty.

And among the blooming rainforests, whispering mountains and

  10 miles of golden beaches lies a hidden treasure: Las Terrenas.

Located on the north coast of the Samaná peninsula lays the quaint sea-side town of Las Terrenas. Just a few years ago, this small village of local fishermen was transformed into the perfect destination for those seeking a private tropical paradise. Bordered to the south by lush and vibrant green mountains and to the north by miles of undeveloped beaches, Las Terrenas is widely acknowledged as the most beautiful natural destination in the Dominican Republic.

Over the past 10 years, Europeans have done a spectacular job of building an international community here with fabulous restaurants, bed and breakfast hotels, and charming villas, without destroying or offending the local culture. The sandy roads that stretch along its

  coasts are lined with over 40 bars and restaurants nestled between countless coconut trees.

Although the village is secluded from the large all-inclusive resort towns, it shares in their comforts of large supermarkets, international banks, internet cafes and an excellent telecommunications infrastructure.

Not only does Las Terrenas provide you with an abundance of activities and entertainment, but its surrounding areas bestow upon you even more options for an unforgettable time. You will find that the spirit of this delightful village is infused with an alluring ambiance

  made up of the kindest of locals, the most spectacular of nature’s assets, a sublime climate, and an easy-going tropical optimism. Experience the area’s bohemian qualities and rustic atmosphere – from handmade arts and crafts found within the many villages, to divine

  dishes overflowing with delectable food grown by the locals in the naturally enriched soil, trees, and plants; your senses will be impeccably treated.

Las Terrenas Village features lively shopping areas and ocean side restaurants and a neighboring full service marina currently under development.

Transportation to the area

  Halfway between Punta Cana and Puerto Plata, Las Terrenas rests in an area that is secluded enough to provide the ultimate hide-away feel, while still emanating a vibrant and lively atmosphere thanks to the quaint surrounding villages. Here’s how to get there:

By Plane:

  The Dominican Republic boasts seven International Airports, facilitating the arrival and departure of visitors from all over the world. With one National and two International Airports within a radius of 18 miles of Las Terrenas, it couldn’t be easier to get here.

• Arroyo Barril International Airport, located 15 miles south of Las Terrenas.

  • El Catey International Airport, 18 miles west of Las Terrenas.

• El Portillo National Airport, 2 miles east of Las Terrenas

Each of these airports is easily accessible by plane via any of the Dominican Republic’s major International Airports, which include:

• Las Americas International in Santo Domingo, a 30-minute flight to Las Terrenas.

• Cibao International Airport in Santiago, a 35-minute flight to Las Terrenas.

• Puerto Plata International Airport, a 35-minute flight to Las Terrenas.

• Punta Cana International Airport, a 25-minute flight to Las Terrenas

You can purchase a seat on any one of the local airlines, or charter a private plane from any of the seven international airports to the Las Terrenas/Portillo airport for anywhere between $75 USD to $400 USD.

  Several major airlines offer regular service into all seven of the DR’s international airports from North America and Europe.

Approximate flight times are as followed:

  • New York: 3 1/2 hours

  • Miami: 1 ½ hours

  • Toronto: 5 hours

  • Major European cities: 8-10 hours

By Land:

  The simplest way to arrive by land at Las Terrenas is straight from Santo Domingo’s Las Americas International Airport. Driving north out of Santo Domingo, a short distance out of Bonao keep a look out for a sign pointing to Piedra Blanca, where after turning the road

  will lead you all the way to Samaná. A new highway is under construction, which will reduce the driving time from Santo Domingo from 5 hours to 90 minutes.

Why invest in Las Terrenas

  Unlike many of the coastal towns in the Dominican Republic, Las Terrenas has been mostly undiscovered by major economic tourism and development. The Peninsula of Samaná was mainly an eco-tourism destination and the perfect hideaway for many Europeans expats.

Most of the desired real estate is not owned yet by foreign investors or all-inclusive hotel chains, instead much of it is still owned by Dominican families and is still affordable.

This is about to change. The new international airport, El Catey (25 minutes drive from Las Terrenas), is now operational. Long distance carriers from Europe and The Americas are now bringing tourists directly in the Samaná Peninsula.

In May 2005 construction began on the new Santo Domingo – Samaná Highway that will reduce the drive time from 5 hours to less than 90 minutes.

In the past year alone, 4 all-inclusive, 5 star Bahia Principe resorts have opened in the peninsula, with a total of 1,600 rooms. The major project “Las Terrenas Country Club” is already under construction and selling its villas and condos on the golf course, designed by

  the world renowned Dye family.

A marina project, called Puerto Bonito, with 150 slips, is also under construction near Las Terrenas.

Chains such as Wyndham and Meliá have acquired properties and options on several of the available land plots, narrowing the window

  of available real estate in the area.

We believe that there is a 3 to 6 year window of opportunity to purchase land for development in the area of Las Terrenas, and, the sooner the better.  It is likely that 2 to 3 years after completion of the

  new international airport and highway, the prices of real estate will have drastically increased, catching up to and equaling the other Caribbean Islands.

In addition to the developments and chains mentioned above, more than 20 more projects are currently underway in Samaná. Presently, investing in Las Terrenas is not only about investing in one of the most beautiful areas in the Caribbean, but also about the possibility of getting an excellent ROI. We foresee land prices will continue rising, minimum, at a yearly rate of about 35%. Compared to the low rates of ROI in Europe and the US, this signifies great potential for earnings with minimal risk.

The Dominican Republic is one of the most stable countries in the Caribbean and Latin America. The Government has signed a free trade agreement with Canada and the US, as well as a number of other Latin American countries. Its currency has been stable at an average of 32 pesos per US dollar for the past 3 years. Its strategic geographic location along with very low labor and living costs makes this country very attractive for those who are looking for high profitability and security.

In 1998 Presidential Decree 21-98 ruled that foreigners can buy any and as much private property as they want, complete with the title of

  possession (proof of ownership).

Tax Exemptions- There is a law applied to tourist areas with strong potential in need of development such as Las Terrenas. Certain companies in these areas of the country can benefit from exoneration of company taxes (up to 100%) as well as national and municipal

  taxes on building permits and ownership certificates (100%).

Q&A

  Q: Why the Dominican Republic, and why Las Terrenas?

  A: The DR is arguably the most beautiful spot in the Caribbean, referred to by many as “The Land Of Dreams”. Las Terrenas boasts a magical strip of 15 kilometers of virgin beach, and a town with more than 40 international restaurants including everything from Italian,

  French, and Swiss cuisine to Japanese sushi bars. It offers as well a broad selection of available activities including horseback riding, golf, scuba diving, windsurfing, tennis and many more within just minutes of town.

Q: What is the resident population of Las Terrenas?

  A: 20,000 of which approximately 6,000 are foreigners.

Q: Where is the Dominican Republic and Las Terrenas? (see map)

  A: The Dominican Republic occupies the eastern two-thirds of Hispaniola, located between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Las Terrenas is located on the northern coastline of the Samaná peninsula along Hispaniola’s north coast.

Q: How do I get to the Dominican Republic and Las Terrenas?

  A: Several major airlines offer regular service into several cities in the DR, from cities in both North America and Europe. From the U.S. and Canada, Continental, American Airlines, and TWA have direct flights to the DR. Regular flights are available from Europe via Air France, Air Europe, American Airlines, Lufthansa and Iberia. The DR has 7 international airports, the three largest of which are in Puerto Plata, Santo Domingo and Punta Cana.

Q: What is the form of government in the DR?

  A: The Dominican Republic has enjoyed more than three decades of stable democratic conditions. Presidential elections are held every 4 years, with a maximum of 2 consecutive terms allowed any given President. The DR is considered a model Latin American country.

Q: What is there to do for entertainment in the DR?

  A: Sports: The DR offers a wide range of sports, both on land and in the water. They include: tennis, golf, polo, diving, snorkeling, horseback riding, deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, sailing, caving, mountain biking, basketball, baseball, and plenty more.

Beaches: Las Terrenas has an astounding 10 mile stretch of beach; the entire DR boasts over 250 miles.

Gambling: Gambling is legal in the DR. Large casinos and hotels offer card games, roulette, slot machines, as well as horse-racing and boat-racing and cockfighting. You must be age 18 or over to gamble in the DR.

Shopping: The relatively low rate of the peso in the DR makes shopping a sheer pleasure. An impressive variety of local crafts and products are available as well as various outside goods imported from all around the world.

Dining: Dominican cuisine offers a unique combination of local spices and cooking styles, with several of its seafood dishes known worldwide. The food speaks for itself- give it a try!

Q: What is the language of the DR?

  A: Spanish, although English is widely spoken throughout the expat and business communities. As an international tourist destination, it is common to hear French, German and Italian in the popular areas of the country.

Q: What is the climate like in the DR?

  A: The DR enjoys a tropical climate, with temperatures averaging between 24 C (75 F) in winter and 30 C (86 F) in summer; it tends to be considerably cooler in the mountains.

Q: As a foreigner, will I have to pay taxes on investment earnings in the DR?

  A: No. The tax laws are the same as in the rest of the Latin American region; interest is accrued on your bank deposits and investments completely exempt from DR taxes.

Q: Can I bank in U.S. dollars?

  A: Yes. Banco Popular, Leon, ScotiaBank, and others offer U.S. dollar and Euro accounts.

Q: Are utilities available?

  A: Yes. Water, electricity, and gas services are all readily available.

Q: What are the closing costs associated with the sale of property?

  A: Taxes = 5% of sale price. Fees= Lawyer fee = 1%. There are no other closing costs. It is also possible to go around the 5% transfer tax. The owners of big lots usually set up a company and transfer their personal land to their company as an asset, then sell the company

  with the land and avoid paying the transfer taxes.

Q: Can my family and I obtain residence permits?

  A: Yes. It is relatively easy to obtain a residence, through a good lawyer. For approximately $1,000 USD, and a few simple medical tests (blood and urine sample and an x ray of your lungs), you can get your residence within 3 months. Please see our BLOG at www.DRParadise.wordpress.com  for a complete step-by-step outline.

  Q: Would it be possible to legally work in the DR?

  A: Yes, with a working permit, or by working for a Dominican corporation through contract.

Q: How may I receive my mail?

  A: Mail may be picked up at either the post office or Western Union or at one of the many new pack and ship offices opening up

Q: Can I purchase house hold appliances, such as washers, dryers, refrigerators, etc.?

  A: Yes, there are several large appliance and furniture stores in Las Terrenas.

Q: Are there any super markets in Las Terrenas? Do they stock usual products?

  A: Yes and Yes. There are several large super markets in Las Terrenas and they stock everything you could possibly need.

Q: Is pest control a problem? Are exterminators available?

  A: No. Yes.

Q: Are there English speaking doctors and dentists in Las Terrenas?

  A: Yes

Brief Guide to Investing in The Dominican Republic

  The Dominican government has created laws to promote foreign investment and there are no laws restricting foreigners from owning land. Before purchasing property, we recommend that buyers retain a Dominican real estate attorney to perform the due diligence required. We can recommend reputable attorneys, their fees averaging 1% of the purchase price.

  Buying Property:

• The buyer and seller must sign a “Contract of Sale” before a notary (Notaries in the Dominican Republic are required to have a law degree). The Contract of Sale will contain the legal description of the property, the price and other conditions of sale.

• The Contract of Sale is then taken to the nearest Internal Revenue Office for payment of the appropriate taxes. (approximately 5% of purchase price unless it is a B to B transaction)

• The Contract of Sale and the Certificate of Title of the seller are deposited at the Title Registry Office where the sale is recorded.

• The Title Registry Office issues a new Certificate of Title in the name of the buyer and cancels the old Certificate issued previously to the seller.

Due Diligence:

  To start the buying process, the seller should provide the buyer’s attorney with the following documents:

  1. Copy of the Certificate of Title to the property.

  2. Copy of the survey to the property.

  3. Copy of sellers’ identification card (”Cedula”) or Passport.

  4. Copy of the receipt showing the last property tax payment (IVSS) or copy of the certificate stating the property is exempted from the IVSS tax.

Once the documentation listed above is obtained, the attorney should address every item on the following checklist before the closing:

• Title Search: A certification should be obtained from the Title Registry Office regarding the status of the property, whether any liens or encumbrances affect it. The buyer should insist that his attorney confirm the results of the Registrar’s search personally by investigating the appropriate files at the Title Registry Office.

• Survey: An independent surveyor needs to verify that the property to be sold coincides with the one shown on the survey presented by the seller (unless the property is located in a previously verified subdivision.) Cases have occurred in which a buyer acquires title over a property some distance away from the one he believes to be buying due to careless work by a previous surveyor or by fraud from the seller. The survey should be checked even when the seller provides a government-approved survey.

• Possession: The attorney should verify that the seller is in possession of the property. It should be ensured that no squatter’s rights of any kind exist. Special precautions should be taken with unfenced properties outside known subdivisions. Fencing them before closing is advisable. If there are tenants on the property, the buyer should be informed that Dominican law is protective of a tenant’s rights and that evicting a tenant is time-consuming and expensive.

4. Employees: The seller should pay any employees working on the property their legal severance up to the time of the closing, otherwise the buyer may find himself liable for the payment later.

  Taxes and Expenses on Property Transfers

  Taxes and expenses on real estate transactions are roughly 5% of the sale price. This includes a 3% transfer tax, which can be eliminated many times by setting up and/or buying from a Dominican Corporation, a 1% document tax, and fees for registration stamps.

Taxes are paid before the closing at the title registry office.

Purchase of Real Estate by Foreigners

  There are no restrictions on foreigners purchasing real estate in the Dominican Republic. The only requirement is, the real estate purchase must be kept on record at the Title Registry Office (Decree 21-98 of January 8, 1998).

Edited text for the Brief Guide to Investing in The Dominican Republic provided by the law firm of Guzman Ariza & Associates.

  www.guzmanandassociates.com

Conclusion

  The question is not whether it is going to be sold or not, it’s only a question of when and to whom. The offer of beach front properties on the booming Samaná market is limited. Meliá Resorts is most likely on the way to conclude a transaction on a 2.1 million square meter (519 acre) property on El Limon Beach. It was the biggest lot available on the market, and there’s a good chance they will try to buy out the other properties on that beach in order to secure the whole bay for their resort. Meliá has developed one of the biggest and nicest

  resort complexes in the Punta Cana – Bavaro area, with 4 hotels, a 27 hole golf course and over a thousand residences and condos on the site.

  And they’re not alone. Wyndham Resorts, Bahía Principe, Ocean World, the Dye Family, and many others have already shifted their focus to developing on this small peninsula. Even the Minister of Tourism has a huge project underway.

Because of the limited availability of properties on this stretch of beach, the security of any investments made in the area is solid. Once the prime real estate has all been purchased from their original owners, the only land available will be for re-sale, and not much of it.

For the serious investor, we highly recommend moving on this opportunity quickly, seeing the available properties, securing options, completing due diligence etc – these properties won’t wait.

It will be our pleasure to ensure each step runs smoothly in this process, we hope you find this presentation to be interesting and intriguing, the investment potential surely is.

DanDannyDaniel Hussmann

  DR Paradise Real Estate

  829-644-8094

  www.DRParadise.com

  www.DRCaribbean.net

  www.DRParadise.wordpress.com

LOAN REQUIREMENTS, BANCO POPULAR, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

LOAN REQUIREMENTS

BANCO POPULAR

 LAS TERRENAS, SAMANA PENINSULA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

8 November, 2007

 

With Cedula (residency card):

<!1.     Bank statements from last year (not required if banking with Banco Popular)

<!2.      Passport

<!3.       A letter from purchaser asking for the loan

<!4.       Met Jaime the bank manager

<!5.       Financial statement from accountant showing Net Worth

<!6.       Appraisal done by bank appointed appraiser. Bank Manager accompanies. (+/- $150.00 USD)

 

Without Cedula: all the above plus…

<!1.       Last income tax statement

<!2.       International credit report from TransUnion (´Express¨ prices are more)

a.       United States                US$  20.00

b.      Europe                                US$180.00

c.       Spain                                US$100.00

d.      Latin America                US$125.00

e.      Caribbean                US$250.00

Banko Popular loans 80% of the value of the property so expect to pay 20% down

Interest rate at time of this writing is 9.0% USD and 13.95% Peso

This is for a 20 year note

DanDannyDaniel L Hussmann

DR Paradise Realty

829-644-8094

www.drparadise.com

Thanksgiving in Las Terrenas 2007!

Las Terrenas most famous Land Mark

Las Terrenas Samana Peninsula Dominican Republic

Drive down to the middle of town and never forget this land mark, that’s for sure! Painted wall surrounds a cemetary that is not only in the center of town, it is smack dab on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Christopher Columbus Tree

Christopher Columbus Tree
Playa Bonita Las Terrenas Domonican Republic

by DanDannyDaniel Hussmann

Whopping Jabillo tree! It took my breath away when I rounded the corner and saw it for the first time. I had difficulty giving it any scale for the you until I decided to do a time delayed shot and jumped down among those hugemongous roots! Later, when I started to tell some people about this tree, they knew exactly where it was even though it’s a bit off the beaten path. We figure Christopher Columbus wasn’t an acorn in his padre’s eye when this tree first took root!

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fish

Brucito’s First Birthday Party

Hi You all,

Here is my sons first birthday party. I think the photos tell the story.

Bruce Pierson.
DR Paradise / Homes, Villas and Estates
Homepage: www.drparadise.com
Email: bruce@drparadise.com
Telephone/Fax 1-809-240-6054 (D.R.)
Cellular:1-809-910-4190
USA: Voice over IP- 1-(908)-212-7524.

                      

Who Else Wants a $70,000 Home in the Caribbean?

International Living Articl re the DR written 9/07 

With prices so low for a view like this…does it really matter if the lights go out once in a while?

 

 

There is no one-place-fits-all paradise, no one destination that is perfect for everyone reading this…but the Dominican Republic comes pretty close.

[DanDannyDaniel Hussmann]

I’m certainly finding this to be true. I’ve only lived here for a little over 3 months now, but I’ve been here probably 250 days this year. I’m not lacking for anything here…all the creature comforts one could ask for in a stunningly beautiful locale.

The beautiful coral-rimmed island of the D.R. has great weather and world-class beaches, not to mention a low cost of living and a stable government, within a short travel time of the U.S.

[DanDannyDaniel Hussmann]

The Dominican Republic is a very stable government now. It’s is backed strongly by the U.S. and the U.S. will see to it that it stays that way. They will not allow another Cuba or Venezuela in their back yard so they cultivate great relationship through many different programs.

American travelers are very popular here.

In fact, the country has so many advantages for a second-home buyer…that you may wonder why property bargains still abound. Here’s the answer: A few years ago the Dominican Republic had the fastest-growing economy in Latin America and the Caribbean. But a banking crisis put the economy into a tailspin, causing the D.R. peso to plummet from 16 pesos to the U.S. dollar in 2000, to 54 pesos in early 2004. The peso has now recovered somewhat and recently traded at about 34 to the dollar.

[DanDannyDaniel Hussmann]

It’s traded now at about this same price for about 2 years or so. Real Estate is really cheap here. Especially if you are comparing it to most other places in the Caribbean and absolutely if you compare it to the U.S.! Tax structures are so cheap it’s almost laughable for those of us from SW Florida and other parts of the State…probably the whole U.S.!

Bruce and I talk all the time about how one can live like a King or Queen here for $2,000 – $3,000 after your housing expense. I mean maid, gardener, cook…the works!

Plus, issues such as persistent electrical power failures have deterred property shoppers. However, the D.R.’s new investors are combating this by seeking buildings and developments with on-site generators. A renovated one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment overlooking the pool in a popular condominium complex at Sosúa (within walking distance to shops, restaurants, bars, and beaches) comes at a price of $66,500.

[DanDannyDaniel Hussmann]

These prices are getting harder and harder to find. It’s being done, but one really has to know their way around. That’s why it’s important to use somebody like us here at DR Paradise Real Estate in Las Terrenas Samana Peninsula Dominican Republic.

The northern coast of the D.R. has long been the country’s most popular spot for tourists and property buyers. Some of the finest beaches in the Caribbean are the big attraction, but the North Coast also has fine dining, exciting night life, colorful culture, lots of sports, and friendly residents. Condominium apartments are available on the oceanfront at Cabarete, offering a seaview and a stretch of beach only 100 yards away. Units have granite counter-tops, coral stone wainscoting, imported porcelain tiles, and top grade stoves and refrigerators. Other amenities include a pool, laundry facilities, backup generator, 24-hour security, and parking. Price: $79,245.

[DanDannyDaniel Hussmann]

The north coast is our stomping grounds…especially the Samana Peninsula. I know Cabarete pretty well too and I’d like to know where this condo is. I have an idea, and it’s probably there, but I would not want you to come here thinking there are going to be tons of choices for you in this price range. Why don’t you call me and we’ll talk?!

Respectfully yours,

DanDannyDaniel Hussmann

1-829-644-8094

www.drparadise.com

Skype Address – dlhussmann

Gorgeous Dominican Children

A-h-h the gorgeo us Dominican Children. I keep returning to my theme that living here is like returning to the 1950´s! Mothers stay at home, fathers are involved with the raising of their children, and the kids? Well, the kids PLAY OUTDOORS!

                     

Las Terrenas new Municipal Park, now we’re getting a marina too.

It’s really nice to see how Las Terrenas is moving (slowly) into the 21st Century. We are getting a new Municipal Park, and it’s right on the Atlantic Ocean. I’ll take some more pictures when they’ve finished construction. They look to be about 30% done already! Next thing youknow we’ll have paved roads!!!

Wow! Speaking of moving into the 21st Century!!! Take a look at this! Already our new Golf Course is well under way, now we’re getting a marina too! Las Terrenas on the Samana Peninsula in the Dominican Republic?! Golf?! Marina?! Municipal Parks?! Wow is right! I’ve lived here only 3 short months and I can’t believe all the things I am seeing. Are we going to lose our sleepy little hide away? Well, that seems inevitable! Real Estate in the Dominican Republic could hardly look better!