A notary public who authenticates and certifies legal documents. All real estate transactions in the DR require a licensed notary. The notary is a legally appointed officer — not just a stamp.
NOI (Net Operating Income)
Gross rental revenue minus operating expenses (management fees, maintenance, insurance, utilities, HOA). Does not include mortgage payments. The core metric for evaluating income property.
ADR (Average Daily Rate)
The average rental income earned per occupied night. In Las Terrenas, ADR for a 2-bedroom villa runs $140–$180/night in peak season. A key input in calculating a property's revenue potential.
Acto de Venta
The final deed of sale, signed before a notary, that transfers legal ownership from seller to buyer. The equivalent of a closing deed in the US system.
Apartamento Turístico
A tourism-classified apartment, often qualifying for CONFOTUR tax incentives. Classification affects both tax treatment and permitted rental use.
Bien Inmueble
Legal term for real property (land and anything permanently attached to it). Used in all formal documents and title registrations.
Cap Rate (Capitalization Rate)
Net Operating Income divided by purchase price, expressed as a percentage. A 7% cap rate on a $300,000 property means $21,000/year NOI. Standard benchmark for comparing investment properties.