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First of all understand you are a gringo.  As expats we do get treated differently, our ability to negotiate  depends on our understanding of both Spanish and the culture. As a new person you can expect to pay a bit more.

The best way to find anything here - boots on the ground.  Only the most expensive places are advertised on the internet or in newspapers as a general rule.  You need to check out areas, check out  notices in windows and ask around in neighborhoods you like. 

Make sure you understand the electricity issues,  water issues,  internet and cell reception in the area etc!!! Its is critical.  Do not take the "rental agent's" word on anything, double check everything.

You can expect to pay  2 months deposit PLUS a month of "commission" which they may call any number of things but is commission.  Normally we pay rent at the END of the month not the beginning. It was a bit weird for me at first.

Thanks- great info. We are hoping our Dominican relatives can pre-shop for us. Hubby is Dominican by birth and fluent in Spanish, but raised in the US, so we don't understand a lot of things in the day to day business.

you can get some very nice apartments at reasonable prices. we live in Puerto plata in a house but have rented apartments for the family in Santiago. Currently we have a 3 bedroom 2.1/2bath with large kitchen for 330.00 a month. no AC 3rd floor. hot water runs low at times but it is very nice. you have to be patient but you can get some nice places.

Thank you, that is very helpful!

Texasdonkey in another post you describe your living quarters as basically a gulag or prison.  Most would not want to live under those conditions.

Bob K

Sorry for the confusion, that is our home in Puerto Plata I was talking about , Beautiful inside but the outside looks like a jail to keep thieves out. This post is about the apartment we rent in Santiago it is a normal apartment.  We stay there when visiting our daughter. It is very nice apartment for the money.

Thanks for clearing it up for me

Bob K

About to rent an apartment. The agent is asking for two month's deposit, one month commission, PLUS the lawyer says WE have to pay her $1500 pesos to make the landlord's contract. Is that normal? Is there anything else I should watch for in the contract where they are trying to take advantage?

That sounds about normal for many areas.    Read the contract and make sure you understand it. most people don't even read it.

Did you have to get a fiador? Someone to guarantee you?

Boy, things sure have gotten complicated & expensive.  One of the benefits of walking around, talking to locals & ex-pats to find an apartment was never having to pay an agent or lawyer any extra $$.  Usually just paid 1 month plus 1 month security & that not every time. Of course I had the luxury of having the time & contacts to find what I was looking for. I understand the added cost of going in blind & the added pitfalls possible.  Good fortune to you & your family in your quest.  It is a learning adventure for sure. If perhaps it doesn't work out to your liking, just mark it down as a learning experience & continue on. Welcome to the dicotomy of island life. It's a wonderful life.

Gypsy is right.  Boots on the ground can sometimes save you lots. 

Bob K

@texasdonkey You are paying 330 a month for a 3 bedroom in Puerto Plata? Man I need to talk to you, my name is Tim from Pennsylvania, [link moderated]

@texasdonkey You are paying 330 a month in Puerto Plata for a 3 bedroom? I need to talk with you my name is Tim I am from Pennsylvania, currently here in San Pedro de Macoris, Did you find that place on a web site?

@tim31467

Hello and welcome !

This is an old thread. That was back in 2014.

Are you looking for accommodation ?

Regards

Bhavna

@tim31467

i messaged you please check your inbox and reply back

@Bhavna Yes, I will be making residency here in the Dominican Republic and I am looking for something more affordable,

@Bhavna Yes I am looking for a place to live, I am already here in the Dominican Republic.

@tim31467 great news and remember residency in the DR process starts in your home country first.

Good luck!

@tim31467

Hello, try posting an advert in the Housing section. You might receive some offers

All the best

Bhavna