Dominican Republic Real Estate Construction

2007-10-16T16:17:00.001-07:00

This is getting really bad!

Google if you read this please resolve my problem, why can't I upload anymore...!!!

HELP!

Random Property For Sale

2007-10-13T10:24:00.000-07:00

This 5 bedroom mansion, located directly on the ocean front in Sosua offers the finest quality in workmanship on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. This is one great real estate offer and can be yours for just US$2,500,000.00

Visit our Dominican Real Estate partners now!

Finally, the pictures are uploaded

2007-10-11T15:59:00.000-07:00

After some serious technical issues, finally we are able to bring you the latest installment of pictures from Residencial Girasol.

The latest update is now old, so we'll try and have some new pics online as soon as possible, the engineers inform me that we are almost up to the roof on the 2nd level now.

Dominican Republic Beaches

2007-10-06T09:52:00.001-07:00

The Dominican Republic's beaches are widely celebrated as being among the world's best, and for good reason. Here, more than 1,000 miles of sugar-colored sand is gently lapped by warm waters so clear and blue one has to see to believe. Depending on location, the beaches offer a gentle lullaby for an oceanside nap or enough wind to keep a Technicolor kiteboard adrift.

Super fine white sand sprinkled with coconut palm trees line the east coast while golden sand defines the beaches of the north coast. Adding a third color to the palette are the grey sand playas of Barahona in the west. Some of these areas are populated with resorts featuring a full array of watersports, food vendors, people watching and other activities. While others take visitors to another world of pristine tranquility with peaceful, uninhabited beaches. Here, the only intrusions are a towering coconut palm and the swaying breeze.

Playa Sosua
Located on a crescent-shaped bay, Playa Sosua is a postcard perfect beach. Featuring a backdrop of towering cliffs, the waters here are calm, clear and a deep shade of turquoise. Playa Sosua is perhaps one of the Caribbean's most popular beaches, which may explain the crowds. However, with so much to do - shopping or eating in Sosua, snorkeling or even taking a glass bottom boat tour - the crowds are worth the visit. Sosua offers some of the North Coast's best diving. Not only are these sites home to countless varieties of tropical fish and marine life, but whale sharks, manta rays, and dolphins have also been known to make an appearance in these waters. Shallow reefs allow beginners to get comfortable with diving and the underwater world, while more advanced dive sites are only minutes away.

Cabarete
On the Dominican Republic's north coast, adventure seekers will fall in love with Cabarate. One of the top five kiteboarding and windsurfing beaches in the world, Cabarete's beach (often called Kite Beach) annually hosts an array of international championships. On any given day, visitors to the area will see the sky filled with hundreds of colorful kites carrying amateur and pro riders through the surf.

Playa Cofresi
Just a few minutes west of Puerto Plata lays one of the most breathtaking beaches in the Dominican Republic named for the pirate Roberto Cofresi. While Playa Cofresi is wonderful for bathing in the sun, the waters provide excellent bodysurfing and boogie-boarding opportunities with its choppier waters.

Playa Dorada
Located just east of Puerto Plata at the foot of the largest all-inclusive resort complex in the world, Playa Dorada is protected by reefs and features golf sand and warm waters. While anyone can drive into the Playa Dorada complex, non-guests have to pay for a day pass.

Playa Grande
At 1.5 miles long, Playa Grande, located near Rio San Juan, is one of the longest beaches on the north coast. However, the beach is impressive not only for its size but also its breathtaking beauty. While the Occidental Allegro resort is now located at one end of the beach and food vendors sit at the other, the beach in between offers plenty of room to spread out.

Playa Punta Rucia
West of Puerto Plata and just off the beaten path, Playa Punta Rucia boasts white sand beaches and beautiful mountain views. Popular with snorkelers due to the presence of a large coral reef just off the shore, Playa Punta Rucia offers a small selection of restaurants/bars and a peaceful lagoon that is good for birdwatching.

The first floor is on!

2007-10-05T11:50:00.000-07:00

Although it may not look much, the first floor is now on and the builders are starting the second floor. Some things have become clear, like the fact that we need to get rid of the tree in front of the house as it blocks the view totally, and that the view from the north side of the house of the neighbors houses is a pretty nice one.

With the ceiling being on, you get a better feel of really how large the downstairs rooms are, and what I thought were small rooms actually have turned out to be much more spacious. The games room area is a great size and will be the focal point of the house what with the swimming pool being right there.

The architect has left on a trip to Panama, so they boys he's left in charge are going to try to prove to him that they are completely capable of handling the situation when he is away, there's no doubt about that judging from what they have done so far.

2nd level preparation

2007-10-02T08:43:00.000-07:00

Re-bar, plumbing, electric, everything is in place ready for the cement to be poured for the completion of the ceiling on the 1st floor or floor of the 2nd level, whichever way you look at it.

After a delay, the development continues...

2007-09-28T15:00:00.000-07:00

First September Update!

2007-09-06T15:33:00.000-07:00

The first real pictures from September 2007, it doesn't look like too much has changed recently, what's being done are the concrete supports for the second floor.

Why not take this chance to visit our Dominican Republic Real Estate partners at www.propertycenter.tv

Dominican Republic Real Estate - Why ?

2007-09-04T06:07:00.000-07:00

Dominican Republic Real Estate

The Dominican Republic has been called one of the best and last remaining property bargains in the entire Caribbean. In fact, it may also be one of the very few destinations that can also offer so much in terms of diversity: Metropolitan areas such as the Capital City of Santo Domingo or Santiago, Beach Resort areas such as Punta Cana, Juan Dolio, Samana, and many, many others. For those that want to simply live in a warm weather climate, but are not fans of living in a beach community, the Dominican Republic also offers beautiful mountain regions - often called the Alps of the Caribbean, offering the highest elevations as well (during the months of January & February, there is frost in the areas surrounding Constanza and Jarabacoa in the early morning).

So the Dominican Republic does truly offer the best of all things, all in one place, all in the second largest island in the Caribbean. But having a wide range of lifestyle choices, in terms of real estate and climate is really not the main benefit. Instead, as with many other things in life, it comes down to affordability. In this regard, the Dominican Republic shines above many other Caribbean destinations in terms of affordability for most American and European families. Which to say, many people do come to visit as a tourist, but only after they realize how affordable it can be to own a second home, relocate or retire to the Dominican Republic, do they then jump at the opportunity.

So the Dominican Republic does truly offer the best of all things, all in one place, all in the second largest island in the Caribbean. But having a wide range of lifestyle choices, in terms of real estate and climate is really not the main benefit. Instead, as with many other things in life, it comes down to affordability. In this regard, the Dominican Republic shines above many other Caribbean destinations in terms of affordability for most American and European families. Which to say, many people do come to visit as a tourist, but only after they realize how affordable it can be to own a second home, relocate or retire to the Dominican Republic, do they then jump at the opportunity.

Build, buy or rent, the Dominican Republic still remains to be an ideal destination for real estate bargains, and as a possible retirement or relocation destination as well. In this article, we will discuss the current real estate market (how to find the bargains plus local constructions costs to build your own home), but also want to highlight in general why the Dominican Republic is so attractive overall for those seeking to live in the Caribbean.

monday afternoon pics...

2007-08-20T14:53:00.001-07:00

Points of Interest on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic

2007-08-19T07:17:00.000-07:00

Points of Interest on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic

Playa Grande (Cabrera)

Voted as one of the 10 best beaches in the world by Cond? Nast travel magazine, this long stretch of white sand and clear turquoise waters is edged on each side by spectacular cliffs. This is the beach for relaxing while you take in the beauty of the area, or on days when the surf is up, catching a wave or two body surfing or body boarding. A row of very small Dominican shacks (restaurants) vie for your food and beverage business, serving an array of fresh seafood and typical Dominican cuisine, on tables just in front of them. If you like, they'll also bring your food right to your chair on the beach.

Dudu Lagoon and Blue Lagoon (Cabrera)

Not far east of Cabrera you will find these freshwater lagoon phenomenons, offering the visitor a unique experiences. They offer fantastically clear freshwater pools. The Blue Lagoon appears so clean that is shimmers a shade of blue. The Dudu Lagoon is in the shape of a crater reminding of the famous cenotes of the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico. You can jump into either one of them for a refreshing swim. The surroundings are truely beautiful. Some dive operation use the Dudu Lagoon for first classic cave scuba-diving.

Gri Gri Lagoon (Rio San Juan)

The Gri Gri Lagoon area offers boat trips through it's winding waters where mangrove forests make a canopy over most of your journey. During this trip you'll see caves that are unique to this area of the country, life the 'cave of the swallows', and can take advantage of swimming in 'La Piscina', a crystal clear ocean cove where the lagoon ends.

Islabon Jungle River Tour (Cabarete)

You can explore the Islabon and Yasica rivers by boat to its mouth at the Atlantic Ocean. You can also walk through jungle trails to a mini zoo that includes iguanas, snakes, turtles, ravens and a monkey (which are a little unorganized or can be wrongly labeled). Guides explain the origin and uses of different flora and talk about some of the popular types of fishing that is done in this area.

Scenic Drive: Cordillera Septentrional Route (Cabarete)

About 15 minutes east of Cabarete you can turn south onto the Moca Mountain Route that runs into the Cordillera Septentrional Mountain area. The drive passes through small Dominican villages and farm areas and you'll have panoramic views of the countryside along the way. If you keep driving you'll eventually end up in the city of Moca, the cigar-making capital of the Dominican Republic. This mountain road allows you views of the beautiful Cibao Valley and is an absolute favorite of motor bikers looking for a winding scenic bike tour.

El Choco National Park (Cabarete)

This lush and diverse 77 square kilometers of protected area was named a national monument. The park has unique geological formations to the DR, called the 'Caribbean Karst', as well as 862 species of flora, 12 species of bats, and 36 species of birds . The park is comprised of pasture land, a lagoon, and a jungle area that contains the many lush tropical plants, exotic birds, caves and fresh water springs.

Columbus Water Park (Sosua)

This waterslide park is the biggest in the Caribbean. The park has a good number of different types (levels) of slides, as well as swimming pools, restaurants, bars and shops. Occasionally on weekends they also provide live musical performances by internationally popular singers/bands. The park can get quite busy on the weekends in the summer with the local population.

Scenic Drive: Carretera Touristica Route (between Sosua and Puerto Plata)

About half-way between Sosua and Puerto Plata, you'll turn off south on a road that takes you into the interior of the country, towards the city of Santiago. If you want to rent a car or bike, you'll find this an interesting route for a drive to see other parts of the country. Along the road Dominican vendors sell their particular specialties, which include fresh cheese, meat, fruit, flowers, and hand made furniture. This route has incredible views of the hills and countryside of the area, as well as the Atlantic Ocean in some spots, very far below. There are a few places you can stop along the way for a refreshing drink or a bite to eat, to enjoy the view.

Damajagua Cascades (20 - 30 minutes west of Puerto Plata)

These 27 waterfalls, the Damajaqua Cascades, are located 20 - 30 minutes from Puerto Plata. There are many Guides at the entrance who will take you through the route for a tip. It is a 30 minute walk to the first waterfall and most people are able to climb up to the seventh fall. An alternate route is to climb up the footpath and cascade the waterfalls back down.

Mount Isabela de Torres (Puerto Plata)

From Puerto Plata you can take a cable car up to the top of the highest manicured gardens in the Caribbean, providing spectacular views of the city and surrounding areas below. At the summit is the statue of Christ the Redeemer , tropical gardens and a restaurant. If you're looking for more of an adventure-type trip, the mountain can also be hiked (approximately 4 hours) to the top, through a canopy of tropical forests.

Ocean World Adventure Park (Cofresi)

This marine park has the world's largest dolphin lagoon, the only sea lion encounter of its kind, the world's first shark interaction pool, along with tigers, exotic birds, reptiles and tropical fish. There is also restaurants and souvenir shops on site.

Santiago
• the Parque Duarte,
• the Cathedral of Santiago
• The Tom?s Morel Museum of Folkloric Art is popular for its very colorful collection of carnival masks. There is also
• the Santiago Museum
• Tobacco Museum.
• A monument very difficult to miss is the 67 meter Monument a los Heroes de la Restauracion (Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration). You can climb the stairs of the monument and get amazing views of Santiago and the surrounding area.
• Santiago's rum and tobacco factories - Bermudez Rum Factory and E Leon Jimenez Tobacco Company - offer tours that are quite popular with visitors.
• The Leon Jimenez Cultural Center offers cultural exhibits and performances rivaling those of the other museums in Santiago.

Saman? Other excursions in Samana include walking the Bridge To Nowhere; a visit to Cayo Levantado , or 'Bacardi Island' - the island used in the famous 1970's Bacardi rum commercials; or to Playa Rinc?n, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

Submitted by dima on Mon, 2007-02-05 17:17.

Photos from Thursday...late edition.

2007-08-18T13:07:00.000-07:00

Update part II

2007-08-16T07:20:00.001-07:00

As you can see from the photos in the last week a huge advance has been made in the construction of this house.

The water cistern has had a small building built on top of it, the septic chamber is almost completely finished.

As of 15th August we have almost finished the first level in block.

The whole dug for the swimming pool seems to have come out one meter larger in width than originally planned.

Look for further updates soon.

First part update...

2007-08-16T06:26:00.001-07:00

It has been a week since the last report on this real estate project...

2007-08-11T06:33:00.001-07:00

It may not look like much to the un-trained eye, but this house has had a great construction start! The foundations are well and truly on their way to being finished and the partitions within the villa are clearly visible.

The water cistern is now finished, well the only thing missing being a metal lid so creepy crawlies don't fall in and the laborers are working at an astonishing rate to get the concrete beams filled.

After viewing recently other constructions in the area being started, it's safe to say that this projects is being worked in a very detailed manner with no corners being cut and I'm sure that if the finishing is as intricate as the foundations are then we are in for one hell of a house!

The man in the orange jersey is the "maestro" or "foreman", he is there from 7am every morning until they finish and his expertise on this job has been well appreciated.

Look for an update either later today or tomorrow.

And remember, visit our Dominican Republic Real Estate partners.

Fresh from getting cement splashed on my clothes...

2007-08-04T07:09:00.000-07:00

As you can see this project is coming along slowly and surely, the following photos show the details that other constructions don't have.

The re-bar here is very intricate and is in practice exactly what was put on paper by the engineer who calculated the plans.

The water cistern is complete...later today the concrete for the foundations will be finished, this house is well on it's way to being built.

Some movement on this real estate project...

2007-07-29T12:31:00.000-07:00

Foundations have been dug, water cistern the size of a small swimming pool has started to be concreted, the swimming pool seems to have been fully excavated and they've built a small material shelter.

This project is coming on leaps and bounds now, every day that passes you can note the actual progress.

The community also seems to be growing as another lot has been sold here with only 4 left for sale.

Machine excavation

2007-07-24T06:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the machines came in and started tearing up the dirt.

Remember, if you're Dominican Realtor doesn't speak Spanish...you're in trouble!

Marking the foundations...

2007-07-21T11:11:00.001-07:00

Today the laborers finished excavation of the plateaux. They are now marking the foundations for digging further.

updated photos

2007-07-19T05:52:00.000-07:00

Taken this morning, Thursday 19th July 2007.

will the excavation of this real estate project ever stop?

2007-07-15T08:22:00.000-07:00

Almost 3 weeks into the project, the excavation still hasn't finished. Certainly the solidity of this base can be guaranteed, looking at the photos you can see just how deep down the laborers have dug.

These photos were taken at 9.15am on Sunday 15th July 2007.

Interesting Rock Formations and Hard Working Laborers

2007-07-12T05:56:00.000-07:00

Still the excavation continues of the foundations of the villa. Today is now the second full week of digging. Some might say that a JCB would have done the job quicker, while this is true it's not as cost effective, rental prices of heavy machinery in the Dominican Republic are much higher than say in United States or England.

These photos were taken on Tuesday 10th July 2007.

2007-07-09T15:28:00.001-07:00

No work yesterday, today the local council tried to stop the work because some small permits had not been paid, this was resolved and digging continued as normal.

Below some photos of the beautiful beach of Rio San Juan, Playa Grande.

New Exclusive Ocean Front Project

2007-07-06T11:48:00.000-07:00

Ocean View La Puntilla, is the name of the most exclusive ocean front property to be constructed in Sosua. 25 unique residences all with exquisite views of the Atlantic Ocean, supreme quality in design and finish.

Amenities include;

*Elevators *Marble Floors *24 Hour Electricity *Mahogany Doors *All Rooms Air Conditioned *All Apartments Have Ocean View *Private Parking *Swimming Pool *Jacuzzi *Marine Deck/Jetty *

Who is building this project? Attias Ingenieros, award winning construction company from Santo Domingo, their first real estate project in the growing touristic destination of the North Coast Dominican Republic. If their past records are anything to go by then this will be a beautiful place to live.

The rental value and re-sale prices will be amongst the best in the province of Puerto Plata.

For more information on this exclusive real estate property in the Dominican Republic contact me personally at tay@propertycenter.tv I will be delighted to answer your queries.

Excavation on site

2007-07-06T06:40:00.000-07:00

The excavation continues, this morning there were 10 guys working flat out with picks and shovels, in the photos below you can see just how solid this terrain is.

By now the laborers have started digging the foundations.

2007-07-05T15:58:00.000-07:00

These images were taken after 2 days of dirt moving and digging. The lot itself contains a high percentage of rock, so time and money will be invested in creating a solid foundation. A plus point of having lots of rock is that the foundations will be very steadfast and the villa once finished will not be moving anywhere.

As you can see in the photo above, the lot is a high point, this benefits us in the fact that we will never have issues of water coming into the house in the case of heavy rain as we are well above the street level.

First days work.

2007-07-05T15:44:00.000-07:00

First days work included cleaning of the land and starting the digging of the foundations.

Some background information on the building lot...

The property is located in Residencial Girasoles, Sosua, Puerto Plata, the lot measures 700m2 and is the highest point in the whole community. As you can see in the plans, the villa to be built is 2 stories high, 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. To be added later will be a swimming pool, gazebo and 2 car garage.