In my career, there is no moment more rewarding than seeing the look of pure joy on a client’s face on closing day. The papers are signed, the keys are in your hand, and your piece of paradise is officially yours. But after the celebration, a common question arises: “What’s next?” A smooth home purchase closing is the end of the transaction, but it’s the beginning of your life as a homeowner in the Dominican Republic.
To ensure your transition is as seamless as the buying process, I’ve developed this essential post-closing checklist. This is your guide to what to do after closing on a house in Punta Cana, designed to help you settle in, secure your investment, and start enjoying the lifestyle you’ve worked so hard to achieve.
The First 24 Hours: Securing Your New Home
Your first actions as a homeowner are about security and verification.
- Change the Locks: This is my number one recommendation for every new homeowner. You have no way of knowing who might have a spare key from the previous owners. For immediate peace of mind, have a local locksmith rekey all exterior doors.
- The Owner’s Walk-Through: You did a final walk-through before closing, but now is the time to do one as the official owner. Test every appliance, flush every toilet, and check every light switch. If you find any minor issues, you can address them now before they become larger problems.
- Locate Key Shut-Offs: Take a moment to find the main water shut-off valve and the main electrical breaker panel. Knowing where these are is critical in an emergency.
The First Week: Activating Your Punta Cana Lifestyle
This week is about getting your home operational and properly protected.
- Transfer Utilities: Your lawyer or real estate agent will be instrumental here. The main utilities you need to transfer into your name are:
- Electricity: Handled by CEPM in the Punta Cana area.
- Water: Provided by your local water utility.
- Internet & Cable: The primary providers are Claro and Altice.
Your agent can provide the direct contacts and assist with the necessary paperwork to ensure a smooth transfer.
- Activate Your Homeowner’s Insurance: Before closing, you secured a policy. Now, you must contact the insurance provider to inform them that the sale has officially closed and activate the policy. This is non-negotiable for protecting your asset against damage from storms or other unforeseen events.
- Connect with Property Management: If your property is in a community with an on-site administration or if you’ve hired a private property manager, now is the time for a formal introduction. They will be your key on-the-ground resource, especially if you are not a full-time resident.
The First Month: Establishing Your Roots
These steps are about formalizing your ownership and integrating into the community.
- Confirm Title Transfer with Your Lawyer: The process of understanding property deeds in Punta Canaculminates in receiving your official Certificate of Title. After the closing, your lawyer files the paperwork with the Title Registry Office. This process can take 30-90 days. Check in with your lawyer to confirm the process has been initiated and to get an estimated timeline for receiving your final, official title.
- Introduce Yourself to the HOA: Get a copy of the homeowner’s association rules and regulations. Understand the payment schedule for HOA fees and learn about the community amenities and how to access them.
- Organize Your Documents: Create a secure file, either physical or digital, for all your closing documents. This includes your Act of Sale, the final Certificate of Title (when it arrives), your insurance policy, and receipts for any initial repairs or purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What happens if I discover a significant problem with the house after I’ve closed?
A: In the Dominican Republic, properties are typically sold in “as-is” condition. This means that once you close, any newly discovered issues are generally your responsibility. This is why the pre-closing home inspection is so critically important. If a major issue was intentionally hidden by the seller, you should speak with your lawyer, but this can be difficult to prove.
Q: Who holds the official Certificate of Title?
A: You, the owner, will receive and hold the original Certificate of Title. It is a vitally important legal document, and you should store it in a very safe place, such as a safe deposit box.
Q: How do I handle property maintenance if I’m not living there full-time?
A: Hiring a reputable property management company is essential for non-resident owners. They will handle everything from routine maintenance and landscaping to paying utility bills and preparing the property for your arrival, ensuring your investment is protected and cared for in your absence.
Welcome Home
Knowing what to do after closing on a house in Punta Cana transforms the first few weeks of ownership from a period of uncertainty into a time of excitement and smooth transition. By following this checklist, you can confidently manage the final details and quickly move on to the best part: enjoying your new life in paradise.
At realtor.international, our relationship with our clients doesn’t end at the closing table. We remain your trusted resource for as long as you own your home. Contact us anytime with your questions—we are always here to help.
