What Is the First-Time Home Buyer Bonus?
The First-Time Home Buyer Bonus (Bono de Primera Vivienda) is a housing subsidy granted by the Dominican government through the Ministry of Housing and Buildings (MIVED). It is designed to help low- and middle-income families purchase their first property.
The program is governed by Law 189-11 on the Development of the Mortgage Market and Trust in the Dominican Republic.
Key fact: The bonus is not a loan — it is a direct subsidy you do not have to pay back. It is applied as a down payment or supplement to reduce the amount of your mortgage.
Subsidy Amounts
| Housing Type | Maximum Value | Approximate Subsidy |
|---|---|---|
| Low-cost housing | Up to RD$2,500,000 | Up to RD$1,500,000 |
| Moderate-cost housing | RD$2,500,000 - RD$4,500,000 | Up to RD$750,000 |
| Medium-cost housing | RD$4,500,000 - RD$6,500,000 | Up to RD$400,000 |
Additional benefit: Properties purchased under a trust (Fideicomiso, Law 189-11) may be exempt from the 3% real estate transfer tax.
Requirements to Apply
Personal Requirements
- • Be a Dominican citizen or legal resident
- • Be at least 18 years old
- • Not own any real estate property
- • Not have received a previous housing subsidy
Financial Requirements
- • Family income within program limits
- • Demonstrable ability to pay
- • Favorable credit history (not mandatory)
- • Active savings account
Property Requirements
- • Project registered under a trust (Fideicomiso, Law 189-11)
- • Value within program limits
- • New construction only (does not apply to resale)
- • Project approved by MIVED
Conditions
- • Cannot sell the property for at least 5 years
- • Must be used as primary residence
- • Cannot rent during the restriction period
- • Must maintain the property in good condition
Required Documents
National ID card (Cedula)
Original and copy of applicant and spouse
Employment letter
Stating position, salary, and length of employment
Bank statements
Last 3 to 6 months
Certificate of no property ownership
Issued by the Land Registry (Jurisdiccion Inmobiliaria)
DGII certification
Confirming you do not own real estate
Marriage certificate or notarized single-status declaration
MIVED application form
Application Process
- 1
Choose an Eligible Project
Look for a housing project registered under a trust (Fideicomiso) and approved by MIVED.
- 2
Gather Your Documents
Prepare all the required documents. The certificate of no property ownership is requested at the Land Registry (Jurisdiccion Inmobiliaria).
- 3
Submit Your Application
Deliver your application and documents at the project sales office or directly at MIVED.
- 4
Evaluation and Approval
MIVED evaluates your application and verifies you meet the requirements. This process takes 2 to 8 weeks.
- 5
Bonus Disbursement
Once approved, the bonus is deposited into the project trust account.
- 6
Closing and Delivery
Complete the remaining financing and receive your home once construction is finished.
Eligible Housing Types
Up to RD$2,500,000
Apartments and houses in social-interest projects.
RD$2.5M - RD$4.5M
Apartments in towers and houses in residential developments.
RD$4.5M - RD$6.5M
Apartments in high-demand areas.
Important Considerations
New Construction Only
The bonus applies exclusively to new homes in trust-based projects (Fideicomiso). It cannot be used for resale properties.
Sale Restriction
You cannot sell, rent, or transfer the property during the first 5 years. If you do, you must return the subsidy.
One-Time Benefit
The bonus is a one-time benefit. You can only apply for it once in your lifetime.
Fund Availability
Funds are subject to government budget availability. Processing times may vary.
Ready to Buy Your First Home?
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