Mariana,
I'm also from Canada (Ottawa) and have a villa in the DR. Let me explain how I see it although I'm fairly new to the DR and you should consider more the info provided by the locals but here's an outsider's point of view.
First, I think it's very hard to make a living in the DR compared to Canada (ie. jobs pay nothing or fraction of what you're used to), cost of living is comparable to Canada when you factor in the income taxes, GST, PST and so on, so there is no savings there. Some stuff is cheaper, hydro is about 20 times more expensive. Real estate for one is much cheaper than TO. I would think (and that's not a fact but a tought) that most exp-pats in the DR are not there to make a living actively but rather enjoying their retirement or are close to retirement. Again, I'm sure some are making a living, running businesses, investing in the DR. If one is looking to start over his career and increase their buying power, one would move to the US, Europe and other developped country.
The level of service that we're used to with banks, stores, utility folks, phone companies, is totally different in the DR. Do not expect to get the same level of service and response time than here in Canada.
On the bright side (and that's what I like), the weather is perfect with sunshine all the times, beautifull, unspoiled and unpopulated beaches (expect a few), great friendly people, much safer than most areas of Toronto. The most important factor is the pace of life, one should not worry about stress in the DR. In Canada, stress and pace of life is a big concern.
Locals, pls correct me where I'm wrong, but these are my observations from a 32 year with wife and family visiting and enjoying very much the DR.
In conclusion to your question, the DR is not a paradise nor a nightmare, it just depends on what you're looking for but the sun is also out, unlike Canada.
Good luck in your research.