Lambert,
Cork gives a good example of what such a move can cost, but like all examples, it is anecdotal. Hell, I know a guy who's building a house in Sea Horse Ranch. His cost will be more like a million US. No problem, he has it. That doesn't mean you need to be a millionaire to live in the DR.
I am planning a move in about 2 years. I've been seriously researching for about a year now, but I'm certainly not done. I will be renting a comfortable apartment (nicer than what I have here in the US). I'll need to furnish it, and I'll probably buy a used Toyota or Honda. I have a pretty good idea what this will cost me, and it's certainly not $300,000!
Each person's "requirements" are different. Lifestyles vary a great deal, both here "at home" and in the DR. Cork is spending $16,000 to ship his things down because that apparently is important to him. (obviously, his things are nicer than mine!) I'll be bringing some clothes and a few personal posessions, packed in my luggage over my last few visits and stored at a friends house until I have my own place.
Just as Cork did not want to "burst bubbles" I wouldn't want to give anyone the idea that preperation and resources aren't needed. As I have no specific job skills which will transfer well, I also have no illusions of being able to earn enough to support even the modest life style I am seeking, and therefore am saving and planning accordingly, working 2 jobs, living below my means, and saving every dollar I can.
I agree with what almost every board member living in the DR has said over and over that it would be FOOLISH, to think I could just get on a plane with a few thousand dollars and think I could find a job and make enough money to live on. Some do it, but it seems they all have specific skills I don't have, and many of them seem to be living on a shoestring.
Do your research, make several more trips, and make sure it's what you (and your significant other) want.