There is a good advice always around here, that is live here for at least 6 months up to a year before you buy a house or apartment. The island has many cities and villages, and also the cities have various neighbourhoods. It takes time to find something that you really want for a long time ahead, and there is really no need to rush.. Legally you can buy whenever you want, but you need this time to get in to the society and the culture and to deside where you want to belong.
When you come you will see there is no problem in buying or finding objects.
Read a few of the threads about real estate here on dr1, it will give you information about prices etc.
I understand you are concerned and eager to find out alot, but truly you cannot about a country you have never visited.
First you need to see if this island is for you, the Caribbean islands are all very different, in culture and even in weather... you need secondly see that you can afford an everyday living here.
If you deside, after having seen with your own eyes, this is where you want to live, then you go step by step.
You need to feel you want to move to a place because of that special place, not that you are moving from a place.
It seems to me you are more looking to get away from your reality you live in now. This is fine, but travel here and see first.