I second all that has been said here. NO more private income info, and dont even THINK of buying anything until you have come here, looked around and begun to feel comfortable with the place. Over the internet, prices are higher, and deals may or may not be sound; there is no way to tell. Moreover, a lot of business is still handled here by means of radio bemba -- that is, you sometimes learn about good deals just by word of mouth, -- also by walking around. Sometimes you will pass by a house, no for sale sign, nothing to indicate that the house is up for sale at all, but you start talking to the owner, and suddenly you find out that he is indeed willing to talk business.
Financing is very tricky. I cannot advise you there, as I am just beginning to learn the ins and outs myself. I do know that interest rates here are ridiculously high,and for that reason most dominicans try to pay at least half down for the "inicial." My downstairs neighbor bought her place and paid in full, cash, with money that her hardworking children overseas diligently saved up over the years.
I didnt know about the options that Robert and Chris mentioned. glad to hear of it. But Smiggs DO NOT MAKE ANY HASTY DECISIONS EVER. That should be your number one guiding rule in this new venture of yours. Things here come to you IF you are PATIENT! Everything here moves at a slower rate, learn to flow with the current and you will do just fine. Force things and you will make a mess of it.