Episode 316 features Rosalyn Ortega-Elie of Smart Caribbean Properties. We’re talking about how to buy real estate in the Dominican Republic! Listen now!
Rosalyn Ortega-Elie is a seasoned real estate investor, business owner, and former hospitality executive with years of experience in the industry. She specializes in residential rentals, market research, and international real estate investments, helping thousands of aspiring investors find the right opportunities to build wealth through real estate.
As the founder of Urban Teach NYC, Rosalyn provides education and mentorship to those looking to enter the real estate market. Through workshops, coaching, and community support, she empowers individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed investment decisions and grow their portfolios.
Of Dominican descent, Rosalyn has also built a strong real estate network in the Dominican Republic, where she founded Smart Caribbean Properties, a brokerage firm dedicated to helping investors navigate the process of purchasing property in the country’s top tourist destinations. With a deep understanding of the challenges of investing abroad, she ensures smooth, transparent, and ethical transactions for her clients.
With her combined expertise in U.S. and international real estate, Rosalyn is passionate about bridging the gap between investors and high-potential markets, offering guidance on financial strategies, property management, and long-term wealth-building.
In this episode, Rosalyn Ortega-Elie shares her story of leaving behind a corporate career in hospitality to pursue entrepreneurship and real estate investing. She opens up about the fears and risks that come with walking away from a stable job, and how financial literacy played a key role in her journey.
Rosalyn talks about her passion for helping others build wealth through ownership and the growing interest in Caribbean real estate—especially within the Dominican community. She breaks down what it really looks like to invest in the Dominican Republic, from financing and legal considerations to taxes, insurance, and working with the right vendors.
This conversation also dives into the role of women in real estate, the importance of buying with intention, and how investing abroad can be a powerful way to reconnect with your roots—while also empowering local economies.
Episode 316 Highlights:
- Rosalyn emphasizes why financial literacy is key for aspiring investors.
- She shares her journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship.
- Land ownership is framed as a way to reclaim cultural heritage.
- She breaks down the realities of investing in Caribbean real estate.
- Thorough research is essential before buying property.
- Networking and trusted relationships are crucial in real estate.
- Rosalyn stresses the importance of lifelong learning in business.
- She reflects on her experiences and lessons as a landlord.
- Investing in your homeland can be both emotional and empowering.
- Rosalyn encourages the Dominican community to invest in the DR.
- Developers in DR may finance up to 50% of pre-construction at 0% interest.
- Owning property in the DR doesn’t impact your U.S. credit.
- Legal marriage affects property ownership in PR, but not in DR.
- Insurance is optional in the DR, but available.
- Short-term rentals are currently allowed without restrictions.
- Investments over $200K may qualify for dual residency in DR.
- Tax incentives include up to 15 years of no property tax under certain laws.
- Local investment supports the economy and creates jobs.
- Women are increasingly leading in the real estate space.
- Retreats provide hands-on learning for new investors.
Chapters:
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00:00 – Introduction to Rosalyn Ortega-Elli
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02:56 – From Corporate to Entrepreneurship: The Exit Strategy
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06:06 – Entering the Real Estate Market: A Personal Journey
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08:50 – Building Wealth Through Real Estate: Lessons Learned
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11:53 – Investing in the Caribbean: Opportunities and Challenges
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14:53 – Reclaiming Heritage: The Importance of Land Ownership
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17:54 – Navigating Real Estate in the Dominican Republic
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20:51 – Financing Properties in the DR: What You Need to Know
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23:31 – Financing Pre-Construction Properties
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25:09 – Legal Considerations in Property Ownership
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26:36 – Insurance and Short-Term Rentals
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27:35 – Tax Incentives for Investors
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29:51 – Empowering Local Economies through Investment
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30:30 – Finding Trustworthy Vendors
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33:29 – Addressing Concerns of Gentrification
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36:10 – Empowering Women in Real Estate
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39:03 – Retreats for Aspiring Investors
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41:06 – Reconnecting with Heritage through Ownership
Rosalyn reminds us that real estate isn’t just about building wealth — it’s about building legacy, reclaiming roots, and creating impact.
Whether you’re investing locally or abroad, her story is proof that with the right knowledge, mindset, and community, anything is possible.
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning property or breaking into real estate, let this episode be your sign to start!
Watch the full interview on our YouTube channel! Subscribe here.
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Until next time, stay empowered, stay inspired and #StayPoderosa ✨
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