rewrite this title Luxury real estate tourism promotes sustainable development in Jarabacoa

Real estate tourism remains one of the most attractive trends in the Dominican market, promoting investments that combine luxury, sustainability and personalized experiences.

This model not only redefines the way second homes are perceived, but also responds to a growing demand for spaces that integrate high-quality hotel services and efficient management, freeing owners from traditional management. The diversification of tourist destinations towards mountainous and ecological areas reinforces this paradigm, which attracts both national and foreign investors.

In the Dominican Republic, emerging destinations such as Jarabacoa and Montecristi are capitalizing on their natural wealth to position themselves as key poles of this new approach. The combination of a pleasant climate, exceptional landscapes and the incorporation of sustainable standards in the design and operation of real estate projects is transforming these localities into areas of high added value. This phenomenon not only benefits developers and buyers, but also energizes local economies, creates jobs and strengthens community infrastructure.

The appeal of this model lies in its ability to deliver consistent investment returns, thanks to the professional management of properties as part of global hotel networks.

Homeowners enjoy the flexibility of using their homes during specific seasons while generating income through rental schemes organized by specialist operators. This hybrid approach has proven especially effective in competitive markets where buyers value both profitability and the ownership experience.

The expansion of this type of development reflects – at the same time – a change in the priorities of consumers, who seek a balance between financial investment, sustainability and lifestyle. The projects in this category not only stand out for their architectural design and strategic location, but also for their ability to offer comprehensive experiences that include contact with nature, exclusive recreational activities and a genuine commitment to the conservation of the environment.

In this context, the Dominican Republic is well positioned at the regional level in real estate tourism, taking advantage of its geographical diversity and its ability to adapt to new market trends. In Jarabacoa, for example, Alterra, an ambitious tourist real estate project, is establishing itself as one of the most important in this municipality and in the northern region or Cibao. After a successful first phase, the initiative announces its strategic alliance with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, which marks a milestone with the construction of a 130-room hotel for Jarabacoa (made up of 50 villas), which will be the largest in the area.

It will practically double the number of rooms that the largest hotel currently has in Jarabacoa, which is about 65. Pablo Espinal, CEO or general director of Alterra, told elCaribe that this new scheme combines real estate investment and luxury hospitality, allowing investors acquire titled and transferable villas, and eliminates the traditional concerns associated with second homes. Wyndham guarantees complete management, including maintenance, security and operation, ensuring a five-star experience.

It involves the construction and sale of real estate units that are part of what is called a private presidential brand concept.

Titled units, not a club

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, through Registry Collection (Wyndham's most exclusive brand), which Alterra has acquired, manages the hotel operation. It is an investment and second home group. This is not a vacation club, but units titled and transferred in the name of the investor, and they can resell at any time. In this way, the owner is spared all the headaches that come with having a second home, such as paying for maintenance, repairing what is damaged, cleaning and security, etc.

The hotel will operate within an eco-friendly scheme, wellness, nature, adventure, luxury villas and private villas, where each family will have the opportunity to enjoy a level of privacy, security, and the operation of Wyndham, with a five-star hotel and all the comforts that come with it.

The villas are integrated into an environment of pine trees and respect the surrounding nature with low-density construction criteria, according to architect José Ernesto Peña. Alterra reforests each completed lot, which guarantees the conservation of the environment. Today, according to the data provided, Alterra is one of the most important employers in the Buena Vista and Jarabacoa area, in the La Vega province.

Currently, in the first stage more than US$12 million are invested in the project; The next phase involves a total investment of more than US$60 million.

In the long term, a five-phase development (hotel and real estate) is planned, covering 800,000 square meters. That is, there will be units that operate within the hotel scheme, but also residential units that can be enjoyed without commitment to any hotel brand, just as one would enjoy a second home or a summer home.

These types of developments have begun to generate a considerable economic impact in the region. According to preliminary data, in the first two years of operation, the region experienced a significant percentage increase in local economic activity, especially in sectors such as construction, commerce and tourism.

Jobs and cost per unit

The creation of jobs, along with the increase in demand for local services and goods, is demonstrating the transformative potential of projects of the type described. The ability to attract foreign investments is increasing, which strengthens Jarabacoa's projection as a competitive destination on a global level.

The second phase of Alterra aims to be operational by December 2026. The success of this stage will determine the start of the third phase. The investment cost for hotel units (villas) in the second phase – for those interested – starts at US$390,000, while the price for rental varies depending on the season, explains Pablo Espinal, in a conversation held midway. tomorrow.

In general terms, Jarabacoa still exhibits security as one of its strong points. The municipality has been defined as the safest in the Dominican Republic. Alterra reinforces this advantage with 24/7 access control and constant patrols, guaranteeing peace of mind for residents and investors.

Wyndham's operating model will allow owners to enjoy their villas for 60 days a year. Unused days can be exchanged at any hotel in the chain globally. This scheme ensures shared income generated by the hotel's operation, and offers high profitability. With the support of Wyndham and its network of more than 112 million members, Alterra internationalizes its reach, attracting clients and investors from various latitudes. In addition, it offers customizable models in future residential stages. This positions Jarabacoa as a luxury, sustainable destination, with a unique investment model in the region.

Economic impact and return on investment data

One of the highlights of the Alterra project is its return on investment program, which combines the acquisition of properties with a rental model managed by a specialized operator. This allows homeowners to earn a steady income, while enjoying the flexibility to use their residences whenever they want. According to the owner of Alterra, this formula has sparked interest in both national and international investors, especially those interested in diversifying their portfolios in emerging markets. In general terms, Jarabacoa has had a great takeoff in real estate development; It has more than 7,000 summer houses, which indicates that it has reached an important level of development, with a very diverse and rich complementary offer and a gastronomic offer well valued nationwide.

Jarabacoa currently has the only two chefs who have been awarded Michelin stars from the entire Dominican Republic, including Puerto Plata, Punta Cana and Santo Domingo. Two of those chefs are María Marte and Adin Langille. Additionally, it has more than 20 high-quality restaurants. The area also offers excursions, such as rafting, paragliding, horses, four-wheeling, among other attractions, including its exuberant nature. “It is time for us to begin positioning Jarabacoa on the international map of tourism promotion,” says Pablo Espinal.

At an economic level, Alterra has estimated that villa owners achieve an attractive return on their investment, a percentage higher than the performance of other real estate sectors in the region. Furthermore, the local economic impact is given by an increase in the flow of tourists and in the consumption of goods and services associated with tourist and recreational activities. Alterra is committed to a sustainability approach that not only seeks to preserve the natural environment, but also involve residents and tourists in ecological initiatives.

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