What inspired you to transition from healthcare technology to luxury real estate, and how does your background in healthcare influence your approach to real estate and home design?
My transition from healthcare technology to luxury real estate was driven by my understanding of how technology, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices impact overall health and well-being. In healthcare, I focused on AI-driven solutions, digital transformation, patient-centered medical devices and understood that some custom design methods could improve the quality of life. I saw an opportunity to bring these principles and solutions into real estate, creating homes that support wellness and longevity.
With a background in Public Health, I look at everything from this lens, just as healthcare continues to evolve to enhance patient outcomes, real estate must adapt to support healthy, sustainable comforts in lifestyles and help improve life expectancy. A luxury home should do more than offer beauty, it should ensure that residents thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally in their space.
What is Nova Lux DR Properties’ mission, and how does it differentiate itself from other luxury real estate firms in the Dominican Republic?
At Nova Lux DR Properties, our mission is to redefine luxury real estate by integrating wellness, sustainability, and intelligent design into every home utilizing the principles of Feng Shui. We go beyond traditional real estate by curating personalized experiences that prioritize health, longevity, and investment value. Our goal is to help clients not only find a home but to create a sanctuary that enhances their well-being and helps to secure their financial future with this investment.
What Sets Nova Lux Apart?
- Wellness-Centered Design – We incorporate biophilic elements, optimal air quality, and natural lighting to promote relaxation, energy balance, and aging in place.
- Smart Investment Approach – We focus on high-value, tax-efficient properties, including those with CONFOTUR benefits, to maximize profitability and appreciation.
- Personalized Concierge-Level Service – Unlike traditional firms, we guide international buyers through challenges in every step, from pre-construction investments reviews, legal guidance, to interior design considerations and property management peace for peace of mind.
What trends are you seeing in the luxury real estate market in the Dominican Republic, and what makes it an attractive destination for investors?
The luxury real estate market in the Dominican Republic is experiencing a heightened demand, driven by sustainable development, wellness-focused design, and high-return investment opportunities. One major trend is the rise of pre-construction luxury properties, allowing investors to secure high-value assets at lower entry points, in desirable locations, with attractive appreciation potential. Further, luxury residential construction saw a 7% increase in 2024 and is projected to continue to climb in 2025.
Additionally, there’s a growing emphasis on wellness-centered living, with buyers seeking homes that incorporate aging-in-place accessibility features. From an investment standpoint, CONFOTUR tax incentives, record breaking tourism numbers —with over 11 million visitors in 2024—and a stable economy make the Dominican Republic a premier destination. Rental yields in the region remain strong, averaging 6.74% in Q2 2024, with some areas like Punta Cana offering returns between 3.87% and 7.92%.
Who is the typical buyer of a Nova Lux DR home? Are you seeing more interest from U.S.-based buyers or other international investors?
Our buyers are typically professionals and retirees from around the world, including those seeking second homes, vacation properties, retirement homes and investment opportunities.
We are seeing significant interest from U.S.-based buyers, particularly those from New York, Florida, and California, who are attracted to the Dominican Republic’s tax incentives, lifestyle appeal, and proximity to the U.S. These buyers are also seeking a place to escape and invest in a growing, stable economy.
Punta Cana has also become a major hub for Argentine tourists and we are also noticing growing demand from investors in Spain, Italy and Latin American buyers looking for diversification and luxury investments. Canadian buyers also remain a strong presence due to the year-round appeal of the Caribbean.
You emphasize housing as a public health issue—can you elaborate on how Nova Lux DR homes are designed to enhance emotional well-being?
We approach home design from a holistic, wellness centered point of view, recognizing that the quality of our living space plays a direct role in our overall well-being. Embracing my background in healthcare, we prioritize design elements that promote a balanced and harmonious environment.
Nova Lux DR homes enhance emotional well-being with natural light and airflow, large windows and open layouts allow natural light to penetrate the space. Outdoor living contributes to creating a fresh and vibrant environment. Biophilic Design is how we integrate biophilic elements, incorporating nature and natural elements into the environment, to create a connection to the natural world.
We use calming aesthetics and neutral tones using FENG SHUI practice. It’s about soothing color palettes, like neutral tones, are carefully chosen to create a calm and peaceful aesthetic. Thoughtful design with minimalist interiors ensures that the home feels open and spacious.
Wellness-focused amenities include health-centric amenities such as fitness centers, yoga spaces, spa-like facilities and walking paths.
How does investing in luxury real estate in the Dominican Republic compare to other international markets?
The Dominican Republic offers several advantages when compared to other international markets, particularly in terms of affordability, high return potential, tax incentives, and the growing demand for vacation homes and investment properties in key areas. Here are a few key factors:
- Value for Money and Growth:
Dominican Republic: Compared to luxury real estate in other well-established markets such as NYC, Miami, London, or Paris, the DR offers more affordable options. You can find luxury beachfront properties for a fraction of the price, for example, a luxury condo in Punta Cana can be priced between $150,000 and $500,000, whereas similar properties in top international markets can easily exceed north of $1.5 million. The country has experienced economic growth with an average GDP increase of about 5% annually over the last decade.
- High Return on Investment (ROI):
The Dominican Republic offers attractive rental yields, especially in areas like Punta Cana and Santo Domingo, with an average gross yield of 6.74% in Q2 2024, higher than in other luxury markets. Markets like London or New York have experienced slower rental yield growth in recent years due to high property prices and saturation.
- Tax Incentives and Benefits (CONFOTUR):
Dominican Republic: The CONFOTUR program offers significant tax benefits for international investors, including property tax exemptions for up to 15 years, income tax reductions, and exemptions from capital gains taxes. International Markets: Countries like the U.S. or Europe may offer tax incentives in certain regions, but the Dominican Republic’s CONFOTUR program stands out.
How do you advise clients on maximizing the return on their real estate investments, whether for personal use or rental income?
I advise clients on maximizing their real estate investment returns by focusing on their needs first, key factors such as location, location, location, property condition, and long-term growth appreciation potential. For personal use, let’s say retirement planning, I recommend homes that integrate wellness features, including biophilic design, which not only enhance lifestyle quality but also increase property value. For rental income, I suggest properties in high-demand tourist areas like Punta Cana nearby key reputable resorts and Las Terrenas, with short-term rental potential and luxury amenities such as infinity pools, gyms, and private parking. Leveraging tax incentives like CONFOTUR, maintaining a professional property management so that everything is handled, ensuring regular property upkeep all contribute to high rental yields and capital appreciation over time.
Are there any upcoming developments, projects, or partnerships you’re particularly excited about?
Yes, I’m particularly excited about several upcoming developments and partnerships that are set to transform the real estate landscape in the Dominican Republic. One standout project is Poseidonia Residences in Punta Cana, which will feature over 1,300 luxury residential units, offering a combination of modern living and near the ocean right next to the Hard Rock Hotel. Another exciting development is The Reef in Las Terrenas, which is a gorgeous addition to the area with a pool that is designed like a natural river. Additionally, our partnerships with prestigious names such as Casa de Campo Real Estate, home to some of the most beautiful properties in the DR, along with Noval Properties, a highly reputable builder, and ASTON Hotels & Residences, further strengthen our portfolio.
How can people learn more about Nova Lux DR Properties?
People can learn more about Nova Lux DR Properties on:
Instagram & Facebook: Follow us at @NovaLuxDRProperties for the latest updates, listings, events, property features, and exclusive offers.
Website: Visit our website at www.novaluxdrproperties.com for detailed property listings, investment opportunities, and information about our services and buying guide.
Email: For inquiries, please reach out to us via email at Kathy@novaluxdrproperties.com.
Phone: Call us directly at +1 (917) 409-1919 for personalized assistance and more details.
Kathy Colon is the Founder & CEO of Nova Lux DR Properties. Her journey to launching the company began while caring for a loved one and frequently traveling between New York and the Dominican Republic. During her visits, she stayed in various villas and fell in love with the country’s beauty. However, she quickly realized that navigating the process of finding and furnishing a property was far from simple.
With years of experience in executive roles at global companies such as Microsoft, IBM Watson, and Salesforce, Colon saw an opportunity to offer something different—a real estate company that not only helps clients find their dream homes but also makes the entire experience seamless and enjoyable. Nova Lux DR Properties was founded from her desire to merge her passion for business, health and wellness, and the Dominican Republic, providing a holistic approach to luxury real estate. Through local expertise, personalized service, and a commitment to creating spaces where lasting memories can be built, she ensures that every client experiences a smooth and fulfilling journey to property ownership.
