About Us

We’re Paul and Shantel McQuaid, founders of Island Home Properties DR, and like many of our clients, our journey to the Dominican Republic was years in the making.

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For a long time, we knew that retiring offshore was part of our future—drawn by the weather, the cost of living, and, most importantly, the quality of life. When we made the move, we did it fully and intentionally. We’ve now been living on the island full-time for over four and a half years, obtaining our Dominican residency, purchasing our own villa, establishing a legal corporation, and even earning our Dominican driver’s licenses. This isn’t just where we work—it’s home.

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Because we live here, we understand that buying property in the Dominican Republic is about far more than just a transaction. Whether our clients are searching for a full-time residence, an investment property, or a combination of both, our priority is always finding the right fit. The communities we serve are close-knit, and every client inevitably becomes a neighbor—we’ll see each other at the grocery store, at a restaurant, or relaxing on the beach. That connection matters to us.

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We truly embrace island life ourselves. Paul stays active with pickleball and the occasional round of golf, while Shantel has discovered a passion for horses and now owns two here on the island. These experiences help us guide clients realistically and honestly, sharing not only the highlights but also the practical details of daily life.

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We take the time to ensure our clients understand the area thoroughly—from the pros and cons of different communities to healthcare, banking, residency, grocery shopping, and local restaurant favorites. We don’t view our clients as just a sale, but as future neighbors, and our goal is for every person we work with to genuinely enjoy life here in the Dominican Republic.

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At Island Home Properties DR, real estate is personal—because this island is our home too.