Buying here can be a good idea. It depends on your needs and your resources.
Expat areas include Bob’s list and Semana, Las Terrenas, La Romana, Juan Dolio, Jarabacoa, Luperon and the entire north and east coasts.
If you plan to live here long term, then come down and rent. Rent for 6 months to a year in the area you think you want to settle. Then and only then consider purchasing. If you do, make sure to get a good qualified realtor (there are no licensing requirements here) and a good lawyer who is on your side! Make sure you understand the rules here before you leap in.