Coldwell Banker Around the World: August 2024

Kait McMurdo    August 8, 2024

If you watched the Ryan Murphy series, “Feud: Capote vs. the Swans,” the idyllic Jamaican getaway of Bill and Babe Paley plays a recurring role as one of the glam locations at which this elite group of tastemakers gathers. As one of the premier locations for the jet set of the 1960s, Montego Bay in Jamaica, is now also about to be home to the first Global Luxury office in the Caribbean, and third in Jamaica overall (with existing offices in Kingston and Montego Bay). The new Global Luxury location will be based in the exclusive members’ only Tryall Club, with Luxury Property Specialist Nicola Delapenha taking the lead as the preferred broker for the club. As Delapenha notes, “Jamaica’s popularity continues to grow as a destination that offers a diverse landscape and increased inventory.” She continues, “Our music, food, culture and people have always attracted visitors worldwide and numerous celebrities who want a relaxed, laid-back vibe and lifestyle which we are well known for. As demand grows so do our prices but we remain one of the best locations with great value in the Caribbean.”

Jamaica has a variety of options and price points to consider, from the exclusive Tryall Club with its golf course, amenities, and old-world glamour, to other areas like Spanish Town or the burgeoning New Brunswick Village. Coldwell Banker Jamaica agent Natalie Barakat-Johnson shares, “my motto is to buy land or buildings near growing or historic cities like Spanish Town. A good example is New Brunswick Village as its 5 minutes from our magnificent heritage buildings and sites.” She goes on, “Spanish Town was our first city and the regentrification process has begun, buying when other people hesitate creates untold wealth!” Learn more about the island of Jamaica from our friends at Coldwell Banker Jamaica Realty and discover why they are so proud to call the island home.

Where do you live? I reside in Kingston, the stunning capital of Jamaica, embraced by the Caribbean Sea and the majestic Blue Mountains.

What is the perfect weekend day like? We’re off to Bob Marley Beach, just a quick 40-minute drive from the city, where we’ll take a refreshing swim in the sea. After that, we’ll embark on a scenic drive up to the hills of New Castle, perched at an elevation of 4000 feet. There, we’ll unwind with a delightful cup of Blue Mountain coffee while marveling at the sunset over our beautiful island.

What are the common modes of transportation there? Many Jamaicans own cars or motorcycles for personal transportation. However, public transportation, like buses and taxis, are frequently used for commuting within cities and towns. Public buses serve designated routes while taxis offer flexible point-to-point service. Walking is a common way to get around in rural areas and smaller towns, especially for short distances. Some people use bicycles for commuting, exercise, or leisure. Tourists often use rented cars, tour buses, or organized tours to explore the island’s attractions.

Tell us about the foods your area is known for. Many Jamaicans enjoy a patty and coco bread (editor: Coco bread is a Jamaican bread that’s often split in half and stuffed with a Jamaican beef patty to make a sandwich. Coco bread is starchy and slightly sweet, with a mild coconut flavor that comes from coconut milk or coconut) for a quick meal, while staples like curry goat, oxtail, and rice and peas are beloved. Ackee and saltfish, our national dish, is a popular choice for Sunday morning breakfast. Spice is a must and scotch bonnet gets the job done!

What is your favourite meal, at home or at a restaurant? Fresh fried fish & festival or jerk chicken and rice and peas are my top two choices, both enjoyed at local restaurants.

Where do you recommend someone vacation in your region and why? Explore the island by touring numerous parishes, from our famed 7-mile beach to the Blue Hole in Port Antonio. Jamaica provides amazing tours and private villas for accommodation. The Tryall Club is truly a tropical oasis with all the luxurious amenities, including an 18-hole golf course, tennis court and relaxing beach with a seaside restaurant, set on 2,200 acres of rolling hills and valleys.

What is your favourite recreational or leisure time activity? Nothing beats the outdoors! I enjoy swimming in rivers, waterfalls, or the sea and hiking up to Blue Mountain peak. However, biking has always been a favorite. I’ve ridden through almost all parishes, and it is my favorite way to explore the island! Of course, we have some of the most challenging golf courses as well.

Is there a specialty your area is known for? Our hospitality shines through in Jamaica! With warmth, sunshine, and friendly people, our economy flourishes thanks to tourism. Experience our vibrant culture firsthand by taking a day trip, stopping at a roadside shop or bar, and engaging in genuine Jamaican conversations—you’ll make friends for life. Complimenting this experience are our Jamaican specialties: Blue Mountain coffee and island rums, ensuring your stay is truly memorable!

Share a little known but interesting fact about the area/region: Rumor has it that the winding nature of our Jamaican roads is attributed to a clever incentive: the English were compensated based on the length of the roads they constructed, showcasing their ingenuity. This approach not only ensured extensive road networks but also highlighted their innovative approach to infrastructure development.

If you were to live in any other region where we have a Coldwell Banker presence, where would it be and why? Once a Jamaican, always a Jamaican! But if I had to choose, I would say Cayman as my mother’s dad was in the shipping industry, so I travelled there numerous times growing up. Cayman also boasts a 7-mile beach, where living alongside the crystal-clear waters provides such a peaceful experience.

Territory Summary:

Jamaica, located in the Caribbean Sea, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant economy, and diverse geography. Historically, it was initially inhabited by the indigenous Taíno people before being colonized by the Spanish in the early 16th century. Later, it became a British colony until gaining independence in 1962.

Economically, Jamaica is characterized by a mixed economy with strong sectors in tourism, agriculture (sugar, coffee, and bananas), mining (bauxite and alumina), and manufacturing. The tourism industry, attracted by its breathtaking beaches and cultural attractions, is a significant contributor to the economy.

Jamaica’s geography features a variety of landscapes, including lush rainforests, majestic mountains, fertile plains, and stunning coastlines. The island experiences a tropical climate, with a wet season spanning from May to November and a dry season from December to April.

Jamaica blends a vibrant economic profile with a rich history and diverse geography, establishing itself as a unique and attractive destination within the Caribbean.

Key Facts:

• Population: 2.83 million
• Language(s) Spoken: English & Patois
• Climate: Tropical
• Currency: Jamaican Dollar

Industry Facts:

Types of Architecture: Mixed architectural styles in Jamaica include older villas featuring Georgian and Gingerbread influences, transitioning through periods of Spanish hacienda architecture, and currently trending towards newer post-colonial tropical contemporary designs.

• Price per square foot: Across the island, prices generally range from USD $300 – 500ppsf
• Average Sales Price: Luxury apartments typically begin at a starting price of $750,000 USD, while villas can range up to $6 million USD.
• Types of financing: Mortgage companies provide 70% financing available at a variable rate.
• Interesting fact: Jamaicans and foreigners pay the same fees and ownership is by way of Fee Simple.