Your Complete Guide for UK and US Residents
Losing a loved one is never easy, and handling affairs from overseas—especially in a country like Jamaica with its own legal processes—can feel overwhelming. Whether you are the spouse, son, daughter, or legally appointed representative, selling a deceased relative’s property in Jamaica requires patience, proper documentation, and professional support. This guide walks you through every step, from paperwork to power of attorney and probate, tailored for diaspora families in the UK and US.
Step 1: Confirm Legal Authority to Sell the Property
Before anything else, you must be legally empowered to act on behalf of the deceased.
• If There Was a Will:
- The Executor named in the Will must apply for a Grant of Probate through the Supreme Court of Jamaica.
- Probate gives the executor authority to handle the deceased’s estate, including property.
• If There Was No Will:
- You’ll need to apply for Letters of Administration, which legally appoint you to manage the estate.
Tip: Start this process early. Probate or administration can take 6–12 months or more, especially if you're abroad.
Step 2: Collect All Necessary Documents
Here’s a list of documents you’ll need to sell the property:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Death Certificate | Confirms the person has passed |
| Certificate of Title | Proof of property ownership |
| Grant of Probate / Letters of Administration | Legal authority to sell |
| Valid ID (Passport) | For seller or legal rep |
| Proof of Address | Utility bill or bank letter (UK or US accepted) |
| Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN) | Mandatory for all parties involved |
| Customer Information Form | To comply with Jamaica’s Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) |
| Listing Agreement | Signed contract with the realtor |
🔍 Step 3: Apply for a Jamaican TRN (If You Don’t Have One)
A TRN (Taxpayer Registration Number) is required to sell any property in Jamaica. As a non-resident, here’s how to apply:
How to Get a TRN from Abroad:
- Download the TRN application form from Tax Administration Jamaica.
- Complete the form.
- Include a notarized copy of your passport and proof of address (UK/US utility bill or bank statement).
- Mail to:nginxCopyEdit
Taxpayer Registration Centre 116 East Street, Kingston, Jamaica
Tip: Use a reputable courier or ask your lawyer in Jamaica to assist.
Step 4: Engage the Right Professionals
Navigating real estate from abroad means trusting the right local experts:
- Attorney-at-Law: Essential for probate, verifying title, and processing the sale.
- Licensed Realtor: Lists and markets the property, finds buyers, and facilitates showings.
- Land Surveyor: Needed if the property boundaries aren’t clearly defined.
- Valuator: To get a professional valuation, especially for setting a competitive price.
Tip: Work with professionals who are used to dealing with overseas clients—communication is key!
Step 5: Sign a Listing Agreement and Start the Sale Process
Once probate is granted and documents are in place:
- Sign a listing agreement with your chosen Jamaican realtor.
- Realtor will arrange professional photos and marketing.
- Property goes on the market—usually on local sites like PropertyAdsJa, Realtors Association of Jamaica, and international portals if targeting returning residents.
- Once a buyer is found, your lawyer prepares the Agreement for Sale.
What If You Have Power of Attorney?
If you're the son, daughter, or another representative with Power of Attorney (POA):
- The POA must be registered in Jamaica to be valid.
- A Jamaican lawyer can assist with preparing and registering the POA.
- You can act on behalf of the estate but still need probate or letters of administration.
Tips for UK and US-Based Family Members
- Time zone differences: Choose professionals who can communicate over WhatsApp, Zoom, or email to avoid delays.
- Use a local family member only if they’re trusted and can act with a valid POA.
- Document everything: Email confirmations, scans of ID, all signed forms—keep copies for your own records.
Beware of Scams
Unfortunately, some people try to take advantage of grieving overseas families. Here's how to stay safe:
- Use registered attorneys and realtors only (check with the Real Estate Board of Jamaica).
- Never send large sums of money to individuals—use escrow services or registered lawyers.
- Verify property ownership through the National Land Agency (NLA):
Timeline Overview
| Stage | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Probate Process | 6–12 months (can vary) |
| TRN Application | 2–4 weeks from overseas |
| Property Sale (listing to closing) | 3–6 months |
What About Inherited Furniture or Belongings?
If the property includes contents you want to keep:
- Hire a shipping company familiar with UK or US container export from Jamaica.
- Ask your attorney to coordinate pickup and handover.
- You may need to declare items with HMRC (UK) or US Customs—especially antiques or valuables.
Final Checklist
✔️ Death Certificate
✔️ Title of Property
✔️ Probate or Letters of Administration
✔️ TRN for all sellers
✔️ Valid photo ID
✔️ Proof of UK/US address
✔️ POA (if applicable)
✔️ Lawyer + Realtor engaged
✔️ Customer Info Form (POCA compliance)
✔️ Listing Agreement signed
Final Word
Selling inherited property in Jamaica from the UK or US can be daunting, but with the right support and documentation, it’s entirely doable. Always work with licensed professionals, be prepared for a multi-step legal process, and start the paperwork early.
Need help finding a trusted Jamaican lawyer or realtor? Don’t hesitate to reach out—we can help point you in the right direction.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Please note: Jamaica Homes is not authorized to offer financial advice. The information provided is not financial advice and should not be relied upon for financial decisions. Consult a regulated mortgage adviser for guidance.