Crabs in a Barrel – A Reflection on Professionalism, Passion, and the Jamaican Real Estate Landscape

Dear Editor,

I recently had a disheartening yet eye-opening experience while preparing to list a property in Jamaica. As part of my standard process, I was on location gathering information, taking photographs, and preparing the necessary details for a professional listing. During this routine activity, the property owner paused and asked me, “Why would you, with your qualifications, want to come into this field and be just another crab in a barrel?”

At first, I was taken aback. Her question was laced with concern, perhaps even sarcasm, but more than anything, it carried the weight of cultural commentary. It wasn’t a lighthearted jab—it was a deeply embedded reflection of how some Jamaicans perceive the competitive and often cutthroat nature of real estate and similar industries on the island. Her remark lingered in my mind long after I left the property, and I feel compelled to unpack it—not just for my own understanding, but for the benefit of others who may be wrestling with similar sentiments.

What did she mean? And why did it resonate so strongly?

The phrase “crab in a barrel” is a well-known metaphor in Jamaican parlance, describing a scenario where individuals, like crabs in a confined space, pull each other down in their struggle to escape. Instead of cooperating or supporting one another, each crab fights for personal survival, resulting in collective failure. Applied to human behavior, it symbolizes environments marked by envy, sabotage, and internal conflict—where progress is often met with resistance not from external forces, but from peers within the same community.

To be told that entering the Jamaican real estate field—especially as a qualified professional—was akin to choosing life in a crab barrel was more than a critique of the industry; it was a warning. It suggested that despite the education, skills, or vision one might bring, the environment might not welcome such contributions. It was a commentary on a system where collaboration is rare, and where success often triggers resentment instead of respect.

This idea is both troubling and, unfortunately, not unfounded.

I have heard stories from agents who had listings mysteriously disappear, who found their signs vandalized or stolen, who lost clients due to slander or baseless rumors started by competitors. Property managers speak of backhanded tactics—fake bookings, bad reviews orchestrated by rivals, or intentional guest sabotage. It’s not just anecdotal; it’s a recurring narrative among professionals trying to build reputations with integrity.

So why enter such a space? Why, with qualifications that might lead me down less contentious paths, did I choose real estate in Jamaica?

The answer lies in passion, purpose, and an unyielding belief that transformation is possible.

Jamaica is a land of unmatched beauty, culture, and potential. The real estate sector here is booming, driven by tourism, diaspora investments, and a growing demand for both short- and long-term housing solutions. With proper structure, professionalism, and modern business ethics, this field has the potential to not only change individual lives but also to uplift communities and contribute meaningfully to national development.

But it cannot thrive if it continues to be governed by fear, gatekeeping, and the proverbial crab-in-a-barrel syndrome.

When qualified individuals—whether returning residents, foreign-trained professionals, or locally educated innovators—enter this field, it should be seen as a sign of progress. Diversity in training and background brings fresh perspectives, improves industry standards, and benefits clients who deserve high-quality service. Resistance to this infusion of new talent often stems from fear of competition rather than recognition of shared goals.

To the property seller’s point, her concern might have been protective in nature. She might have seen too many stories of dreamers crushed by the industry, of talented individuals pushed out by politics and pettiness. Her comment may have been born of experience, not malice. Still, it reflects a mindset that urgently needs addressing.

We cannot afford to keep pulling each other down. Every field, from real estate to hospitality, law, and education, benefits from professional elevation. We need mentors, not gatekeepers. We need industry associations that don’t just protect turf but also promote collaboration, training, and shared success. We need media and public forums that highlight ethical practices and success stories, not just scandal and sabotage.

As professionals, we must resist the temptation to mirror bad behavior. That means focusing on excellent service, transparent dealings, and continuous education. It also means calling out unethical practices and advocating for regulations that protect both clients and practitioners. The change we desire must begin within.

There’s also a responsibility for clients and the general public. Consumers of real estate services must become more discerning—choosing professionals based on merit, trust, and verifiable results, not gossip or favoritism. When clients reward professionalism, the industry evolves to meet those expectations.

I remain committed to this field—not because it is easy, but because it is necessary. I believe in raising the bar, setting new standards, and helping redefine what it means to be a real estate professional in Jamaica. I believe in using my qualifications not to escape the barrel but to help dismantle it.

To anyone reading this who has hesitated to pursue a passion due to fear of hostile peers or toxic industry culture: do not be deterred. The crab-in-a-barrel mentality only thrives when good people opt out. Your presence, integrity, and success are the antidotes.

And to the property owner who asked me that unforgettable question—thank you. You gave me reason to reflect, and more importantly, reason to recommit. I choose not to be just another crab. I choose to build ladders.

Sincerely,