With Airbnb oversaturation, rising house prices, and lifestyle shifts, Jamaican homeowners are asking one big question—should I sell or rent my property?
Let’s break it down—no fluff, just facts, insight, and a little island wisdom.
Then vs Now: A Land of Legacy
In Jamaica, owning a home has always been more than just "buying property." It’s pride. It’s generational. It’s the “big dream.”
From Kingston to Mandeville, from the hills of St. Ann to the beachfronts of Portland, land and house ownership shaped family roots. Ask any elder—they’ll tell you about building block by block, every payday, with neighbours lending tools and prayers.
But in 2025?
The landscape has changed.
Inflation. Diaspora demand. Short-term rental platforms. Gated schemes. New highways. Foreign investors.
Owning real estate in Jamaica today is both a gift—and a decision that needs strategy.
Renting Your Home: Still Worth It?
Long-term rental still has its place, especially in cities like Kingston, Montego Bay, Spanish Town, and even fast-developing towns like Mandeville and St. Ann’s Bay.
“If you have a good tenant and location, you’re earning and preserving value at the same time,” says Dean Jones, Realtor Associate at Coldwell Banker Jamaica Realty and Founder of Jamaica Homes.
Why Rent It Out?
Reliable monthly income (JMD $80K–250K+ depending on area)
Keeps your foot in the market
Ideal for families who want to pass the home down later
Things to Think About:
Upkeep is on you
Bad tenants can cost more than you earn
Slower demand in rural or oversupplied areas
Best For:
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Homes in good school districts or town centres
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Owners who don’t need cash urgently
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Anyone planning to return or retire in Jamaica later
Airbnb: Still Hot or Overcooked?
A few years ago, everyone and their cousin turned their property into an Airbnb. And it worked—for a while.
But now?
Too many listings. Lower nightly rates. Higher expectations.
“Airbnb worked when there were fewer options,” says Dean Jones. “Now, to stand out, you have to treat it like a business, not a side hustle.”
The Good:
Higher earning potential in peak season
Flexible use—rent when you want, keep for family trips
Appealing to tourists, expats, and digital nomads
The Catch:
You need management, cleaning, marketing
Oversaturation in places like Ochi, Drax Hall, MoBay
New government rules and taxes could eat into profit
Reality Check:
Unless your property is unique (ocean view, stylish interior, central location), Airbnb might not bring in what it used to.
Best For:
- Owners who live in Jamaica (or have a reliable property manager)
- Unique or premium homes near beaches, attractions, or in-demand towns
- People willing to treat it like a hospitality business
Selling: Take the Money and Move On?
Let’s be real. Jamaican property prices have jumped—especially in gated communities, suburban areas, and coastal towns.
So, if you’re thinking of cashing out now?
You're not alone.
“Selling is smart if you need capital, are relocating, or can’t manage the property anymore,” says Jones. “There’s strong demand from diaspora buyers and local professionals.”
Reasons to Sell:
Lump sum to invest or start over elsewhere
Too much stress managing tenants or bookings
Great price in a hot market (e.g., St. Catherine, St. Ann, St. James)
The Downside:
Re-buying later might be too expensive
Emotional ties—especially if it’s a family home
Missed long-term appreciation if the area booms
Best For:
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Owners migrating or needing quick capital
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Properties that are hard to rent or maintain
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Homes in areas seeing strong buyer demand
So, What Should YOU Do?
Ask yourself these 4 questions:
- Do I want to keep this property in my family?
- Can I manage it—or afford someone who can?
- Do I need the money now?
- Is my property in a high-demand area?
“It’s not about what the market says—it’s about your life,”
says Dean Jones. “Renting, selling, short-term—each has value. But only one will fit your season.”
Real Talk: What the Future Looks Like
Jamaica’s real estate market is still rising, especially with:
- The North Coast highway improving access
- Diaspora buyers fueling demand
- Young professionals investing earlier
- Government efforts to regularize and tax Airbnb
But it’s also becoming more competitive, more regulated, and more segmented.
What worked five years ago won’t necessarily work today. So be wise. Do the numbers. And most importantly—make the decision that works for you.
Final Word
Owning property in Jamaica is still one of the most powerful things you can do for your family, your future, and your freedom. Whether you sell, rent, or reimagine it—make it count.
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.