KINGSTON, Jamaica — July 11, 2025
For generations, Jamaicans have turned migration into something greater than escape—it’s been strategy, sacrifice, and long-term vision. From the Windrush pioneers of 1948 to today’s working-class achievers in Toronto, New York, and London, the journey has always been about more than money. It’s been about coming home stronger.
That spirit is still alive in 2025.
Despite a slight dip, Jamaica received over US$3.36 billion in remittances in 2024, according to the Bank of Jamaica—continuing a trend that has helped families buy land, build homes, and shape communities. From retirement villas in St. Ann to short-term rental investments in Kingston, Jamaicans overseas are staying connected by building something lasting.
The Long Game: Work Abroad, Build Back Home
The blueprint hasn’t changed. Go abroad. Work hard. Send money. Build something that lasts.
That’s the same mindset that brought Windrush-era Jamaicans to post-war Britain—working double shifts while sending back money to Clarendon, St. Thomas, and St. Elizabeth. It’s the same pattern we see today with second- and third-generation Jamaicans making sacrifices so their families can stand on solid ground.
“When mi madda lef Jamaica inna di 70s, she never have nutten. But she send home every dollar she could. Now we own the family yard.”
That’s not just one story—it’s a legacy passed down through generations.
Buying From Abroad: Yes, It’s Still Possible
At Jamaica Homes, we’re seeing a rise in Jamaicans abroad asking the right questions:
- “Can I use my foreign income?”
- “Do I need to be in Jamaica to buy?”
- “Can I qualify for a mortgage from overseas?”
The answer is yes—but it takes planning.
While FHA loans (popular in the U.S.) can’t be used to buy Jamaican property, many Jamaicans use them as a stepping stone. They buy their first home in the U.S., build equity, then tap into that value to invest back home. It’s a smart move—and one we’ve seen over and over again.
Local Tools That Make Ownership Easier
If you’re serious about investing in Jamaica, start with the National Housing Trust (NHT). This programme continues to be one of the most powerful tools for Jamaicans at home and abroad:
- 0–4% interest rates, depending on income
- Loans for buying, building, or improving property
- Joint financing options for couples or relatives
- Voluntary contributions for Jamaicans overseas (minimum 12 months)
As of early 2025, the NHT has been seeing a rise in diaspora contributions, showing more overseas Jamaicans are waking up to this opportunity.
Banks Are Making It Easier Too
Local institutions like JN Bank, VMBS, NCB, and Sagicor Bank offer mortgage products tailored for the diaspora, including:
- Joint loans with a Jamaican co-borrower
- USD-denominated mortgage options
- Remote prequalification from abroad
With these tools, more Jamaicans can now buy without having to jump on a plane.
Stage Payment Plans: More Time, Less Stress
Some developers are also offering stage payment plans, where buyers pay over time as the home is being built. These arrangements:
- Reduce pressure to secure full financing up front
- Give you time to fix your credit or complete documents
- Work well with diaspora timelines and mortgage approval processes
Why Smart Financing Matters
Choosing the right mortgage can save you millions. Just look at the numbers for an $8 million loan over 30 years:
| Mortgage Type | Interest Rate | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|---|
| NHT | 4% | ~$38,160 |
| Commercial Bank | 9% | ~$64,292 |
That’s a difference of over $9 million in total payments.
What You Can Do Right Now
Whether you’re in Montego Bay or Miami, there’s a clear path forward:
If You’re Overseas:
- Start voluntary contributions to NHT
- Prequalify with a Jamaican mortgage provider
- Use your foreign income as leverage
- Consider buying land first, then building
If You’re in Jamaica:
- Look into joint mortgages with trusted relatives
- Register with the NHT early
- Keep your credit clean
- Work with a mortgage advisor—not just your bank
Legacy in Action
“Jamaicans don’t wait on big inheritance,” says Dean Jones, founder of Jamaica Homes. “We build with community, sacrifice, and vision. From Windrush to Westmoreland, the formula hasn’t changed: go abroad, build up, come home, invest. That’s how we move forward.”
You don’t need to come from wealth to build it. You just need a plan—and the courage to start.
At Jamaica Homes, we’re here to help every step of the way.
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.