Jamaica’s tradition of incremental, room-by-room homebuilding creates a complex, informal housing culture that Hurricane Melissa exposed with devastating clarity.

The government has committed billions through the NHT’s ROOFS programme and related initiatives in response to Hurricane Melissa’s housing destruction, with thousands of claims still being processed.

The NHT’s six-month mortgage moratorium for Hurricane Melissa-affected parishes is closing, with 36,000 accounts resuming payments and a final extension window open until 30 June.

Jamaica’s affordable housing gap remains stubbornly wide as private developers build for the upper market and NHT delivery struggles to match the scale of unmet demand.

An $84-million infrastructure upgrade at Bogue Industrial Estate will pave the way for its formal sale to current occupants, offering a model for land formalisation across Jamaica.

A South Florida conference dedicated to Jamaican diaspora property investment drew strong attendance, reflecting growing confidence and organisation among overseas buyers.

Jamaica’s MLS data recorded approximately $100 billion in residential property sales in 2025, with the market showing unusual resilience despite Hurricane Melissa and a contracting economy.

New MLS data shows diaspora buyers account for roughly 70 per cent of major residential development sales, while an apartment oversupply is beginning to soften rental rates.

From July 1, the NHT’s Advance Deposit Loan will allow contributors aged 35 and under to draw up to $2 million from their approved loan to cover a house deposit.

A new 34-unit apartment project in Montego Bay reflects the growing residential developer interest in St James as the city’s economy continues to expand beyond tourism.