When I tell my friends that I grew up in a large house in Jamaica with 7 bedrooms, a huge veranda with driveway and car park, a huge lawn in front plus a huge backyard so large that we used to play table tennis outside, plus various fruit trees (mangoes, apples, ackee, grapefruit, plums), plus a tool shed, plus a sewing room inside the house, with a large living room, three bathrooms, etc, they all think I must be rich. I tell them no, that's just a typical middle-class home in Jamaica. Then when I tell them we had a helper (maid), a gardener plus a handyman, used to throw large parties at the end of school year to coincide with the famous high school barbecues (are those still a thing?), etc, they think my parents must have been millionaires. I laugh and tell them, no, that's your average middle-class lifestyle in Jamaica. Then when I tell that we used to take leisurely outings to the countryside, that I used to go camping every summer, drive to the beaches and have the best grilled seafood, or drive to Montego Bay to spend a day at some resort, they think I must be telling them fairy tales, for this type of lifestyle in the US is only available to the rich. I tell them that about half the Jamaicans living in the US have had to adjust to a significant downgrade in their lifestyle upon migrating to the US. The biggest shock they get is when arriving in NY only to live in tiny, stuffy, run-down apartments in the Bronx or Queens. Growing up as a child in Jamaica, I thought life was supremely comfortable in my coddled middle-class existence, until I started getting invited to birthday parties by my schoolmates at Wolmer's. Many of them came from wealthy backgrounds and lived in huge mansions on the hills. One particular birthday party by a schoolmate who lived in Stony Hills still lives as an unforgettable moment to this day in my mind. I've never seen such a lavish house with a more luxurious lifestyle in all my travels around the world. That birthday party really opened my eyes as to how rich people in Jamaica live!
Live in England for 21 yrs. knows exactly what u talking about. Coming from a 6 bedrooms 3 bathrooms house in Jamaica. England was a huge culture shock for me, when I came here
Sorry to hear that the original people of Jamaica really do not know how to promote their own country other than to music and to witness the new dance craves! Jamaica you can do better?
Dis Bredda up here mstnt say dat bout Yard ppl. Irene, she a Yard girl Now n Love Up YARD n do har tng. Blessings 4 dat. Othr Yard ppl do it 2. She 1st. Dat No Matter. She a Yard girl Now. She Lv YARD. Ana Ntng. She Lv har cntry n othr cntry 2. Ana Ntng.
@@zopound94 There's SOMETHING you don't KNOW about Jamaicans: once they EMBRACE you, it doesn't matter where you're from originally, to them she's Jamaican NOW!! Please, DON'T try to 'rock the boat', for they'll DUMP you in the sea, lol!!😁 It's just ONE LOVE with Irina - Out of Many ONE People!! P.S. Irina has become a part of the body (Jamaica). Once a part of the body that's just what you're!!💯
That was the norm, back then people never had mortgages, today however, the younger generation don't seem to have the patients for that, besides, now with all developments they can just get mortgage, find a home and just move in ... no need to deal with contractors and ever changing prices of material and government red tape.
Big up to Nicola for co-hosting this episode! I hope she gets a ton of business from this video!!!! Booo to the other realtors! You missed the boat!!! 😂 Great video, Irie!
Thanks Irene. This is a true representative of Jamaica. One day do a video on homes in the hills of St..Andrew if you'll find someone who would allow you access. We Jamaicans are private about where we live
Wow... thank you for showing the beauty of jamaica ..I wouldn't want to live in gated community...I want my private place to plant my mango and breadfruit etc tress to be free...thank you Jesus for free life ...good job...God bless
All I can say iris is this. You are a blessing to JA. People have so much stereotypes of not just Jamaica but The Africa continent itself. They really believe most of Jamaicans live in homes and communities like what they see in some of these movies or TH-cam. I tell you this. I have not come across any indigenous Jamaican bloggers who have ever presented JA the way you do. If they exist I want to know. Thank you, thank you, thank you for every video you put out on JA your smashing the negative stereotypes of how the world see Jamaica 🇯🇲. Well done👏👏👏👏👏👏👌👍
The Delpratt Family channel abd Realtor Adrian as well as PJ Ebanks (a draughtsman) are 3 Jamaican channels where locals are telling you and showing you positives that are real life for many at whatever price level.
My "Goal" is to someday live back there (even if only half the time), in my "Country" Village where I grew up, and in the house where I was raised. My mom and sister have turned that house into something Amazing, over the years.
Jamaica no problem. Over 30 years and I have never witness any violence ,I only see it on the news. I sleep with my doors open ,just of to give thanks everyday
60 percent are don't make look like it's not the truth even if your middle class you still struggle because most people are paying mortgage for 30yrs with low paying income
I can understand why some persons would want to live in a gated community, but I would not want to spend MY MONEY to buy MY house, and then someone going to tell me that I CAN'T even change the HOUSE COLOR!!! and if my family grows and I need more space, I can't do ANY ADDITIONS to MY HOUSE. KMT! No thanks!
That's why you have choices. Some folks don't mind the restrictions because it maintains uniformity and standard, therefore the area will always be in a pristine condition to help keep the value of their investment.
@@kingpinoutlow8105 yup. Agree. Quite a few allows this. However, there are rules to abide by but nothing onerous to prevent you from achieving what you want.
Why there's thumbs down on on this well informative information, can anyone explain what is native about showing Jamaica true colours , Can't wait to see more about my land of birth, keep on doing your thing, I like your showcase on BEAUTIFUL JAMAICA,
Whenever I visit jamaica and stay with friends I get so accustom to the large room sizes that it takes me awhile to readjust to the smaller rooms in the UK. Its interesting that more apartments are being built which not only is due to availability of land, it also reflects changing tastes. Like everywhere in the world the lower working classes have been left out. its good to see The prime minister challenge architects to design affordable housing for the lower working class. Looking forward to the next episode on housing.
My wife's room in Jamaica is the biggest I've been in. Roughly, it would hold 100 people standing shoulder to shoulder in a row of ten. Wayyyy bigger than mine in London.
I noticed that not only rich people live in fabulous houses, but middle income and low income people too. It's just that usually people with low income build a house over a long period of time (like 10 years), rather than buying it.
🌹Many called, chosen are few. 🌹Much known having paid dues. 🌹Own, rent, or whatever pursue. 🌹One, two or 3 bedrooms stew. 🌹Irene network, her info crew. 🌹Link in box, if you chose to do. 🌹Time is money, we know is true. 🇯🇲THE PROMISED LAND 🇯🇲
Jamaica and the Caribbean in general have severely overpriced homes and they don't build much for the locals working in the country. The situation is quite sad especially when as a Jamaica you go to other developing nations in Latin America and Asia and you realize how much affordable housing is.
As a Canadian, Jamaica is one the cheapest places in the world to buy a house. I'm not sure how housing prices measure up to the income of the average Jamaican person, but the price of a mansion in Jamaica is 200,000 CAD while the price of a mansion in Canada is 4.5 million CAD. And you can buy that relatively cheap house in a nice area. A nice house in a good area in Asia or anywhere in Latin America is about the same as it is in Canada.
@@Ilikefrogs.. Mia what you just stated is completely off. You can't get a mansion in Jamaica for $200,000 cad, just stop it. They're selling old 3 bedroom homes in Kingston for $250-300k USD in mediocre neighbourhoods & it's closer to $500-600k for a home in the middle class areas and upwards of a million in the nicer ones. The only places with cheap housing in Jamaica are areas that nobody wants to live because it's far from where you work, have no hospitals, schools or crappy ones close by and surely no nightlife or good supermarkets etc. Buying a 3-4 bedroom home in the countryside aka bush for $200k Canadian isn't worth the money. You really need to search housing prices in Latin America and South East Asia because you clearly don't know what you're talking about. Even as a tourist i can get a nice 1 bedroom apartment inclusive of utilities for $400-500/month in Latin America and for $300/month i can get an apartment with a gym, pool etc in Thailand/Phillipines. You don't know these markets because you live in the first world and you don't vacation in these places hence you're comparing Jamaican prices to Canadian which is asinine considering Canadians get 10-20x the wages we get here in Jamaica. You have to compare Jamaican housing prices to countries with similar wages to gauge how expensive or cheap the real estate is and ours are severely overpriced when you do the correct comparison.
Irina, this is your best production by far. Jamaica is small, but not that small; so many different ares to live. That realtor is knowledgeable, I might have to contact her.
one point each gated community have its own regulation so u can choose one that apply best to u it terms of the freedom you would like. The one i live in has a lot of freedom i can do additions to the side , back, on top and to the front up to a certain parameter. i only have to keep the same colour. your in charge of maintaining your own property. maintaince fee is affordable abt 15USD. there is no pool though only common areas. it also has automatic gate u can let yourself in and security and cameras to screen visitors. visitors gate is separate with an intercom to screen them before granting access. it's nice to know that there can be no surprise visits to your home.
Thanks for informing, as well as filling the gap missing in some areas about homes in Jamaica. The images of delapidated homes can be discouraging for local people, who see otherwise. Many years ago, a relative of mine was in the local media. At this time there were islandwide demonstrations about high gasoline prices. CBS television (U.S.A.) sent a film crew down to report on the matter. My relative met some of them & mentioned they would not find much excitement because the protests were largely peaceful and no crowds to speak of were clogging the streets. He was told the film crew could not return with mundane footage. They ignored the typical areas, found ghettos and aired burning tyres and menacing behaviour, as though the whole island was on the verge of chaos. Some local media people & civil servants, thought it was the height of irresponsibility.
And things like that is why I would not make the US my final stop. Loving Irina for this video. She's Eastern European like my husband they are sensible down to earth people, they know how to adjust and handle life.
Well know for it's cool climate, large lotted communities, quietness, yet lots of businesses and amenities, government services, churches, still not too far from the beaches, reasonable drive from Kingston, and a rich history.
THANK YOU AGAIN ANOTHER GREAT PRODUCTION, THE POOREST PERSON IN JAMAICA IS A CAPITALIST , I WOULD SUGGEST TO ALL JAMAICAN OUTSIDE OF JAMAICA TO STOP WATCHING THOSE NEGATIVES VIDEOS
Great video Irie. Back in 1998-99 my wife and I purchased a 3 bedroom apartment off the Hope Road area in Kingston, a decent area and the housing market in Jamaica was different from what it is now. I have no regrets, especially now we Have children and whenever we come to Jamaica this is home and we don’t have to stay in a hotel or B&B.
@@MontegoBayTechTalk thanks for your input. Yes, at the time it was a huge sacrifice, I was told by some that I was hanging my hat higher than I can reach it. However I am now happy we made that investment. One love from NYC.
@@haddingtoniangcp2464 thanks for your input. Even though I don’t know your financial situation, I somewhat disagree, Hope springs eternal my friend. Once you can dream it, you can achieve it. As I said in my prior comment, we made great sacrifices at the time and it wasn’t easy for us then as a young couple, I actually worked abroad for several years going back and forth in order to achieve that home purchase dream, because we decided that was where we wanted a home. So never say never, one love from NYC.
We really appreciate the videos you do. You are highlighting our country giving us positive media coverage. I enjoy the videos and appreciate the time and effort you put into each one. Especially love this one because we love real estate!!! ❤️❤️❤️
Ocho Rios and Montego Bay have similar price value for homes. The only difference is Montego Bay had the airport, so the prices there might be a little higher than Ocho Rios. On the other hand, I think Ocho Rios is more exclusive, especially for international celebrities and royalties . Just my opinion!!!!!
We are based in Ocho Rios during the Winter months. We over look the cruise ship terminal & beach from our condo at Columbus Hedights/Skycastles. We have traveled all over Jamaica but like Ocho Rios as we find it meets all our needs and we don't need a car - beach, shopping, restaurants, fresh fish, groceries, bars etc.
@@lewisr7700 - condo prices are really inexpensive. We pay just under $1800 a month for 2 story, 2 bed, 2.5 bath condo with a gazebo and roof top terrace. We can easily sleep 6. We know both Sandals properties well. But try Couples Sans Souci as our fav beach is next door "Pleasure Cove"...a lot of people from Sans Souci come visit.
Irina, excellent investigative journalism as we all come to expect from you! Thanks a million for dispelling the main negative stereotype of how Jamaicans live! I love and enjoy all that you do here!
Excellent Video. Rural in the hills is my thing. Safety is a priority but I want to see fruit trees on my land, Bananas, Mango, Jack fruit, etc. The restrictions of gated community can be stifling. Costs are now put of control in Jamaica though.
So glad I found your channel! I’m a Jamaican National who left thirty years ago and who is considering returning home. Thank you for the excellent overviews.
A couple of major flaws overlooked when buying a home in Jamaica. Who maintains the roads. Always a battle between the local town authority who sometimes argue the sub-division is outside its jurisdiction, and the home owners claiming that as tax payers the roads should be the Council's responsibility. Note how flat the roads are. Nice when new. The builder is no longer responsible for maintenance once it's completed. This is one positive of buying in a gated community. The other flaw. There is typically no retention area to collect water in the event of flooding. So water settles on the flat road and the surface deteriorates being soaked through by standing water for long periods. One other dreadful area of discontent outside of a gated community with restrictions is having a neighbor who has numerous junk cars parked in front of their home and others who have no desire to maintain the condition of the property. You're exposing me to some interesting things about my country that I never knew about or existed. I love your channel and content. Thanks.
Water service and supply can be an even larger issue than roads, and can affect day to day life, so should also perhaps be touched upon in any future episodes about housing.
Excellent Video! What amazes me, is that it takes-a Truly Jamaican- None Jamaican, to shed these types of positive lights on my beautiful homeland. A good percentage (small, but loud as they may be) of Jamaican living on the island (with their careless attitudes towards it’s beauty) do very little to do the same. That also goes for Jamaican Immigrants living overseas, who spews negativity about their homeland in order appease, assimilate.
The ones who speak negatively are the one who have never been outside of their community. Example if you have lived in Tivoli, Arnette Gardens and poor communities that are totally shut off from the rich.
Love, love!! Thank you. I was married in Jamaica in ‘03. We visit yearly. I dearly love Jamaica and it’s my dream to retire there. Thank you for the video.
Thank you for showing a much more positive and accurate depiction of Jamaica and housing there. My grandmother was from Jamaica and moved to London, I'm English but want a home in my grandmother's motherland and this video was a great help and starter. Thank you again for the positive representation, Jamaica is beautiful and full of energy and love. Blessings 💗🙏🏽
Thank you again, and again Irina, and that realtor as well. I personally is not a fan of a gated community or an apartment. My goal is to take as much people to Jamaica as possible, and also to be able to plant fruits and vegetables for my household, and to expand as i see fit so those mentioned option would not help me. I also cringed at the fact that i would have to pay maintenance for my home forever.
Excellently presented synopsis on this subject thoroughly enjoyed it you mention more to come please could you include steps to buy a house cash without mortgage am retired and want come live in the the country of my birth I have not seen anything on TH-cam on this topic. Thank you for bring an objective view of Jamaica
WOW...Thank you so much for this very wonderful & Informative video, As a Jamaican it really got under my skin with all the negative portrayal of our country, our people & our living conditions, what a lot of people don't understand or refuse to believe there are ghettos in every country on the face of this Earth, But I can assure you our small Island is far more than just ghettos & crimes it's a very BEAUTIFUL & UNIQUE PLACE, once again thank you so much for the wonderful video. NOTE: New Subscriber
Thanks again Irina for this informative vlog.I know all about the type of homes tthere,but thank you for making those living abroad aware that our Island is diverse and that they should avoid stereotypes.I myself is in the process of building my own home designed by me to cater for my needs in Petersfield just outside Sav La _Mar. Its not too distant from Negril but affords the privilege ofvusing the resorts like people living outside the country would do.The best of both worlds I'd say.Once sgain Irina you are our excellent Island promoter.You slways tell it like it is.God bless you,Good health you you and your family and my felloe Jamaicans.Muchove from the UK.
Thank you Irie and Nicole, very informative video. I live in Kingston and the standard of living is pretty good. Apartment complexes are being constructed every where and the quality is really superior.
you do such a great job. in future videos please compare parishes for someone wanting to come and live in jamaica temporarily (considering job opportunities as well)
Always look forwards to your videos. Another great one with great content. Thanks for sharing. Had to share it with my friends on WhatsApp. God bless you Irena 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 God bless Jamaica ❤️🇯🇲🙏🏾🙏🏾
Thank you for informing the masses. Although you did a great job, I still feel like you didn’t capture just how awe inspiring some neighbours are, especially in Montego Bay. It’s just that beautiful. A camera production doesn’t do it justice but you did well 👏.
Great information love your videos. I remember when I brought my son age 3, when he saw the apartment building's he said," he do not want to stay in any of them," luckily for him he is now 28 and he did get his wish. So saying that to say we live good back home, cannot forget the good life we use to enjoyed as a child. Thanks for giving us this video.
In case people cannot open the description for the video, here are the contacts for my co-host Realtor: ► Nicola White +1 876 884 9483 nicola@cavendishrealtyjm.com Instagram: @jarealtorfromuk If you're a Jamaican realtor and which to be featured in my videos - please contact me jamaicawithirie@gmail.com, thank you!
Thank you Irie, your video was very informative and taught me quite a few things ... not only about Jamaican real estate but about Jamaica in general. It was laid out like a history lesson or documentary. Keep up the good work.
Glad you shared this. I’ve always. Known about the different style homes as I was raised in Jamaica and lived in a middle class neighborhood and grandmother who lived in harbor view had an even bigger home than I did. Outsiders need to know this
I’m from Belize 🇧🇿 but I like to watch your videos just to see how we compare to another Caribbean country that’s only 700 miles away. I just found out about your channel today and have already watched 5 videos. Great job👏🏽
If your going to relocate to jamaica it's much more better/inexpensive to buy your own land and build your own house as it'll work out ALOTT!!! Cheaper than renting or buying an government owned home
Irie the media all way show Jamaica 🇯🇲 in a bad way thank you the good video from Jamaica wee got better house in Jamaica than us and UK I live here in Albany NY thay think. Jamaica only have hut 🛖 Jamaica to the world 🌎
Nichola showed me some properties for rent a few years back now I am ready to buy and will definitely use her. Professional, knowledgeable, thorough & nice can’t say enough good things about her.
Your videos are truly amazing Irina. I think it depends on your age and financial situation. I'ts nice to own your own home if your raising a family. Don't forget that it can also be a liabilitie with all the expenses. But later down the road you can sell it and downsize . Thank you for sharing this information. KEEP CRUSHING IT! ONE LOVE KEEP THEM COMING. 🇯🇲 🇨🇦
Tourist areas also have easier access to services and better infrastructure which raises the standard of living and prices. Like most places around the world, right now, there's a lack of affordable housing even with NHT . Prices are not reflective of average wages , yet there's a mantra of FOMO ( fear of missing out) before prices go up even more, being pushed by whoever is to financially gain. In the meantime, there's alot of frustration for the average person with average income.
An excellent overview! Finally I have a great video to send to those who have been asking me the question of "How much a house costs in Ja". It's always been so difficult & frustrating to explain that it's complicated, based on location etc., as explained so well here.. not a simple answer. Thank You Irina & Nicole! Great job!
Nice to see they appreciate lawns and trees without feeling the need to smother everything in concrete. The realtor isreally knowledgeable. The graphics with the house prices is excellent. Good job.
It's always a pleasure watching your videos because they are informative, I've tried to watch some vlogs but its about young ladies who are selling themselves instead of giving information. My brother was afraid of going to Jamaica or living there so I introduced him to your videos and he decided to visit and love Jamaica even though he was borned there but left when he was young. Thank you for making your videos about information than about you.
Excellent job , “Jamaican will say big up “ we have also Drax Hall Country that is very close to ocho Rios, Drax Hall community will be the city for St-Ann in the future. Again continue to do the good work.
Wow this was so informative who would think someone who isn't Jamaican would be the one to provide this great and useful information. I went looking for a home to buy near the water and the box was shockingly expensive as its a starter box that u would expand on . But still lot cheaper than buy property in USA
Richmond is not luxury. The price is too low $250,000 to 270,00 and they are simply ranch houses. Actually the same model homes can be found in new developments for less in other parishes.
Irie is Jamaica “ Explainer in chief “ I am always perplex when someone referred to Richmond estate as an standard bearer for luxury in Jamaica. It tells me then that they haven’t exposed to much on our island
There money must be up there for them not considered it luxury. But to each its own. 250000 and up is not chop liver. Granted I have not seen it in person but from what I have seen on Social Media it seems like luxury to me
When I tell my friends that I grew up in a large house in Jamaica with 7 bedrooms, a huge veranda with driveway and car park, a huge lawn in front plus a huge backyard so large that we used to play table tennis outside, plus various fruit trees (mangoes, apples, ackee, grapefruit, plums), plus a tool shed, plus a sewing room inside the house, with a large living room, three bathrooms, etc, they all think I must be rich. I tell them no, that's just a typical middle-class home in Jamaica. Then when I tell them we had a helper (maid), a gardener plus a handyman, used to throw large parties at the end of school year to coincide with the famous high school barbecues (are those still a thing?), etc, they think my parents must have been millionaires. I laugh and tell them, no, that's your average middle-class lifestyle in Jamaica. Then when I tell that we used to take leisurely outings to the countryside, that I used to go camping every summer, drive to the beaches and have the best grilled seafood, or drive to Montego Bay to spend a day at some resort, they think I must be telling them fairy tales, for this type of lifestyle in the US is only available to the rich. I tell them that about half the Jamaicans living in the US have had to adjust to a significant downgrade in their lifestyle upon migrating to the US. The biggest shock they get is when arriving in NY only to live in tiny, stuffy, run-down apartments in the Bronx or Queens.
Growing up as a child in Jamaica, I thought life was supremely comfortable in my coddled middle-class existence, until I started getting invited to birthday parties by my schoolmates at Wolmer's. Many of them came from wealthy backgrounds and lived in huge mansions on the hills. One particular birthday party by a schoolmate who lived in Stony Hills still lives as an unforgettable moment to this day in my mind. I've never seen such a lavish house with a more luxurious lifestyle in all my travels around the world. That birthday party really opened my eyes as to how rich people in Jamaica live!
I rate this comment. Thanks for being real.
I must say your family was rich lol, it is certainly not the norm
Well said…….I couldn’t agree with you more.
Same here man i got an irrevocable downgrade in my lifestyle when i moved here. Matter of fact i asked to be sent back home.
@@bread90210 how would you know
Should cover the wealthy and middle class areas of Kingstown and Mobay. Truly enjoyed the video. Bless
Live in England for 21 yrs. knows exactly what u talking about. Coming from a 6 bedrooms 3 bathrooms house in Jamaica. England was a huge culture shock for me, when I came here
Once again, Irina gives us the real stuff on Jamaica. I call her Jamaica's best tour guide!
@BRUCE PORTMORE
It's called approach. Some people see the 'glass' half full; others, half empty!
I agree, Irina is the best.
Sorry to hear that the original people of Jamaica really do not know how to promote their own country other than to music and to witness the new dance craves! Jamaica you can do better?
Dis Bredda up here mstnt say dat bout Yard ppl. Irene, she a Yard girl Now n Love Up YARD n do har tng. Blessings 4 dat. Othr Yard ppl do it 2. She 1st. Dat No Matter. She a Yard girl Now. She Lv YARD. Ana Ntng. She Lv har cntry n othr cntry 2. Ana Ntng.
@@zopound94
There's SOMETHING you don't KNOW about Jamaicans: once they EMBRACE you, it doesn't matter where you're from originally, to them she's Jamaican NOW!!
Please, DON'T try to 'rock the boat', for they'll DUMP you in the sea, lol!!😁
It's just ONE LOVE with Irina - Out of Many ONE People!!
P.S. Irina has become a part of the body (Jamaica). Once a part of the body that's just what you're!!💯
Loved this but a lot of homes are built by Jamaicans who buy their land and build over the span of 10 years sometimes. Great content.
That was the norm, back then people never had mortgages, today however, the younger generation don't seem to have the patients for that, besides, now with all developments they can just get mortgage, find a home and just move in ... no need to deal with contractors and ever changing prices of material and government red tape.
@@karenr3355 thanks for that info
@@karenr3355 the buying of pre made homes are an option for some. I think when I am ready I will be building as well.
Yes
@Mandy Gee gotta set your goal and start with the 1st dollar. Meds-ing the entire cost will overwhelm and discourage you...bless 🙏🏾🙏🏾
Big up to Nicola for co-hosting this episode! I hope she gets a ton of business from this video!!!!
Booo to the other realtors! You missed the boat!!! 😂
Great video, Irie!
Please remember, not everyone is good in front of a camera
Nicola you is the one I will find.. you took the time ....bless up.
Nicola is great on camera, but we were very disappointed in dealing with her as a realtor.
@@nadiyaandrus952 why?
@@iamisaidi Then learn the art of being in front of a camera.......this is one reason others come and move ahead......
There are lots of beautiful home in Jamaica bless up
Thanks Irene. This is a true representative of Jamaica. One day do a video on homes in the hills of St..Andrew if you'll find someone who would allow you access. We Jamaicans are private about where we live
Wow... thank you for showing the beauty of jamaica ..I wouldn't want to live in gated community...I want my private place to plant my mango and breadfruit etc tress to be free...thank you Jesus for free life ...good job...God bless
All I can say iris is this. You are a blessing to JA. People have so much stereotypes of not just Jamaica but The Africa continent itself. They really believe most of Jamaicans live in homes and communities like what they see in some of these movies or TH-cam. I tell you this. I have not come across any indigenous Jamaican bloggers who have ever presented JA the way you do. If they exist I want to know. Thank you, thank you, thank you for every video you put out on JA your smashing the negative stereotypes of how the world see Jamaica 🇯🇲. Well done👏👏👏👏👏👏👌👍
She actually does her research. She's doing a great job.
I have seen skyscrapers in Africa to rival many in the West
The Delpratt Family channel abd Realtor Adrian as well as PJ Ebanks (a draughtsman) are 3 Jamaican channels where locals are telling you and showing you positives that are real life for many at whatever price level.
Mtm you tube channel will show you another lifestyle in Jamaica
@@smorris7864 your absolutely correct about MTM. I am a proud subscriber to their channel.
That's how I live in Jamaica,like a king.I will live nowhere else.
I'll soon join you😅
eee no jk
My "Goal" is to someday live back there (even if only half the time), in my "Country" Village where I grew up, and in the house where I was raised. My mom and sister have turned that house into something Amazing, over the years.
Me too girl.
Jamaica no problem. Over 30 years and I have never witness any violence ,I only see it on the news. I sleep with my doors open ,just of to give thanks everyday
I can't wait to move back home.
My sentiments exactly
Me too 🇯🇲
Take good care.
Same here
I am curios about long term rentals or leases on properties. Say lease a house or apartment for 3 to 5 years. Is there a market for that...
You never disappoint. Thanks!
I love this lady! I've spoked about the same topic before on the way they always portray Jamaica like everyone live in a little shack.
60 percent are don't make look like it's not the truth even if your middle class you still struggle because most people are paying mortgage for 30yrs with low paying income
Jamaica is about three countries in one.
my home in Kingston is in a partially gated housing scheme and i love it
I can understand why some persons would want to live in a gated community, but I would not want to spend MY MONEY to buy MY house, and then someone going to tell me that I CAN'T even change the HOUSE COLOR!!! and if my family grows and I need more space, I can't do ANY ADDITIONS to MY HOUSE. KMT! No thanks!
Not all gated community are like that some you can expand
That's why you have choices. Some folks don't mind the restrictions because it maintains uniformity and standard, therefore the area will always be in a pristine condition to help keep the value of their investment.
@@kingpinoutlow8105 yup. Agree. Quite a few allows this. However, there are rules to abide by but nothing onerous to prevent you from achieving what you want.
Great content Irina. Doing a great job dispelling the myths and showcasing Jamaica realistically 😊
So right Irina!!!, gated community home ownership makes so much more sense for someone like me living partially abroad.
Yay! The long awaited video 💃🏼💃🏼
Thanks lady. ❤️
Why there's thumbs down on on this well informative information, can anyone explain what is native about showing Jamaica true colours ,
Can't wait to see more about my land of birth, keep on doing your thing, I like your showcase on BEAUTIFUL JAMAICA,
Thanks again Irvine for showcasing that which is good about Jamaica…that’s why Jamaica will always be my home in spite of the myriad of challenges….
Absolutely.
Whenever I visit jamaica and stay with friends I get so accustom to the large room sizes that it takes me awhile to readjust to the smaller rooms in the UK. Its interesting that more apartments are being built which not only is due to availability of land, it also reflects changing tastes. Like everywhere in the world the lower working classes have been left out. its good to see The prime minister challenge architects to design affordable housing for the lower working class. Looking forward to the next episode on housing.
My wife's room in Jamaica is the biggest I've been in. Roughly, it would hold 100 people standing shoulder to shoulder in a row of ten. Wayyyy bigger than mine in London.
As I Jamaican i am proud that you represent my country so well, thank you🙏🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲
Thanks for this video, outsiders don't think Jamaica have a fabulous house and the rich do live there
I noticed that not only rich people live in fabulous houses, but middle income and low income people too. It's just that usually people with low income build a house over a long period of time (like 10 years), rather than buying it.
🌹Many called, chosen are few.
🌹Much known having paid dues.
🌹Own, rent, or whatever pursue.
🌹One, two or 3 bedrooms stew.
🌹Irene network, her info crew.
🌹Link in box, if you chose to do.
🌹Time is money, we know is true.
🇯🇲THE PROMISED LAND 🇯🇲
Jamaica and the Caribbean in general have severely overpriced homes and they don't build much for the locals working in the country. The situation is quite sad especially when as a Jamaica you go to other developing nations in Latin America and Asia and you realize how much affordable housing is.
This true
But is it overpriced if people are buying at that price?
As a Canadian, Jamaica is one the cheapest places in the world to buy a house. I'm not sure how housing prices measure up to the income of the average Jamaican person, but the price of a mansion in Jamaica is 200,000 CAD while the price of a mansion in Canada is 4.5 million CAD. And you can buy that relatively cheap house in a nice area. A nice house in a good area in Asia or anywhere in Latin America is about the same as it is in Canada.
@@Ilikefrogs.. Mia what you just stated is completely off. You can't get a mansion in Jamaica for $200,000 cad, just stop it. They're selling old 3 bedroom homes in Kingston for $250-300k USD in mediocre neighbourhoods & it's closer to $500-600k for a home in the middle class areas and upwards of a million in the nicer ones.
The only places with cheap housing in Jamaica are areas that nobody wants to live because it's far from where you work, have no hospitals, schools or crappy ones close by and surely no nightlife or good supermarkets etc. Buying a 3-4 bedroom home in the countryside aka bush for $200k Canadian isn't worth the money.
You really need to search housing prices in Latin America and South East Asia because you clearly don't know what you're talking about. Even as a tourist i can get a nice 1 bedroom apartment inclusive of utilities for $400-500/month in Latin America and for $300/month i can get an apartment with a gym, pool etc in Thailand/Phillipines.
You don't know these markets because you live in the first world and you don't vacation in these places hence you're comparing Jamaican prices to Canadian which is asinine considering Canadians get 10-20x the wages we get here in Jamaica. You have to compare Jamaican housing prices to countries with similar wages to gauge how expensive or cheap the real estate is and ours are severely overpriced when you do the correct comparison.
@@Ilikefrogs..
The average income for Jamaican is 1USD a hour
Jamaica land we love.Much thanks Irene for another great video.
Irina, this is your best production by far. Jamaica is small, but not that small; so many different ares to live. That realtor is knowledgeable, I might have to contact her.
Live in Jamaica. Have lived in gated and open. Much prefer open non gated. Lived in Lagoons, Ironshore, and now Kingston. Great video. Keep it up. D
one point each gated community have its own regulation so u can choose one that apply best to u it terms of the freedom you would like. The one i live in has a lot of freedom i can do additions to the side , back, on top and to the front up to a certain parameter. i only have to keep the same colour. your in charge of maintaining your own property. maintaince fee is affordable abt 15USD. there is no pool though only common areas. it also has automatic gate u can let yourself in and security and cameras to screen visitors. visitors gate is separate with an intercom to screen them before granting access. it's nice to know that there can be no surprise visits to your home.
Risha, great additional info. Thanks
@@trevorsteer7331 h it I’m no u J my p
The house value by location was spot on too.....proud Jamaican here.....Great job
Thanks for informing, as well as filling the gap missing in some areas about homes in Jamaica.
The images of delapidated homes can be discouraging for local people, who see otherwise.
Many years ago, a relative of mine was in the local media. At this time there were islandwide
demonstrations about high gasoline prices.
CBS television (U.S.A.) sent a film crew down to report on the matter. My relative met some of them
& mentioned they would not find much excitement because the protests were largely peaceful and
no crowds to speak of were clogging the streets.
He was told the film crew could not return with mundane footage. They ignored the typical areas,
found ghettos and aired burning tyres and menacing behaviour, as though the whole island was
on the verge of chaos.
Some local media people & civil servants, thought it was the height of irresponsibility.
And things like that is why I would not make the US my final stop. Loving Irina for this video. She's Eastern European like my husband they are sensible down to earth people, they know how to adjust and handle life.
thank you so much... I have tried for years to explain what you put so simply and eloquent in a 20 min video
Top notch video! Some areas do not have reliable telecommunications, shopping or transportation. God Bless Jamaica and Irie🙏
Hi Irie good video about Jamaica 🇯🇲 love 💘 your video
Another great vids...hope this wipe away all that bs stereotypical view of Jamaicans living..thank you again. 🇯🇲❤
You are special to Jamaica. No body has been so honest and objective of what the real Jamaica really looks like.
Grew up in Mandeville. Can't believe how much it's gone big time.
Well know for it's cool climate, large lotted communities, quietness, yet lots of businesses and amenities, government services, churches, still not too far from the beaches, reasonable drive from Kingston, and a rich history.
THANK YOU AGAIN ANOTHER GREAT PRODUCTION, THE POOREST PERSON IN JAMAICA IS A CAPITALIST , I WOULD SUGGEST TO ALL JAMAICAN OUTSIDE OF JAMAICA TO STOP WATCHING THOSE NEGATIVES VIDEOS
Great video Irie. Back in 1998-99 my wife and I purchased a 3 bedroom apartment off the Hope Road area in Kingston, a decent area and the housing market in Jamaica was different from what it is now. I have no regrets, especially now we Have children and whenever we come to Jamaica this is home and we don’t have to stay in a hotel or B&B.
Hope Road prices going to be crazy now, that was an excellent investment.
@@MontegoBayTechTalk thanks for your input. Yes, at the time it was a huge sacrifice, I was told by some that I was hanging my hat higher than I can reach it. However I am now happy we made that investment. One love from NYC.
I'm happy for you. My dream is to own a property on Hope Road. With my money, I think it will be just that: a dream. Sigh
@@haddingtoniangcp2464 thanks for your input. Even though I don’t know your financial situation, I somewhat disagree, Hope springs eternal my friend. Once you can dream it, you can achieve it. As I said in my prior comment, we made great sacrifices at the time and it wasn’t easy for us then as a young couple, I actually worked abroad for several years going back and forth in order to achieve that home purchase dream, because we decided that was where we wanted a home. So never say never, one love from NYC.
@@johnl6838 thanks so much for your words of encouragement. I'll take it aboard and work towards my dream. Much love from London
We really appreciate the videos you do. You are highlighting our country giving us positive media coverage. I enjoy the videos and appreciate the time and effort you put into each one. Especially love this one because we love real estate!!! ❤️❤️❤️
I lived in Garden City Kansas for about 3 years back in the late 1990s, and now I live in Jamaica. 😂
Ocho Rios and Montego Bay have similar price value for homes. The only difference is Montego Bay had the airport, so the prices there might be a little higher than Ocho Rios. On the other hand, I think Ocho Rios is more exclusive, especially for international celebrities and royalties . Just my opinion!!!!!
True , But Mobay is way bigger than Ochi. its more isolated places on the outskirts of Ochi maybe
We are based in Ocho Rios during the Winter months. We over look the cruise ship terminal & beach from our condo at Columbus Hedights/Skycastles. We have traveled all over Jamaica but like Ocho Rios as we find it meets all our needs and we don't need a car - beach, shopping, restaurants, fresh fish, groceries, bars etc.
@@Porscheman1 how are condo prices in ocho Rios? We just spent a week at sandals ochi and loved the area and people.
@@lewisr7700 - condo prices are really inexpensive. We pay just under $1800 a month for 2 story, 2 bed, 2.5 bath condo with a gazebo and roof top terrace. We can easily sleep 6. We know both Sandals properties well. But try Couples Sans Souci as our fav beach is next door "Pleasure Cove"...a lot of people from Sans Souci come visit.
@@Porscheman1 thank you so much for your reply. I will check into it.
Excellent video Irina!
Irina, excellent investigative journalism as we all come to expect from you! Thanks a million for dispelling the main negative stereotype of how Jamaicans live! I love and enjoy all that you do here!
Excellent Video. Rural in the hills is my thing. Safety is a priority but I want to see fruit trees on my land, Bananas, Mango, Jack fruit, etc. The restrictions of gated community can be stifling. Costs are now put of control in Jamaica though.
Thanks for setting the haters straight! Jamaica has homes that no where else does and Jamaican build stronger homes that anywhere else.
So glad I found your channel! I’m a Jamaican National who left thirty years ago and who is considering returning home. Thank you for the excellent overviews.
A couple of major flaws overlooked when buying a home in Jamaica. Who maintains the roads. Always a battle between the local town authority who sometimes argue the sub-division is outside its jurisdiction, and the home owners claiming that as tax payers the roads should be the Council's responsibility. Note how flat the roads are. Nice when new. The builder is no longer responsible for maintenance once it's completed. This is one positive of buying in a gated community. The other flaw. There is typically no retention area to collect water in the event of flooding. So water settles on the flat road and the surface deteriorates being soaked through by standing water for long periods. One other dreadful area of discontent outside of a gated community with restrictions is having a neighbor who has numerous junk cars parked in front of their home and others who have no desire to maintain the condition of the property. You're exposing me to some interesting things about my country that I never knew about or existed. I love your channel and content. Thanks.
Water service and supply can be an even larger issue than roads, and can affect day to day life, so should also perhaps be touched upon in any future episodes about housing.
I am glad that you mentioned the roads. The homes in many places are very beautiful but the roads to get to them can be very deplorable.
@@ilasterling8536 that is the word for it, yes.
Another amazing and informative coverage. I prefer not gated community for space and freedom.
Once again IRIE very informative video. 👍👍🇬🇧🇯🇲
I think my wife need to give you a talk, you are stealing her husband heart to love Jamaica more😁😁😁😁😁😊😊😊
Excellent Video! What amazes me, is that it takes-a Truly Jamaican- None Jamaican, to shed these types of positive lights on my beautiful homeland. A good percentage (small, but loud as they may be) of Jamaican living on the island (with their careless attitudes towards it’s beauty) do very little to do the same.
That also goes for Jamaican Immigrants living overseas, who spews negativity about their homeland in order appease, assimilate.
The ones who speak negatively are the one who have never been outside of their community.
Example if you have lived in Tivoli, Arnette Gardens and poor communities that are totally shut off from the rich.
Love, love!! Thank you. I was married in Jamaica in ‘03. We visit yearly. I dearly love Jamaica and it’s my dream to retire there. Thank you for the video.
Thank you for always informing us about this beautiful island. Love love all your videos
I love you, am a jamaican living in Antigua. But I visit every year.
The best and most reliable info on *Jamaica* by far 👏👌🙌👍
Thank you for showing a much more positive and accurate depiction of Jamaica and housing there. My grandmother was from Jamaica and moved to London, I'm English but want a home in my grandmother's motherland and this video was a great help and starter. Thank you again for the positive representation, Jamaica is beautiful and full of energy and love. Blessings 💗🙏🏽
Enjoyed growing up in Jamaica. Love it and still do. Love the vibes
I love you girl, thank you very much for highlighting the way Jamaicans really live, Jamaica have some of the most beautiful homes.
Thank you for showing Jamaica the way it should portray
Thank you again, and again Irina, and that realtor as well. I personally is not a fan of a gated community or an apartment. My goal is to take as much people to Jamaica as possible, and also to be able to plant fruits and vegetables for my household, and to expand as i see fit so those mentioned option would not help me. I also cringed at the fact that i would have to pay maintenance for my home forever.
The guest host was terrific, I would definitely use her for a Jamaica home purchaser
WOW ... you are so right Irina
Excellently presented synopsis on this subject thoroughly enjoyed it you mention more to come please could you include steps to buy a house cash without mortgage am retired and want come live in the the country of my birth I have not seen anything on TH-cam on this topic. Thank you for bring an objective view of Jamaica
Work with a realtor to find the right property for you. It's that simple.
I enjoyed this post immensely. Straightforward and non-patronising; a welcome tonic.
Jamaican as some beautiful homes
WOW...Thank you so much for this very wonderful & Informative video, As a Jamaican it really got under my skin with all the negative portrayal of our country, our people & our living conditions, what a lot of people don't understand or refuse to believe there are ghettos in every country on the face of this Earth, But I can assure you our small Island is far more than just ghettos & crimes it's a very BEAUTIFUL & UNIQUE PLACE, once again thank you so much for the wonderful video.
NOTE: New Subscriber
Thanks again Irina for this informative vlog.I know all about the type of homes tthere,but thank you for making those living abroad aware that our Island is diverse and that they should avoid stereotypes.I myself is in the process of building my own home designed by me to cater for my needs in Petersfield just outside Sav La _Mar. Its not too distant from Negril but affords the privilege ofvusing the resorts like people living outside the country would do.The best of both worlds I'd say.Once sgain Irina you are our excellent Island promoter.You slways tell it like it is.God bless you,Good health you you and your family and my felloe Jamaicans.Muchove from the UK.
Hi good lady how did you purchase your land a start building in Negril area of San le mar
Thanks again Irina for another great video. I’m particularly excited about this series as I plan to move to MoBay I’m 4 years 😍
Thank you Irie and Nicole, very informative video. I live in Kingston and the standard of living is pretty good. Apartment complexes are being constructed every where and the quality is really superior.
you do such a great job. in future videos please compare parishes for someone wanting to come and live in jamaica temporarily (considering job opportunities as well)
Always look forwards to your videos. Another great one with great content. Thanks for sharing. Had to share it with my friends on WhatsApp. God bless you Irena 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 God bless Jamaica ❤️🇯🇲🙏🏾🙏🏾
Very informative..I love it and look forward to those to come
This is just excellent work. Love the map of how prices of real estate are broken down. Awesome.
Thank you for informing the masses. Although you did a great job, I still feel like you didn’t capture just how awe inspiring some neighbours are, especially in Montego Bay. It’s just that beautiful. A camera production doesn’t do it justice but you did well 👏.
Great information love your videos. I remember when I brought my son age 3, when he saw the apartment building's he said," he do not want to stay in any of them," luckily for him he is now 28 and he did get his wish. So saying that to say we live good back home, cannot forget the good life we use to enjoyed as a child. Thanks for giving us this video.
In case people cannot open the description for the video, here are the contacts for my co-host Realtor:
► Nicola White
+1 876 884 9483
nicola@cavendishrealtyjm.com
Instagram: @jarealtorfromuk
If you're a Jamaican realtor and which to be featured in my videos - please contact me jamaicawithirie@gmail.com, thank you!
I think you should do a segment on building your home as well. There are a lot of people interested in the details behind that as well :)
Get a nice house in Jamaica
Thank you Irie, your video was very informative and taught me quite a few things ... not only about Jamaican real estate but about Jamaica in general. It was laid out like a history lesson or documentary. Keep up the good work.
Glad you shared this. I’ve always. Known about the different style homes as I was raised in Jamaica and lived in a middle class neighborhood and grandmother who lived in harbor view had an even bigger home than I did. Outsiders need to know this
I’m from Belize 🇧🇿 but I like to watch your videos just to see how we compare to another Caribbean country that’s only 700 miles away. I just found out about your channel today and have already watched 5 videos. Great job👏🏽
If your going to relocate to jamaica it's much more better/inexpensive to buy your own land and build your own house as it'll work out ALOTT!!! Cheaper than renting or buying an government owned home
A pal bought land for 2mill. That's £12k. Expensive!
Not at all. Price is dependent on location location not just in Jamaica
Well done iris❤
Irie the media all way show Jamaica 🇯🇲 in a bad way thank you the good video from Jamaica wee got better house in Jamaica than us and UK I live here in Albany NY thay think. Jamaica only have hut 🛖 Jamaica to the world 🌎
But Jamaiican music especially dancehall show those as well, so we cannot put all the blame on foreign medias
@@phillyyardyvibes808 agree, it’s like they’ve been singing about poverty since I was a kid and still they’re broke
I love how you are loyalty & respect to Jamaica nd speak the true . L just find you channel nd l have to subscribe
Nichola showed me some properties for rent a few years back now I am ready to buy and will definitely use her. Professional, knowledgeable, thorough & nice can’t say enough good things about her.
My Ukrainian Jamaican sister, you are doing a wonderful work for Jamaica, very positive and inspirational 👍🏿🙏 blessed love.
Your videos are truly amazing Irina.
I think it depends on your age and financial situation. I'ts nice to own your own home if your raising a family. Don't forget that it can also be a liabilitie with all the expenses.
But later down the road you can sell it and downsize .
Thank you for sharing this information.
KEEP CRUSHING IT!
ONE LOVE KEEP THEM COMING. 🇯🇲 🇨🇦
Thanks. Again for a excellent video
Tourist areas also have easier access to services and better infrastructure which raises the standard of living and prices. Like most places around the world, right now, there's a lack of affordable housing even with NHT . Prices are not reflective of average wages , yet there's a mantra of FOMO ( fear of missing out) before prices go up even more, being pushed by whoever is to financially gain. In the meantime, there's alot of frustration for the average person with average income.
true
If you keep on being negative you'll never make it in life.
True
@@warrenmorgan235 it's called realistic. I've already "made it"
Great, me too.
An excellent overview! Finally I have a great video to send to those who have been asking me the question of "How much a house costs in Ja". It's always been so difficult & frustrating to explain that it's complicated, based on location etc., as explained so well here.. not a simple answer. Thank You Irina & Nicole! Great job!
Nice to see they appreciate lawns and trees without feeling the need to smother everything in concrete.
The realtor isreally knowledgeable. The graphics with the house prices is excellent. Good job.
It's always a pleasure watching your videos because they are informative, I've tried to watch some vlogs but its about young ladies who are selling themselves instead of giving information. My brother was afraid of going to Jamaica or living there so I introduced him to your videos and he decided to visit and love Jamaica even though he was borned there but left when he was young. Thank you for making your videos about information than about you.
I agree. The sad part is they get alot of views and are put on a pedestal. There's zero value in their content.
Thank you so much!
Excellent job , “Jamaican will say big up “ we have also Drax Hall Country that is very close to ocho Rios, Drax Hall community will be the city for St-Ann in the future. Again continue to do the good work.
Good one Irie, enjoyed watching some of those beautiful houses.
Wow this was so informative who would think someone who isn't Jamaican would be the one to provide this great and useful information. I went looking for a home to buy near the water and the box was shockingly expensive as its a starter box that u would expand on . But still lot cheaper than buy property in USA
Thank you so much for pointing out the stereotypes portrayed by media. It’s infuriating to say the least.
Yes thank you! I've been trying to look into this
I'm Jamaican and I still get confused about how NHT works
Contribute consistently for a year and you can get a martgage depending on income or have access to NHT HOUSING DEVELOPMENT.
@@rohangregory2717 mortgage
@@kennybrown5914 thank bro.
Quite enlightening as usual. I actually thought of those, like Richmond to be luxury
Richmond is not luxury. The price is too low $250,000 to 270,00 and they are simply ranch houses. Actually the same model homes can be found in new developments for less in other parishes.
Irie is Jamaica “ Explainer in chief “
I am always perplex when someone referred to Richmond estate as an standard bearer for luxury in Jamaica. It tells me then that they haven’t exposed to much on our island
@@paradiseland2512 There is also Drax Hall which is in close proximity
Oh my….. Richmond is not luxury ……not by a long shot…….
There money must be up there for them not considered it luxury. But to each its own. 250000 and up is not chop liver. Granted I have not seen it in person but from what I have seen on Social Media it seems like luxury to me