Places & Spaces August 2013

VOLUME 3

August - November 2013

New ATL Showroom Re-energizing Oxford Road and its Environs Protecting your home during hurricane season

Beyond the bath; making your bathroom stylish

What ever y home must have

Richmond St. Ann Choosing the right paint

SCAN FOR DOWNLOAD

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uoyed by our growing popularity, Places & Spaces is pleased to present our third issue of listings, development schemes, profiles and features

that highlights the positive things taking place within and around the real

estate landscape. We remain firm in our commitment to assist in boosting the industry through our dynamism and diversity.

We recognise that people in the know are appreciative of our efforts and are eagerly anticipating our publication as we continue to keep them informed, educated and intrigued.

Publisher’s Note Places & Spaces will continue to showcase our range of listings that covers

the length and breadth of this beautifully blessed island. Listings are our core

offering to our readers but we also endeavour to provide pertinent and relevant information to home owners, realtors and developers alike as knowledge is power.

This issue we continue to think and present articles and features that are

extraordinary with what some may say is in keeping with our ability to think

outside the box. We examine the new property tax package; help you choose

the right paint for you home; assist you in modernising your bathroom; journey down memory lane with the Ward Theatre; provide tips for home protection

during an hurricane; take in the beauty of Mount Pleasant and have a look at

the award winning Richmond St. Ann development. Additionally we take a tour

of the new ATL showroom in Kingston and see just how it breathes new life into New Kingston and its environs.

Our attention to details speaks to our ongoing commitment to always be

improving in quality and resourcefulness so we invite you to continue to read

and continue to make Places & Spaces your real estate choice because as we always say ‘if you love it, you will list it.’

Michele Gabay

Managing Director MAPCO Printers Limited

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Places & Spaces

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Features

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New ATL Showroom

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Richmond, St. Ann

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Janelle Pantry

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Mount Pleasant

Be Energized

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The New & Dynamic ATL Automotive Showroom

Be Personable

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Mount Pleasant: The Farm That Became the Venue for Summit in the Sun Richmond St. Ann - the Place to Start a New Life Story Places & Spaces Developers’ Corner

Be Informed

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A Look at the New Property Tax Package

Be Creative

Personality Profile: Janelle Pantry

Be Inspired

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Wither Ward Theatre

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Beyond the Bath What Every New Home Must Have Choosing the Right Paint for Your Home Places & Spaces Property Listings

Be Knowledgeable

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The Legal Requirements of a Development Scheme

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The Importance of Using a Registered Architect

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Whither the Ward Theatre? The Pride of North Street Protecting Your Home During the Hurricane Season Real Estate Developments in Jamaica

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Credits Publisher

MAPCO Printers Limited

Editor

Nicola Cunningham, CPS

Contributors

Myrna E. Brown George Cumming David Cuthbert, M.Arch, CSA Heather Fagan Kimberley Frith, LLB, LEC Edwin D. C. Wint, Dip LEVS,

Graphics

Sutherland Wade Design Limited

Creative Director

Nicholas McClure

Cover Photography

ATL AutoHaus

Photographer

George Cumming Wendy Khouri

Printers

MAPCO Printers Limited

Advertising Sales

MAPCO Printers Limited 71-73 Montgomery Avenue Kingston 10 Tel: (876) 929 -2623 Fax 920 5158

Dip Proj Man, BA, MBA, ICIOB, MBIFM, MAPM

Sales Associates:

Marsha McKay mmckay@mapcoprinters.com

Dwight McDonald dwight.s.mcdonald@gmail.com Distribution

MAPCO Printers Limited Sandra MacDonald

Ezine Jamaica National

Building Society e-news jn.placesandspacesmag.com

Victoria Mutual

Building Society e-news vm.placesandspacesmag.com

Download Places and Spaces Magazine at

www.placesandspacesmag.com

The publishers of Places & Spaces accept no liability for the views and/or opinions expressed within this publication. MAPCO PRINTERS LTD makes every effort to ensure theaccuracyofinformationpresentedbutacceptsnoresponsibilityforerrors, omissions or claims made in any section of this publication. All material is this publication is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. No part of the publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form without written approval from MAPCO PRINTERS LTD.

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ATL

New Be Energized

The

& Dynamic

Automotive Showroom

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A Significant Investment in Kingston

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ased on previous assessment of his way of thinking, when Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart does something he likes to do it big and the new ATL Automotive showroom along Oxford Road, Kingston, is no exception. At a whopping price tag of over US$12million, the new facility, the first of its kind in Jamaica, is truly state-of-the-art and a showpiece like no other.

It was opened in mid-April 2013 by Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Portia Simpson-Miller, and a host of dignitaries and VIPS

were present for the momentous occasion. They were all suitably impressed by all that it had to offer car enthusiasts looking for something a little different and who have the disposable income to do more than just dream of a spanking new ride.

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The new facility, which was completed in less than 18 months

(with some 200 workers banging away day and night), is home

to the German power team of Audi and Volkswagen (VW). The

facility embodied everything, and then some, in terms of automotive excellence.

VW and Audi showrooms have made Oxford Road, which is on

Local Architect Rivi Gardner flew to Germany to capture what

After the relocation of the entertainment hot spot Mas Camp as

feel were paramount to its success, so armed with a basic plan

Oxford Road had become a sleepy shell of its usual vibrant

his concept into action. Bringing Germany to Jamaica required

the bright lights of the showroom, your breath is taken away by

but it took excellent Jamaican labour and skill to finish the job.

as if you were in the middle of a metropolitan city in Europe.

P&S spoke with ATL Automotive Group Marketing Analyst,

A complex that stands up to world class inspection, the

at 3 Oxford Road. He explained why it is as incredible as it

the periphery of New Kingston, abuzz with excitement again.

was necessary to make a good facility great. The design and

well as the diplomatic powerhouse the United States Embassy,

of what he wanted to convey, he returned to Jamaica and put

self. Nowadays when you drive on the road at night and see

German-specific materials including tiles, which were flown in,

the impressive structure and dynamic lights, and it almost feels

Sloane Jackson, about the gorgeous new ‘car crib’ they have

new ATL showroom brings to the Jamaican car enthusiast

looks and why in some cases, bigger is indeed better.

VW and Audi. “Young Stewart” (as in Adam Stewart), went

The rationale behind a new automotive showroom is simple: it

the-art facility and assured the car manufacturers, who are

brands. “We wanted to give each brand an image boost, for

to fear because the complex would be on par with any found

dealership is as sleek and modern. This is now the corporate

everything sleek, stylish and modern, which epitomizes both all the way to Germany with his plans to construct a state-of-

is about developing an even better feel and presence for the

renowned for their superior engineering, that they had nothing

customers to be aware of and use it as a landmark as no other

across the globe. Upon their visit to see the final product, they

image of the brand.”

were not only impressed but happy to state that the Jamaican

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The opening, Jackson said, was a not-to-be-missed affair. “It was a very good turn-out

and a nice mix of people. The Prime Minister was on hand to walk through the showroom and just get a feel of who we are and what we are trying to accomplish. Both Mr. Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart and Adam Stewart were present and guests were introduced to the whole team and more importantly to the fleet of cars.”

Oxford Road has seen a flurry of activity as ATL’s presence breathes new life into its

immediate environs. While it is still relatively early days since its unveiling a few short

months ago, Jackson stated, “ATL is looking forward to innovating ways and methods to utilize the showroom to see how clients respond. We are just outside of New Kingston, so this has helped as we are centrally located enough to bring people in regardless of the time of day.”

The building itself is a design dream that efficiently utilizes the latest technology

available. Like any other showroom, customers and potential customers can peruse and see all that is available, but this facility offers more than just a simple walk

through. Prospective Audi buyers can now engage electronically on a tablet and

configure what they want. Talk about sweet! They can also have their pick of a host of features including model, colour, rims, roof lighting, radio, and even the type of

carpet preferred! How is that for shopping large? A simple click when they are done and they will know what all the additions will cost since their quotation is literally at

their finger tips. Another finger-stroke will send their order off to the manufacturers in Germany for them to work their magic on their dream vehicle, which will be available shortly after that.

And if that is not enough, the facilities also boast fully functional offices, huge flat

screen televisions preloaded with information on the brands, a diagnostic room for

those seeking service information and examination and even a place where all your

final queries will be addressed before you roll out in luxury and style. Impressed yet?

Well there is more, because there is an in-house store where all branded items from

clothing to accessories can be purchased. We all know Jamaicans love a great name-

The building… is a design dream that efficiently utilizes the latest technology available.

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brand and the Audi and VW brands speak for themselves in terms of quality.

In an effort to be as efficient as possible while positively

impacting the environment, they are currently in the process of

converting the facilities to be solar powered. In early July 2013,

Deputy Chairman and CEO of ATL/Sandals Group Adam Stewart signed a $25-million contract with Panasonic Latin America to facilitate the conversion.

The technology to be used is Heterojunction with Intrinsic

Thin layer (HIT) which is said to be 100% emission free while

filtering out all noise. It also boasts the production of 10% more electricity than a conventional crystalline silicon solar cell. The

system is expected to have a performance lifespan of 25 years.

This move towards being more ‘green’ is part of their goal to have all their operations more energy efficient, hence the work at the

new showrooms will be replicated throughout the ATL branches islandwide. The roof of each showroom will now be lined with

HIT photovoltaic cells providing 58.8 kw of energy. This system

is expected to supply roughly 30% of their energy demands and therefore reduce their electricity consumption significantly.

Since the grand opening, ATL Automotive has been

experimenting with new and creative ways to keep the cars

driving out of the showroom with weekend sales and even a ‘36 hours sales event’ that was immensely successful since more than two hundred vehicles were sold.

“Customers”, Jackson added, “have been blown away by all

the sights and the design. This showroom (Audi) is called the

‘Terminal’ as it looks like a modern airport terminal; even the glass

chosen for the showroom was significant as it showcases the cars beautifully at night. The VW has a modular showroom. The design

separates the two brands. VW literally means the ‘people’s car’ so it is the people’s showroom. Audi is sleeker and this is reflected in everything associated with the brand.”

And what does the hardworking staff think of their new home?

“They love it. I love my new office! It all lends to more privacy

while still being very open. It is airy, spacious and facilitates the

right presentation for each car and the right presentation for each brand. It allows for proper layout of the cars. Simply put, these

showrooms are the best in the region and fits in perfectly with the company’s CI (corporate image) - from the layout of the reception area to the lighting to even the position of the televisions.

Everything has been researched and strategically placed. The Audi showroom can fit nine vehicles while the VW fits ten. We

could hold more but we want to have adequate spacing for each when customers come in.”

The showrooms, Jackson further shared, are the first of several

to come, with Jaguar and Honda expected to get their own soon.

“We plan to sell a lot more cars and we plan to make it more

comfy and inviting. We already have a store with all the branded

accessories in place. We want to keep people excited and active and keep them buying. The showroom is well represented with properly trained personnel, dynamic facilities, a well defined

corporate identity and superior customer service that go above and beyond the standard expected in Jamaica. We think big.”

Sloane Jackson and the entire ATL Automotive team are up to the challenge of making Oxford Road your ONLY stop when

you decide to go car shopping. “I personally want more foot

traffic in here. I want more people coming in so I am personally appealing to the public to come in, look around and check out the cars because I can’t sell you a car on the sidewalk. I am

inviting people to come and have a feel of our building and our vehicles, because I guarantee you will be glad you did!”

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Be Personable

Personality Profile

Janelle Pantry Interior Decorator, Spaces Limited

F

ollowing one’s dream in business can be a

challenging, nerve–wracking yet exhilarating experience and ‘opening shop’ in Jamaica

requires not only a great business plan, tenacity and loads of patience to suffer through the inexhaustible

amount of existing red tape, but equally as important is the ability to think big, think beyond the present and think not only out, but around ‘the box’.

This is exactly what Janelle Pantry has mastered,

and five years later her interior decorating company, ‘Spaces’, is one of the leading home furniture and accent supplier in Jamaica . If you can conceive it, Janelle will help you achieve it. P&S sat down

with Pantry in her extraordinary Phoenix Avenue showroom and got some insight into her very

colourful and exquisitely beautiful world, where she allows Jamaicans to envision their picture-perfect residence and then assist them in creating it.

P&S: You are celebrating your 5th anniversary this year, what has kept you relevant in

the face of such mega competition from popular furniture outlets and stores?

JP: I try to go to trade shows at least twice a year to see the best of the best in terms of trends, colours

and fabrics etc. I go for the spring and fall shows, so

that at least three months ahead of time I know what I am doing. Also, I want Jamaican homes to look like the magazine they see and love. Why not bring that excitement to Jamaica?

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P&S: How did you get into the business?

JP: The idea came to me when I was living abroad and I was exposed to different home décor styles, and the

types of products I wanted to see in Jamaica just wasn’t

there. I wanted to bring that European contemporary feel to Jamaica. Also if you look at the average home that

used to be on half acre lots, many are now apartments so the scale and style of homes have changed. We

have responded to the needs of the market with unique, functional and smaller scale furniture.

P&S: How did you come up with your name?

JP: it was at a focus group with my friends when I outlined the concept and they had to choose three names each.

My mother said “why not call it ‘Spaces’ as you will actually be filling people’s spaces.”

P&S: Tell us about your educational background

JP: I studied Tourism Management at the University of the

West Indies and did Interior Decorating courses at HEART Trust/NTA, which I feel give me a good combination of design capability and customer service.

P&S: What do you do when a client is clueless about what they want?

JP: Firstly we offer complimentary in-store consultation. It helps if you have a photo of the space, as that will help us to narrow down your taste and design style. We will help

them to go through the steps by asking relevant questions such as “how many people live in the home? Do you work

from home etc.” Beyond that we offer on-site consultation so you do not get overwhelmed by the process. At the end of the day it should be a place that allows you to unwind. Look at it as an investment.

P&S: What are some of the more popular items in your store?

JP: We sell everything for the home but the most popular items are in the living room. Your sofa is the anchor in

the room, so you have to accessorise it. Our best selling item is our sofa or sectional and we are known as the

place to go for quality contemporary furniture. The beauty of shopping at ‘Spaces’ is that if you have a vision you can get everything to execute that vision, with top end

accents to make it feel personalised. We pride ourselves on telling our clients “you can have it any way you want

it” so you don’t have to buy a full combination. If you only want the sofa or the side piece you can have just what you want.

P&S: What are your plans for the next five years?

JP: The next five years will definitely see us adding more items to the home line. Our slogan is ‘Everything home,

everything style’ so we will truly be a one-stop store with a larger product range and diversity.

P&S: Tell us about your present promotion

JP: It is called ‘show us your space’. Twice a year we ask

our existing clients and potential ones to show off a space in their home that has a ‘Spaces’ piece or accent in it. It has been great and people are real excited about it.

P&S: How do you choose the pieces you sell?

JP: Honestly I would say everything in the store I can

envision it in my own home. The formula has worked thus far. I don’t buy things because they are close-out items.

I buy things that are conversation starters, which makes people feel good about their home and that has always been my guiding principle.

P&S: What makes Spaces different?

JP: The added time we dedicate to each individual client.

We are not here to just sell, but rather to create solution

to clients. Not only am I trained, but our sales staff are all trained as well to help create the home of your dream.

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EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES

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Mount Pleasant

The Farm that became the venue for the Summit in the Sun

S

tanding on the verandah of Mount Pleasant, it is hard to believe you are looking at Jamaica’s celebrated

north coast, because it is difficult to see a single man-

made feature. The view is unique – of the old pastures of the

farm, now in regenerating forest, over a low forested hill in the foreground, down to the coast and the Caribbean Sea, right out to the horizon.

To the west, you look down at curving lawns, past the tennis

court to the driveway and the entrance to the nature trail, which takes a walker through forest and farmland in a loop of Mount Pleasant’s 88 acres. To the east, you see large trees and the

small outbuildings of the estate. And from the large family room, you look south across a small dance floor and a garden to the

mature forest which embraces the southern side of the property.

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Virtually every room in the house is defined by its vista – venerable mango trees, flowering vines, shaded lawns, and an old formal garden, now planted in vegetables.

When the ylang-ylang tree near to the entrance is in

bloom, you wake to its perfume. The property could hardly have been more perfectly named.

Mount Pleasant is an old estate house, five minutes

from the bustling town of Runaway Bay on Jamaica’s

North Coast. Its rooms are large and airy, with the tall

windows and graceful architectural features of another age. Its views invite you to simply sit and stare. The

sounds you will most likely hear are of goats on nearby small farms, parakeets going to roost in the evening and the hunting calls of owls at night. It has the air

of a place where time moves decidedly slower than anywhere else in Jamaica.

Originally a pimento estate, Mount Pleasant has been

through many transitions. Its entire history is somewhat sketchy, but something of its 20th century journey is

known. Just after World War II, a Miss Todd purchased the property and turned it into a guest house and

retreat for visitors, many of whom would have come from England and Europe.

In the mid-1950s, Miss Todd (by then Mrs. Fisher) sold Mount Pleasant to a Dr. Mellon, who it is said, was a

member of the powerful Mellon Banking family of New York. Under his exacting supervision, the property was extensively renovated and transformed. His

contractor was the legendary Mr. Maffessanti, and you can still find evidence of his hand in the house, such

as in the beautiful Murano glass chandelier above the dining table.

In the early 1970s, Mount Pleasant was sold to The

James S. Hunt Charitable and Educational Foundation

Inc. (of the Hunt’s Ketchup family). Not much is known about their ownership, and soon the property was

advertised for sale in the Wall Street Journal. By that

time, the house had run down a little and it was bought

by two couples, who made it habitable, but basic. One of the couples went on to run it as a cattle farm and it

was during this period that the property was the venue for the Summit in the Sun.

It must have been quite an occasion, as prominent leaders of the Commonwealth and Latin America

gathered to discuss the problems facing developing nations. Guests included: Michael Manley, Prime

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Minister of Jamaica; Pierre Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada; Carlos Perez President of Venezuela; Odvar Nordli, Prime

Minister of Norway; Lt. General Olesegun Obasanjo, President

of Nigeria; Helmut Schmidt- Chancellor of West Germany; and

Malcolm Fraser, Prime Minister of Australia. Only one photo of the event survives and it hangs at Mount Pleasant.

In 1992, the property was purchased by a Kingston family,

who made it into their weekend retreat away from the busy life of the Capital. Mount Pleasant has been painstakingly

restored to its former glory with some added amenities such

as a pool, tennis court, gym and even a putting green. It has

shower off one of the bedrooms), invite lazy mornings in bed.

In the evenings, a small stone bench on the north lawn is a

perfect place for watching the sunset. However, despite its peaceful, old world atmosphere, Mount Pleasant delivers every modern amenity.

In an age of fast-paced living and stress, this old property

offers anyone lucky enough to walk out onto the verandah at sunrise, a cup of Blue Mountain coffee in hand, a quiet sanctuary and a taste of a half-remembered sweeter, slower life.

beach rights to an exquisite white-sand beach in Runaway Bay, about five minutes away by car. The entrance hall is

decorated with a mural depicting the soft fronds of bamboo, done by artist June Bellew, and this leads into the formal living room framed by arched doors to the verandah and

Mount Pleasant is available for sale from CENTURY 21 Heave-Ho Properties.

Contact George Cumming at 876 382-5322 for details.

the commanding view. The formal dining room can seat 25, and has retained some of the original beautiful old furniture, including the chandelier. Five spacious and comfortable

bedrooms, all with their own bathrooms, (including an outdoor

Photos by: Wendy Khouri and George Cumming

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The Place to Start a New Life Story

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‘C

ountry charm with urban convenience’ is

how the developers of Richmond St. Ann

described this one-of-a-kind development

located along the north coast, a stone throw away

from the sea. Just a few minutes away from the resort town of Ocho Rios and less than an hour away from the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, you cannot help but notice Richmond St. Ann for

which has been coined the phrase ‘the art of living in perfect harmony with nature’.

Places & Spaces sought to find out what all the

hoopla is about, as everyone has been singing their

praises as Richmond Development Company Limited has won back-to-back awards for their prime real

estate offerings that feature unique aspects that are

important to homeowners and investors who want to do more than just ‘buy a house’.

We all know that few parishes are as beautiful and scenic as the parish of St. Ann, so any developer worth his/her salt is ahead of the game when

constructing homes in the ‘garden parish’ but give it

to Richmond Development Company Limited as they went above and beyond in the erection of Richmond

St. Ann, capturing the essence of what buyers want in their dream homes.

500 acres of lush landscape nestles Richmond St. Ann where gentle sloping hills provide a picture-

perfect background for good living. According to Denese Tucker, Richmond St. Ann’s Sales and

Marketing Coordinator, the whole concept was to

have a self-sustaining community and that is exactly what they achieved. “Richmond St. Ann is the

vision of our chairman Lee Issa, who felt that private

housing developments of old would simply not cut it for Richmond, hence he offered the look and feel of

a resort residential community with all the attractive amenities that turns a house into a home.”

Designed by renowned architect Arthur Lowe,

Richmond St. Ann’s development is being built in stages. Construction got underway in 2008 and

those initial early home owners have been enjoying

its comfort and ambience some three years now. The Palms featured 356 units that boast a spacious 1,468

square feet for a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom patio home.

Presently for sale are two new gated communities.

Coolshade offers buyers 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom 1,468 square feet patio homes while Fern Court

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…vibrant and diverse foliage and tonnes of recreational parks and open spaces… provides the option of 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom 1,110 square

feet apartments. If that was not enough, the gated community features 24 hour security, fully landscaped homes, mail

delivery and collection, canopied recreational area, vibrant

and diverse foliage and tonnes of recreational parks and open spaces therefore concrete can never be a dominant feature.

Determined to continuously give more bang for the buck,

Richmond St. Ann also provides a private beach club, gym,

club house and infinity pool, interactive kiddies playground, golf pot, and the developers are currently in the process of adding both a medical complex and a shopping centre as

really the overall vision is to make it a little township where your basic needs at not only met but exceeded.

Jamaicans, both resident and overseas, will find Richmond St. Ann an ideal home away from home, hence it can be a perfect

vacation place which may be why it is so attractive a purchase for returning residents, retirees and local investors who can spot a good deal when they see one.

The homes are also not only ideal for raising a family, but

in tweaking the concept Mr. Issa, and the efforts of Steve

Bennett, ensured that it would truly be a ‘green’ community

complete with eco-friendly sewage disposal, solar powered street lights and water heating plus abundant landscaping.

The houses were also ideally spaced to afford each family individuality and privacy.

With the vision of Lee Issa and the efforts of a team that shares his dreams, it has won several international awards. Richmond St. Ann has received international recognition for being one

of the best developments of its kind in this hemisphere. The

European-based ‘Otherways Management Association ClubParis (OMAC)’, which recognizes firms from all over the world who have distinguished themselves in the field of quality and

excellence, awarded Richmond St. Ann with the Global Award for Quality, Perfection and Ideal Performance. Such is the

quality of Richmond Development Company’s offering that the world not only stood up and took notice, but made their own

pilgrimage based on its superior quality. P&S guess what they

say is true: Richmond St. Ann really is ‘the place to live’.

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Developers’ Corner

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The possibilities that new construction represents are endless. From a dream home for a newlywed couple to a retirement investment for a business man, it presents different options to different people, which is why real estate development is ever expanding. The following projects listed

by Places & Spaces makes more options and choices available to you.

•

West Indies Home Contractors (WIHCON)

•

Selective Homes & Properties Ltd

•

Richmond Homes

•

MJC Masterbuilders Limited

•

Kemtek Developments Limited

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Be Informed The Legal Requirements of a

Development Scheme

T

he business of development schemes has grown over the years and is now a thriving business in Jamaica.

It is important that developers and prospective

developers are fully advised of the legal context within which these schemes operate so as to enhance the likelihood of success and benefit.

As stated above, every person who proposes to carry out a

development under a development scheme to which the Act applies must apply to the Real Estate Board for registration as a developer prior to commencing the development.

The individual will be required to submit, along with his

application, a statement showing his name, address, the

location and area of the land to be used for the scheme and A development scheme is defined legally as a scheme or

such other particulars as may be prescribed by the Real

of which is subject to local law and the regulatory

the development with the maximum amount payable being

aside, a development is more readily identified as a group

Six Thousand Dollars ($6,000.00) per lot or unit.

same management. The Real Estate Board is the primary

Upon receipt of an application and the required fee, the

intended scheme for development of land, the subdivision

Estate Board. The application fee varies according to size of

intervention of local authorities. Putting the legal lingua

One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dollars ($150,000.00) plus

of similarly designed houses or buildings usually under the supervising body and the entity from which approval must be obtained if one intends to be registered as a developer and carry out a development of a particular size. The

authority of the Real Estate Board emanates from the Real Estate (Dealers and Developers) Act and the Act regulates development schemes of more than five (5) lots and

developers who carry out schemes on a regular basis or as a business fall under the supervisory arm of the board.

Real Estate Board if satisfied will enter the name of the applicant in the Register of the Developers and such

person will be considered a registered developer under

the Act. The Real Estate Board however is precluded from registering an applicant if in the case of an individual he has been convicted at any time of an offence involving

fraud or dishonesty in relation to real estate matters or

has had an order in bankruptcy made against him which

remains undischarged. If the applicant is a company, the

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Real Estate Board is not authorized to grant approval if

any action has been taken with a view to winding up the

company or if any of its directors fall under the category of individuals outlined above.

A very important point for prospective developers to note is that land that is intended to be used for development

must be the subject of free and clear title. The law is that such lands must be free from any mortgage or charge

securing money with the exception of a mortgage that was It is important to note that the fact that a person has

secured to finance construction of buildings and works

undertake a series of developments at will. A developer

purchasers to enter into a pre-payment contract which

every single development that he proposes to undertake.

development is complete. Once the individual makes a

annually so long as they have developments underway.

to secure that deposit and so the idea is that his charge

Board in addition to the payment of a renewal fee as

or reduces the value of the land. An exception is made

entire process and fees attached to registration may seem

that is seen as adding to the value of the land and so in

developers however this should be counterbalanced with

improved value of the property.

percent of the tax that would ordinarily be payable on

Kimberley Frith

been registered as developer does not authorize him to

on the property. Most developers require prospective

must secure the approval of the Real Estate Board for

contemplates a payment to the developer even before the

Developers are also required to renew their registrations

prepayment, a charge is registered against the property

Such renewal is obtained upon applying to the Real Estate

should not be prejudiced by a prior charge that burdens

prescribed by the Real Estate Board. Understandably, the

for mortgages used to finance construction because

tedious and discouraging to developers and prospective

the purchaser’s security would still be grounded in the

the whopping discount in transfer tax of seventy five (75%) a transfer of property. Therefore, registered developers selling property under a registered development pay

transfer tax of 1.25% as opposed to the regular rate of 5%.

Quite a discount!

Associate at Hylton & Hylton, Attorneys-at-Law 31 Upper Waterloo Road, Kingston 10 St. Andrew Email: kimberley@hyltonlaw.com

Breakenridge & Associates CHARTERED VALUATION SURVEYORS

• Auctioneering • Valuation • Property Sales 15A Old Hope Road, Kingston 5 • Tel: 906-9839, 906-9840, 968-7757 • web: www.breakenridge-assoc.com

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Be Informed

The Importance of using a

Registered Architect I

n May 2013 the Architects Registration Board of Jamaica (ARB) published a list of persons licensed to practice

architecture in the country. The list consisted of a 100+

qualified and licensed architects with a variety of expertise from residential to commercial buildings as well as

sustainable design. The qualification for licensure as an

architect generally requires the person to have completed a

professional and accredited degree from a University (similar or equivalent to the Master of Architecture, Professional

Degree offered at the Caribbean School of Architecture,

UTech) followed by years of internship under the guidance of a registered architect prior to being able undertake the license examinations.

The Architects Registration Act was amended and passed

through an act of Parliament in 2004, that prohibited the use of the title ‘architect’ unless said person was registered as

such by the Architects’ Registration Board stating that, “no

person unless he is a Registered Architect shall, in Jamaica carry on the practice of architecture.”

Much like other professional licensure for doctors, engineers and lawyers, Registered Architects are held to a high level of

standards and are guided by a code of professional conduct.

The ARB’s Code of Professional Conduct and Practice

speaks to conduct and self discipline required of a Registered Architect, as well as their role in the interest of the public as it relates to public safety, conservation and enhancement of the environment, its natural resources and cultural

heritage. Further, Registered Architects in Jamaica are now professionally compelled to devote time to undergo annual

training to maintain and augment existing skills and broaden their knowledge in areas relevant to architecture.

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So what does all of this mean for those who seek to build their dream house or offices much less an extension to

their homes? Using professionals is often the best route in terms of value for money, safety and to adequately

meet your needs. There are many factors that must be

considered by anyone aspiring to develop a building; the

following are some of the major reasons one should use a Registered Architect for all their development needs • Architectural training is an intense period of study, averaging about 6 years that typically

extends beyond design - their primary area of study, covering the entire building process,

from planning through to construction, project management, contract administration and maintenance.

• The architect is experienced in providing expert advice on the feasibility of a development.

Feasibility includes helping to determine what the budget will be, the possible return on investment, whether the project type will suit the intended purpose and so on.

• For many types of projects, buildings for public use, etc, architects are the only ones who can legally design them.

• Many planning agencies like the National

Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA)

require a registered architect’s seal on building submissions.

• The role of the architect is to plan, design

and administer the development of buildings from inception to completion. This involves

the coordination of other professionals – civil, structural & mechanical engineers, quantity

surveyors, builders and sub-contractors and the

integration of their services in the development of the building.

• Architects are trained to recognise and

understand the fiscal and contractual implications of the decisions taken throughout a project.

• There are no projects too big or too small for a Registered Architect. Whether you want to

renovate your kitchen, upgrade your bathroom

or develop a multi story office complex, a trained professional who can successfully manifest your intentions is the right way to go.

• It is a misconception that architects are

expensive. To quote Dr. Rohan Bailey, Head of the Caribbean School of Architecture in his 2012 May 07 article entitled, “Want Maximum Value? Hire

an Architect” published in the Jamaica Gleaner,

“the client who decides to use an architect will not necessarily pay more for their building than he or she would otherwise if someone else was hired.

Contrary to the client who hires a person to ‘draw a plan’, the client who hires an architect pays

fees for the architect’s involvement in the whole

process - conception to the delivery of the project, not just the production of a ‘plan’.”

Well designed buildings that are successfully executed

can enrich our lives and those around us in many ways.

The architect is trained and experienced to deliver these aspirations from start to finish.

David Cuthbert is a Registered Architect, lecturer at the Caribbean School of Architecture and the Registrar of the Architects Registration Board of Jamaica

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A look at the

New Property Tax

Package R

egardless of your location, job title, gender or religious

denomination, all owners of residential and commercial properties are required to pay taxes in Jamaica.

In February 2013 the government announced a new tax

package in parliament, with the property tax portion set to

net a whopping $3.4 billion through a reform of the property tax rate regime, and efforts to increase the low property tax compliance rate. P&S sought to look at what you need to

know in order to be fully up-to-date on your property tax.

Property tax is levied on property owners in order to

gain revenue for the provision of public and community

amenities provided by local government and it is charged on the unimproved value of the land. Your taxes are used to finance property-related services in communities

throughout Jamaica. Property tax pays for maintenance and expansion of street lighting; collection and disposal of solid waste; community infrastructure and civil improvements;

administration of local authorities, repairs to fire stations and rehabilitation of parochial/farm roads.

Now who is responsible for paying property tax? Anyone in

possession of land. Such a person is defined by the Property

Tax Act as the owner, occupier, mortgagee in possession or other person in actual possession of such property.

Valuation in Jamaica is based on the unimproved value of

the land, that is, the price which the owner would expect to receive if he were selling the land alone, regardless of the value of any improvements, such as buildings and crops.

Several factors determine the (unimproved) value of land including:

1) size of the parcel of land 2) zoning and type of land

3) potential for future development

4) topography (elevation & other surface features) 5) soil classification

6) access to municipal & commercial services and 7) neighbourhood characteristics.

Now, to calculate what you have to pay over is pretty straight forward. Properties with an unimproved value of up to

J$100,000.00 will be charged a flat rate of J$1,000.00. Those with values exceeding J$100,000.00 up to J$1,000,000.00 will attract an additional 1.5% for every additional dollar

above J$100,000.00 and properties with values exceeding

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42

J$1,000,000.00 will attract an additional 2.0% for every additional dollar.

Strata corporation calculations are a little different. All

the units in a Strata Corporation are covered by one (1)

valuation number. According to the Registration of Strata Titles Act, owners of strata units and the corporation are jointly and severally liable for all property tax payable in respect of that parcel. Therefore what happens is that

the name of the first owner, that is the owner of lot one

(1), will appear on the property tax data base. This means that the Collector of Taxes can recover any outstanding property tax for an entire strata complex from an

individual strata lot owner. It is therefore important that

property owners in Strata Corporations ensure that other owners pay their respective amounts due. No one wants to be held accountable for other people’s delinquency.

(This is where a strong strata management committee is

vitally important and may have to take legal action against delinquent owners).

There are some exceptions however when it comes to paying these taxes as some properties, persons

and organizations have been given exemptions. These

include buildings exclusively used for religious worship,

church yards, burial grounds and rectories; educational

institutions and properties owned by the Council of Legal

Education; Government-owned lands; lands owned by the

local authorities; hospitals, and lands owned by charitable or cultural organisations approved by the Minister and used solely for the purposes of such organisations.

If your property taxes remain unpaid the government can,

under the Tax Collection Act, recover monies owed by enforcing several actions such as:

• Request direct payments from the Accountant

General’s Department in cases where property tax is owed by Public Officers.

• Issue summonses for arrears and penalties

owed, if persons fail to attend court, a Warrant

of Disobedience may result, where they may be imprisoned for up to three (3) months

• Levy a warrant on goods/chattel, seizure of

goods and auction of same to recover outstanding property tax

• Levy warrant on securities, etc. seizure money,

• Lodge a Caveat (lien) on the Property which blocks the person from transacting any business with the

property, such as sale or assignment as collateral.

• Forfeiture of Property, meaning the property may be seized and sold to recover property tax owed.

• Collect from ‘People in Possession’. Payments may be demanded from persons in possession of or

occupying the property such as owner, occupier,

renter, mortgagee, leasee or other person in actual possession of the property.

Property Tax is due and payable on the 1st of April in

each year. Payments can be made annually, biannually

or quarterly. However payments made after the 30th of

April are considered late and attracts a ten percent (10%) penalty. Amounts unpaid a full thirty (30) days from the 30th of April will attract a further fifteen percent (15%)

penalty per annum. The penalty alone is enough reason to pay on time!

The Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) is happy to take your hard earned money by any means necessary,

so there are 29 tax offices/outlets across the island

available for you to make payments, using cash, credit or debit cards. Additionally, the King Street, Cross Roads, Constant Spring, Montego Bay, Spanish Town and

Savanna-La-Mar tax offices are equipped with electronic drop boxes which may be used to make payments by

cheque to avoid the long lines. To further facilitate tax

payments, during the months of April to June, TAJ will

conduct “out-station” operations in several rural areas.

But these operations only accommodate non-cash

transaction therefore ONLY debit or credit cards will be accepted and a ready receipt will be generated.

Home owners who are tech savvy can pay online via the tax portal at www.jamaicatax-online.gov.jm. This is an

especially good alternative for owners who are overseas, as they can make payments at any time of the day,

regardless of their location, using a credit card. Those in Jamaica will also avoid the long wait in the slow moving lines at the tax offices. Online users should first ensure

that they have the valuation number(s) of the property(ies)

available. This can be seen on a property tax notice, even an old one or on a previous property tax receipt. Persons without these can call the Tax Administration Jamaica’s Customer Care Centre at 1-888-TAX-HELP.

bonds, securities, etc and disposal to recover outstanding property tax.

Source: jamaicatax.gov.jm

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Beyond the Bath F

or some, having a clean bathroom is all they can wish for

Be Creative

(especially if more than one male lives in the house!) but

Making your bathroom stylish

ideally there is so much more that we want for our bathroom

and yes, style is included in that wish list.

Now you need to have a plan or design in your head BEFORE you

start knocking things around, or else you may end up with a pretty price tag that may overwhelm you, as well as your pocket. So in

order to give your bathroom a breath of fresh air, make a budget and stick to it.

Bathrooms must be clean but who says they have to look sterile?

Why stay in plain old white? The right colours can do wonders

for its transformation. Think about a nice shade of yellow or fool

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around with a light blue that would look great in the natural light of day. Choose colours you would not mind spending some time basking each day.

If your basin area is small and tends to get cluttered with the

usual shaving cream, toothpaste, left over make-up and such, why not opt for a decorative cabinet with a nice glass design on the front? To give it a bit of a décor kick, add a small but colourful plant to the top of the cabinet so it acts as a plant stand as well.

As most towel racks can usually only hold one towel, go big and To add some storage space for functionality so that your extra

install a trio of racks. Do not worry about not having enough

consider an under-sink cabinetry with a cool wicker basket finish

on the bathroom door. That way they will all fit and as the door

tissues and soaps are in a great location without being on show,

wall space, because you can put all three, one below the other

that is both functional as well as stylish. You can thread some

is the last thing your hubby sees before leaving the bathroom ,

ribbons through the top of the basket just to fancy it up.

he will always remember where his towel is supposed to go.

For little trinkets that take up space on your shelf or counter

Add a skirting to your face basin. It not only makes the room

adhesive cups that can stick to practically any surface including

makes the room ‘pop’ as well.

top (like medication, gels, lotions etc,) get a few flat back, self

tiles. Add a floral or mosaic design and make them come to life in their own little space.

look bigger but if it is a warm, inviting colour or funky pattern, it

Be Creative

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What every New Home MUST Have

F

orget about making a statement because unless you intend to keep up with the Jones, your house should never be a

‘showpiece’. A good home starts with careful thought and

some detailed planning, hence simply buying new furniture or throwing some paint on the walls does not necessarily add to the overall appeal. Your new abode must not only reflect the

personality of you the homeowner but should be comfortable

enough for guests and friends not to be afraid to sit down or walk on your carpet. Indeed each room should be functional and your new home must contain little things located throughout that are special to you as these are the novelties which make that new

space liveable. If when you put your key in your front door and

open it, you do not feel a welcome sense of relief and happiness, then your home is not achieving its main function which is being your sanctuary.

P&S have compiled a list of must-haves for your new crib and regardless of your pocket, neighbourhood or taste, your new

home should create a mood that conveys warmth, comfort, style, serenity and cheerfulness.

A welcoming entry way. When someone steps into your home

you want them to feel as good about it as you do. Homes are not museums so the foyer or living room should definitely not be too

formal hence a lovely vase with some flowers on an end table would do wonders in that space.

Books. Believe it or not you do have homes where you have to search high and low to find an actual book! Gadgetry

has unfortunately replaced books in our homes but surveys show that nothing is quite as inviting as a magazine rack in

a living room for guests to browse, a coffee table with a few

autobiographies well placed in the centre or a nice bookcase to give your home that regal touch.

Storage space. We cannot stress this enough. Storage is

important especially if you have a hobby that you indulge in daily; if you have children who have lots of school projects or lead an active lifestyle where a bicycle or gym equipment comes into

play. Ensure that racks, trays, boxes and a well ventilated room

are available for you to organise your ‘treasures’ that you have to put away.

Natural light. Believe it or not, natural light not only reduces your

energy bill but improves your overall health. Natural light is said to

stimulate the human body to produce vitamin D and helps prevent depression. It also provides a source of illumination better than most artificial light, which can help prevent trips and falls.

Wall accents and art. What is a world without art? And it does not have to be expensive because for the kitchen, hall way and your children’s room you can hang their own art work done in

school which will be a huge source of pride and accomplishment for them. Find out what fits your home style. You can go modern

with metal sculptures, wrought iron pieces or think traditional with timeless reprints of outstanding works by Huie, Manley or Watson or incorporate some porcelain or Buddha figurine into your home.

Rugs. You would be surprised how a nice throw rug adds a dash

of colour and style to an otherwise barren room. The right rug can make a room seem bigger and can be used to separate space such as a sitting or dining area in your home.

A private retreat. No matter how small an area it is, we all need our own private space, a place that we can go sit in and regain our peace of mind. It does not necessarily have to be a room

with a door that we use to shut out the world. It can be a deck in the backyard that overlooks our garden or the balcony from our

bedroom window but the ambience must be such that it evokes a sense of tranquillity.

A splash of colour. Even if we are investing in all those gorgeous shades of white, we must not forget to incorporate a splash of

colour in our rooms. Otherwise they will simply remind guests of being in a hospital! Add a patterned throw cushion, candles, a

vase or a nice rug to break up the monotony of an all white room.

Good sturdy sofa and comfortable chairs. No mater how cute, or ornate or ostentatious they look, if they are uncomfortable to

sit or relax in then you have defeated their whole purpose, which

is functionality. Sofas should be fun to cuddle and snuggle up in.

Chairs should be strong and dependable to sit in for hours reading an epic novel and if it begins to give you a back ache, throw it out!

Mirrors. They are versatile, great as backsplashes and aid in allowing natural light to flow through a room.

Houseplants. Plants make any home seem lived-in and

inviting but we all know that like pets, plants require care and

consideration. Whether it is for cleaner air, peace and ambience or just simply for a more balanced environment, plants are a popular way to beautify your home and you do not have to turn it into the Amazon Jungle either. They are a natural supply of fresh air by

converting carbon dioxide into oxygen; they absorb potentially

harmful pollutants in the air and are great dust removers as well.

Trinkets that reflects the homeowner’s personality. Your

grandmother’s antique clock, a comforter you bought in Brazil,

your favourite china. These are the stuff that transforms a house

into a home. Your place should reflect not only your taste but more importantly your personality. Remember it is your new space, so live well in it.

Be Creative

Places & Spaces

Choosing the right paint job for your home

47

W

hen it comes to paints, your choices are literally endless, as every shade on the rainbow now has a name and a good mixer

can find just the one you want. But before you select from the countless colour wheels you find in your local hardware store, it is essential that you already have a visual in your mind of what you want the finished product to look like. Paint is relatively

inexpensive and therefore is the most versatile element of any room’s décor. It is also the easiest thing to change. The following tips will help you get as close as possible to the perfect paint job.

Never forget your decorating samples. You may love a

falls where should help you when choosing which colour fits

particular shade of pink but how does it fit in with the rugs,

what room.

that your furniture décor is considered before finalising your

Never forget your light. Always make your paint choice in as

tile, wallpaper or sofa fabrics that you already have? Ensure paint plans.

much light as possible, the ideal being natural light. Put the

Know your colour formula. For print fabric, you may want

of painting and see how it looks in combination with the

to look beyond what is obvious and choose based on the background of the fabric.

Beware of Colour Contamination. Here is when you will

see whether the colour you are leaning towards is affected by

paint chip or colour wheel in the actual room you are thinking furniture and accent pieces already present in that space.

Do not forget your ceiling. A light colour not only looks

better but will also keep your room much cooler, so do not go crazy on the ceiling. Your ceiling paint should ideally be a few

other colours already in a room. Colours may reflect on each

shades lighter than your wall colour.

in a neutral room in good sunlight.

Be smart with your money. Before you spend a lot of money

Let sample paint dry before making a final decision.

buy a small pint of paint to run a sample test patch. Paint a little

other as curtains can reflect on a potential paint job. Test it out

for gallons upon gallons and buckets upon buckets of paint,

Wet paint looks different from dry paint and do not test paint

square on your wall and let it dry properly. You then examine

in an empty room as you need other colours to see if it will

it in the light of day, at night and when the sun hits it in the

work cohesively with furniture, drapery and paintings.

evening. If it is still what you want, then go for it.

Select a great finish that rocks. Did you know that matt or

Invest in white. It never hurts to have some white paint

reflect more light? Yep, just something more to think about.

looking too dark. You can always dilute it with a drop of white

Warm vs. Cool colours. Which way to go? Sometimes

colour you invented.

flat finishes hide wall imperfections, but glossier finishes will

paint colours are described as ‘warm’ or ‘cool’ and should

be selected depending on the tone you are trying to convey.

Colours such as red, orange and pink are dubbed ‘warm’

while greens and blues are considered ‘cool’. Knowing what

around just in case, after all your effort, a colour comes out and maybe surprise yourself with how well you like the new

Get expert advice! Whatever you cannot figure out on your

own, seek the advice of the professionals in the paint store.

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Places & Spaces

Property Listings

49

Every wise homeowner knows that location as well as a property that speaks to you and your dreams is what shopping for real estate is all about. Places & Spaces has assembled the brightest and most knowledgeable realtors in the business. The following listings compiled represent properties from across the length and breadth of this beautiful island.

• Johnson Benjamin Realty • Century 21 • Declan Real Estate • LaMaison Property Services • ReMax Elite • Victor Brown & Associates

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Remax

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Remax

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Be Knowledgeable

64

Whither the Ward Theatre?

– the Pride of North Parade

W

ithout doubt, Jamaica’s biggest theatre and one of

its most recognizable landmarks is the Ward Theatre, located in the heart of downtown Kingston. Now a

shadow of its former glorious self, ‘The Ward’ was once THE place to be seen as before plays could debut on Broadway, they first had to be seen and reviewed at Ward to judge their viability.

The Ward Theatre was built in 1912 by Charles James Ward,

then Custos of the parish of Kingston. Charles, the nephew of John Wray (of J. Wray & Nephew fame) was a very successful

businessman who owned the tavern which was located beside

the previous theatre, the Theatre Royal. In addition to his sharp

business sense, he developed an altruistic spirit as he aged, and in his early 70s his greatest gift to the city he loved was that of a

new theatre of epic proportions. Unfortunately Colonel Ward died a little less than a year after seeing his ‘gift’ opened.

The Ward is the third theatre to stand in its present location since 1775. The first, the Kingston Theatre, was destroyed by fire. The

next structure called the Theatre Royal went down in the famous

January 1907 earthquake. In 1910, following a design competition, construction of the present Ward Theatre began and was

completed 2 years later at a cost of £12,000 which was a king’s

ransom back then. Its impressive structure was deliberate because this new edifice was supposed to rival the theatrical powerhouses of Europe, yet the designer was cognizant enough to understand

that in a tropical climate proper ventilation was key when packing a theatre to capacity.

The Ward Theatre has three levels (Parquette, Dress Circle and

Gallery) a seating capacity of over 800 and a magnificent stage that boasts over 2,000 square feet. In its heyday more than

100,000 attended performances at The Ward annually. Considered the ‘Pride of North Parade’, the Ward Theatre was recognized as a symbol of our nation’s cultural heritage.

The Ward is unmatched in its architectural elegance and

phenomenal acoustical capacity because it was designed for

superior amplification hence with proper projection from actors and singers, every syllable can be heard all the way to the roof (an important feature, particularly in the years before stage

microphones became a standard feature of theatre amplification).

Solidly constructed with steel and concrete which was considered

a novel way of erecting buildings a century ago, the theatre was fashioned in the popular Jamaican Georgian and Neo-Classical style and features extraordinary ornamentation with terra-cotta

plasterwork and stucco work that has never been identified on any other building in such abundance.

Such was the anticipation of its completion that then Governor of Jamaica, Sir Sidney Olivier, is said to have remarked to the

legendary Irish playwright and novelist Sir George Bernard Shaw that after the 1907 earthquake, Jamaica needed a magnificent theatre of impeccable architectural quality to assist in its

renaissance, as it will be a source of renewal that its people can rally around.

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Dozens of careers have been launched on that venerable stage and several famous people and groups have graced its stage including

Oscar Wilde, Louise Bennett, Sir Willard White, Gilbert and Sullivan, London Festival Orchestra, Madge Sinclair, Broadway on Ice and the European Union Chamber Orchestra. Interestingly both the

People’s National Party (PNP) and the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP)

were launched at the Ward Theatre. In 1941 another tradition began at the Ward as the National Pantomime opened there every Boxing Day (December 26) except in 1950 when it was closed for repairs.

Significant repairs was done in 1982 when the Kingston and St.

Andrew Corporation closed the theatre to carry out some much needed work. Threadbare and badly worn, some of the original tapestry was removed and minor technological improvement added. A few critics have argued that this detracted for its

overall appeal but for the most part its authenticity has not been

tampered with. By the mid-1980s the Ward Theatre Foundation was

established to raise funds for its ongoing repairs. By 2002, however, the pantomime had to stop opening its annual production there

because of the poor state of the facility. Patrons seated downstairs constantly complained about the stench from the bathroom,

caused by the antiquated sewerage system. Many hurricanes,

including in recent years Dean and Gustav, have impacted on the theatre, wreaking further devastation to the roof and the stage.

The theatre therefore continues to be un-usable and some have

called for a changing of directors of the Foundation as it is believed that not enough is being done by the present Board to restore

this landmark to its former glory. Fortunately in 2009 a team of

reputable architects deemed the Ward to still be structurally sound.

Since the construction of the Ward Theatre we have seen the birth of

several theatres including the Little Theatre, Little Little Theatre, Barn Theatre (now defunct), Centrestage, Stages Theatre, Green Gables, Theatre Place, Pantry Playhouse, Phillip Sherlock Centre for the

Performing Arts and Montego Bay’s Fairfield Theatre. But none is, or will ever, be as impressive as the Ward Theatre.

Last year (2012) as the nation was proudly celebrating its 50th year of independence, the Ward Theatre celebrated its centennial. In

2000 the Ward Theatre was declared a National Monument by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust and that same year it was toured

by Prince Charles during a visit to the island. Though visually the

building is still impressive to look at, much work needs to be done for it to maintain its status as the ultimate architectural pride of Downtown Kingston.

Sources: National Library of Jamaica and the Ward Theatre Foundation

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67

Protecting your home during Hurricane season

E

very year when June rolls around and the skies get

dark, many Jamaicans go into ‘panic mode’ as they

suddenly remember all the things they said they would

have done before hurricane season began again.

Since panicking will not solve anything, we at P&S will try to

Sandbag it! If your home is in a low-lying area that in the past might have been prone to flooding, do not take it for granted that this is a thing of the past. Fill and stock up on sandbags and once a hurricane warning has been issued, move them to where all your doors are located so that they are within

easy reach. After a hurricane, whether you used them or not,

reduce your fears with some helpful tips to protect your home

do not throw them away. Rather store in a tool shed or store

during the six month long hurricane season.

room until they are needed again.

Start on top. Check your roof, as this can be a major source

Don’t leave anything outside. When it comes to your yard

A badly leaking roof will lead to ceiling and wall damage

as bicycles, water hoses and decorative pieces. Trim trees

roofs made of galvanised sheeting material (more popularly

done early so that the trimmings can be carried away by the

down and if there are rusty areas, repair or replace them

debris and they can do damage to your home. Tree branches

straps, ensure that you have these installed by a licensed

heavy trees ideally should not cover your home. Yes you

come loose and fly away.

saturated, the tree can be uprooted and come crashing down

of leaking and is the main reason behind insurance claims.

or patio area, batten down everything that is portable such

and can destroy your furniture and other belongings. For

so branches do not hit against windows. Make sure this is

known as ‘zinc’) make sure it is properly fastened or latched

garbage truck because strong winds will make them flying

immediately. For roof trusses and rafters that use hurricane

should not be near to your home’s power line and huge,

contractor as during ‘Wild Gilbert’, people’s roof tops did

appreciate the shade but in a hurricane, if the ground gets

Examine your windows and doors. Once you have seen to

on your home.

your roof, look to protect your entrances, exits, sources of

Do a spot-check. Go through your house from roof to

average 15% of your home’s square footage so it is important

unturned as holes should be filled, missing screws replaced

windows and doors but that may prove very costly to the

hurricane warning is issued you can just sit tight and listen to

ventilation and light. Windows, on average, account for an

floor and then out to the garden and literally leave no stone

to secure them properly. You can invest in hurricane resistant

or tightened and everything bolted down. So when the next

average homeowner, hence a good stock of plywood may

the weather channel!

be in order. If you can afford accordion shutters, get those because they are permanent attachments which can be folded easily when not in use.

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Be Knowledgeable

Real Estate Developments in Jamaica G

iven the prevailing investment landscape in Jamaica, there is a

current trend to shift more into investing in real estate because it is viewed as an effective method for sustainably building

wealth. Real estate property investments are attractive for personal use and/ or for diversification of an investment portfolio.

There are however, more inherent risks involved in going the route of

construction and development as an investor, compared with buying a property from the existing housing or commercial property stock.

A careful examination of issues including the client’s risk profile and objectives, intended purpose of the property, available budget to

complete purchase payments and any necessary modifications and expected benefits are central to the decision-making process.

Design and Build your own building

This approach promises a purpose-designed structure to suit your

spatial and aesthetic needs, or to meet the needs of the market if it

is an investment property. It involves site selection, land acquisition, construction financing, design plans, professional project team,

planning approval and construction management. With each of these

To Build or to Buy?

stages of the development process there is a time factor involved and

trends show that the time to complete varies between 18 to 24 months from concept to completion, if properly planned and executed.

Without a project manager to assist, an investor is at risk at every stage of the development process. Some of these inherent risks include: Security of capital being invested in the project to unscrupulous

builders/contractors; faulty land acquisition procedure (relying on

unscrupulous unlicensed agents); not using qualified professionals for

design and construction management; inadequate knowledge of local laws, regulations and required fees; inferior quality construction, and budget and time overruns.

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69

Property acquisition on the open market

Several reasons could be proposed for this, including:

risks, but nonetheless proper planning is required.

poor site selection; high cost of construction; lack of

experience to proceed with property acquisition without

market conditions with low yields in property values

Consultant as questions of value, location, and building

When the economy is weak this can lead to a bearish

Buying your property on the open market carries fewer

inefficient construction strategy; high cost of funds;

It is not recommended for an investor with limited

adherence to standards in building codes and poor

the assistance of a Realtor or Facilities Management

integrity may elude the investor acting on his own. It is

not uncommon for overseas based investors to proceed to purchase a property in Jamaica without inspecting

it or having a reliable and trustworthy agent do this on their behalf. Property acquisition is the single largest

investment in an individual’s lifetime and therefore it is

reasonable to assume that they will act prudently and with diligence in such a transaction.

There are several measures to be taken to manage or

mitigate the risks associated with purchasing a property, which include procuring the following services:

property market; trending to a buyer’s market, where

property values are sometimes flat or falling and the rate of increase in construction cost can exceed the pace of

appreciation of property values. In instances such as this, buying in the open market is usually more attractive than building on your own. In the reverse conditions, where

there is a seller’s market, it may be more favourable to build instead of buying on the open market.

A bullish property market with a high rate of appreciation

in property values usually fuels new construction. Return on investment for new-build is usually greater than an

• A Realtor (property acquisition)

investment in the existing housing stock or commercial

• Property Valuer (property valuation)

outstrips most other alternative investment media. Either

• Real Estate Investment Adviser • Construction Project Manager • Land Surveyor (Property identification of boundaries report)

property stock, sometimes exceeding a 30% return which option may be more suitable to an investor depending on their particular circumstances and appetite for risk

but ‘Value for Money’ should always be paramount in the decision making process.

This interplay between risk and return drives the

• Attorney-at-Law

investment decision-making process and the

• Property Manager (post-construction phase)

in Jamaica pulls more investment from overseas-based

attractiveness of real estate investment opportunities

stakeholders and institutional investors such as pension The above measures are even more important for

funds.

in the property investment(s) given the control issues

Real estate investment is still one of the safest classes of

overseas investors who need to protect their interest

associated with the long distance between them and their investment.

investment and in most cases is a good hedge against inflation; consequently it is highly recommended.

Return on investment

Whether the investment decision is to buy or build there is the expectation of a return on the investment. The

investment of time and effort in the building process

raises the return expectation to compensate for the time and effort of the investor but this is sometimes not met.

Edwin D C Wint Dip LEVS Dip Proj Man BA MBA ICIOB MBIFM MAPM Chairman & CEO La Maison Property Services Limited

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70

Thank You O

nce again we are proud to have provided

our readers with another exciting publication which was made possible by our dedicated

stakeholders who have assisted in our continued

growth and sustainability. To all the entities that have made Places & Spaces a reality, we say a huge and heartfelt ‘Thank You’!

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