This year marks a monumental milestone for the real estate industry in Jamaica, the 15th anniversary of the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) being provided through the REALTORS® Association of Jamaica (RAJ)
Since its official launch in 2010, the MLS now called Xposure has transformed how real estate is practiced in Jamaica, bringing structure, transparency, professionalism, and efficiency to the marketplace. What began as a bold step toward modernization has grown into an indispensable tool that now serves approximately 1,800 REALTORS® and REALTOR Associates® and the public across the island
Over the past 15 years, the MLS has:
Empowered members with centralized access to property data
Increased visibility for listings both locally and internationally
Standardized transactions and improved compliance
Facilitated collaboration among real estate professionals
Delivered critical market insights to support decision-making internally and nationally
This achievement is not only a testament to the vision and leadership of the RAJ, but also to the collective commitment of our members who continue to uphold the highest standards of practice in real estate.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to advancing the MLS platform, embracing innovation, and supporting our members with the tools and training needed to stay ahead in a competitive and evolving industry.
Let us take this moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and to say thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Here's to continued growth, professionalism, and success in Jamaican real estate!
Happy 15th Anniversary, MLS Jamaica!
PRESIDENT’S AGM REPORT
RAJ RESET: BUILDING A STRONGER FUTURE THROUGH TECHNOLOGY
AGM HIGHLIGHTS
STRENGTHENING LEADERSHIP & SERVICE: RAJ BOARD ELECTIONS AND REAPPOINTMENTS FOR 2026
WELCOME TO OUR NEWLY ELECTED 2026 BOARD MEMBERS!
MEET THE RAJ’S 2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
UPDATES FROM THE NORTH & SOUTH COAST CHAPTERS
SECRETARIAT STAFF ANNOUNCEMENT: WELCOMING OUR NEW STAFF
EMPOWERING MEMBERS THROUGH EDUCATION
MAKE GLOBAL CONNECTIONS. POWER LOCAL SUCCESS. IN MEMORIAM THANK YOU FROM THE SECRETARIAT
16.
GABRIELLE GILPIN-HUDSON
Dear Valued Members,
I attended our AGM with a heart full of hope and a commitment to breathe new life into our REALTORS® Association of Jamaica. We’ve had our challenges, and we haven’t always gotten it right But I’m here to say we’re here for you, here to serve you, ready to listen, learn, and grow together.
We want to hear from you every single one of you. Your ideas, your concerns, and your feed back; because your dreams for this Association matter.
We’ve sometimes missed the mark on making everyone feel heard and valued, but that has been changing, and that changes now. Let’s create a space where every member feels equal, supported, and part of something special.
Our goal is to help you shine as REALTORS® We know we need to step up with better tools, training, and support to help you succeed in this fast-moving industry; and that's what we ' ve been focusing on.
We know some members have gotten lost, some members are bad acting, some unknowingly, and unfortunately some on purpose And so, we want to bring everyone back on track, and we plan to do that through refresher training and holding each other accountable.
We'll keep ethics front and center, rebuilding trust by holding ourselves to the highest professional standards. We don't want to keep space for or facilitate the people who play unfair, the people out there undercutting each other. We want our guiding principle to be to treat your colleague how you want to be treated, the Golden Rule.
Let's lift each other up and not tear each other down. This is how we reframe what it means to be a REALTOR®, to be an ethical real estate PROFESSIONAL, to be real estate EXPERTS.
We’ve had financial hiccups, and our events haven’t always hit the mark. We’re committed to getting our house in order making the RAJ financially strong and planning events that excite and connect us, from fun networking nights to inspiring workshops. As for our staff, we ' re working on getting them the structure, tools and the training they need to support you in your business and serve you like never before
This is a team effort, we are all stakeholders in a better real estate landscape. Technology’s been a weak spot, and we’re owning that. We're embracing new systems to make our office and membership management more seamless And to make our MLS world class and more user-friendly
Beyond that, we want the RAJ to be your voice, standing up for what matters in Jamaica’s real estate industry We also want to use our voice to shout out to the world about our amazing real estate market, to bring us new buyers, investors and opportunities.
Since January 2025, and my taking office as president we:
Commissioned the IT Committee, which played a vital role in the assessment of the proposal for the Member Management System and made
recommendations for the awarding of the contract. This system will provide a portal for members to log on and do all their business and interaction with the association in one place. Members can view all things relating to their membership including invoices, training, event tickets, etc. This technology will empower the secretariat to be more efficient in serving the membership.
Established the Advocacy & Lobbying Committee, which has proactively engaged stakeholders, including the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and
the Real Estate Board (REB), to combat real estate fraud collaboratively, sharing a comprehensive communication plan with the JCF and designating a dedicated email address for victims of real estate scams to report complaints. Next up, this Committee will be lobbying to shorten the real estate sale transaction time.
Implemented significant enhancements to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) by updating Governing Documents, including a revised Fines Structure and Operating Policies, resulting in improved compliance, streamlined processes, and enhanced overall efficiency for members.
Developed and implemented an extensive calendar of education sessions, which has realized significant support from members, enhancing their knowledge, skills, and professional development.
Restructured the Orientation of new members to accommodate 2 sessions per month, providing a more streamlined onboarding process and enhanced integration into the Association, ultimately leading to improved member engagement and overall satisfaction.
Added 192 license holders to our membership since the beginning of this Administration on January 1, 2025.
Worked closely with the Secretariat to support operational efficiency and elevate service delivery to members, aiming to increase responsiveness and overall member satisfaction through improved processes and systems.
Reviewed and bolstered the Internal Audit process and policies, enhancing transparency, accountability, and risk management, and ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of the Association’s operations.
For the rest of the year we will focus on continuting to build on the above initiatives, and planning and executing our REALTORS® Week. We are also planning our trips to promote Jamaican Real Estate and the RAJ on the international stage at Florida REALTORS® Convention in August and NAR NXT in Houston, Texas in November.
We welcome our members who may be interested in joining us on these international trade missions to let us know so that we can put together a delegation of members from Jamaica and come out strong to these international events!!!! This year is about renewal a fresh start. We’re not perfect, but we’re committed to listen, adapt, and build an RAJ that makes you proud.
Let’s work together to make this association a true home for every realtor, one that lifts us all up and sets the stage for a brighter future in Jamaican real estate Thank you!
06.
07. 07.
BUILDING A STRONGER FUTURE BUILDING STRONGER THROUGH TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY
AA
t the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM), 2 Vice President Roger Allen shared critical updates on the Association’s ongoing push to modernize and streamline
operations chief among them, the work being done to establish a Member Management System (MMS).
In keeping with the Association’s strategic reset, 2 VP Allen explained that the RAJ has been working steadily to digitize its operations and better serve its 1,726 members. A major milestone in this effort has been the formation of a dedicated Information Technology (IT) Committee, tasked with assessing and recommending technology solutions to support the transformation. This committee, comprised of Dean Jones (Chair), Andrew Phillips, Joseph Patterson, Henry Carrier, Michelle Boesinger, Michelle Watkis-Robinson, and Newton Baker, has brought technical expertise and rigor to the process.
The Committee reviewed multiple submissions through a structured Request for Proposal (RFP) process, applying an evaluation matrix to assess each provider’s capabilities. Careful analysis led to the identification of a preferred vendor, with whom the Association is currently finalizing due diligence before a formal engagement is announced The MMS is expected to launch later this year.
What can members expect from this system?
The MMS is anticipated to provide real-time updates on membership payments, automatically track member participation and service history, and help streamline internal reporting and communication. It will also offer support to brokers and agencies by surfacing performance insights and allowing for better engagement across the membership.
The MMS will not only improve the efficiency of the Secretariat, but also empower members with greater access to their personal data, service history, and a more seamless interface with the RAJ and relevant regulatory bodies.
This initiative reflects RAJ’s broader commitment to reset, modernize, and better serve its members As Allen noted, when visiting REALTOR® associations in the U.S. and Canada, it became clear that robust digital systems are the backbone of efficient, transparent associations.
The implementation of the MMS is one of many actions under the RAJ RESET strategy, focused on transparency, accountability, and performance. With RAJ now ranked as the #2 largest international REALTOR® association according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), the momentum for progress is strong
The RAJ acknowledges that this system has been long overdue, but the steps now being taken signal meaningful progress. As the Association continues to embrace its role as the voice for real estate in Jamaica, the commitment to improved service and stronger member support remains clear The MMS is expected to go live by late 2025, representing a major milestone in RAJ’s digital transformation and a new era of efficiency and connectivity for its members.
TThe RAJ held its Annual General Meeting on June 25, 2025, under the bold and forward-looking theme “RAJ RESET.” Members gathered to reflect, realign, and recommit to the mission of advancing Jamaica’s real estate profession
From key governance updates to digital transformation initiatives, the AGM showcased the Association’s renewed focus on transparency, ethics, advocacy, and member empowerment. Here are a few standout moments from this pivotal meeting.
A renewed focus on transparency, accountability, and stronger member support is guiding the RAJ into a new era Through internal audits, governance improvements, digital transformation, and open dialogue with members, the Association is committed to rebuilding trust, enhancing service delivery, and making sure every REALTOR® feels heard, valued, and empowered.
Here are some highlights from this year’s AGM and the RESET in motion.
I AM A REALTOR®
At AGM 2025, members were invited to renew their commitment to professionalism by signing a poster board featuring the REALTOR® pledge. This symbolic gesture served as a personal recommitment to the values and responsibilities that define our profession honour, service, ethical conduct, and continued learning.
REALTORS® and REALTOR ASSOCIATES® proudly signed, reaffirming their dedication to upholding the highest standards in Jamaican real estate.
TOGETHER WE MOVE FORWARD
The RAJ’s AGM 2025 reminded us that progress is a team effort, and every member plays a part. Behind the scenes, the RAJ Secretariat continues to be a driving force in delivering the Association’s goals and supporting its members daily From managing operations to executing events, their dedication ensures the smooth running of the organisation and reflects the heart of RAJ RESET collaboration, service, and a renewed commitment to excellence
YOUR VOICE MATTERS
We aim to reinforce our commitment to creating a truly member-driven Association One that listens, evolves, and responds to the needs of its community. Through open dialogue, inclusive leadership, and increased opportunities for engagement, RAJ is working to ensure every member feels heard, valued, and represented in the decisions that shape our shared future.
ETHICS FRONT & CENTRE
The Association is committed to raising professional standards and strengthening accountability. At AGM 2025, members connected, shared ideas, and reaffirmed their commitment to fair, ethical practices in every transaction. Through meaningful interactions and renewed pledges, RAJ is fostering a culture where integrity leads the way and where every REALTOR® is empowered to uphold the values that elevate our profession.
As the RAJ continues its mission to serve the industry with integrity, professionalism, and accountability, we are proud to acknowledge the appointment and reappointment of individuals whose service, leadership, and commitment have helped shape the Association.
Recognizing Our Retiring Board Members
As we welcome new members, we also extend heartfelt thanks to our outgoing Board members for their dedication and service:
Nicholas Bogle, Treasurer Nevin Nish, Director, Lobbying & Advocacy
Rebecca Stevenson, Director
Deborah Cumming, Director
Your leadership and efforts have made a meaningful impact on our Association and the wider industry. We are grateful for your commitment.
Reappointment of Joyce McEachron as 2026 Ombudsman
First appointed in 2016 under the leadership of then-President Edwin Wint, Mrs. Joyce McEachron has faithfully served as the RAJ’s first and only Ombudsman. The Ombudsman programme was introduced to provide members and the public with an informal, confidential channel to resolve real estaterelated concerns before they escalate into formal complaints.
The RAJ Board of Directors has unanimously reappointed Mrs. Joyce McEachron as the Association’s Ombudsman for 2026. Serving in this role since the programme ’ s inception, Mrs. McEachron has consistently demonstrated fairness, professionalism, and discretion in resolving member and public concerns through informal mediation. We thank her for her continued service in this vital role.
Appointment of Internal and External Auditors
We also recognize and extend appreciation to our appointed auditors for 2025:
Andrew Fowles, a Chartered Accountant in both Scotland and Jamaica, brings a wealth of financial leadership experience. He currently serves as Group Company Secretary at Wisynco Group Limited and sits on multiple corporate boards.
Jacklyn Edwards, a Chartered Banker with more than three decades of experience, has spent over ten years as an internal auditor. A committed community member and active REALTOR ASSOCIATE®, she continues to serve with passion.
Jennifer McDonald, REALTOR ASSOCIATE® at Keller Williams Jamaica, is an accomplished international management consultant and brand transformation strategist. Her record of service includes transformative leadership at PICA, where she drove customer-centric innovations.
We are proud to introduce and celebrate the newest additions to the RAJ Board of Directors, elected during the 2025 Annual General Meeting.
These members have answered the call to leadership at a pivotal moment for our Association. As RAJ continues its journey of renewal, growth, and greater member engagement, we are excited to welcome a fresh wave of energy and ideas to the Board.
The commitment and vision of these newly elected Directors will play a vital role in shaping the strategic direction of the Association, strengthening its advocacy, and upholding the highest standards of professionalism across Jamaica’s real estate sector. We are confident that their diverse experiences and passion for the industry will contribute to meaningful progress in the year ahead.
PLEASE JOIN US IN CONGRATULATING:
Celia Grant, REALTOR®
Ryan Taylor, REALTOR®
Stephanie Foo, REALTOR®
Dennis Hickey, REALTOR ASSOCIATE®
Thank you, Dennis, Celia, Stephanie, and Ryan, for stepping forward to serve. We anticipate that your leadership will help carry the RAJ forward, one step closer to our shared goal of a more empowered, ethical, and united real estate community.
We look forward to your contributions and impact!
DENNIS HICKEY REALTOR ASSOCIATE®
RYAN TAYLOR REALTOR®
STEPHANIE FOO REALTOR®
We are pleased to officially announce the Executive Team that will lead the REALTORS® Association of Jamaica into 2026.
Congratulations to Gabrielle Gilpin-Hudson, who has been re-elected unopposed to serve as President for a second consecutive term.
Her continued leadership is a vote of confidence in the direction and progress of the Association under her stewardship. With her vision, energy, and unwavering commitment to professionalism, ethics, and member empowerment, we look forward to even greater strides in the year ahead.
Joining her on the Executive team for the 2026 term are:
This team brings a wealth of experience, fresh perspective, and a shared commitment to service that will help guide the RAJ through its next chapter of transformation and growth.
We extend our warmest congratulations to the 2026 Executive Team and thank them for their willingness to serve. We are confident that with their leadership, RAJ will continue to build a stronger, more connected, and more impactful Association and real estate community across Jamaica.
The Association extends our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Garfield Gourzong for his years of dedicated service as Chairman of the North Coast Chapter As he retires from the post and will not be continuing in 2026, we thank him for his steady leadership, his commitment to the real estate profession, and the positive impact he has made on the Chapter and the wider Association.
WELCOMING NEW LEADERSHIP
WELCOMING NEW LEADERSHIP
We are pleased to announce Wayne Nelson, REALTOR® of Golden Gates Realty, has been elected as the new North Coast Chapter Chairman for 2026. Mr. Nelson brings a wealth of experience and a strong passion for service, and we are confident he will lead with purpose and integrity in the year ahead.
Congratulations to Ms. Davina Turner, REALTOR® of Inez Turner Real Estate, on her re-election as Chairman of the South Coast Chapter for 2026
Her ongoing leadership and dedication to the growth of the Chapter and the real estate profession have earned the trust and support of her peers.
We look forward to another impactful year of advocacy, education, and collaboration under her guidance.
Our regional chapters play a vital role in strengthening the REALTOR® community across the island. They serve as a bridge between the Association and its members, ensuring that local voices are heard and that tailored support and opportunities are provided at the community level. The dedication of our Chapter Chairs and members continues to advance the mission of the RAJ, fostering unity, professional excellence, and meaningful impact within Jamaica’s real estate landscape.
TASHANIQUE ANDERSON
Member Services Officer – Level 1
Tashanique will be one of your first points of contact for membership matters, committed to delivering responsive and courteous service to support your professional needs.
PLEASE
PLEASE
NATAYLA BROWN
Administrative Assistant
Natayla brings added structure and support to our internal operations, helping the Secretariat run smoothly so we can better serve you.
AAt the heart of the RAJ’s mission is a deep commitment to continuous education, professional growth, and ethical excellence
Through our ongoing calendar of workshops and virtual sessions, the RAJ seeks to equip members with the knowledge, tools, and insights needed to navigate today’s real estate landscape with confidence and competence.
In June, the Association hosted a number of informative education sessions tailored to the realities of today’s market, from mastering the mortgage process to understanding the financial and legal aspects of the profession. And there’s more to come!
Our July sessions will continue to explore critical areas that support member success and strengthen the credibility of the industry as a whole.
As we move forward, we encourage all members to take full advantage of these opportunities. Your active participation is what makes these sessions impactful, and is key to shaping a community of REALTORS® known for excellence.
Take a look, to revisit our recent sessions and mark your calendar for what’s ahead!
If you missed any of our June sessions, feel free to reach out to the RAJ Secretariat at office@realtorsjamaica.com to access recordings.
JU JULY 2025 EDUCATION SESSIONS AT THE RAJ LY 2025 EDUCATION SESSIONS RAJ
JULY 3 – Affiliate Thursday: Everydata
JULY 8 – Legal Reform (Part 2): Navigate Conveyance Challenges
JULY 15 – Table Talk: Leverage Your Brand
JULY 17 – Document Success (Part 1): Know Your MLS Forms
JULY 22 – Document Success (Part 2): Know Your REB & MLS Forms
JULY 24 – Table Talk: Real Estate in the Era of Technology
JULY 29 – Table Talk: Maintain Your Real Estate Standards
With a full month of sessions ahead, July’s calendar reflects the Association’s commitment to delivering relevant, timely education that equips members to lead with confidence. From navigating legal reforms to embracing technology, refining documentation practices, and elevating your personal brand, these sessions are all about strengthening your expertise and reinforcing professional standards.
Whether you are a new member or a seasoned REALTOR®, we encourage you to stay engaged and take full advantage of these valuable learning opportunities
Let us continue to build a stronger, more knowledgeable RAJ, together.
We are inviting all members to stand with us and fellow REALTORS® from around the world at two of the most impactful real estate events of the year:
FLORIDA REALTORS® CONVENTION & TRADE EXPO
Date: August 25–26, 2025
Location: Orlando, Florida
This powerful two-day event brings together thousands of real estate professionals for interactive workshops, technology showcases, leadership forums, and unmatched networking opportunities. By attending, members will gain fresh insights into market trends, sharpen their skills, and discover innovative tools to help them thrive in a competitive industry.
These experiences can directly elevate your business, client service, and professional confidence.
NAR NXT, THE REALTOR® EXPERIENCE
Date: November 14–16, 2025
Location: Houston, Texas
This signature event from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) goes beyond traditional conferences It is a celebration of forward-thinking real estate. Members can expect inspiring keynote sessions, immersive education tracks, global networking, and exposure to new strategies that are shaping the future of the industry.
It is also a rare chance to represent Jamaica among the international real estate community and forge connections that can drive referrals, partnerships, and personal growth.
WHY ATTEND?
These global gatherings are not just conferences, but career-building experiences that can expand your perspective, elevate your brand, and position you as a leader in your market. Members who attend will do so at their own expense, but the opportunities for learning, networking, and exposure are invaluable. Interested in joining the RAJ delegation? Reach out to the Secretariat to express your interest.
Let us take Jamaican real estate to the world, and bring the world of real estate back to Jamaica!
TThe RAJ is more than a network, we are a family. Over the past year, we said goodbye to several of our beloved members who served with integrity, dedication, and pride in the real estate profession Their contributions to the industry and to the RAJ community will not be forgotten. We honour their memory, their service, and the impact they made on colleagues, clients, and the Jamaican real estate landscape.
May their souls rest in peace, and may their families find comfort in the knowledge that their loved ones were valued and remembered.
Below, we pay tribute to our colleagues who passed between July 2024 and June
PAULETTE PATE
LORNE MCDONNOUGH
ASSOCIATE®, Coldwell Banker Jamaica Realty
SHANNA RENE BARRETT REALTOR®,
WAYNE DASILVA REALTOR ASSOCIATE®, RE/MAX Titans
FAOSAT-KIKE AJAYI REALTOR ASSOCIATE®, Debbie Wynter Realty, DW Realty
We extend heartfelt thanks to all our members who attended, participated, and engaged at this year ’ s Annual General Meeting (AGM), held under the powerful theme ‘RAJ RESET’.
Your presence and feedback continue to drive the growth and advancement of the Association. The AGM was not just a meeting, it was a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to building a stronger, more unified real estate industry in Jamaica.
The energy in the room reflected a collective belief that meaningful change is not only necessary, but already underway. From the thought-provoking questions during presentations to the renewed pledge to uphold the highest professional standards, you showed that this membership is deeply invested in both individual excellence and the greater good of the profession.
On behalf of the Secretariat team, led by our Executive Director, Karen Rowe, we offer our sincere appreciation. Your ongoing engagement fuels our efforts to serve you more effectively, to listen more closely, and to support your success with renewed dedication.
As we move forward with our digital transformation, governance improvements, and member support initiatives, know that we do so with you our members at the heart of every decision.
Let us continue this journey of progress, together. Thank you for showing up, speaking up, and reaffirming your role in shaping the future of Jamaican real estate.
RAJ Secretariat
