As The Voice for Real Estate in Jamaica since 1966, the REALTORS® Association of Jamaica (RAJ) plays a crucial role in driving national development through real estate. We advocate for homeownership, support industry standards, and contribute to the country’s economic growth by fostering a thriving, professional real estate sector.
As an affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), we are connected to a global network of professionals and resources, maintaining the highest standards in the real estate industry. Our 1,600+ members benefit from ongoing training, networking, and resources designed to elevate their careers and ensure excellence in service. Whether promoting ethical practices or championing nation-building initiatives, the RAJ is committed to shaping Jamaica’s real estate landscape for a brighter tomorrow.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
These dedicated professionals are committed to upholding the highest standards in real estate, advocating for homeownership, and driving Jamaica’s real estate industry forward.
A MILESTONE OF TRUST, TRANSPARENCY & PROFESSIONALISM A MILESTONE OF TRUST,
In 2025, the REALTORS® Association of Jamaica is proud to commemorate the 15th Anniversary of the Multiple ListingService(MLS)inJamaica agroundbreakingplatformthathastransformedthewayrealestateispracticed acrosstheisland
Launched to promote transparency, improve data accuracy, and protect the interests of our members and the public, the MLS remains one of the most powerful tools available to REALTORS®. It has not only enhanced the way listings are shared, but has also elevated the standard of professionalism in the industry With a verified, centralized database accessible only to licensed professionals, the MLS continues to play a vital role in safeguarding property transactions, deterring fraudulent activity, and promoting ethical practices in line with RAJ’smission.
As we celebrate this important milestone, it is also a great time to remind our members of some of the standards and best practices that keep the system working at its best.
Listing Documents are no longer to be submitted via email They are only to be uploaded under “Autoload” under the #8 Documents tab, within four days from the date the listing is uploaded.
It is no longer a requirement to submit Report A Sale forms However, the Report Sale/Rented data sheet must be updated within four (4) days of the receipt of yourcommission
Did you know that when your client is a company, the Listing Documents must be affixed with the authorized signatory and the company stamp or seal? Wellnowyoudo!
An I-Map image cannot be the main photo for any listing. Additionally, an IMap image cannot be the only type of image uploadedoftheproperty
Did you know it is prohibited to share other members’ listings on your personal social media website without written permission? Well now you do.
All fields on the Listing Agreement must be completed. So, it’s in your best interest and for a speedy review, that all areas are completed before uploading Your listing will notbeapprovedbythesecretariatif the listing agreement is not duly completed
Offers on MLS listings should only be presented onMLSOfferforms.
Be reminded that the RAJ MLS Compliance Officer has Four (4) days to review and approve Development listings.
Listing Images should never include any form of branding or people. Whether it be a for sale sign or anyidentifiablelogo
It is prohibited to demand or require the submission of a Client's Profile Sheet or PreApproval letter to view aproperty
Here are five ways to help protect your clients from rental scams this
01. 01. BE DELIBERATE ABOUT YOUR DELIBERATE ABOUT YOUR BRANDING
Now, more than ever, our branding should proudly represent our legitimacy as licensed professional REALTORS®. Consider the following questions to guide your branding:
Is my license number consistent across all my online platforms and actively mentioned in my content?
Is my social media profile up-to-date with a link to my page on my brokerage’s website?
Have I included a link to the Real Estate Board’s ‘Public Register’ so that my clients can verify my legitimacy?
Am I professional in my online communication?
03. 03. DEBUNK COMMON DEBUNK COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS
02. 02. SAY YES TO BETTER PUBLIC SAY YES TO BETTER PUBLIC EDUCATION
As REALTORS®, the hats we wear are many. From confidantes to unofficial attorneys to even informal investment advisors, our clients can always count on us to help them navigate the complexities of real estate transactions Today though, we will have yet another title to add to our list This year, it will be crucial for us to actively become public education officers.
In this new capacity, no longer is it enough just to share captivating photos of our listings across our sweet island-home, Jamaica To help safeguard our clients and prospective clients, highlighting the issues surrounding real estate scams will need to be at the top of our agenda.
Coupled with a fresh, consistent, professional brand, our key messages aimed at increasing awareness and arming our clients with the tools they need to act wisely will expand our resourcefulness as REALTORS®.
Another practical way that we can help to protect our clients from rental scams is to make an effort to debunk common misconceptions that landlords or prospective tenants may have about utilizing the services of a REALTOR®. Some common misconceptions include:
“Real estate agents charge me too much upfront to rent my property before I even make any money off of it”
“If I use a real estate agent to rent my property, I won't make any money the first month”
“If I need to find a place to rent, the real estate agent will charge me a fee”
“The only thing that realtors do is to put the property up on the MLS”
“My rent is cheap enough for me to rent it myself. I don’t need a REALTOR®.”
Through effective public education in our content and conversations, we can help to clarify these and many other misconceptions that may result in prospective tenants and landlords choosing to “ go the cheaper route ”
Choosing to rent their properties themselves often exposes landlords to the unwanted attention of predatory scammers. As for prospective tenants, their desperation fueled by a fast-moving real estate market with rapidly increasing prices, often pushes them to cut corners and ignore alarming red flags. But, just how can we have these clear conversations with our clients?
n the first quarter of 2025, the REALTORS® Association of Jamaica (RAJ) launched several targeted learning and engagement sessions designed to uplift, inform, and empower our members. These initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to professional development, transparent communication, and strategic planning that puts members at the heart of the Association’s future.
JANUARY|HAVINGAWINNINGMINDSETIN JANUARY|HAVINGAWINNINGMINDSETIN 2025 2025
We kicked off the year with a powerful virtual empowerment session focused on developing the mindset required to succeed in a competitive real estate landscape Delivered by REALTOR® and motivator Matthew Stevenson, the presentation tackled the value of embracing both success and failure, the importance of gratitude, and the necessity of setting boundaries to protect time and energy Attendees were encouraged to overcome fear, share knowledge with fellow agents, and take ownership of their growth in 2025.
JANUARY|LET’SMAKEOURNUMBERSMAKE JANUARY|LET’SMAKEOURNUMBERSMAKE SENSE SENSE
This virtual pre-EGM session was designed to help members understand the Association’s financial operations. Members were given clarity on budgetary allocations, financial priorities, and how resources are being used to support the RAJ’s longterm goals. The session formed part of the RAJ’s broader effort to foster transparency and accountability.
JANUARY|MEETYOURTEAMATTHE JANUARY|MEETYOURTEAMATTHE SECRETARIAT SECRETARIAT
In this informative session, members were formally introduced to the RAJ Secretariat team and briefed on recent updates to the organizational structure. The meeting covered proposed operational changes, the strategic direction for the year, and the need for a new membership management system to support more efficient service delivery. The session also provided a forum for members to raise concerns and gain clarity on the direction of the Association.
FEBRUARY|EXTRAORDINARYGENERAL MEETINGS(EGM)
The RAJ hosted two Extraordinary General Meetings, on December 18, 2024, and reconvening on February 7, 2025, as part of its commitment to transparency and collective decision-making. During these meetings, members were invited to vote on key matters, including proposed adjustments to membership dues and entrance fees for new members. These sessions served as important opportunities for engagement, allowing members to participate in shaping the financial direction of the Association.
DRIVINGINNOVATION|INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY(IT)COMMITTEEFORMED
As part of our commitment to modernizing member services and enhancing digital operations, the RAJ established an IT Committee comprised of experienced and dedicated members of the Association. The committee includes:
Dean Jones – Coldwell Banker Jamaica
Kenrick Harriott – Wihcon Properties
Michelle Watkis Robinson – Keller
Williams Jamaica
Andrew Phillips – Keller Williams Jamaica
Newton Baker – Keller Williams Jamaica
Joseph Patterson – Allied Real Estate
The IT Committee has already begun engaging with leading software providers and evaluating systems that will support better efficiency, data management, and member experience. This digital transformation initiative is key to positioning the RAJ for future growth.
MAY 13
MAY 14 - 15
MAY 22
MAY 29
TBD
JUNE 25
JULY 31
TBD
AUGUST 5
REALTORS® KARAOKE NIGHT
NCC & SCC CHAPTERS GENERAL MEETINGS
AFFILIATES LUNCHEON
EDUCATION SESSION #3 - NORTH COAST CHAPTER
EDUCATION COMMITTEE WORKSHOP #3 -ALL MEMBERS
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
EDUCATION SESSION #3 - NORTH COAST CHAPTER
EDUCATION COMMITTEE WORKSHOP #4 - ALL MEMBERS
JAMAICA DAY
TThe North Coast Chapter of the Real Estate Association of Jamaica (RAJ) is excited to share the latest developments and initiatives that continue to enhance professional growth and community engagementamongourmembers.
A strategic focus will be placed on three key areas as outlined below, intentionally designed to enhance and reinforcetheongoingeffortsoftheRAJ EDUCATIONCOMMITTEELAUNCHESBIEDUCATIONCOMMITTEELAUNCHESBIMONTHLYZOOMTRAINING
The Education Committee has successfully launched its bimonthly Zoom training sessions, which have been well received by members These sessions aim to equip real estate professionals with the latest industry insights, regulatory updates, and best practices to enhance their expertise. The overwhelming support and participation havebeenencouraging,andwelookforwardtocontinued engagementintheupcomingsessions.
EXCITINGSOCIALEVENTSINTHEWORKS EXCITINGSOCIALEVENTSINTHEWORKS
The Events Committee is actively planning engaging social events to foster networking and camaraderie among members. One of the ideas proposed is an After-Work Meet & Greet event, designed to provide a relaxed and enjoyable setting for professionals to connect and share experiences. More details will be released as plans develop.
INTENSIFIEDFUNDRAISINGEFFORTSFOR CHAPTERACTIVITIES&COMMUNITYSUPPORT CHAPTERACTIVITIES&COMMUNITYSUPPORT
To further support chapter activities and community outreach initiatives, we are intensifying our fundraising efforts. Several exciting events have been suggested, including a Bingo event. Additionally, a Karaoke Night featuring prominent personalities in attendance and participating is also being explored. These events promise to be an entertaining and memorable networking opportunityforall.
I strongly encourage real estate agents residing on the North Coast to get involved in these initiatives. By joining the chapter, you will be exposed to invaluable training, networking events, and fundraising activities, that can not only enhance your professional skills but also contribute to building a stronger, more connected real estate community
Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for your ongoing support! We look forward to welcoming all new memberstotheNorthCoastChapter
TThe year has begun with great momentum for real estate professionals in the South Coast Chapter. We met virtually to kick off the year, and we remain united in our commitment to co-broking andworkingcollaborativelyasateam.
AStrongStartto2025!
GROWINGTOGETHER
We are proud to see our chapter growing from 30 to nearly 40 members This is a clear sign of our shared dedication and the value of being part of this dynamic group.
In February, members of the South Coast Chapter visited St Matthew’s Anglican Church in Santa Cruz We were warmly welcomed to participate in a special New Year thanksgiving service and Holy Communion. It was a meaningfulandspiritualwaytostarttheyeartogether FAITH&FELLOWSHIP
WHAT’SAHEAD WHAT’SAHEAD
The South Coast Chapter Executive has a full calendar planned for the rest of 2025 Members can look forward to:
Trainingsessionsfocusedonprofessionaldevelopment
General Meeting to elect officers for the 2026 administration
Caravanstopromotelistingsandnetworking
Our annual Christmas contribution to the Mitzpah Basic School
Stay tuned for the upcoming dates and additional announcements. We look forward to your continued involvementandsupport
DavinaTurner
SOUTH COAST CHAPTER CHAIRMAN
FFrom an International Conference, strategic retreat and leadership ceremony to acts of community care and spiritual reflection, the events held across this quarter have showcased the depth and diversity of the REALTORS® Association of Jamaica’s mission.
These moments not only brought our members together they strengthened the fabric of our Association and amplified our presence within the national conversation on real estate.
Whether we gathered to chart the way forward, honour excellence, give thanks, or serve those in need, each event was a reflection of our values in action.
Our members are the heart of every milestone. Their dedication, passion, and service continue to shape not only the real estate industry but also the communities we proudly serve.
As we continue to grow and evolve, these highlights serve as powerful reminders that our work is rooted in connection, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence.
NAR NXT CONFERENCE 2024
The RAJ Delegation proudly represented the Association at the NAR NXT, The REALTOR® Experience Conference held in California in November 2024. The conference provided invaluable networking and learning opportunities, allowing our representatives to engage with global industry leaders, explore the latest innovations in real estate, and deepen their knowledge of international best practices. Our representatives also met with Bonita Springs-Estero REALTORS® and the other Caribbean island representatives to strengthen international collaboration and knowledge exchange The RAJ’s presence underscored our commitment to global engagement and continued professional development for our members.
2025 BOARD RETREAT
The 2025 Board Retreat was held at the AC Marriott Hotel in Kingston from October 31st to November 1st, 2024. Our Board members including Chairpersons of Committees and Chapters came together for two days of strategy, planning and training sessions to advance the goals of the Association.
The RAJ’s signature black-tie event, held in September 2024 at the AC Marriott Hotel in Kingston, celebrated excellence in real estate and honoured outstanding REALTORS® and partners The evening was filled with glamour, entertainment, and well-deserved recognition, as members gathered to toast another successful year of industry advancement.
SOUTH COAST CHAPTER CHRISTMAS TREAT
On December 5, 2024, the RAJ’s South Coast Chapter hosted a joyful Christmas Treat for children at the Mizpah Early Childhood & Preparatory School. Members of the Chapter provided food, gifts, and sweet treats, spreading cheer and reminding us of the true meaning of giving back to our communities.
NORTH COAST CHAPTER
THANKSGIVING SERVICE
Members of the RAJ’s North Coast Chapter gathered the Blessed Sacrament Cathedral in Montego Bay for their Thanksgiving Service on January 5, 2025.
SOUTH COAST CHAPTER
THANKSGIVING SERVICE
REALTORS® CARE BLOOD DRIVE
Members of the Kingston Chapter, along with members of the RAJ Executive Team, came together on January 5, 2025, for their annual Thanksgiving Service at the Church of the Transfiguration. This heartfelt gathering marked the start of the new year with worship, fellowship, and gratitude, reflecting the shared values that unite the RAJ family.
As part of our REALTORS® Care initiative, members came together at the National Chest Hospital & Dental Department on April 13 to donate blood and save lives. The drive saw strong participation from the RAJ community and our partners, The Agency and the National Blood Transfusion Service Thanks to the generosity of those who turned out, enough blood was collected to potentially save 33 lives a powerful demonstration of our profession’s compassion and commitment to community service.
