Home & Away Magazine Volume 5

Home A WAY &

JUNE 2018

ll ISSUE 5

AN NHT HOUSING MAGAZINE

My House, My Home, My Life!

l

THE MODERN BATHROOM

l

Great Houses of Jamaica

l

STUSH in the BUSH

2017 we broke ground for over 3,000 housing solutions, bringing hundreds of Jamaican families closer to realizing their dream of a house, a home, a better life.

2018, we pledge to do even more, working towards our goal of

more than 20,000 housing starts by 2021.

Our missiOn: Improving the lives of Jamaicans by facilitating home ownership and community development while ensuring prudent financial management.

We all need help sometimes

Good health and a better life!

YOUR PARTNER FOR HEALTHY LIVING! The National Health Fund is an Agency of The Ministry of Health

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nhf.org.jm

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Home!

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- The Editorial Committee

EDITORIAL History has absolved Luther Vandross…at least in my mind.

He was quite right and perhaps a little ahead of his time when he penned the classic “A House is Not a Home”.

“A room is still a room, even when there's nothin' there but gloom, But a room is not a house and a house is not a home…”

For me, Luther sits on the right side of history simply because a home is more than just the structure that makes up a house. A home is symbolic of a set of tangible and even non-tangible assets that define the space.

Owning a house is one of the most significant achievements any individual will make in their lifetime. Homeownership is pursued by individuals for different reasons; it’s ensuring that they have a legacy to pass on; it’s flying the coup and achieving a sense of progress and independence; it’s a source of investment and it's security.

Whatever the reason, homeownership transforms your idea of home and indeed your way of life.

Home & A Way Vol. 5 explores these varied facets of homeownership under the theme “My House, My Home, My Life”.

In this issue, we are further humanizing the NHT brand and indeed home Ownership through two sets of stories: stories of Jamaicans who are using their home to create economic and social well-being and those who are on the other side of the fence, who are using their business acumen to make homeownership a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

Regardless of whichever side of the fence you may sit, we hope that as you thumb through the pages of the magazine, your idea of home will extend beyond the mere house, to the value and meaning of life, which defines home.

Happy Reading Dwayne Berbick

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CREDITS Executive Editors: Neil Miller, Joyce Simms-Wilson

NHT Writing Team: Dwayne Berbick (Editor), Rochelle Bonitto, Shauna-Gae Clarke, Kadian Chin-Matheson, Tameka Hill, Patricia Martin-Robinson, Jillian Warren, Kashmane Golding

Special Contributors: Cherine Anderson, Jason Robinson, C. Makeda Solomon

Administrative Support: Shantall Wheatley

Photography: Sheldon Freeburn, Kimroy White

Sales and Advertising: Eileen Dunkley-Shim eadunkleyshim@gmail.com (876) 855-9081

NHT Sales and Advertising Coordination: Anthony Alleyne

Design and Layout: Sutherland Wade Associates Limited

Printers: MAPCO Printers

Publisher: National Housing Trust, 4 Park Boulevard, Kingston 5.

(876) 929-6500 www.nht.gov.jm , wecare@nht.gov.jm

Special thanks: All our advertisers and contributors All rights reserved.

Permission from the publishers must be given in writing prior to reproducing any article within Home & A Way.

CONTENTS FEATURES

4 8 10 14 17 19 22 25 28 32

Editorial Message My Home, My Security Good Housekeeping A small Loan for Big Things My House, My Investment Grilled for your Style!

My Home, My Safe Space

Building Project Opens

Thank You! Amb. Hon. Dr. Clarke

40 42

Home is (Still) where the heart is

Stush In The Bush UWI makes History: The Net Zero Energy

37

P57

Celebration Time The Modern Bathroom

P19

My House, My Investment

P32

P25

UWI makes History

46 49 52 57

Stush in the Bush

Interior Decorating: DIY Paint Tips To Build or not to Build My Home, My Legacy Home is (Still) where the heart is

P40

The Modern Bathroom

P46 DIY Paint Tips

P76

Styled in Wood

60 63 76 80 84 85

P63 Great Houses of Jamaica

A Solar System is in your Reach Great Houses of Jamaica Styled in Wood Public Private Partnerships Feedback Owner/Own a Yard DISCLAIMER: While making every effort to be accurate, the NHT will not be held responsible for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies appearing in this publication.

The NHT cannot be held liable for the information by advertisers which are taken in good faith. The opinions expressed by the various contributors are not necessarily those of the NHT.

MESSAGE

MR. MARTIN MILLER MANAGING DIRECTOR

H

ello Readers:

I write to you at an interesting time in the life of the National Housing Trust, NHT. For over 42 years, the NHT has been the primary source of funding for Jamaicans looking to buy, build or make repairs to their homes or those looking to buy land. We still are. However, we are now in an era where we are looking to do things differently.

The NHT has realised that the needs of Jamaicans have changed and so as a responsible organization, we too are changing to meet those needs. The NHT is redesigning and reimagining its efforts to provide greater access to housing for Jamaicans. In 2018, we pledge to do even more, working towards our goal of more than 20,000 housing solutions by 2021. That, by any definition, is game-changing for the NHT. To achieve this, as your housing partner of choice, we will be leveraging strategic partnerships to deliver high quality affordable housing.

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In addition, we are looking to redefine housing in the minds of Jamaicans. The fact is housing is more than a roof. For many, housing unlocks a world of opportunities and possibilities that the homeowner can take advantage of, to achieve other goals in life. Whether it’s financing your child’s education or your own, raising capital to embark on a new business venture or just the satisfaction that you have achieved a major milestone, home ownership transforms lives.

The NHT is committed to transforming the lives of Jamaicans and for us, it begins with communicating more about housing and how the NHT assists with homeownership so that our contributors can feel empowered.

It begins with channels such as this magazine, which continues to provide housing and housing related information to Jamaicans at home and abroad. It’s a publication I am personally proud of for the quality information it provides in an attractive, reader friendly format.

For this issue, the theme is “My House, My Home, My Life", the theme is not just for this publication, but the thrust upon which the NHT will be bringing its message to Jamaicans over the next few years. The goal is that more persons will see housing from a new perspective and more importantly, will see NHT as their housing provider of choice.

I want to commend the magazine team for continuing to produce a great publication that I hope will add value to you in your housing related pursuits as we continue to work towards building better communities across Jamaica.

Thanks for your continued support and happy reading!

Expert Article

My Home, My

SECURITY

D

By Tameka Hill

espite the increase in the

John Azar, Managing Director of King

development of gated com-

Alarms, highlighted that whilst having

munities,

break-ins

security products is extremely important,

continue to be a concern

they do not guarantee that your homes

for many Jamaicans. Several

will not be targeted by criminals. “There is

homeowners

experi-

no system which I can say, in and of itself,

enced incidences of robbery and assault.

will cause your house to not be broken

Some could have been prevented if they

into, but [what these products provide

had put in place security measures to

is] an important layer in security [and]

protect themselves and their loved ones.

criminal elements will almost always go

home

have

where their risk is the lowest,� he said.

It seems homes are getting smarter; being able to offer great convenience to their

Azar recommended four security products

owners and saving them a few dollars as

that provide optimum security - the

well, given the level of energy efficiency

automatic gate opener, standard panic and

and conservation these homes yield.

medical alert system, intrusion detection system and close circuit television system.

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1. The Automatic Gate Openers:

3. The Intrusion Detection System:

The automatic gate openers provide security

Along with the panic alarm technology, the

around the perimeter of the house and

intrusion detection system offers a high tech

provide protection for the occupants when

burglar alarm system that arms the property

they are entering or exiting their premises.

by putting in place a motion detection device,

“Large majority of incidences happen when

as well as monitors windows and doors and

persons are opening or closing their gates,”

raises an alarm once a breach is detected.

Mr. Azar said. The automatic gate openers

This system offers an alarm system that is set

help to ensure the protection of homeowners

up on leaving the property or going to bed,

by ensuring minimum exposure to criminal

providing ultimate protection.

elements.

2. Standard Panic and Medical Alert System:

The standard panic and medical alert system ensures that residents are always protected by providing them with a panic button in the event of a situation of crime or medical emergency. Once the button is pressed, it sends an alarm signal to the security firm, which then dispatches a team based on the nature of the emergency. Azar noted, however, that this product has a limitation.

While it ensures that members are protected

4. Close Circuit Television System: Having full view of your home from your mobile device, tablet or computer is now possible through the provision of the close circuit television (CCTV) system. The CCTV allows for the mounting of cameras at strategic points at your home. These cameras serve as a deterrent to criminals as they serve great evidentiary value, providing images for viewing and play back in the event evidence is needed to highlight the perpetrators of criminal activities.

throughout their homes and just beyond their

Despite these products, Mr. Azar noted that

gates, “someone needs to be at home and

“good security starts with having the right

aware that a problem is happening in order

mindset. So even if you invest in the best

to call King Alarm for help. That’s where the

products but don’t have the right mindset

upgrade (to the intrusion detection system)

you can [still] find yourself being at a serious

comes in,” he said.

disadvantage.” He provided several useful tips all homeowners must put in place in order to secure themselves and their premises.

continued...

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Expert Article

Helpers

and

gardeners

should

be

properly screened before employment.

When new ones are employed, references should be supplied and checks should be made at their home address.

Do not leave ladders and tools outside; they can assist a burglar to break into your house.

John Azar

Children should be told not to allow strangers to enter during the absence of their parents/guardians.

Tips for all hom eowners:

Avoid high hedges and trim overgrown bush near entrance ways or under

Get to know your neighbours.

windows.

You

can share information on unusual or unexpected activities and people near

surroundings before entering driveways,

your home.

Do not hang or store keys where they can be seen from the outside, they will be

especially at nights.

A pin-hole viewer in a front door is a good way to screen visitors before opening the door. NEVER open the door without being 100% sure who is on the other side.

Ask for identification.

If you return home to find your door tampered with, do not enter or make an alarm. Contact the police and/or your security provider.

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Most burglaries take place at night so be sure to install adequate outside lighting

fished out by burglars.

Always make a keen observation of

and be sure to replace burnt out bulbs.

Do not leave house keys under doormats or in flower pots. Provide a key for each member of the household. continued...

Being security conscious ensures that you have the right systems in place and that you take all the necessary precautions to ensure you and your loved ones are safe. “If you’ve made wise investments in products to secure your home, as well as have the right mindset in so far as the do’s and don’t’s then you will be in the best position,” Mr. Azar said. l

Expert Article

Good

I

By Kadian Chin Matheson

HOUSEKEEPING

started dreaming of my future home the

I never really gave much thought to the upkeep

moment I realized that I would eventually

of my glorious dream home. Truly, the cleaning

have to leave my mother’s house.

and daily maintenance never entered my mind

Like most persons, my dream home is

until I moved into my apartment and realized

glorious: majestic ceilings, oceans of

that living in a sparkling home required constant

tiled floors, sweeping staircases and

cleaning. It slowly dawned on me that if I find

expansive windows.

cleaning and maintaining my current apartment to be cruel and unusual punishment, what was I going to do to maintain my dream mini Taj

Future home!

Mahal?

Being a practical person, and of course acknowledging my deficiencies as any type of good housekeeper, I attempted to outsource

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this task by engaging individuals who

“We provide a quality guarantee. All our

‘specialise’ in this area; a feat for which I

clients are asked to view location and assess

have been rewarded with subpar service and

quality, during or after service, and inform us

endless disappointment. It never occurred to

if there are any adjustments they would like

me that there were, in Jamaica, professional,

done. If after we leave the client is not totally

affordable services, for residential properties

satisfied, we ask that this be reported within

with trained and accountable staff through

two days of the service provided; it will be

which I could end my current suffering and

dealt with at no cost to the client.” explains

future angst. However, I have found one such

Mrs. Barrett Medley, much to my relief.

service.

When asked about the knowledge and Glad Helpers, the brainchild of Angelica

training of her staff Mrs. Barrett Medley

Barrett Medley, offers a wide range of

stated that “we originally started out trying to

customizable services for both residential

find qualified, professional persons to assist

and commercial properties. To my delight

persons in their homes with various tasks. But,

the seven year old company, which Mrs.

as the business grows we understand that it

Barrett Medley began operating from her

is not just about finding qualified persons,

home, provides washing, cooking, cleaning

[it is] also [about]

and ironing services - which I am in dire need

trying

of - along with babysitting and geriatric care.

these

Mrs. Barrett Medley explained that she began

who are already

her company because of the numerous

employed

challenges identified by friends and family

the

members in securing reliable and efficient

to

service. With over 10 years in the customer

qualified

service industry, the mother of two has crafted

to respect and

an enterprise that stands on the tenet of

love what they

providing quality service.

do.”

to

help

persons in sector become and

continued...

Angelica Barrett MEDLEY - Glad Helpers

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Expert Article Glad Helpers not only believes in providing quality service to its customers but also in seeing the benefits of investing in the continued personal growth of the staff. “Glad Helpers, in partnership with Heart Trust NTA, currently offers housekeeping classes at our office. We also collaborated with ANI Learning Academy to offer additional housekeeping and geriatrics training (City and Guilds) and also work with persons trained through that institution in our business,� stated Mrs. Barrett Medley.

The promise of quality service, trained and knowledgeable staff was almost too much for me to hope for. As a person who lives in the sticks, it occurred to me that maybe this service would only be available in corporate areas. However, I was encouraged to learn that Glad Helpers are available island wide and at a timetable that best suits my schedule.

I am heartened by the possibility of professional

services

with

trained

and

knowledgeable staff ready to assist with my most daunting tasks. I can finally return to dreaming of my resplendent mansion and not be traumatized by the thought of downsizing my dreams due to house keeping deficiencies. l

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NHT News

NHT Housing Micro-Finance Loan: A small Loan for BIG things!

I

n a game changing move to create a mix

According to NHT Managing Director Martin

of financing opportunities for low income

Miller, “Following a period of open discussions,

earners, the National Housing Trust

we were able to achieve a significant agreement

(NHT) has partnered with Credit Unions

that we are excited about and we are sure

to set up a Housing Microfinance Loan

that this will have a meaningful impact on our

Programme for contributors who earn

contributors that, overtime, will be replicated

$30,000 or less weekly. These contributors will

across the landscape�.

be able to access credit of up to $1.5 million to help meet their respective housing needs.

The Housing Microfinance Loan Programme was initially announced by Prime Minister the

Under the partnership, funds are made available

Most Hon. Andrew Holness during his budget

for on-lending to current and new contributors

presentation in March 2017. The NHT will

to repair or improve their existing homes or

periodically review the partnership agreement

build their own homes.

to include loan amount, terms and qualifying criteria with a view to ensure that a positive

Contributors are able to borrow a maximum of

impact on contributors is being made.

$850,000 at any one point, up to $1.5 million.

The loans are offered with tenure of up to five years for services such as titling, utilities installation, land purchase, down payments, new incremental construction, completion of units at various stages of construction as well as other housing-related expenses. With interest rates of six per cent for secured loans and nine per cent for unsecured loans, the programme boasts

the most competitive microfinance

rates on the market. Persons who are not NHT contributors must become registered to take advantage of this initiative.

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Feature

My HOUSE, My INVESTMENT:

Laura’s Air BnB Journey

I

t started out for her in 2015 as a mere experiment but has blossomed into so much more.

“The concept of the sharing economy is not new to me as I have experienced various iterations of the spectrum from ZipCar to Uber.” Spoken like a true millennial, Laura* had little reservations about taking the plunge into what was then a still new concept to Jamaicans. Since then, Air BnB has taken on a persona of its own locally.

At a launch in Kingston earlier this year, Carlos Muñoz,Head of Public Policy at Airbnb Inc, Central America and the Caribbean, reports that there are 910 accommodations with 14,000 listings in Kingston alone.

Entertainment was one of the sectors linked to that demand, with Muñoz saying that Jamaica is seen as the gold standard for Airbnb in the Caribbean.

He says the natural warmth and friendliness of Jamaicans were major factors in the company's decision to give the country the signal honour of establishing the first Airbnb host club in the Caribbean.

Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett (left) is greeted by Carlos Muñoz, head of public policy, Central America and the Caribbean, Airbnb Inc. The occasion was the launch of Airbnb Kingston’s host club at Devon House.

(Jamaica Gleaner Photo)n (2015). continued...

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Feature

As a customer as well as a host, Laura agrees, sharing that she was “…intrigued by the accommodation options available and bookmarked Airbnb as a credible and appealing alternative to hotels when I vacation.” She added, “I was also intrigued by the prospect of earning income from short term rentals.”

those disruptive products that has really shaken up the accommodation sector by offering persons more options besides all inclusive and boutique hotels. As a homeowner, Laura testifies that utilizing Airbnb has allowed for greater income earning potential beyond renting to a long term tenant. There is also the added benefit of earning USD.

According to Muñoz, over the last 12 months, they have generated US$2.4 million in income.

To others looking to cash in, Laura says “Definitely take the plunge. It may seem overwhelming with having to consider all the elements that go into preparing your space, creating a profile that accurately reflects what you have to offer, managing your listing once it's live. However, it is a rewarding experience when you see the final product online, generating interest and leading to bookings.”

But it’s not just the money says Laura. “Aside from the direct financial benefits, the process of hosting guests has taught me a lot about making strategic decisions. Airbnb gives you total control over how you organize your rental and there are many factors to consider.

In order to maximize your earning potential you must be strategic in terms of what you offer and how you advertise to potential guests.” Her strategy and positioning of her property has led to guests from all over the world, and even guests from right here in Jamaica, looking for a "staycation". She describes it as a one bedroom apartment in a quiet neighborhood, yet still very close to the action of New Kingston that’s modern, yet comfortable.

Airbnb offers a diversity that Jamaica's tourism product has never encountered. It is one of

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Of course, when opening your home to strangers there exists a certain risk, so you have to decide whether the potential reward is worth the risk. It’s one of the drawbacks she has identified having experienced a few occasions when guests do not respect the space and improperly use it. Her advice though is to use Airbnb's review process as a useful tool to assess whether you are willing to host a particular guest. Avoid guests with negative reviews she says and your chances of having unpleasant experiences will be minimized. l

Feature

Grilled for your Style!

By Shauna-Gae Clarke

H

ave you been wrestling with the thought of whether to add grills to your new home or whether you should install a grill over that window upstairs, or over the door at the back of the house?

Well it may be a very good idea to do so, for more reasons than you can imagine. Apart from adding to a home’s aesthetic appeal, grills have long formed a part of the measures used to secure your home and family both from natural and man-made destruction.

Once upon a time, grills used to be basic, but now, you can install grills that deliver creativity and originality and that increase the value and attractiveness of your abode; just ensure that you employ professional welders who are excellent at grill making and joining to provide you with exactly what you envisioned.

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We caught up with Mr. Kevon Morris, one

Essentially, the length of time it takes to

of the directors of Oskem Welding &

complete a job depends on the size of the job.

Fabrication Ltd, located in Temple Hall, St.

As stated by Mr. Morris, if the jobs are small,

Andrew, to gain some valuable insight into

they are typically completed within one to

the art of welding. Mr. Morris and his team

three weeks. However, if they are contracted

are very talented craftsmen who specialize

to deliver a large task, they generally employ

in the making of grills (standard, doors and

part time welders and finishers to assist them

windows), gates, hand rails, fences, awnings,

with the job in order to guarantee completion

metal trellises and structural fabrication.

in a suitable time.

Customers who request the services of the

When asked how important or necessary

company are guaranteed to be provided

grilling is when building a home, he indicated

with products that are professionally done.

that “grill works are very much necessary to

The team carries out their functions as

every home because it is a security measure

welders very diligently, and this is evident

and it enhances the beauty of the home."

in the exhibitions of the many appealing creations,

that

are

characterized

by

meticulous finishing.

Mr. Morris confirms that the company has received some extremely creative requests, but believe that they are no match for the

According to Mr. Morris, in most cases

company’s abilities as they always get the

customers do not approach them with their

job done. The cost of each job, according to

own ideas in mind; however, they do not have

Mr. Morris, depends on the grilling designs,

to become too concerned about their lack of

styles and measurements.

ideas, as he pointed out that they often help in guiding their customers by consulting their

Mr. Morris provided us with some helpful

catalogue containing jobs that they have

tips that he is willing to share with individuals

completed in the past. From this catalogue,

who are thinking about adding grills to their

clients have the option of choosing a design

homes. He advised that every room should

and having their product created like those

have at least one escape window in the

that appeal to them.

case of emergencies, so even if grills will be added to windows, ensure that the grill can

In other instances, customers will allow the

be opened to enable ease of exit.

company to choose their designs for them. In those situations, Mr. Morris stated that ideas

He recommended that for two storey homes,

for those jobs are influenced by the design

windows on the second floor be grilled as

of the homes and the types of windows they

well. This is for increased security purposes.

feature. continued...

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Feature

Some other tips provided by Mr. Morris are that grills for windows and doors be installed on the inside of the home as this provides for better security as well. Also, if the home is situated near the sea, ensure that aluminum or stainless metals are used by your welder to produce your grills as these materials are more conducive to the element of salt found in the sea.

Mr. Morris advised that homeowners can maintain their grills and keep them in good condition for a long time by priming and repainting them once or twice per year.

You

can

find

Oskem

Welding

&

Fabrication Ltd on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for more tips and grill tricks or to employ their services. l

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Feature

STUSH

in the BUSH: More Than Organic Gourmet...

I

t is said to be “where rustic meets gourmet�; however we found it to be so much more. This farm to table experience

tucked

away

in the sloping hills of Fairy

Hill above Priory in St. Ann, was a learning experience in organic and medicinal food and plants, as much as it was a palate opener to fine dining.

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Feature

(Above) NHT Editorial Team at Stush In The Bush We got to the site sometime after one on an overcast Friday afternoon. First, we were greeted by Chris who loaded us into his pickup, bouncing and bobbing all the way to an oasis on Zionites Farm where we met Lisa; a bubbly and beautiful lady who greeted us as though we were old friends catching up rather than a group of strangers who were excited and equally sceptic about dining in the bushes.

We now knew who was the ‘stush’ one in the Stush in the Bush pairing.

For them, it’s a love story. “A combination of Rastafari and chic”. This love story has mushroomed into the pairing of ital. farming with exotic ways of preparing vegetables.

We started off with appetizers; crispy plantain chips, pumpkin chips, yam croquettes served with tomato marmalade and a stush blow fyah chimichurri sauce. Topped off with lemon grass iced tea and a live sorrel squash and it’s safe to say we were off to a mind blowing start. With that wow opener Lisa was off to the kitchen to prepare the main course.

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Chris and Lisa (The owners)

Stush in the Bush prides itself on using organic ingredients for its meals. They ensure this by growing all the items they need on their 15 acre farm.

Lisa left us in Chris’ capable hands who took us around the farm, well more like, just a small part of it. His mantra is “your food is your medicine and your medicine is your food” which he demonstrated plant after plant sharing with us their history, their medicinal benefits and in some cases a superstitious belief or two surrounding the plant. An hour or so later with a sufficiently worked up appetite we were headed back to the main house for a late lunch.

Our trip to ‘Stush in the Bush’ was more than a foodie’s delight but was also a valuable lesson in how your home can be used to set up and operate a thriving business that’s not just profitable to the owners but also contributes significantly to our tourism product.

Whether you’re here in Jamaica or visiting from overseas, pay them a visit and taste the love ingested in their farm fresh, home grown seasonal dining against the backdrop of the farm. It’s sure to please both the palate and the eye. l

Course after course we were introduced to a variety of pumpkin based meals such as

• • •

•

Zionites Farm signature greens Beet capaccio raddish salad Pumpkin Bisque with Pumpkin Butter and charred pumpkin rolls (the pumpkin butter was amazing) Roasted sweet potato served with a pumpkin and chick pea fritter with romesco sauce and frizzled kale

With each course, the bubbly Lisa would emerge from the kitchen to introduce us to the plating and the inspiration behind the choice of foods and the nutritional benefits that the ingredients provide.

By the time dessert came around, which was a mulberry gelato and a pumpkin pie with high top merengue, we were not only stuffed but also truly educated on the benefits of organic food.

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Expert Article

My HOME, My SAFE

SPACE!

By Kashmane Golding

W

hen visiting friends who

Parents may feel disheartened as they

are parents it is very likely

wonder when their children will be finished

that the first thought that

with attempting to stick their tiny fingers

creeps into your mind is

into electrical outlets or wrapping cords

‘this baby is adorable’,

around themselves, leading to devastating

after

has

injuries. Until the kids are old enough to

elapsed the sentiments eventually morph

recognize the dangers of these things there

into ‘my God, how is this child still alive?

are ways that we can child proof your home.

some

time

In no way is this an indictment on the competence of the parents in caring for their little bundle, instead it speaks to the agility of children; one minute they are in your line of vision and the next they are only heard tumbling down the staircase.

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Cover your power strip: Children are spirited little beings and before you realise what they are doing they may unplug a cord from the power strip, stick a metal object inside one of the holes, and electrocute themselves. If your power strips cannot be hidden behind furniture and must be exposed, buy a power-strip cover.

Mount your television and all heavy furniture: It is sometimes surprising to witness children who only a few months ago were staggering as they tried to gain balance, climb up grills as if it was the most natural thing to do and having a child climbing on a TV stand can result in major injury if that stand and television fall over on your little one. To prevent this, ensure that your television is mounted securely on the wall, and if you can’t do this, please anchor TVs on stands to the wall.

Anchor every piece of heavy furniture to the wall or the floor.

Keep photo frames out of reach: With your child running around the house - no matter how many times you tell him not to, it is very possible that he may knock over a few photo frames if they are sitting on tables. Glass shatters and may cut your child, as such it is best that these are also mounted on walls.

Use cordless window blinds: Children love playing with hanging cords and it may be surprising how quickly and quietly a child can get his neck caught in a looped cord and be strangled. Eliminate the hazard by cutting the loop and adding free tassels or investing in new cordless window coverings. continued...

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Expert Article Invest in indoor gates: You are misinformed if you believe that only homes with staircases need gates. If you have a home with a staircase and a toddler then gates are essential to keeping your child from plummeting down them. However if you don’t have stairs, you still need a gate as this can be used to keep children out of the kitchen which is filled with many hazards.

Protect lower cabinets: Cleaning products like drain openers, automatic dishwasher detergents, and furniture polish are toxic if ingested and children love putting things in their mouths. As such it is best that all cabinets within the reach of young children are either secured with a magnetic lock, a traditional latch along with a childproof locked box. Another option is placing the chemicals high up, well out of reach of the kids.

Place your microwave out of children’s reach: Mounting it up high is best, but if yours must sit on the counter don't turn it on and walk away while your child is in the room. Children are observant and may have learnt how to open it, this increases the risk of your child getting access to hot food/beverages and spilling it himself.

Use a stove guard: Use a stove guard , which is a plastic or metal shield that attaches to the front of the appliance and makes it harder for curious little hands to reach burners.

Keep cords out of children’s reach: Most kitchens have appliances sitting on the counter. Although you may have pushed your blender or toaster oven to the back of the counter, ensure that the cords are out of reach of your children because they will keep tugging at it until what is on the other end comes tumbling down.

Keep your toilet closed

Both adults and children should

The toilet is just the right height for your toddler to stick his head in and he could fall over and not be able to get up, leading to drowning. Keep the toilet-seat lid down, install a latch, and remind visitors to use it.

home. These tips should help make

3 0 H O M E & A W AY

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enjoy the comfort and safety of their your piece of heaven a safe haven. l

NHT Feature

UWI

Makes History OPENS

Net Zero Energy Building

3 2 H O M E & A W AY

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T

he Center for Advanced Research in

footprint by ensuring future utility cost savings

Renewable Energy (CARRE), which

and improved use of energy from the sun.”

is housed in the Caribbean’s first

The NZEB, the Minister said, “becomes even

Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB)

more significant when we take account of the

was opened on October 25th 2017

fact that buildings account for over a third of the

by Dr. The Hon. Andrew Wheatley,

world’s energy use and associated greenhouse

Minister of Science, Energy & Technology of

gas emissions.”

Jamaica.

Prof. Clayton noted that the long-term benefits An NZEB building is very energy-efficient and

of the NZEB are “reduced environmental

generates enough power (from renewable

impacts, lower operating and maintenance

sources) to meet its own needs. There are times

costs, better resilience to power outages and

when the building is busy, and has to import

natural disasters and improved energy security.”

some additional power, and times when it is quiet, and can export power to the grid, so the

Prof. Dasgupta said that “the building will

‘net’ in ‘net zero’ means that the imports and

save approximately 50,000 kilowatts of energy

exports balance each other out over the course

annually, which translates to a reduction in

of a year.

carbon dioxide emission of 34.5 metric tonnes per year.”

CARRE is located at the Mona Campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI). It is the

UN Environment Jamaica Programme Officer,

result of a research project called the ‘Low

Alexandra Karekaho said “this is an exemplary

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Promoting Energy

demonstration not only to Jamaica but the

Efficiency & Renewable Energy Building in

Caribbean region on how innovative building

Jamaica (LGGE) Project’. This research project

designs and climate technologies supported

was devised by Professors Anthony Clayton,

by favourable national policies can eliminate

CD and Tara Dasgupta, CD, and funded by the

the dependence on fossil fuels in buildings

Global Environmental Facility (GEF). Technical

and subsequently reduce greenhouse gas

assistance was provided by the United Nations

emissions.”

Environment Programme (UNEP).

Once the NZEB is fully occupied and active, The Keynote Speaker at the opening ceremony,

its energy consumption and production will

Minister Wheatley, said that “the adaptation and

be monitored for one year and the final results

implementation of net zero energy buildings

submitted to an international accreditation

will go a far way in reducing the country’s carbon

body for zero energy building certification. continued...

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33

NHT Feature twelve actions that could reduce energy consumption by 30-40% in total. This will generate immediate cost-savings for the NHT, so that the necessary investments will pay for themselves very quickly. The following retrofit solutions will now be executed:

NHT/Emancipation Park To Be Retrofitted For Improved Energy Efficiency The

National

Housing

Trust

(NHT)

headquarters in Kingston, the adjoining car park and the Emancipation Park are to be retrofitted for improved energy efficiency.

This program is guided by an energy audit that was recently completed as part of the ‘Low Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Promoting Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy Building in Jamaica (LGGE) Project’, which is managed by the Institute for Sustainable Development, UWI. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the NHT and The UWI in 2016 to cover the assessment of the most advanced retrofit solutions to increase energy efficiency and performance of existing buildings.

The audit found that the NHT building (like most of the older buildings in Jamaica) had inefficient lighting, electric motors and air conditioning

technology,

and

identified

Lucy After 3 4 H O M E & A W AY

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1. Installation of solar window film 2. Improving lighting efficiency 3. Installation of roofing insulation to concrete slabs 4. Improvement of electrical motor efficiency 5. Installation of photo voltaic system 6. Instrumentation of major energy consuming components The NHT headquarters complex is now a demonstration project under the LGGE. It is designed to show how energy efficient building technology can be used in both retrofit and in new construction, so that contractors and builders in Jamaica have a good example to follow. The retrofit ideas used in the NHT buildings can all be easily adopted and used in construction projects anywhere in Jamaica. l

NHT Feature

Thank You! Ambassador

Hon. Dr. Nigel Clarke!

H

is mandate from the Prime Minister was simple; to “build house”,

and

build

house

he did with record breaking housing starts for the NHT over the last two years.

Under Dr Clarke’s stewardship, the NHT’s housing

programme

was

significantly

ramped up with projections for over 22,000 housing starts by 2021. He leaves the NHT well on its way to achieving this target. In FY 2016/2017 the NHT registered 3,010 housing starts, which was followed up with approximately 5,600 starts in the financial year 2017/2018. For 2017/2018, the Trust had 11 official groundbreakings covering the parishes of Clarendon, Kingston and St. Andrew, St. Catherine, St. James and Westmoreland. There were also three handing over ceremonies to distribute keys to NHT contributors.

continued...

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37

NHT Feature

Beyond the record breaking numbers, Dr.

customer service delivery with the launch of a

Clarke piloted the NHT through its 40th

mobile app he commissioned. He leaves the

Anniversary celebrations, a watershed period

NHT having completed a strategic review of

in the NHT that led to policy changes and new

the Trust to lead to a more agile, relevant and

initiatives. Under his watch, the mortgage loan

impactful NHT.

limit was increased to $5.5 million dollars; the NHT’s Home Grant programme was revised to

In expressing appreciation to Dr. Clarke,

introduce more relaxed qualification criteria

Prime Minister the Most Hon. Andrew Holness

and an increase in the Grant to $2.5 million;

captured his stewardship best in saying, “In

a Housing Micro-Finance Programme to assist

accordance with the policy of my government,

with short term housing related projects

Ambassador Clarke’s stewardship of the

was introduced and the NHT improved its

National Housing Trust has been characterized

3 8 H O M E & A W AY

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by a refocusing of the Trust on its central task of providing housing solutions, and in particular, affordable housing solutions.�

As he leaves the NHT, we salute the vision, hard work, dedication and passion he brought to his role as Chairman.

Truly, his tenure albeit short, leaves an indelible mark and the NHT and indeed Jamaica will reap the benefits of his selfless and thoughtful contribution. l

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39

NHT News

NHT News

Feature

The

MODERN

Bathroom

By Shauna-Gae Clarke

W

ouldn’t have to

you

like

unlimited a

to

access

luxurious

spa-

like experience at the end of each day? I’m talking

about

burning

candles that emit the sweetness of your favourite scents. How about soaking up the warmth that flows from a glossy faucet into your bathtub, and submerged in it, is a delightfully fragranced soap balm, filling the air with a satisfying whiff, all while you admire the elegance of the décor that is beautifully displayed around you? If you answered “yes!” to that question, we may just have a solution for you. You can finally stop dreaming and start working towards creating that reality in your own home!

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Originally a room with apparatus for

Jacuzzi

tubs,

sliding-glass

shower

relieving and washing one’s self, the

enclosures (and curb less showers), his and

bathroom has truly revolutionized beyond

hers double sinks, closed off toilets (toilets

just that, making it one of the most

in a room by itself), plenty of storage

considered rooms of a house by potential

cabinets, walk in closets, touchless faucets,

buyers. In this day and age, shoppers are

contemporary lighting and more. Topped

exploring homes with charming features.

off with personalized décor, calming wall colours and products that are the owner’s/

These include contemporary designs to

user’s personal favourites, bathrooms have

rooms and spaces such as the kitchen

now become more of a lounging place

and bathroom, and homeowners are

with the installment of new technologies,

transforming dated spaces into more

rather than the room in which you go to

modern ones. As such, bathrooms are

shower. Who wants to be in and out of such

converted into more lavish, spa-like spaces

a bathroom after about 15 minutes, when

that add value and appeal to their homes.

you can have a nice relaxing experience in an exquisite, soothing space for longer?

But how cost effective are these more contemporary bathrooms one might ask?

It all depends on the features the user wants to add. For instance, you may want to add just about everything available to facilitate the perfect space for you, or you may opt to just add one or two modern features, such as the sliding-glass shower door, or a Jacuzzi tub, etc. The more

typically

features you add, the more costly it will

characterized by the basics of a tub, a sink,

be to create your modern bathroom. But

a toilet and maybe a few medicine cabinets

here’s a suggestion – homeowners who

for

contemporary

desire their dream bathroom with all its

bathrooms now feature high-end finishes

contemporary amenities, can create it in

that provide for aesthetic appeal. Some

stages. If you cannot afford to update your

of the many features that can be found in

entire bathroom all at once, you can start

up-to-date bathrooms are free standing

by updating your bathtub for instance,

Older

style

storage,

bathrooms

however,

are

continued...

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43

Feature then save towards updating or installing another feature, until the entire space is transformed into what you eventually want it to become. Another suggestion is that you could visit the NHT to enquire about our Home Improvement Loan to help you realize your goal.

The Home Improvement Loan is a Homeowner’s Loan; if a contributor has previously received a loan from the NHT, he/she may be able to access additional funds to improve his/she home through our Fifteen Plus Loan product.

However

you

choose

to

accomplish

this

objective, be motivated by the fact that it will add great value to your home in many ways.

Essentially, the investment will be well worth the comfort and beauty!

l

Expert Article

Interior Decorating:

DIY Paint Tips

How to Bring Life to Your Home Through Colour

By Patricia Martin

I

f only it were as easy as painting by

This

numbers. We may all feel the need at

importance for man to add character to his space

some point to represent our creative

through colour. It also shows that DIY projects

selves through the walls in our homes.

have always been a part of our nature. HGTV.

Whether it is a bold or more seemingly

com adds that “colour use is not something that

subtle style, we have a myriad of choices

results in a definitive equation between "colour

of colours from our local paint stores. How many

and our moods," as is a currently popular

of us know that painting one’s space dates back

expression. Wherever we go we respond to

to 40 thousand years ago when man had to use

colour, but the importance of colour is often

“all-natural ingredients too! Prehistoric paint

underestimated. Colour use is important to us

was made from colored earth, soot, and organic

personally in our homes and in the places where

materials mixed with animal blood and fatty

we work”. Here are some helpful tips that can be

oils”. In ancient Egypt, however, they managed

employed when executing a DIY professional-

to create six colours which included white, red,

like painting project at home.

yellow, green, black and blue. These were made through the ingenious combination of oil or fat with lead, earth, animal blood, ground glass or semi-precious stones [franklinpainting.com].

4 6 H O M E & A W AY

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historical

information

highlights

the

1) INSPECT AND CLEAN YOUR SURFACE Before applying primer or paint, any area with peeling or cracking needs to be scraped or lightly sanded and then thoroughly cleaned. Painting over oily or soiled surfaces will waste your time and money, as it will cause the paint to peel off easily.

Deglossers and heavy-duty cleaners are ideal for use on the kitchen and bathroom walls and to remove marks from around door knobs and light switches.

2) REMOVE LIGHT SWITCHES AND OUTLET COVERS Remember that the aim is to create a clean and professional finish. The first thing that comes to mind is why not just cover them with paper and/or tape? However, the glue from the tape may pose some level of difficulty in removing which may significantly affect the quality of the job.

3) PROTECT ANYTHING YOU DON’T WANT PAINTED Before applying primer or paint, any area with peeling or cracking needs to be scraped or lightly sanded and then thoroughly cleaned. Painting over oily or soiled surfaces will waste your time and money, as it will cause the paint to peel off easily.

Deglossers and heavy-duty cleaners are ideal for use on the kitchen and bathroom walls and to remove marks from around door knobs and light switches.

4) USE PRIMER Using primer provides a more durable outcome and ensures a greater bond between the paint and the surface. Skipping out on its use may make result in an uneven and patchy colour and inconsistent sheen.

5) BOX YOUR PAINT No, this is not telling you to pour your paint in a box! Now that you have selected your colour and are ready to get started, uniformity and consistency is key. Ask the sales representative at your paint store to help you decide on how much paint to buy, based on your measurements. After purchasing the paint, pour everything into one large container and mix it thoroughly. This process is called ‘boxing’ and it keeps your colour consistent throughout the painting process.

6) BUY HIGH-QUALITY BRUSHES, ROLLER COVERS AND PAINTERS’ TAPE You’ve spent money on getting the colours of your dreams, now it’s finally time to apply it. If you want a smooth and even coverage, don’t go cheap on the applicators.

According to consumerreports.org “high-quality brushes hold more paint and apply it more evenly, won’t leave you with bristles stuck in your paint, and are easier to clean.” Diynetwork.com concurs and adds that “high-end painter’s tape is the real deal when it comes to sealing out drips and blurs.” continued...

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47

Expert Article

7) PAINT THE TRIM FIRST, THEN CEILINGS AND WALLS There should be a certain order in getting effective results.

The trim is easier and quicker to tape off than the walls.

However, ensure that the trims are fully dry before taping them. Then proceed to paint the ceilings then the walls.

In a completing any project in an economically effective and efficient manner, one has to ensure that useful planning and prepping is effected before execution. Also remember to spend where it matters in order to guarantee clean and consistent results. These tips should

8) PAINT FROM TOP TO BOTTOM

lend some assistance to ensure that your next

When painting interior walls, paint from top to bottom working away from windows and door frames. Diynetwork. com explains that “after you’ve cut in your edges at the ceiling and baseboard using a brush, use your roller to apply paint from the ceiling downward.” In case you are wondering, to cut in means that you use a paint brush to apply paint to areas too tight for rollers (such as at the ceiling line, corners, and along baseboards and trim).

Now ready, set, paint!

9) ROLL THE FULL HEIGHT OF THE WALL Evidently, a roller is an essential tool in getting the job done proficiently. In order to avoid lap marks, the DIY painter must run the roller up and down the full height of the wall while trying to retain a wet edge. Lap marks occur when you run paint over a surface that has already began to dry. Familyhandyman.com recommends that painters should never let their rollers get dry, instead reload it often so that it’s always at least half loaded.

10) FEATHER OUT PAINT WHERE YOU CANNOT KEEP A WET EDGE Again, avoiding lap marks is reiterated. In order to successfully do this, Familyhandyman.com inform painters to “roll the nearly dry roller in different directions along the dry edge, feathering out the paint as you go.

After completing the entire length of the wall or ceiling, move to the next section and paint over the feathered edges. For the second coat, apply the paint in the opposite direction. This crisscrossing paint application sharply reduces (if not eliminates) lap marks.”

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DIY painting project has you painting like a pro.

l

Sources https://www.franklinpainting.com/blog/home/abrief-history-of-house-painting/ https://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/ design-101/decorative-paint-techniques-wallpreparation-instructions https://www.familyhandyman.com/painting/ techniques/10-interior-house-painting-tipspainting-techniques-for-the-perfect-paint-job/ view-all/ https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/skills-andknow-how/painting/15-painting-tips-to-paintlike-a-pro http://www.house-painting-info.com/articles/ switchplates-outletcovers/#.WweADjQvzIU https://www.helpwithdiy.com/painting/painting_ interior_walls.html http://www.dummies.com/home-garden/homepainting/how-to-cut-in-edges-of-a-wall-with-apaint-brush/

Expert Article

???

By Rochelle Bonnitto

P

TO BUILD...

OR not TO BUILD?

otential homeowners are often

In most instances a decision to build is taken

faced with the challenge of

from the perspective of an individual who

determining

to

wishes to explore their personal preferences

make as it relates to becoming

in the form of the style of the house. Some

a homeowner. To Build or Not to

persons may prefer a Ranch style or a Victorian

Build (Purchase) is a choice that

style property. In any case an individual who

is dependent on variables such as, stress

makes the decision to build does so because

tolerance,

availability

they want what they want. They have chosen

of reasonable residential solutions (Land

to take on a project that will change their

or house), access to labor and material

lives forever, knowing very well, the blood

resources and one of my favorite being one’s

sweat and tears that it requires.

financial

what

situation,

choice

personal style or preferences. continued...

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49

Prefabrication:

To all the daring and adventurous minds who laugh in the face of stress,

This is the practice of assembling components of a structure

headaches

pressure

in a factory or other manufacturing sites, and transporting sub-

elevation, what if there are proposed

assemblies to the construction site where the structure is put

building technologies and material

together. In Jamaica, we have seen this approach used by

that can lower the cost and stress of

developers in the past. It is not new to the country, but was it

building your dream home? What if

ever explored as an option for an individual to consider? Well,

there are methods of construction

guess what? Any individual may engage the services of several

other than the traditional block and

construction companies in Jamaica that offers the service of

steel, that can save you at least 30

prefabrication. An individual may engage a construction firm in

percent in cost and building material

Jamaica to prefabricate sub-assemblies of their home design

that would guarantee you a more

and transport the pieces to the construction site where it is

environmentally friendly residential

assembled.

and

blood

space. Let’s explore!

It is important that we understand that the tropical climate of Jamaica dictates many things, inclusive of the

What does that afford you? Cheaper cost of production, little to no intervention by you and faster construction as many of these companies boast that they are able to construct a threebedroom unit in 6-8 weeks. Food for thought right?

type of buildings that are erected for residential purposes. As such the building technologies that anyone living in Jamaica utilize, should take the climatic conditions of the country into consideration.

Box and Cast: Yet another concrete based building technology, Box and Cast is an excellent choice of method of construction that is conducive to the Jamaican environment. This method allows for your entire home to be molded using steel, concrete mix and panels to create the walls. This method is used onsite and requires as few as two to three workmen dependent on the size of the unit which translates into a better span of control. Box and Cast allows for speedy construction and is said to be even stronger than that of the Block and Steel method given the fact that there are no block holes to be filled. It is also cheaper in that it reduces the cost for construction by at least 20%.

By virtue of the extensive use of concrete mix, this method is approved by the Bureau of Standard and as such is endorsed by the Parish Councils of Jamaica.

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Expert Article Free Form: Free Form is a construction methodology that uses

Washington, USA. She maintains her passion for

EPS (Expandable Polystyrene) as an insulator

this very unique and valuable plant and continues to

in the walls, roofs and floors, which results in the

find unique ways in which it can be used. She is the

reduction in the temperature of the building. It also

founder and Industrial Hemp Specialist at Hemp Ace

reduces the weight of the building which makes

International, where she uses technology to invent

the building more earthquake resistant. This is a

products from Hemp. One of her best product being

cheaper yet durable method of construction and

Hempcrete.

is accessible to everyone as there are several companies in Jamaica who offer this service. This

Hempcrete is made from industrial hemp and lime-

method of construction is approved by the Bureau

based binder and it provides the healthiest possible

of Standard and is endorsed by the Parish Councils

construction and provides high quality indoor air. It is

across the country.

mold resistant, rot-resistant, fire resistant and pest-

Free Form is said to be stronger than Block and Steel because of the amount of steel bars that are used in creating each panel. Free Form has been used to create decorative moldings at a cheaper cost and is easily installed and as such can be used to beautify your project.

Hempcrete: Hempcrete is a building material made from Hemp.

Yes, hemp! However, you want to call it, cannabis, ganja or marijuana. All those individuals who wants to have a Green Home, this is the building material

resistant. Hempcrete is a carbon negative building material that is recyclable and durable. This material will last hundreds of years. It regulates temperature and absorbs and releases water allowing it readily respond to the change in humidity. Needless to say, hempcrete creates “breathable walls�.

So!

We

have

technology

explored

options,

I

some hope

building the

idea

of constructing your home seems less burdensome.

The

options

are

wide

but perhaps you may consider using a combination of these methods. In any case,

for you.

let us get creative and let us ensure we get

The concept of Hempcrete was thought of

these strategies I am sure we will.

and developed by Joy Beckerman in Seatlle,

value for our money by employing a few of

l

Happy Building Y'All!

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Feature

MY HOME, MY LEGACY:

Erica Morrison’s Story

5 2 H O M E & A W AY

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S

he is a new home owner at The

ownership has been Erica’s dream for so

Estuary in St. James but her

long. “This brings stability to us. I am a single

reason

parent, this is very important to me.”

for

home

ownership

goes beyond her. It’s for her 13 year old daughter. “She is the

Born in Falmouth, Trelawny she considers

entire picture. It’s all about her”

herself a native of Granville in St. James. Erica

confesses Erica Morrison.

first captured the ears and hearts of individuals who gathered at the handing over ceremony

According to Erica, her daughter is more

for units at The Estuary, a joint venture project

excited about moving into their own home

between the National Housing Trust (NHT)

than she is. Hard to believe though, home

and West Indies Home Contractors Limited continued...

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53

Feature

(WIHCON). Her moving vote of thanks told

social decisions later in life. For now though,

the story of gratitude and the realisation of

the two are gearing up to move into their

a dream long in the making.

new home; a life changing moment they are both looking forward to.

“I’ve always wanted to own a home but I found the process tedious, not to mention

“We will finally be able to personalize our

expensive. When the scheme came along

home, be able to create all the things we

however, I did my research and I thought

wanted to do, we have an opportunity to

this is it”.

own our space and improve on it” Erica hopes.

She says the units at The Estuary were affordable and was therefore the key selling point in her decision to purchase there. “I get emotional speaking about The Estuary.

I’ve always wanted it.” Not for herself but for her daughter Christen Gaynair.

“The first time we had the discussion about now owning our own home she said and I quote ‘mommy I’m so excited, I know exactly what murals I am going to paint on my walls in my room!’…quite excitedly I might add” Erica told us.

New home thrills aside, for Erica, it was important to leave a legacy for her daughter.

“It was of absolute importance that I left a legacy for her. She is the most important

“Ladies and Gentlemen, today marks the beginning of the finished product, let us spare a thought for the real heroes. This project has started many months if not years ago. It requires careful planning and a team of very highly motivated and dedicated staff of the NHT, WIHCON and all the other stake holders, to let it happen.

Today we salute your efforts, it is hugely appreciated. You are our heroes.

I cannot express our gratefulness and our indebtedness enough to everyone for their involvement and their willingness to take on the completion of tasks beyond their comfort zones! This was a mammoth one and you did it! Thank you!”

aspect of my life; I had to ensure that she has something tangible to look forward to

– Excerpt From Erica Morrison’s Vote of Thanks at the

as she grows into womanhood”.

handing over Ceremony for The Estuary." l

And that’s testament of the empowerment that comes with home ownership. It provides an advantage to make better financial and

5 4 H O M E & A W AY

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Homeowner’s Contents Insurance

Up to

$1,000,000.00

worth of coverage for only

inclusive of all taxes*

$11, 850.00

*Not subject to Pro Rata Condition of Average up to sum insured of $6 MILLION.

1-888-CALLKEY ( 225-5539) 1-888-CALL-KEY (225-5539)

info@keyinsurancejm.com

keyinsurancejm.com

Expert Article

Home is (still) where the heart is..

L

By Cherine Anderson, CIP S

et'’s face it, buying a home can be

selecting and trusting a team of real estate

very emotional. Often times, it begins

experts; all while scrambling to meet with lenders

with some level of frustration with our

to secure financing. There are no easy real estate

current living situation. Or anxiety to

transactions in Jamaica. There will be a few

provide a new space for our family

setbacks, delays, even a few disappointments,

or expecting partner.

and at some point, buyers will get discouraged.

Some home

buyers get excited, especially if they’ve saved

But do not give up.

up enough money, secured financing and are ready to buy that dream home.

There is nothing, and I mean NOTHING that trumps the joy, prideful tears, and happiness

However, if the buyer's offer is rejected, many

you will feel at closing. That great sense of

become heartbroken, particularly those who

accomplishment when you walk into your very

have fallen in love with the property. Others

own home and realize…You A Di Owna … yes,

become overwhelmed with the challenge of

you did it! continued...

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Expert Article

Here are two things to do if you’re thinking

Remember this, if the home you are about to

about giving up on home ownership:

invest in is your first home, stay on budget and consider the most important things to you and

STAY ON BUDGET ( (Stick to what’s important))

your family. It is crucial to analyze how you live and create a checklist of some core ‘home must haves’.

How home-buyers see their lives can be so different from the lifestyle they can actually afford. As a realtor, I keep it real with my

DO YOUR RESEARCH ( (Get your finances in order)

clients. I always encourage buyers to stick to what is important for their family. I frequently

Buyers have somewhat of a predictable

meet clients who fear being judged by their

pattern. Some rush to view properties, make

extended family, friends, and coworkers.

an emotional offer and then scramble to find

Instead of buying the fixer-upper they can

the deposit and closing costs. Many respond

actually afford, many try to stretch themselves

solely to advertisements of reduced interest

to get the home everyone expects them

rates by lenders. They tend to only consider

to own. Buyers put pressure on themselves

the lender who first pre-qualifies them, and

based on their age, job title, socio-political or

this can be a big mistake.

religious position and affiliation.

Most buyers are not asking the right questions If you have a growing family of five, why look

of their lenders, but the bigger issue is they

at a 2 bedroom 800 sq ft. apartment in the

don’t know what questions they should ask.

most expensive neighbourhoods? You would

This is what led to our company creating “Real

not do this for the same reason a single parent

Estate Virgins” (formerly Property Virgins) —

with children and one salary should focus on a

a workshop to empower and educate buyers

home that can accommodate the entire family.

and give them direct access to multiple lenders as well as a team of real estate experts.

After

visiting

several

properties,

it

is

understandable that buyers will become influenced by the granite counter tops, marble

I remember working with a client who was set

floors, 24 - hour security, and a pool among

on using a specific commercial bank based on

other things. However, if your children aren’t

convenience; the bank was close to his office.

leaving home soon, consider buying a modest

He called me on a Saturday and told me he

home, live in it for a few years, expand if you

was ready to buy a new apartment; however,

can, and rent it out for passive income.

he wasn’t pre-qualified at the time. We made

5 8 H O M E & A W AY

AN NHT HOUSING MAGAZINE

plans to meet the coming week to explore

property is a safe amount to start with. But,

financing options. I did my research and

buyers shouldn’t be discouraged if they don’t

gathered significant data from banks, credit

have all this. There are deposit assistance

unions, building societies and NHT that would

programs available from a select group of

be useful to him. However, before we could

lenders in Jamaica. So, proper planning and

meet he came back with a pre-qualification

educating yourself about the market is critical

letter from the “convenient” bank.

for real estate success.

I expressed my concerns because at the

Though many will tell you it’s the biggest

time the bank was not offering the most

investment you will make in your lifetime;

competitive rates. Based on my experience,

behind every door, in every room, are the

I shared that the processing time could be

memories and stories of our childhood

longer than other lenders. And, the "low"

and adult life. Home is still where our heart

interest rates were fixed for only the first few

is, and it represents every chapter or our

years of the life of the loan.

relationships, joys, comfort, fears, our wins and by extension our lives. l

Nonetheless, he submitted his offer to purchase which was accepted by the seller and decided he wanted to work with his

Cherine Anderson is a real

preferred lender for the loan. About four

estate entrepreneur, CEO

weeks in the process he called devastated;

and Founder of My Power

the bank did not approve the loan.

Living Ltd. The Host of "Power Living" and "Power

I moved quickly and made contact with

Tips", she is the author of

another lender who I thought would be a

"How to Buy an Apartment

solid option based on his financial situation.

This time around he decided to trust my recommendation. Not only were we able to get more favourable terms and reduced processing fees, but he received his approval in a shorter period of time.

Home buyers should consider that even if they qualify for a certain amount of financing from the lender they will need to secure their deposit and closing costs upfront.

Twenty percent of the purchase price of the

or Condo in Jamaica Vol 1".

Along with the My Power Living team, they provide educational real estate workshops - Real Estate Virgins, House + Marriage – and seminars to empower renters, sellers, buyers and investors. She is an experienced and licensed Realtor ® with The Real Estate Offices of Joan Latty and holds a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) designation from the National Association of Realtors in the United States of America. An active member of the Realtors Association of Jamaica she serves on the Membership and Benefits committee. Follow her for daily real estate news and trends @mypowerliving.

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News Article

A Solar System is Within Your Reach

By Jason Robinson

Solar Energy has been creeping back into the

Most people cannot afford to buy a solar

minds of Jamaicans as it always does during

system for their home outright just like most

the imminent approach of the sweltering

people cannot afford to buy a car outright with

summer months. The summer heat brings

cash. Therefore just like buying a car, more

with it longer days and coincidentally, greater

people choose to finance their solar system

energy usage and higher JPS bills. This

which makes a lot of financial sense as the

summer’s rise in energy costs might even be

cost of solar is the lowest it has ever been and

harder on our bank accounts than in the past

the loan payment essentially replaces the JPS

due to oil prices recovering steadily over the

bill. This allows you to now have a consistent

past year. This higher cost of oil is passed

energy payment that will not fluctuate when oil

on to energy consumers through increased

prices rise allowing a family to better budget

fuel charges increasing JPS bills even further.

for food, school and other important expenses.

Jamaica’s energy roller coaster causes grief for homeowners and businesses alike who

The NHT solar loan program has the lowest

may become overwhelmed in their attempts

interest rates (0%-6%) and longest terms (up

to conserve energy in hopes of saving hard

to 20yrs.) available in Jamaica. This package

earned income. Fortunately, the use of

allows monthly payments to be cash flow

renewable energy sources such as solar energy

positive from day one which means the cost of

can help to mitigate the rise in energy usage

your monthly loan would be less that what you

and help cushion consumers from rising fuel

would have been paying JPS. The long payback

and JPS costs.

time and low payments also allow enough savings to be achieved to help cover costs of

replacement batteries which happens every 5-7 years with good maintenance (an important aspect to consider when choosing your solar provider).

The NHT loan is easier to qualify for if you have not applied for a previous NHT mortgage loan in the past 15yrs. and if you have been making your contributions. This causes disappointment for existing NHT mortgage holders but there could be changes to this policy in the near future we are told. This would make sense since solar loans help reduce homeowners� monthly expenses allowing them to repay their NHT loans more easily. Hopefully there could even be a combined home and solar loan payment when the changes are made. #FingersCrossed.

A home battery solar system will have other added benefits to a family aside from low monthly payments. Solar will provide clean and quiet power so there would be no need for a generator if the system is sized for a home’s full energy load.

Homes that have solar systems will not even know when there is a JPS power cut as the home runs continuously on solar keeping JPS as a backup source. Another benefit to a home battery solar system will be protection from the JPS voltage spikes. Living in Jamaica we have all experienced JPS spikes in voltage that will chip out breakers or worse, damage equipment like televisions, A solar battery system acts as a large surge protector for the home guarding against the JPS voltage spikes that all too often cause damage.

The key to being a happy home solar system owner is having a system that works and produces the energy as it was proposed. We encourage

solar customers to always do the necessary research on solar companies in order to have a high quality solar system installed. There are many companies out there who do not do the necessary pre-engineering in order to custom design a solar system for their clients energy needs. Everyone uses energy differently and an off the shelf solar package usually ends up giving people problems as new appliances are added to the home. The best thing a homeowner can do is interview a few companies, speak to the company’s past clients about satisfaction with the energy offset by solar and visit the companies previous jobs that would be similar to yours to view installations up close.

Following these steps will help your investment payback for itself in a reasonable time and avoid glitches while giving you peace of mind.

l

Jason Robinson Chief Executive Officer SolarBuzz Jamaica jason@solarbuzzjamaica.com

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Feature

GREAT HOUSES, OF

Jamaica!

INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE INFORMATION RESOURCE CENTRE

Feature

Good Hope Great House, built in 1755, is

well in England bringing with her an income

situated 6 miles from Falmouth in Trelawny. The

of six hundred pounds a year given to her by

then estate of approximately 1,000 acres was

her father. By 1788 Tharp was spending most

initially given to Colonel Thomas Williams as a

of his time in England where he married again.

land grant. Colonel Thomas Williams was the

This marriage, however, did not work out well

grandson of one of the first settlers in the island

for him. He was so discouraged by the scandal

after its conquest by the English. The estate later

of his wife's affair with his daughter's husband,

became the property of John Tharp (1744-1804)

an Anglican minister, that he returned to Good

who later became the largest land and slave

Hope, where he remained for the rest of his life.

owner in Jamaica. Thorpe Street in modern Falmouth was named after this patriarch.

Tharp’s property was valued at over 4.5 million pounds after his death in 1804. His estate was

Tharp had four legitimate sons, John, William,

bequeathed to his grandson who was said to be

Joseph, Thomas, and one daughter Eliza.

‘feeble-minded’.

Five years after the death of his wife, Tharp had a daughter by one of his slaves, and she

In 1836 the old slave hospital was turned into

became his favourite child. She later married

a chapel by a former owner and continued in

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millennium

paving stones use until 1867 when the estate was sold again. It is said that a subsequent owner of Good Hope Great House was an atheist who used wooden sections and pews of the church to make barrels for shipping sugar. In 1905 another owner sold the church bell to the Falmouth Parish Church for £50. An interesting tombstone that still lies in the

former churchyard reads ‘In Memory of A.E. Esq., who died half drunk’.

In 1989 Good Hope Estate, which now occupies approximately 2,000 acres, was acquired by Montego Bay businessman Tony Hart. Under the patronage of Tony Hart the magnificent great house, as well as carriage house and a counting house, built above a former slave dungeon, have been faithfully restored. Today, a stone bridge, an aqueduct, water wheel and kiln as well as the impressive ruins of the sugar factory, a church and a hospital tell the story of a bygone era.

The Good Hope Great House is open to guests all year round and with the accompanying Chukka Adventure Park also on the estate, this is an ideal location for fun and learning! continued...

Shop #1 • 27 Mannings Hill Rd • Kgn 8

969•1716 www.MillPave.com millenniumpavingstones

millpave

Feature

Colbeck Castle is located approximately 2.4km

It is unclear whether or not Colbeck Castle was

north-west of Old Harbour in the parish of St.

ever completed or lived in, or even when it was

Catherine, this is the ruin of what was the largest

built, its construction being variously ascribed to

building of its kind in Jamaica, measuring 27.4m

both the 17th and 18th centuries, though 1670

by 34.7m and consisting of three (3) stories with

is believed to be the most likely date.

square towers at each corner connected by arched arcades.

Colbeck died in 1682 and there is a monument to him in Spanish Town Cathedral. In his will

Colbeck Castle is Jamaica’s ‘mystery building’ as

he left nothing to any relatives he might have

there is virtually no information about its origin.

had. Among his bequests was £20 to the parson

It is generally supposed to have been built by

to preach his funeral sermon, and money to

Colonel John Colbeck (1630-1682). Colonel

purchase rings to be given to several prominent

Colbeck came with the English army of conquest

persons including the famous buccaneer Henry

in 1655 and became a big landowner in

Morgan, who owned land in the area. To the

St. Catherine. He was active in the civil, political

Tamarind Tree Church he left money to put in

and military life of the young colony, but little is

glass windows and iron bars. After his death

known of this life and less about the building of

the name of Colbeck does not appear again

what must have been once a magnificent house.

in Jamaican history until its resurrection as the name for a locally made sherry.

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Colbeck Castle is listed as a national monument by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust.

Halse Hall Great House is located in Clarendon

grants, this area was given to Major Thomas

in an area rich in history going back to the Tainos

Hals (d 1701) who had come with Penn and

who had villages nearby.

Venables. It is believed that the ground floor of the present great house was built by Major Hals

When the English came, and the officers of the

himself in the 17th century.

conquering army were awarded extensive land

continued...

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Feature

A commemorative plaque was erected at Halse Hall in 1958 by geologists from Jamaica and England to mark de la Beche’s contributions to the development of geology in both countries.

The building that houses the Department of Geology at the University of the West Indies was also named in his honour.

The upper floor was added by his descendants between 1746 and 1749. One owner of the house was Francis Sadler Halse, who played a leading role in the Maroon wars. In 1739 he conducted the negotiations with Colonel John Guthrie and Cudjoe which led to the signing of the peace treaties.

Another famous occupant of the house was the doctor and botanist Sir Hans Sloane, whose collection of specimens of Jamaica’s flora and fauna formed the nucleus of what was to become the British Museum of Natural History.

Halse Hall Great House is currently owned by JAMALCO.

The most famous descendant and owner of the house was Henry Thomas de la Beche (17961855), whose grandfather had married the heiress of Halse Hall. De la Beche was born and raised in England. While on a visit to his Halse Hall property in 1824 he conducted a geological survey of central and eastern Jamaica and wrote the first geological account of the island. He also drew the first geological map of the eastern half of the island, believed to be the first true geological map of any area in the western hemisphere. It was published in 1827 by the Geological Society of London.

He also published a book called Notes on the present condition of the Negroes in Jamaica (1825).

Henry de la Beche (1796-1855)

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Mount Plenty Great House, located in St. Ann,

sweeping cedar shingle hip roof. Additional

was for a long time the home of the Custos of St.

habitable space was created using large dormer

Ann, Honourable John Hiatt, who was born in

windows.

1722. The property was famous for the breeding of horses. The tradition of breeding fine

On the western side of the building, a

thoroughbred horses for racing continues to this

pedimented portico projects from the hip roof to

day as well as crossed Arabian/Thoroughbred

form the verandah for the main entrance. Unlike

polo ponies and quality beef cattle. Orchids and

most vernacular type buildings in Jamaica,

other tropical flowers are grown for export.

there is none of the typical wrap around type verandahs. This would suggest that this building

Mount Plenty Great House is a three storey

was designed and built closer to the Georgian

building. The lower level forms a basement

age before the style had been adapted to the

made from cut stone which elevates the wooden

tropical climate.

portion off the ground. The level is clad with wood shingles on the low portion of the walls,

Honourable John Hiatt was 98 years of age

with a series of louvre panels and sash windows.

when he died, and was buried at Mount Plenty.

The third level is the attic that has within it a

The probate inventory for John Hiatt of Mount continued...

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69

Feature Plenty is available at the Jamaica Archives.

Much later, Mount

Plenty

was

owned

by St. Thomas Roxborough, and finally Pat and Bernard Cooke. It was the Cooke who renovated the building and added a car port.

Mount Plenty property was purchased in 1980 by the Hon. Maurice William Facey.

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John Blagrove, the owner in the late 18th century, was famous for improving the breeds of both cattle and horses on his pens, importing some of ‘the best-bred horses England ever produced’. He died in 1824.

He was noted also for his benevolent attitude towards his slaves, which was unusual for the time. In his will, John Blagrove left a dollar for every man, woman and child on his estate, ‘as a small token of my regard for their faithful The Cardiff Hall Great House is located off the

and affectionate service and willing labours to

main road to Runaway Bay, St. Ann. The Blagrove

myself and family, being reciprocally bound in

family owned Cardiff Hall from 1665 to 1950 and

one general tie of master and servant in the

it is perhaps the only property in Jamaica which

prosperity of the land, from which we draw our

has been handed down in the same family for

mutual comforts and subsistence’.

so many years. The present Cardiff Hall Great

continued...

House was built in 1789 by John Forsythe, the Scot Architect. He apparently rebuilt the house that had been erected by slave labour.

Daniel Blagrove was a regicide who participated in the death of Charles I. The Regicides were anti-Roman Catholic parliamentarians in the English civil war of 1642-1644, who signed the death warrant of Charles I and were less than welcome back in England when Charles II returned in 1660. The Cardiff Hall property was given to Blagrove, by Oliver Cromwell, as a reward for his participation.

Portrait of John Blagrove by Italian painter Pompoe Batoni

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Feature

The ruins of Stokes Hall Great House, located

settlers for the new colony of Jamaica. In

in the parish of St. Thomas, was built by Luke

December 1656, the governor of Nevis, Major

Stokes and is considered to be one of the

Luke Stokes, his wife, and teenage sons arrived

oldest foundation of a house in Jamaica from

with 1,600 colonists from Nevis and St. Kitts.

the English period. It was built with four two-

They were settled in the Morant Bay area. At the

storeyed towers at the corners and a main

time, the only other inhabitants were a garrison

building, all of solid stonework 76cm thick. The

of English soldiers since the earlier Spanish

towers and the main building all had loopholes,

settlers had fled the country when the English

similar to murder holes, a common feature of

arrived.

many of the old buildings near the coast, which had to be prepared for defense against pirates,

On the low-lying coast, the new settlers started

foreign enemies, and potentially rebellious

to die of fevers as soon as they arrived. By March,

slaves.

two-thirds of them, including Major Stokes and his wife, had been buried. The survivors

One year after the English captured Jamaica

managed to establish sugar plantations in the

in 1655, Oliver Cromwell, the Lord Protector,

area, and many of them prospered. Among

issued a proclamation to other colonies inviting

those who became wealthy were the Stoke’s

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children, the eldest of whom was only 15 when their parents died. It was they who eventually established the two outstanding houses in the area – Stokes Hall and Stokesfield.

In 1907 Stokes Hall Great House was destroyed by earthquake and it now stands in ruin. The great house is currently owned by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust.

Stokes Hall Great House circa 1930

Located in the parish of St. James, near Montego

the supervision of Tom Concannon, a restoration

Bay, Rose Hall Great House was regarded as

expert.

the most magnificent planter’s residence ever built in Jamaica. The house fell into ruin in the

The great house was built for £30,000 between

early 20th century and in 1960s was faithfully

1770 and 1780 by the Hon John Palmer, Custos

restored with authentic period furnishings under

of St. James, whose wife was Rosa Palmer, continued...

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Feature

to all accounts a lovable and gracious lady.

According to the legend, the woman who

Her beautiful marble tomb can be seen in the

became mistress of Rose Hall was Anne May

St. James Parish Church, Montego Bay. For

Palmer (nee Patterson) who was born of an

a long time, it was believed that Rosa Palmer

English mother and an Irish father and grew

was the legendary White Witch of Rose Hall.

up in Haiti where, it is said, she was schooled

Rosa Palmer’s name and reputation have since

in vodun, murdered four husbands and had

been cleared and ‘Anne Palmer’ designated the

countless lovers. She was finally murdered by

‘Wicked Witch’.

the slaves whom she terrorized. Killed in her bedroom at the Rose Hall Great House, she was

While Rosa and John Palmer were alive, the

buried in the garden where her grave can still be

splendid Rose Hall was the setting for the most

seen. The legend says Anne Palmer wore a ring

elaborate balls and assemblies on the western

inscribed: ‘If I survive I shall have five’. l

end of the island. After the death of the couple, Rose Hall was neglected for some years until it was inherited by John Palmer’s grandnephew, John Rose Palmer.

In 1820, John Rose Palmer married Anne Palmer; a copy of their marriage certificate was found in the Jamaica Archives. Since the record of his burial has been found in the St. James Parish Registry, his ‘disappearance’ at the hands of his wife, as the legends say, is unlikely.

Anne May Palmer ‘White Witch of Rose Hall’

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Feature Expert Article

STYLED IN WOOD

Lacey-Ann Bartley: adding value to your home

W

hat started out as a family

furniture. And it’s not just in Jamaica where

business which she was

she is making waves. Neither is her craft

born into, has turned out

restricted to large furniture. Small houseware

to be so much more for

tools such as cutting boards, spoons, candle

Lacey-Ann Bartley. “I am

holders and other items all made from wood,

not sure if I chose wood

with a distinguished Jamaican flare, has made

or wood chose me but I saw how hard my

it into her repertoire.

Father worked and all the people he was able to help and empower and I wanted to help

“Bartley’s designs manufactures and sells

him do more and build on his legacy.”

quality 100% Jamaican handmade wooden hotel amenities, furniture, corporate gifts,

Fast forward years later and this affable young

jewellery, potpourri and home accessories”

lady from cool cool Mandeville, has made a

she says.

name for herself where providing signature

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While one could say carpentry is in her blood, still what made this young academic with a bright future in corporate Jamaica, choose a less traditional career path? “I worked in the business all through university choosing the courses that would help me to gain the requisite skills and knowledge. After leaving undergrad, I pursued an M.Sc and had the opportunity to do souvenirs for an event that was the genesis of me becoming Bartley's CEO and building in a real way on my Father's legacy” Lace, as she is affectionately called explains.

She still operates out of Manchester, but her 30 plus year old business has grown in look and size in recent times providing both ready-made and custom orders, all handmade, to eager homeowners looking unique style for their home.

Oranfor A. aHall,

Personal financial adviser/coach.

Telephone 631-7653, 479-0118 “Home Owners love our chairs especially our Email ohall.finplanner@gmail.com

Jamaica Anrondicka Chairs and dressers” she says with pride as she flips through photos of some of the designs and makings of her business. continued...

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77

Feature

Her biggest markets are hotels and

“We hope to get a larger workshop and

resorts. While the pieces are modern,

execute our export plan. We have a long-

stylish and attractive, there are other

term mission of helping to re-establish

benefits why her prioducts have been

Jamaica's furniture and wood products

finding favour with her growing list of

industry.”

clients.

She is well on her way to doing this as her “Real Wood Furniture is more long-

booth was a hit at the recent JMA expo.

lasting than other materials. It adds class and elegance. Not only that but it also

So whether you’re looking for boards

can become an heirloom and can refinish

customized with your name or family

and remolded as time rolls on” she says.

name, or whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for a housewarming or

What’s more, wood adds an air of class

wedding; how about something local

and elegance.

and handmade?

It is sure to give the

recipient’s home a touch of elegance and Her advice to clients is to always choose a design that fits your style. She usually recommends contemporary designs to young professionals.

She stresses as well that you should also choose a design that accommodates the space that you have available. Modern Designs have seen the incorporation of space-saving technologies and dual purposing.

Her plan is to bring this air of class and elegance into the homes of more Jamaicans looking to jazz up their home.

7 8 H O M E & A W AY

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style. l

All ApplicAnts

• No paymeNt for the first 12 moNths • same day loan commitment • Low mortgage rates • free building plans

For information, visit your NHT branch or call 1-888-CALLNHT www.nht.gov.jm

NHT Feature

By Jillian Warren

Stimulating Housing Through

Public Private Partnerships

T

he NHT's enduring mandate since

It is generally agreed that despite the

its inception has been to find

successes of the NHT and being able to

ways of increasing and enhancing

maintain a position as market leader in the

the stock of available housing in

residential construction sector, not enough

Jamaica and to provide financial

housing solutions are brought to the market

assistance

each year, particularly for the affordable

to

its

contributors

wishing to build, buy or repair a house.

housing market. However, over the years, the NHT has continuously explored varied

As the NHT evolves through the years, the

alternatives to assist its’ contributors to

vision remains alive.

own a home. While the NHT’s scheme units

8 0 H O M E & A W AY

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Groundbreaking for Villages of Colback: A joint venture between BCR and NHT

remain the housing solution of choice for many

•

Interim Finance Programme with public and private developers wishing to build but needing capital

•

The Joint Finance Mortgage Programme (JFMP) which offers financing for mortgages in partnership with other mortgage lenders

•

Joint Venture Programmes with housing developers, he Unions and Employers

Jamaicans, the number of solutions (units/ lots) available for offer through NHT schemes is normally oversubscribed. This reinforces the need for a more diversified approach involving other developers, to increase housing supply. To this end, public and private entities have been partnering with the NHT to stimulate housing to meet the growing demand.

This targeted approach to stimulating housing in

In recent years, the NHT has also rolled out two

Jamaica has meant strategically forging greater

additional catalysts for the housing industry.

partnerships with a blend of various stakeholders operating in the housing market. That includes

On the financing side, the partnership forged

extending itself to facilitate housing through the

between the NHT and some Credit Unions to offer microfinance loans to eligible contributors continued...

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81

NHT Feature through their facilities, offers contributors up to

over 1,400 housing solutions. The development

5 years to repay these loans which can be used

will have designated areas for one high school

to purchase land, pay for services such as titling,

and four basic schools and parks; and spaces

construction preliminaries (e.g. valuation report,

for recreational, historical, cultural, religious,

surveyor’s I.D. report, quantity surveyor’s report,

agricultural, and commercial purposes.

housing design, approved building plan). They may also install fixtures, fittings, finishes, utilities

Under the Interim Finance Programme, the

installation infrastructure (upgrade or new), start

NHT provides Developers with funding for

construction work and can even use the funds as

up to 100% of the construction costs for their

a down payment.

development at concessionary interest rates.

Recently, World Homes Limited broke ground

The NHT is also partnering with more private

for the construction of 230 housing units as

developers in a bid to significantly increase the

part of the Foreshore Estate development in

number of affordable homes that it delivers to

Delacree Pen, South West St. Andrew. The NHT

the market. The NHT is poised to explore a

is providing financing for the construction as

new Housing Developers programme geared at

well as mortgages for NHT contributors.

speeding up the delivery of houses especially at the low income level and increase the number

It is expected that by 2021, scores of Jamaicans

of private sector Developers involved in low

will have an opportunity to own their own home

income housing.

through the NHT's drive to begin work on approximately 22,000 housing units.

Recently, the NHT commenced handing over of 1,500 units for The Estuary at Friendship in

The public private partnership approach is a

St. James; a joint venture partnership with West

critical pillar to achieving this target and to

Indies Home Contractors Limited (WIHCON).

increase the options for homeownership to more

Phase Two of the project will add a further 1200

contributors beyond scheme provisions, increase

units. In addition, the NHT is also engaged in

the number of units to the NHT as well as for

the development of The Villages of Colbeck.

offerings on the open market and importantly, increase access to more contributors. l

The Villages of Colbeck Castle is a joint venture project between the NHT and BCR Industries, with a 70 per cent ownership by the Trust. The development, which is being done on 36.01 hectares of land, comprises five villages with

Aerial View of The Estuary at Friendship in St. James (right)

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AN NHT HOUSING MAGAZINE

NHT Feature

“thank

you!”

FEEDBACK

k

YOUR SATISFACTION: OUR GOAL

Recently, I refinanced my mortgage which I had with the NHT - therefore I had to interface with NHT to get a final statement etc. I had a little difficulty and needed to wrap up the process in a short time.

I was greatly assisted by one Nesta Andrews with the process. I met Mr Andrews on one of the occasions when I had to visit the NHT. He, in my view, went above and beyond the call of duty to assist me with the process I write as I am aware that from time to time good and exemplary deeds are overlooked and the public sector gets a battering for poor service. Since that was not my experience with Mr Andrews, I think it important to put on the record the service I received.

Please convey my thanks to him and the NHT. E.Shields

The National Housing Trust has given me the impossible. Yes I wanted a big house and I am going to get it. But at the time I could not afford to buy anything being a single mother. I started to Google land for sale in Jamaica. I got the money to buy the land...it was a breeze to get the construction loan. Work wid dem…dem work wid you! Long story short me the single mother stop buy bag and boot and now paying mortgage for a 2 bedroom house.

Thank you NHT staff!

S. Christie NHT staff are wonderful! My experience is just awesome. Mr Michael and Miss Petula walk me through the process and it was great. People listen to the staff of NHT and work with them. Be patient and you will reap your reward.

N. Clayton 8 4 H O M E & A W AY

AN NHT HOUSING MAGAZINE

I visited the NHT office recently and I must say special commendation to Mickey Cribb in the Compliance Unit and Shanell Garvin in the Mortgage Department. These two individuals were superb in their demeanour; very knowledgeable and confident. They were friendly, helpful and professional. I received excellent/exceptional customer service at each point of contact and left feeling very impressed and satisfied with the service I received. During my interactions, I felt significant, valued and appreciated.

R. Gilzene A little more than 7 years ago I visited the Montego Bay office for the 1st time. I went timidly having heard stories of people trying to buy a house through the NHT. Let me declare here ...

Not even shopping at the supermarket has been smoother. The rep walked me through the steps so seamlessly, it was amazing.

I still maintain that it is the best transaction I have ever had to acquire a major asset.

Great going NHT Montego Bay. E. Riley

NHT Feature

A N W O / R E N W O

By Makeda Solomon YARD

T

here are many reasons why people

Own. That word that comes in front of your

purchase a property and become

new title. Own-er. Or as our elders used to

‘Home Owners’, as opposed to

drill into us when we borrowed (and in my

remaining house renters, parent-

case broke) people’s things…OWNA! There

dependent, kotched on a friend’s

is nothing in our culture that comes close to

sofa or even held at her majesties

the joy…(talk the truth), the exhilaration…

pleasure (in jail!). The ascent from these

the glad-bag bursting happiness that arises

former living arrangements form the basis

from having your ‘owna tings’. It doesn’t

of wishful dreams for countless among us,

matter which echelon of Jamaican society

striving to better ourselves, by becoming

you hail from, and I have met and reasoned

castle owners. And castle owners we are,

with folk from every nook and cranny of the

because out of many ‘squeeze up’ living

island over my two decades here…we have

situations (literally and colloquially), arise the

a very strong passion for owning our ‘owna

masters and mistresses of their own kingdom.

tings’. continued...

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NHT Feature

Fast forward, my parents met, married and boom (said like the Jamaican word for bomb), I was born.

By this time my parents had graduated to a room, in a house, owned by one family member (whose hand had come up in a pardna draw) and we now only shared common areas with family members that had also made the voyage. Then, what it looked through little girl eyes, was that our house emptied out room by room until, to my understanding in later years, my parents purchased it and only our nuclear family occupied this BIG whola This is what the Jamaican ‘owna tings’

house! Fiwi owna house!

looked like where I grew up in cold England. My parents were members of

Fast forward again to my father finally

the ‘Windrush Possie’ that landed on the

fulfilling his passion to return to his Step-

hard streets of Wolverhampton, England

Motherland, Jamaica…we all know the

that incidentally, weren’t really paved

real Motherland is Wakanda, right? Mom

with gold! Yet my folks, along with many

was less excited, as was the case with

others from their respective rural/urban

many Windrush ladies, but nonetheless,

districts of Jamaica, went in search of a

with the proceeds from selling their ‘owna

better life.

house’ in England, land was purchased and with an NHT BOL Loan (big up NHT!!!)

One of the first things my parents and

my parents’ dream home was built.

their peers had to secure, was a roof over their heads, in a very challenging new

Now this is the part of the story when

environment with hostile weather. So,

you might want to hold me down and

mom and dad occupied living spaces,

beat me. Since closing off the NHT loan

in a house shared by other Caribbean

a few years ago…I confess now to the

nationals that had made the pilgrimage

world, that I have not put insurance on

to the motherland.

it. Yes, cobbler never wears good shoes,

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parson always christen fi him pickney last…I know, I know. So, this is where we are going to help one another. Let me see a show of hands for all those now reading this article that have dem ‘owna house’. Ok, now take down your hand if you HAVE insurance cover protecting your hard worked for castle, that got you out of those living situations that you prayed to be released from for months! Ok, now those of you with your hands still in the air, like me, say WITH me: “As morning day light tomorrow, I (insert your owna name), will call Sarifa Insurance Brokers…[who?] …Sarifa Insurance Brokers and ask them for a quotation to protect my…’owna house’. Joking aside, it’s that simple to start the process.

Whatever housing means to you, I urge you to follow back-a-me and protect your castle through insurance. Oh, when you call Sarifa for your home insurance quote, ask them if Ms Solomon has insured her parents’ dream home yet.

Writing this article has honestly caused me to take a serious look at the important things I put off in my life, like neglecting to protect the ‘owna house’ that my parents worked so hard to secure, so that I can sit looking out at the Caribbean Sea, giving

C. Makeda Solomon ACII, CIP, is the Executive Director/Chief Marketing Officer at Sarifa Insurance Brokers Ltd. She is also a Risk Manager, Corporate Trainer, Personal Development Coach, Creative Arts Therapist, Learning Performance Specialist, Motivational Speaker, and Award-Winning Actress]. Telephone 978 6049 or 6618 (Sarifa Office) / 381 0315 (Mobile) / E-mail: cdsolomon@sarifaja.com

thanks that they had the foresight…the wisdom, to have dem ‘owna tings’.

Thanks Mom…thanks Dad, may you both dwell in eternal bliss. l

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NHT Contact Information Call Centre:

Opening Hours Mon - Thu: 7:30am - 5:00pm, Fri: 7:30am - 4:00pm Toll free telephone numbers in Jamaica: 1–888-CALL-NHT (225-5648) 1-888-991-2185–7, 1-888-991-4249 in The U.K.: +44 203 514 8816 in The U.S.A. or Canada: 1–800-858-3219

Customer Care:

Tel: Jamaica - 876-754-7086 U.S.A. - 305-675-4284 Toll free: Jamaica - 1-888-991-2232 U.K. - +44 203 514 8816 U.S.A./Canada - 1–800-858-3219

EMAIL:

wecare@nht.gov.jm

Website & LIVE CHAT: www.nht.gov.jm

SOCIAL MEDIA:

FACEBOOK: /TheNHT TWITTER: @The NHT BBM: 25C61F5D or 25C61F31

2017 we broke ground for over 3,000 housing solutions, bringing

hundreds of Jamaican families closer to realizing their dream of a house, a home, a better life.

2018 we pledge to do even more, working towards our goal of more than 20,000 housing starts by 2021 Our missiOn: improving the lives of Jamaicans by facilitating home ownership and community development while ensuring prudent financial management.