Home & A Way Issue 7 by nhtjm

Home & A WAY JULY 2020

ll ISSUE 7

AN NHT HOUSING MAGAZINE

home, YOUR PERFECT OASIS What to do on LOCKDOWN!

SPARKING LEARNING AT HOME

Photo by Minh Pham on Unsplash

MESSAGE MARTIN MILLER MANAGING DIRECTOR

Hello Readers:

hope you are safe.

We usually say that as a courtesy but current realities have made that statement relevant. Wherever you are reading this issue of our magazine, I do hope that you and your families are indeed safe. We are in a period of uncertainty with phrases like ‘new normal’, ‘working from home’ and ‘social distancing’ dominating our conversations. We at the NHT have had to make some changes. There were a lot of plans that we had as it relates to our housing delivery programme and other projects that we have had to either put on hold or adjusted in light of COVID-19. It’s not all bad though, the pandemic has caused us as an organisation to fast track our proposals for flexible work arrangements and to also look at our service delivery with a view to offering more services online and to strengthen the existing channels.

As you can see as well, we are still bringing to you all the latest happenings in the NHT and the housing construction industry via the pages of our Home & A Way magazine. That said, I want to commend the writing team for beating the challenges and producing yet another fantastic read for Jamaicans both at home and all over the world. Thank you for delivering another great issue. As you flip through the pages of this latest issue, I hope you will find new information to help you on your homeownership journey. You may not be able to interact with us like you are used to but we are still the key to your home.

Happy reading!

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EDITORIAL DWAYNE BERBICK

Alone Together I am writing this issue’s editorial in my new home office. Well, an office might be a stretch but I went out and got a work desk and chair and created a space in the corner of my living room dedicated to working from home.

Will home buyers end up signing all home-buying and homeloan documents electronically? What role will attorneys have in the new normal? We are not certain but this crisis by all indications has accelerated electronic changes to the real estate industry.

You may be reading this in your new home office too. Maybe it’s your living room or the dining room table or even your bedroom. Chances are, you are reading this on a computer screen as well in between home schooling your children and just before your next Zoom call.

COVID-19 has changed a lot about us. Our editorial team is happy however that we are still able to bring you some normality amidst these changes.

Wherever you are, you’re not alone. Over the years, we at this magazine have written about changes to the real estate industry brought on by technology. We may well see even more significant shifts coming to the real estate industry in the coming months. Even after stay-at-home restrictions end, I’m certain we will continue to have virtual showings, virtual open houses and remote loan interviews for mortgages.

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In this issue we look at providing tips for millennials and young adults embarking on the homeownership journey for the first time. We also break down some of the more complex issues of homeownership such as titling and of course there are your usual ideas on décor and how to jazz up your space. Though you may not be digesting the pages of Home & A Way like you are used to, you will see that our product remains the same. So go ahead and dive in. You may be alone, but we’re still together.

CREDITS Executive Editors: Neil Miller, Joyce Simms-Wilson

NHT Writing Team:

Dwayne Berbick (Editor), Danielle Edwards (Sub-Editor), Jae-Anne Bell Rochelle Bonitto, Shauna-Gae Clarke, Tameka Hill, Kadian Chin-Matheson, Patricia Martin-Robinson, Lajuane Thomas, Jillian Warren, Shantall Wheatley

Special Contributors: Winston Roberts, Jason Robinson, Brittany Singh Williams

Administrative Support: Shantall Wheatley

Design anD Layout: Sutherland Wade Associates Limited NHT Graphics support

PHOTOGRAPHY: Kimroy White (Saske Lee Photography)

Printers: Pear Tree Press

Publisher:

National Housing Trust, 4 Park Boulevard, Kingston 5. (876) 929-6500-9 www.nht.gov.jm , wecare@nht.gov.jm

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CONTENTS 1 Message 1 Message 2 Editorial 2 Editorial 6 Meet the NHT Writing Team 6 Meet the NHT Writing Team 8 Creating Your Outdoor Paradise: Name & Title 8 Tips for Landscaping Time & Possibilities 1212 Time & Possibilities Powering Jamaica with 1515 Powering Jamaica with Solar Energy Solar Energy Brew'd Six unusualUses uses 1919 Brew'd Up:Up: Five Unusual coffee for for Coffee

NHT, The Key to your Goal of 2525 NHT, The Key to Your Home Homeownership 28 The Kid Friendly Cleaning Caddy 28 The Kid Friendly Cleaning Caddy 31 Home, Your Perfect Oasis 31 Home: Your Perfect Oasis 36 Name & Title 36 Landscapes to Die for 40 Ultimate Summer Fitness 40 Ultimate Summer Fitness 44 Excellence Always: Excellence always: 44 Commendations for the NHT Commendations for the NHT 45 Hack Your Stains at Home 45 Hack your stains at Home 50 Celebrating Independence Day Celebrating 50 at Home Independence Day at Home

FEATURES

P8 P36 Name &

Name & Title Title

P12 Time Time& & Possibilities Possibilities

P50 P50 Celebrating

P86

Celebrating Independence Independence Day DayatatHome home

52 52 55 55

60 60 64 64 66 66

Mom, Dad... readyTotoMove move Out out Mom, Dad... I'mI'm Ready Just Chill out! Just Chill Out! ways beatthe theHeat heat 1010 Ways to to Beat

P91 P91 To the Beach! To the Beach!

Love it or List Love It or List It it NHT Happenings NHT Happenings

Summer's Top Summer Beach Reads Reads

Wicker Away Wicker Away

P66 Wicker Away

Sparking learning at Learning At home Home

P31 P31 Home, Your Home, Your YourPerfect perfect Oasis Oasis

69 69 Staycation Staycation2020 2020 72 72 Sun's Sun'sOut, Out,Thumbs ThumbsOut Out 75 room 75 Child ChildProofing Proofingyour yourliving Living Room 78 doDo on On Lockdown 78 What WhattoTo Lockdown 81 Homeownership 81 Millennial My Own Place & Space: A Millennial's Dream 86 Sparking Learning at home 86 ToSparking Learning Atbeach Homereads 91 the Beach! Summer 91 To the Beach! Summer's Top Reads

P75 P75 Child Proof your Child Proofing living room your Living Room

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.

MEET the NHT WRITING TEAM

Dwayne Berbick Editor

Danielle Edwards Sub-Editor

Jae-Anne Bell Writer

Jillian Warren Writer

Kadian Chin-Matheson Writer

Lajuane Thomas Writer

Patricia Martin-Robinson Writer

Rochelle Bonnitto Writer

Shantall Wheatley Writer

Shauna-Gae Clarke Writer

Tameka Hill Writer

Visit any Tax Tax Administration Administration Jamaica Jamaica Visit any Office/TAJ (Tax Office) Office) and and complete complete Office/TAJ (Tax an for Electronic Electronic Filing Filing an Application Application for Account Registration. Account Registration.

Await connrmation email email from fromTAJ TAJ regarding account creation. creation.

Upon receipt of connrmation, connrmation, the the taxpayer may proceed proceed to to nle le S04 S04 and/or S04A, whichever whichever isis applicable. applicable.

Make applicable payments payments according to established established liability. liability.

Payments may Payments may be be made made online online via via TAJ’s online TAJ’s online portal portal or or in-line in-line at atTAJ. TAJ.

Self-employed payments Self-employed payments are are to to be be made quarterly: made quarterly: March 15 June 15 15 March 15 June September 15 September 15 & & December December 15 15

Feature

Creating your

outdoor PARADISE Tips for Landscaping

By: Tameka Hill

3 6H OHMOEM E&& 8 A AW AY W AY AN AN NH NTH H TO HU OS UI S NIG NG MA MG AA GZAI Z NIE NE

aving a perfect landscape aving a perfect landscape to adorn the wonderful to adorn the wonderful construction that is your construction that is your home, is simply the icing home, is simply the icing on the cake, the chef on the cake, the chef d'oeuvre. A perfectly d'oeuvre. A perfectly designed outdoor space does not designed outdoor space does not simply make you the envy of your simply make you the envy of your neighbourhood, it creates a feeling of neighbourhood, it creates a feeling of tranquility and peace that can be found tranquility and peace that can be found nowhere else but your home. nowhere else but your home.

To achieve an impeccable exterior, there are certain elements that must be considered. Even the smallest of spaces can appear a masterpiece when elegantly designed. One of the first things to consider when taking the necessary step to your work of art is grass. While growing your grass may take a considerable amount of time, care and work, once grown it adds the perfect touch to your outdoor space. Pay keen attention to your lawn, ensure you water it daily and

A personal favourite of mine is lighting.

always check for weeds and pests that may

Lighting adds a touch of elegance and

infest and kill it. The best defense against

beauty to your exterior. You could consider

these pesky little monsters is herbicides.

having your lights operated by electricity,

Yes, they are perfect in guaranteeing

batteries or solar energy. Each comes with

weedsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; annihilation, however, consult a

its own pros and cons, and must be carefully

professional when using these chemicals.

considered when putting together your design. Use lights to creatively accentuate your walk way, highlight certain plants and/or flowers and illuminate your wall. Lighting can bring a cheerful mood to your landscape design and make your space feel like Christmas all year round. continued...

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Feature

Most individuals do not often consider the use of rocks in the creation of beautiful exteriors, but they do in fact create the perfect contrast and add an exotic appeal to your space. Rocks are great at framing a space, creating visual appeal and marry well with water in constructing an environment of opulent beauty and serenity. They create the perfect frame for your garden, walkway and even your driveway. A beautifully designed wall adds that finishing touch to an impeccable waterfall or fish tank. And the best thing is, they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cost an arm and a leg and you can find them almost anywhere.

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Finally, colours and shapes add character and personality to your space, and these can be achieved through flower plants. Accentuate your design through the use of plants that help in creating flair and beauty to your wonderful outdoor. Ensure to speak to a professional to guide you with selecting the size and height of plants and best areas for their placement. They can add the perfect touch of elegance, colour and contrast to create your perfect outdoor paradise. l

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A AN N N NH HT T H HO OU US SIIN NG G M MA AG GA AZ ZIIN NE E

3 11 9

Feature

Time & Possibilities By Lajuane Thomas

raffic raffic was was terrible terrible and and the the day day was was stressful. stressful. Amanda Amanda dragged dragged herself herself through through the the front front door door –– jarred jarred by by its its creaking creaking hinges. hinges. She She dropped dropped

her collapsed into her bags bags and and collapsed into the the sofa. sofa. Through Through half half opened opened eyes eyes she a glimpse glimpse of of the the television television on on top top she caught caught a of of the the cabinet, cabinet, still still waiting waiting to to be be mounted. mounted. She She has been been meaning meaning to to do do some some improvements improvements has at had consistently at home, home, but but her her schedule schedule had consistently left her left her too too drained drained to to do do anything anything else else but but the the barest barest necessities. necessities. That That was was yesterday. yesterday.

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Starting thanks to Starting today, today, thanks to the the organisational organisational transformation, transformation, she she will will now now be be working working remotely, which which means means no no having remotely, having to to battle battle the the traffic. traffic. As As she she reclined reclined in in her her favourite favourite chair, sipping chair, sipping her her coffee coffee and and awaiting awaiting the the start start of of her her conference conference call, call, her her eyes eyes rest rest on on the the damaged damaged electrical electrical socket socket which which she she has has been been meaning meaning to to fix. fix. Wait… Wait… first first the the creaking creaking hinges socket. hinges and and now now repairing repairing the the broken broken socket. All All of of a a sudden, sudden, her her mind mind is is flooded flooded with with all all the she never never the projects projects around around the the home home that that she got got a a chance chance to to do. do.

The kitchen required significant updating and The kitchen required significant updating and let’s let’s not get started on the louvre windows. not get started on the louvre windows. Changing Changing to French panes would allow to French panes would allow more light in and more light in and give her a better view. She give her a better view. She grimaced as she grimaced as she remembered that she had remembered that she had snapped the heel of snapped the heel of her favourite red pumps her favourite red pumps on a broken section of on a broken section of the driveway. Repaving the driveway. Repaving it with decorative bricks it with decorative bricks would be nice. If she would be nice. If she had a pool, relaxation would had a pool, relaxation would be a breeze. She be a breeze. She had discussed the possibility of had discussed the possibility of installing solar installing solar panels and a solar water heater panels and a solar water heater with her landlord with her landlord but he didn’t seem too keen on but he didn’t seem too keen on the idea. the idea. She quickly calculated the total amount she had She quickly calculated the total amount she had paid in rent over the last 5 years, the figure was paid in rent over the last 5 years, the figure was astounding. astounding. continued...

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Feature

With her big 30th looming, it was time to buy

Glancing at the clock, she realises that she

that apartment, or even build on the land that

still has a few minutes before her conference

Mama had willed her. Apart from tracking

call.She picks up her mobile device and visits

down the technical expertise, she knows that

the NHTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website.

she needs a loan to make her plans a reality. She celebrates, realising that she can research Ahhh the NHT!

all the information that she needs from the comfort of her living room. They even have a

She had been a contributor for over eight

mobile app and live chat available!

years, and she couldn't think of a better organisation to help take homeownership

What a way to move with the times.

from goal to reality. She could finally implement her ideas,especially the ones she

She eased back into the chair and smiled

gleaned in the Home & A Way Magazine. A

knowing that one day, she would be able to

few of her friends had already accessed their

proudly say "there is no place like home."

NHT benefits and the process was easy and efficient.

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Expert Article

Powering

Jamaica with Solar energy

By: Jason Robinson

2020Atlantic Atlantichurricane hurricane s sthethe2020 season looms, a reminder season looms, it isita isreminder of

nowtime timethat thatthe theterm termresilient resilientpower powerisis It Itis isnow notjust justa abuzz buzzphrase phrasebut butananintegral integralpart partofof not

the devastation hurricanes theofdevastation hurricanes have have caused to our region caused to our region in recent in

how Jamaicanhomes homesare arebuilt, built,purchased purchasedand and how Jamaican renovated.The Thekey keyfor forJamaicans Jamaicanstotoachieve achieve renovated.

recentThe history. The Anguilla Bahamas, history. Bahamas, and Puerto are still andAnguilla Puerto Rico are still Rico rebuilding

thisenergy energyresilience resiliencewill willbe bethrough throughlonger longer this termfinancing financingfor forhome homesolar solar and and battery battery term

rebuilding their economies and infrastructures their economies and infrastructure due to due to hurricanes Dorian, Irma and Maria. hurricanes Dorian, Irma and Maria. These

storage projects. storage projects.

Theseshowed stormsusshowed how electrical a resilient storms how a us resilient electrical infrastructure needed not just for infrastructure is needed notisjust for commercial

Residentialsolar solarsystems, systems,unlike unlikecommercial commercial Residential solar systems need a minimum financing loan solar systems need a minimum financing loan

industrial but also andcommercial industrial and buildings but buildings also for homes. for homes. residential Thousands of Thousands residential ofclients who clients did

termofof12-15 12-15years yearstotobe becash cashflow flowpositive positive term fromday dayone. one.Cash Cashflow flowpositive positivemeans meansthat that from

not homes lose their homeswere or roofs were notwho losedid their or roofs without without power for months as the electrical power for months as the electrical grids were

the monthlyloan loanpayment paymentfor forthe thesolar solarsystem system the monthly lowerthan thanthe thecurrent currentmonthly monthlyelectric electricbill. bill. is islower

grids were over areas of the destroyed overdestroyed many areas of many the island. island.

Thereason reasonhome homesolar solarsystems systemsneed needlonger longer The termfinancing financingis isthat that the the battery battery storage storage term continued...

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Expert Article

makes the systems expensive, relative to the makes the systems expensive, relative to the solar system size. This is the main reason we solar system size. This is the main reason we do do not see more solar on homes in Jamaica. not see more solar on homes in Jamaica.

This is how we can reduce the country's carbon country's carbon footprint, reduce homeowners footprint, reduce homeowners energy costs energy costs and provide backup power for and provide backup power for times of crisis. times of crisis.

Amid the global crisis of Covid-19 our disaster Amid the global crisis of Covid-19 our disaster funds could be stretched thin during the 2020 funds could be stretched thin during the 2020 hurricane season. We run the real risk of dealing hurricane season. We run the real risk of dealing with a hurricane and pandemic at the same time. with a hurricane and pandemic at the same In order to prepare ourselves and protect our time. In order to prepare ourselves and protect families, resilient solar and battery storage must our families, resilient solar and battery storage be considered by all in case we are stuck at home must be considered by all in case we are stuck with no electricity and no way to get gas for a at home with no electricity and no way to get generator. In a situation where we are at home gas for a generator. In a situation where we are due to social distancing the last thing we need at home due to social distancing the last thing is a prolonged natural disaster with no electricity. we need is a prolonged natural disaster with no

There are a few banks beginning to give their There are a few banks beginning to give their clients the option of including solar + battery clients the option of including solar + battery storage systems in their new mortgage or storage systems in their new mortgage or to use the equity in the home to finance the to use the equity in the home to finance the system. The main issues with these financing system. The main issues with these financing options so far is that the loan officers are options so far is that the loan officers are not not adequately trained to push the solar adequately trained to push the solar mortgage mortgage financing or home equity option. financing or home equity option. There has to

electricity. In order to install resilient solar and battery storage into the homes for the majority In order to install resilient solar and battery of Jamaicans the solar systems need to storage into the homes for the majority of be factored into every new mortgage so Jamaicans the solar systems need to be factored that homeowners can take advantage of into every new mortgage so that homeowners longer term financing. The equity in homes can take advantage of longer term financing. also needs to be an option for existing The equity in homes also needs to be an option homeowners financing solar as well as longer for existing homeowners financing solar as well loan terms (over 10yrs) for normal green loans. as longer loan terms (over 10yrs) for normal green loans. This is how we can reduce the

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be a partnership with the banks and the solar There has to be a partnership with the banks companies to educate the staff on the benefits and the solar companies to educate the of including solar in the new mortgage or home staff on the benefits of including solar in equity. These benefits are a near zero monthly the new mortgage or home equity. These electric bill, much cheaper monthly payments for benefits are a near zero monthly electric the system than if the solar system was financed bill, much cheaper monthly payments for on its own and back up power for the home in the system than if the solar system was case of black outs. The banking institutions also financed on its own and back up power for need to cut down on the amount of paperwork the home in case of blackouts. The banking needed for energy loans. Energy loans need to institutions also need to cut down on the be processed at the same speed as car loans amount of paperwork needed for energy loans. instead of the 3-4 months in which they currently Energy loans need to be processed at the same take to be processed. speed as car loans instead of the 3-4 months in which they currently take to be processed.

Along with private financial institutions, government policies and entities also need to change to help Jamaicans benefit from lower cost and resilient power. The government has the power to push institutions to implement longer term financing for solar by requiring new homes to incorporate solar systems. The government together with the NHT can present more avenues for individuals to acquire solar systems. There is talk of policy changes and that would be great as the NHT could have a considerable impact on reducing Jamaicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s carbon footprint while giving homeowners lower energy costs and backup power.

Jason Robinson is the C.E.O. of Solar Buzz Jamaica. Visit his website at www.solarbuzzjamaica.com. You can also follow him on Facebook @solarbuzz and Instagram @ solarbuzzjamaica

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Feature

Brewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d Up: FIVE Unusual Uses for Coffee

(That are Truly Wonderful) By Danielle Edwards

t is undeniable, coffee has long been a staple in every aspect of Jamaican culture.

Our love affair with the liquid gold commenced in 1728 when then Governor of Jamaica, Sir Nicholas Lawes, brought approximately eight coffee seedlings from Martinique. It quickly became a traditional crop alongside sugar and cocoa, and quickly grew in popularity, helping Jamaica gain notoriety with our world renowned Blue Mountain Coffee brand.

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Globally, coffee is worth over US $100 billion, making it the second most traded commodity after crude oil. That puts it ahead of commodities like natural gas, gold, sugar and corn. Coffee is more than popular: it's ubiquitous. No other beverage is as revered or respected. It can be seen in offices, during commutes, and on kitchen counter tops worldwide. My earliest memories of coffee involved Saturday mornings curled up beside grandmother. The atmosphere pungent with the aroma of refried boiled ground provisions and stewed chicken. I would excitedly wait for her to put crackers in her coffee-condense milk brew because I knew at that point she would hand it to me. I would close my eyes and savour every drop.

However, after one cup, or two and in some cases three, we automatically brace for the side effects. These can range from unusual chattiness and nervousness to heart palpitations and severe mood swings. Due to its addictive nature and the overall impact of caffeine on the body, some health officials have even warned against its regular consumption. If you are like me and love coffee but cannot consume it as regularly as you would like, don’t toss it out just yet, I’ve found several uses that will have you excited about coffee again.

RECIPE ENHANCER

Whether you are baking, making pot roast or even blending your favorite cold drink, coffee is an excellent flavor enhancer.

It was just enough coffee to soak through the crackers but not too much to have me bouncing off the walls.

continued...

I was only 4. Today, my relationship with coffee has evolved into a love-hate tussle. With more responsibilities and an expanding schedule, a daily injection of this black liquid gold has become a necessity. I have met persons who have categorically stated that they should not be disturbed until they have had their regular ‘cup of Joe’.

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Feature

â&#x20AC;˘ Baking You can either add the steeped and cooled coffee to the liquid element of your mixture, or sprinkle just a bit of instanst coffee into the flour. Take for example this great coffee infused bread pudding recipe: Coffee Bread Pudding 5-6 cups cubed bread, about 1/2 large loaf 1 tbsp instant coffee powder 2 1/2 cups milk, divided 4 large eggs 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1/4 tsp salt 1 tbsp sugar, for topping 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, for topping

of bread gets a chance to soak up the milk mixture. Allow bread to stand for 10-15 minutes. Pour bread cube mixture into prepared baking dish and spread gently into an even layer. In a small bowl, stir together 1 tbsp sugar and 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon. Sprinkle over the top of the bread pudding. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the pudding is set and a sharp knife inserted into the center of the pudding comes out clean. Let the pudding cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. It can be served warm or cold.

Preheat oven to 350F. Lightly grease a 9 inch baking pan. Place bread cubes in a very large mixing bowl. In a small, microwave-safe bowl, heat up 1/2 cup of the milk. Dissolve instant coffee powder in the milk and allow mixture to cool slightly. In a medium bowl, whisk together the rest of the milk, the coffee-infused milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon and salt until ingredients are very well combined. Pour the coffee mixture over the top of the bread cubes. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to gently press the bread down into the custard, making sure that each piece

Source: bakingbites.com

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â&#x20AC;˘ Cooking Did you know coffee makes a great rub for red meat? If you thought your filet mignon only paired well with a robust red wine, think again. The right coffee rub for steak has a comparable effect on meat as would wine. The acidity levels of coffee replicate tannins in wine, which allow the amplification of flavor. Coffee also act as a tenderizer, making meat softer and enhancing the moisture of the meat by creating a sealed crust of flavor.

Meat Rub Recipe 2 tablespoons ground coffee beans 2 tablespoons ground black pepper 1 1/2 tablespoons kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 tablespoon ground cumin Directions Place the ground coffee on a sheet of aluminum foil, and place about 6 inches from the heat source. Broil for about 45 seconds, shaking the foil about every 10 seconds, or whenever you see smoke. In a small bowl, stir together the coffee, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and cumin. Rub into steaks, or pound in with a meat mallet. continued...

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Feature

â&#x20AC;˘ Beverages

The next time you blend your favorite milky drink add your own caffeinated twist. Try this popular Jamaican Guinness Punch:

Do not throw your used coffee grounds away! Coffee grounds act as a great fertiliser. They contain several key minerals for plant growth â&#x20AC;&#x201D; nitrogen, calcium, potassium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium and chromium. They also help absorb heavy metals that can contaminate soil.

12 ounces Guinness 1 cup coffee infused whole milk (1/2 tsp of coffee should do) 1/2 cup condensed milk 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract whipped cream (to garnish, optional)

GROUNDS IN THE GARDEN

They also attract worms which are great for your garden while deterring other pesky critters like slugs and snails. You can also add the grounds to your compost. Compost made with coffee grounds and kitchen waste are richer in nutrients than compost made with waste alone.

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INSECT REPELLANT

Certain compounds found in coffee, such caffeine and diterpenes, can be highly toxic to some insects like cockroaches and ants. To make your own repellant: • Fill a can or jar with an inch or two of moistened coffee grounds, then line the container’s neck with extra-sticky double-sided tape. The scent will draw cockroaches into the trap. • Sprinkle old grounds around places you don’t want ants, or on the ant hills themselves and they will avoid the area.

HOT IN SKINCARE

• Exfoliant

It is a great, inexpensive and natural skin exfoliant. Coffee has high levels of anti-oxidants which help to prevent and reduce the appearance of cellulite, protect the skin from sun damage and aids in blood flow which improves overall skin health. You can mix your coffee with your favourite oil, even adding sugar to create your own signature body scrub. You can also mix a bit of coffee grounds with honey to create a lip scrub.

continued...

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Feature • Dark Under Eye Circles? No Problem Caffeine has anti-inf ammatory properties and stimulates blood circulation around the eyes, which can help reduce the appearance of dark circles and swelling. Simply add water or coconut oil to your coffee grounds to form a paste. Apply the mixture under your eyes, ensure the mixture is thick so that it doesn’t run into your eye. Let it sit for about 10 minutes

• Make a thick paste with used coffee grounds and water. • Rub the paste into the scratch using a cotton swab, allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes and then wipe with a cotton rag. • This should help buff out the scratch and conceal it by dyeing the exposed wood a dark-brown color.

before rinsing. Repeat this process daily or as needed.

REPAIR SCRATCHED

• Continue to dab coffee into the scratch using a cotton swab until the desired color is achieved, waiting a few hours between applications.

FURNITURE Your guests will be arriving soon however your toddler decides that now is a convenient time use your wooden centre table as their very own carving post and there are scratches everywhere. Have no fear, coffee is here! Coffee can help to minimize the appearance of scratches. To make your own scratch covering mixture:

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There you have it. These inexpensive and organic tips will have you falling in love with coffee all over again. I’m glad I did because every now and then I get a whiff of that sweet aroma, I remember my grandmother. And I smile. l

Feature

NHT,

The Key to Your HOME By Jillian Warren

he goal of homeownership can seem farfethched. We work with the hope of someday owning our own home. However with the NHT, home ownership is more accessible than you think. There are so many stories we could share on how the

NHT has assisted persons with their homeownership or home improvement goals. Each personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s circumstances may require a different path to accomplish this significant achievement and a combination of different options. And boy, does NHT have options. continued...

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Feature Friend of a Friend – John

They could hardly wait! It was his spouse’s

For John, the writings were on the wall. He realised that as his children grew older he and his wife needed more space. He had been shopping

birthday when he collected the keys. He was in disbelief. He was overwhelmed, happy and thankful.

around so he had a fair idea of the selling price for houses. At first, it seemed impossible, but a friend encouraged him to talk with someone at the NHT, and he did.

Retiring Contractor – Sir Samuel

salary

Nearing retirement, Sir Samuel sits under the

deduction. His eligibility status and affordable

mango tree at home filled with pride knowing

loan limit was determined, and he could access

he lives in his own home. For him it was unlikely,

the maximum amount. For sure, the idea initially

but he was pushed by his daughter, a young

seemed farfetched as the affordable amount

professional.

His

contributions

were

made

via

was not in line with typical selling prices, but his spouse was also contributing albeit the income

However, just a few years ago, it was not like this.

was way lower. The amount she could get was

He was accustomed to living in the moment.

less but together as co-applicants it became

He had worked as a small building contractor

more feasible. Determining their eligibility gave

and lived on a leased property with his family

them a fair idea of the purchase price they could

for many years. Though the payments were low,

afford as they shopped around to identify a

there were many inconveniences and he was

property and they did.

nearing the retirement age of 65.

The shortfall was covered by the NHT’s

He had completed a job and was waiting for

Contributions Refund Towards Deposit (CRTD)

some outstanding payments in excess of $1M.

facility, which uses refundable contributions

He had grown increasingly frustrated waiting

that were not yet due for payment to assist with

and was near swearing “neva again” when his

satisfying the vendor’s request for a 10% deposit

daughter asked him what he was planning to

and for paying some of their legal fees. Not only

do with the money. He had an idea but what

was he able to acquire the property, but he was

happened next caught him clearly off guard.

also able to obtain a small amount towards

She stopped him in his tracks with “you could

completing some minor repairs.

use it to buy a house”. His first response was “that can’t buy house” and he was right, but it was the turning point he needed and would never forget.

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The payment was used as a deposit. They found

at the right price. She only needed to find

a property within their community. Though he

a house on the open market at a price

was not contributing, as a small contractor he

where 5% of the cost would be equivalent

was required to make NHT contributions in order

to or less than the bonus amount for her to

to be compliant to obtain a Tax Compliance

meet the minimum deposit requirement

Certificate (TCC) to secure contracts. Once he

at the NHT.

resumed his contributions and maintained his payment consistently, in twelve months he was

She contacted a seasoned real estate

eligible to apply. He had to co-apply with his

agency that helped her to find something

son as his daughter had already accessed an

she would love for years and with the

NHT benefit.

NHT's Joint Finance Mortgage Program, the possibilities were endless. Her one-

Today, he is care-free. Under the NHT's loan

bedroom strata apartment was a dream,

facility the property is also fully insured and is

it suited her lifestyle. It was located within

included in the regular monthly payments. And

a secured gated community with well-

property tax that is not covered by the NHT is

maintained gardens. The apartment also

paid by his daughter.

included several social amenities which were covered under her strata fees. She loved it. It was her own space and her own place.

A Place to Call Her Own â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stacey As a young adult, Stacey worked as a legal assistant at one of the popular law firms in Kingston. She was still living with her parents and extended family. She loved her family,

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

your

story?

Your

path

homeownership may differ from John, Sir Samuel and Stacey, but it is certainly possible with the NHT. The next story could be yours. l

however the arrangement was becoming uncomfortable. A lump sum Christmas bonus was the game changer for her. There were so many things on her bucket list, but she decided to put it to good use. Her challenge was finding a property

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Feature

The Kid-Friendly Cleaning Caddy By Shauna-Gae Clarke

aintaining a clean house takes a lot. Whether you clean daily or once a week it is one of those chores that must be done often enough. However, sometimes the challenge of keeping up with your cleaning routine can be daunting, especially when you have children. The house can become very messy, very quickly. Many parents are dreading the reality of the number of times per day they have to tidy up, clean up spills and wipe down surfaces. One way to make things a bit easier and less time consuming is to allow the children to help; encourage them to clean up after themselves

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or to lend a hand during the scheduled cleaning time! You may be skeptical about this suggestion, given that cleaning requires using various agents and chemicals that you may consider too harsh to be handled by your little ones. However, there are so many natural household products that can be used by themselves or in combination to keep your home clean! Let us help you to ditch the chemical toxins with some Do It Yourself (DIY) cleaning agents that are simple to make using every day ingredients and most importantly safe.

Scented All-Purpose Cleaner For this solution, all you need is one part water and vinegar, lemon rind, a few leaves or petals of your favourite scented plant or flowers (lavender, roses, mint, rosemary, etc); (if you do not have petals, essential oil works great too) and a spray bottle. Combine all the items together in the spray bottle, shake well and

allow it sit for a few minutes. This is a safe DIY project for both you and your children to make and use. Use it to wipe down any surface in the house, leaving it smelling so fresh and clean.

Surface Cleaner - Baking Soda & Water Solution Did you know that baking soda can be incorporated into almost any cleaning routine? Baking soda is one of those versatile items, that when used in the right proportions can go from surface cleaner mix to toothpaste to face mask. To make your very own surface cleaner 4 table spoons of baking soda to 1 quart warm water. This will produce a liquid like consistency. Use less water and more baking soda if you desire a paste instead. Combine well in a bottle or container and use it to clean counter tops, sinks, bathtubs, toilets, floors, refrigerators, stoves and even stainless steel appliances. Talk about clean and shiny! continued...

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Feature Furniture Cleaner Combine lemon juice (1/4 cup) and olive oil (1/2 cup) in a container and use a soft cloth to polish wooden furniture with this mixture.

Baking soda may also be used in its natural state to reduce or eliminate odors. Pour a little into your garbage bin, place in your refrigerator or down your drains to get rid of unwanted odours.

Glass Cleaner No need to buy overpriced glass cleaners when you can make your own. Add a quarter cup of rubbing alcohol to two cups water and add a half cup of vinegar. Turn it up a notch by adding one to two drops of your favourite essential oil (if desired). Combine in a spray bottle and voila, this natural solution it is ready to use.

Air Freshener Keep your house smelling fresh with this solution of water and essential oils. In a spray bottle, combine water and few drops of your preferred essential oil, shake and spray in any space. Just be sure to adjust the nozzle of your spray bottle so that it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let out large droplets of the solution all at once, also, aim the nozzle toward the ceiling to maximise space coverage.

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You no longer have to be anxious about constantly exposing your children or yourself to agents that may be harmful. Have your children take responsibility for different chores and make the work load less time consuming during these long summer days!l

Feature

HOME: YOUR Perfect oasis

By Danielle Edwards

or many of us 2020 was supposed to be our year.

I’m not sure if it is the association of 2020 with having ‘perfect vision’, but for many of us, a wave of desire for change had swept many of us into its tide. We had so many plans, including prioritising self-care. This meant making time to focus on ourselves both inside and out. Queue the coronavirus pandemic. Unless you work with a Government Intelligence Unit or have deep connections with the prophetic realm, nobody really saw this coming. Government imposed measures and our desire to safeguard ourselves and our families against the virus severely impacted our ability to keep up with our self-care routine. With the operations of many salons, spas and other non-essential businesses affected, at-home hacks and DIY fixes became the only option. And the end result wasn’t always pretty. continued...

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Feature

However, one Jamaican company assisted their customers to rise above the fray, and recreate some aspects of the self-care experience at home. Established in 2016, Morgan’s Creek was birthed out of C.E.O’s Joni-Dale Morgan’s desire to create body care products that were not only good for you but smelled great too. As a lupus warrior, a badge she wears proudly, Joni noted that she was inspired to start her own skincare line because the medication had caused her skin to become very thin and dry, which made it very sensitive and prone to bruising. This meant that most body care products like lotions and soaps were too harsh for her skin. She started to experiment with her own skin care concoctions and realised that her skin responded great to the products. Before putting pen to paper, I put her products to the test, and nothing quite compares. Close your eyes for a minute and imagine sunkissed mornings in your beach house while wrapped up in freshly laundered linen, waves greeting the shore, surrounded by the scent of mangoes and coconuts. You sit up enveloped by the smell of warm chocolate-chip pancakes dripping in maple syrup coming from the kitchen. It’s an entire experience. Self-care rituals might seem trivial in comparison to a global health emergency but as an advocate for rest and rejuvenation, Joni notes that taking time out to pamper yourself is important especially during these uncertain times. Her mantra you can’t pour from an empty cup. "This period is undeniably stressful and can worsen any underlying conditions.

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It is critical, now, more than ever that we take time to recoup and what better way to do this than with an at home spa day" she says.

1. Set the Scene To create the perfect environment, you should:

•

Clear the clutter.

•

Find a great musical complement. There are a myriad of playlists available online via YouTube or other streaming sites

•

Grab your nicest towels. Yes, the ones you reserve for guests. If you have a robe throw that in the mix as well.

•

Prepare a pitcher of cold water infused with thin slices of lemon, cucumber or strawberries. You can pick one or add all three. You can also add some mint leaves to jazz up the mix.

•

The right scent is a must! Grab a scented candle and if you are enjoying the spa day with your little ones, diffusers with essential oils are the perfect option.

2. Mask on Before that relaxing shower or bath soak, apply a face mask. Masks like Morgan Creek’s Green Tea with Spirulina are a great choice for all skin types. It detoxifies and tightens your skin. If oily skin is your issue, then their Oily and Charcoal mask will definitely help you control oils while leaving your face looking smooth and refreshed.

3. Bomb your troubles away Immerse yourself in bath filled goodness with a bath bomb. Bath bombs have become a wildly popular bath time favorite, don’t believe me? Just check YouTube. They’re great for your skin and entirely satisfying to watch dissolve. “We have a range of scents and ingredients that assist with realaxation and improved skin health. Our Eucalytpus, lavender and rosemary bombs really help to relax the muscles especially after a long day or strenuous workout. This experience is especially heightened when combined with our peppermint shower gel or milk bath” she explains. If you’re sharing this moment with a little one then fruitier scents like Morgan Creek’s Mango, Coconut, Raspberry or Pineapple bath bombs may be an ideal pick.

4. No bath, no problem If you don’t have a bath, shower steamers are a great alternative. Simply drop one in the corner of your shower and allow the sweet aromas to take over. This is especially ideal for those persons who may not be willing to indulge in a bath (men wink wink) but may desire a sweet smelling experience. Shower steamers in scents like Cedar, Amber, Sandalwood and Bergamot are great! continued...

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Feature

5. Scrub, Scrub, Scrub The music group TLC had warned us against scrubs, but I promise, these ones are great for you. Scrubs are essential for optimum skin health. The skin is always in a constant state of turnover. Dead skin rises to the surface and naturally sheds however the process slows down as we age, which results in a build-up of dead skin cells, add every day pollution to the mix and boom…dull skin. So, if your current body care is limited to a loofah and a bar of soap, it’s time to level up. A scrub is a great way to remove dead skin cells and encourage the regeneration of new ones. Scrubs are also great at pulling impurities from the skin. After you have cleansed your body, apply the scrub by gently rubbing it onto your skin with your finger tips. Persons with sensitive skin need not worry, all scrubs offered by Morgan’s Creek are great for sensitive skin. Their Oatmeal and Bentonite scrub have become a staple among persons who suffer from eczema.

6. A Face for the Gods Remember the mask you applied, time to rinse that away, just ensure your hands are moving in a circular motion to encourage circulation. Joni insists that the water should be tepid or lukewarm, never hot. “Hot water not only has the potential to burn your skin but you also risk stripping your face of the nutrients you just deposited with the mask" she says.

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Mist and Mosturise Post mask, it’s important to restore the skin's pH balance. So, always follow up with some form of moisturiser. Joni recommends doubling up on moisture especially during Summer by adding a facial mist to your skin care regimen. It promotes additional hydration, improves the absorption of a moisturiser and creates a smoother makeup application experience. Follow up with Morgan Creek’s Vitamin C Serum. While the benefits seem endless, the serum has been popularized for its ability to remove any hyperpigmentation and brighten the skin tone. After the serum, apply your moisturiser. It is important that it suits your skin type. Joni explains that "At Morgan’s Creek we can assess your skin and help you to choose the most suitable moisturiser. If your skin is oily then our oil free moisturiser will have your skin supple without the added shine. If you have normal or combination skin then our regular moisturiser is best suited for you."

7. Oils Whenever I think spa I think heavenly scented oils. The trick to oils - applying them to the skin while damp. Oils are considered a sealant, so it locks in the moisture from the water while nourishing the skin. Therapeutic oils like Morgan’s Creek Lavender and Rosemary can add that calming effect especially right before bed. If you plan to head out after your spa day then their Mango Coconut, Amber and Incense oils will definitely put that pep in your step. Give these tips a try to create your very own at-home-spa experience! This year has been challenging, however your self-care routine shouldn’t have to be.

Joni Dale Morgan is a skin care enthusiast, 2017 recipient of the Jamaica Makeup Artist Best Skin Care Line and 2018 Scotiabank Vision Achiever, 2019 Jamaica Manufacture and Export Association New Manufacturer of the Year and C.E.O or Morgan’s Creek. You can visit her store at Shop 37 A Sovereign Centre ,106 Hope Road, telephone - 876-648-9586. Follow her on Instagram @ Morgans Creek JM and Facebook @ Morgans Creek Ja. Visit her website at www.morganscreek.com

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Feature

Name and Title ? r o t c a r t n o C HIRE A By Jillian Warren

n a certain context, a TITLE is

yourself, as young children, we watched

generally used before or after a

them build our home from scratch –

person's name. It may signify either

block by block and remained involved in

veneration,

the process even where specialists were

official

position,

or a professional or academic

employed.

qualification. While

were

not

privy

the

Whatever the circumstance, we can

circumstances of the acquisition of the

all agree that names AND titles speak

property we knew they had built it out of

volume. So too is it with having names

pocket, little by little. It was a single story

“ON” titles. I got you there, didn’t I?

three-bedroom one bathroom house living dining and open kitchenette space. Those

Mom and dad were a common law couple

childhood days were fun as we were very

who were self-employed small business

involved in the mixing, moving of material

entrepreneurs. Dad sold in the shop and

on make shift carts and enjoying those

mom sold produce in the market. A pair

onsite meals when they were cooked, or

known for exercising their right to do-it-

as a Jamaican would say “run a boat”.

8 6H OHMOEM E&& 3 A AW AY W AY AN AN NH NTH H TO HU OS UI S NIG NG MA MG AA GZAI Z NIE NE

They never wore the title Mr and Mrs but

burnt smoke-filled structural remains stood

they did accomplish the title of homeowners.

as a testament of their determination and

Every Jamaican knows that having title in

effort together. It was not insured. The title

hand is a big deal. That Christopher Martin

was found tucked away in the partially melted

song “It’s a big deal” comes to mind.

deformed metal safety box where Dad kept all his important documents.

“This has nothing to do with money or fame, or vanity This one is all about self worth Suh big up yo chest and stand proud And don't matter bout nobody No man nuh more than no man pon this earth”

We started thinking that Dad could use the title to get a loan from the NHT to rebuild. It would take approximately three months to a year to register with the Tax Office and start making NHT contributions. He could get a Build on Own Land Loan. For sure, the amount he would be able to obtain was

Yes! Having your name endorsed on a title for

dependent on his age and income, and we

a property is a big deal and a great feeling.

could help with the payments. That was the easy part.

The title tells you who are the legitimate

owner/s of the property as well as who owned the property previously.

In that moment we got a glimpse of the title and something stood out – there were other names on the title including the children. As

Unfortunately, the house was lost in a fire

young professionals with our own families

that to this day remains unexplainable. It

and aspirations for homeownership we knew

was no longer habitable and the blackened

right away what the implications were. We understood that they were being thoughtful, however, what appeared as a noble gesture for Dad, could now easily and quickly become a costly inconvenience to us. Within the Jamaican jurisdiction, there is no rule of law which prohibits parents from adding a minor or children under the age of 18 to a title or transferring a title to a minor but there are several implications, including their ability to purchase property through the NHT.

continued...

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Feature

Parents and guardians will need to be

could have become complicated if it were

mindful that if the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name is on title

not properly thought through. What if Dad

for a residential property, it could pose

and Mom had sold the property when they

a problem when that child becomes an

separated? Or what if Dad or Mom had

adult and desires to access his or her NHT

died while we were still minors? Our Google

benefit. The adult whose name was put

search led us to the National Land Agency

on title for residential property as a child

(NLA) website, and we have since learnt

before the age of 18, will have to write to

that a minor is incapable of entering into

the NHT to seek permission to access their

a contract for the sale or the disposition of

full benefit which is currently a maximum of

any registered land/property. So â&#x20AC;&#x153;where it is

$6.5M, as opposed to obtaining a reduced

intended to sell or otherwise dispose of land

homeownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s loan facility currently capped

registered in the name of a minor, a trustee

at $2.5M.

is to be appointed, usually by an application to a Court, to act in the dealing on behalf

The whole experience forced us to consider

of the minor. The transfer, mortgage, or

other worst case scenarios as we realized it

the instrument to complete the dealing

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is prepared in the name of the minor and executed by the trustee." An adult may also be included on the title as joint owner or otherwise. An attested copy of the Appointment of Trustee must be attached to the title lodged for registration. The authority of the Trustee would be activated to carry out the wishes of the parents should they pass before the children become adults. So, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve added your children or think you may want to do so, it may be wise to have a conversation and consider how it may affect their future homeownership goals. l

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Feature

ULTIMATE

SUMMER FITNESS No Gym?

No Problem! By: Patricia Martin Robinson

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pending money on gym fees and athletic wear can result in some

STEEL WATER BOTTLES:

heavy lifting for your pocket. Nonetheless, that is not the type of lifting we want to focus on. In the hunt for finding innovative

ways to be financially prudent while achieving our fitness goals, we can start at home. While we know that abs are made in the kitchen; there are some everyday items that can lend some support to shedding those pounds.

Don’t want to ‘steel’ away from the kitchen just yet? A strong solid steel water bottle can effectively support your upper body weight while adding a degree of difficulty to planks. In a traditional plank, place one hand on a water bottle that’s on its side. Use the bottle to roll your hand out, bracing through the core, as you lower into a low pushup position. Return to start for 1 rep. Do 8 reps; repeat on opposite side.

WATER BOTTLES: Whether 5 litres or gallons, when full, water bottles can provide the necessary resistance in strength training exercises such as dead lifts, arm curls, russian twists and overhead lunges. A mop or broom stick can also be thrown in the mix to add some variety with routines like the bench press and deadlifts.

WOODEN CRATE: A well-built wooden crate can be flipped over and used as a supporting plyometric prop for box jumps or simple step-ups. Just ensure to test its ability to manage the impact of these exercises. continued...

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Feature FOLDING CHAIRS AND SOFA ARMS: These are sturdy enough to support tricep dips. To perform a tricep dip, start sitting on the chair with your hands at your sides, fingers wrapped around the edge of the seat. Extend legs to form a straight line from ankles to hips. Lift your torso about two inches in front of the chair. This is your starting position. Slowly lower down until your elbows form a 90-degree angle, then press back to start for 1 rep. Repeat for desired reps.

TOWELS: Embrace your inner zen-master by unfolding your towel into a downward facing dog.

BACKPACK: Fill these up with ordinary items such as canned peas, water bottles or books to provide a challenge for walking, running or even hiking. Helpful tip: Weigh the bag on a bathroom scale so you know how much youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re working with and slowly increase as you build strength.

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Double up to ensure extra cushion. The towel is also great at multi-tasking and can also be used as a slider. It can be used to enhance moves such as mountain climbers, knee tucks and pikes.

WALL: Yes, the wall can also be multi-functional! While it can be used to maintain proper posture in squats, it can also be used for walks. Walls with concrete are highly recommended for this routine. Now, be warned, this move requires signi icant core strength, balance and experience. Start in a high plank position with your feet up against the wall.

Engage your core and start to walk up the wall until your face meets the wall and your body is vertical. Slowly return to start for 1 rep. Do 6 reps. Though this list is by no means exhaustive, it is not a pass for you to become a recluse. Go out, take a walk every now and then. Exercise, at home or outdoors, is always a good habit to develop! l

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Fantastic service everytime! Hello, My name is Rochelle Gilzene and it gives me great pleasure to write and compliment one of your excellent employees, Ms. Juliet Patterson from the Projects Department. My initial contact with Ms. Patterson was one that gives/brings that ”WOW FACTOR”. She was very courteous, knowledgeable and professional. At each and every point of contact I felt significant, confident and connected that I was getting world class service. She followed up with my application and made the process a memorable and refreshing one. Thanks again for adding value to the NHT brand, Jamaica's best service delivery entity and I say this without apology because it's true. Such service builds great working relationships in empowering and developing lives, encourage and promote good values in building great companies, great homes and by extension a greater Jamaica. This was a great experience for me. Keep up the good team work. Thanks again! #perfect10ratings #exceptionalservice Dear Simone, I am writing to let to you know that I have arrived in the UK safe and sound. I am also writing to thank you for your excellent customer service skills. You demonstrated empathy, patience, attended to my many questions, and guided me with such effortless skill! Your advice and information made me feel valued and protected and that you were looking out for my best interest. I felt that I was making the right decision once I had spoken to you. I am glad that I have signed up with the National Housing Trust! My partner and I are looking forward to the future and our potential new home. Please present this email to your line manager as employees such as yourself are an asset to the NHT, making lives better for people! Kind regards Nicole Gusthoff

“thank

you!”

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN Pleasant afternoon, My wife and I, Opal and Orrin Johnson. Visited your National Housing Trust (NHT) branch on Wednesday, 2/5/2020, located at Glenmuir Road, Clarendon. Upon our arrival, we were guided to one of your agent, Aldean Allen. As he greeted us, we immediately looked at each other, as to say "what a humble person he is." But, this was wonderfully confirmed after doing business with Mr Aldean. He was very attentive, (great listening skills), well knowledgeable about his job and the opportunities of the customer's entitlements. He gave us practical examples in the options that NHT offers to us customers who are living overseas, so we were able to make well informed and intelligent decisions. He was very polite, prompt, composed, and helpful to us. We were so well taken care of, that we decided to write of our experience. And to say a "BIG," thank you Mr Aldean, Mrs Miller, and NHT for the wonderful opportunities offered to us Jamaicans and others. Blessings always. Sincerely Yours, Orrin Johnson

Hi, I'd like to offer commendation to one of your staff members. Last week, I watched as the individual diligently responded to customers' comments, questions and concerns with the utmost professionalism and warmth. I am not sure who the person is, but they used the initial SWR. Please convey my admiration for the fantastic work they've done. Kindest regards, Tameka Hill , Web Quality Assurance Manager, Corporate Communications and Marketing

Feature

HACK our y

STAINS

at Home

By Jae-Anne Bell

So how can you be prepared for the inevitable

tains are annoying. anyone,

stain lurking around the corner? Let’s explore a

anywhere. Not only do they threaten

few stain removal methods you can take with

the lifespan of your clothes, but

you for almost every aspect of your life. Hold

they can also appear on our walls,

on to your pants, this going to be a wild stain

counters, in our bathrooms and

removal ride.

They

can

happen

even between our tiles.

1) ARMPIT STAINS

As good as blue soap is, there are just some stains that a plastic bag and the good ol’ Jamaican sun

If the first few months of this year are anything

cyaa fix. Household bleach is another all-time

to go by, the summer heat is setting up to be

favourite for stain removal and while it does a

brutal. Cue the curse of the sweaty yellow pits.

good job at removing even the things we didn’t

Armpit stains are difficult to look at and can be

mean for it to, liquid bleach is unfortunately not

even more difficult to remove. Heading the list

suitable for the removal of many common but

is my all time favourite combo of baking soda,

difficult stains.

white vinegar, salt and hydrogen peroxide. This is a perfect example of situations where bleach

Now unfortunately, it may already be too late

literally does not apply. Common household

for some of your favourite items of clothing but

bleach can actually make armpit stains worse.

current and future garments do not have to

Why? Because armpit stains are not actually

meet that same fate.

caused by sweat! If you’re using aluminumcontinued...

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Feature based deodorant, this might be the culprit. Your deodorant may be causing the discoloration you see when it reacts with your sweat.

2) BLOOD Life happens. Some of us deal with blood stains more often than we’d like. Surprisingly, there’s lots of ways to remove blood. The key here is to treat the stain as early as possible. Older blood stains are way more difficult to work with.

Directions:

Mix one cup of vinegar with two cups of water & let your garment soak for 30 minutes. Next, mix ½ cup baking soda with a tablespoon of salt & another tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide to form a paste. Give your garment a spin to remove as much water as possible and then apply the paste. Let this sit for about an hour and repeat if necessary.

1. Vinegar

- Let the garment sit in a

container of vinegar for five to ten minutes, then pat dry with a cloth or towel. Repeat if necessary, then wash immediately

2. Hydrogen peroxide - Works only on

fresh stains. Apply a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution directly to the stain, rinse with fresh cold water, then launder as usual.

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3. Coca Cola - This is what you go for

when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on the road. Or at home, if you have it. Aim to soak the stain in the soda overnight for best results.

3) OIL STAINS Liquid dishwashing detergent is a really effective solution to use on cooking oil stains because it is formulated to remove grease on your dishes.

4. WD-40 - Some readers might give this one the slip but if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to give it a go, treat

the stain with WD-40 while it is still fresh as a pre-treatment. Wait a few minutes and

You will only want to use it for pretreating though and then rinse it away before you wash your garment because dishwashing detergent generally makes a lot of sud.

then launder as usual. WD-40 helps to lift the blood from the fibers of the fabric. 5. Cold Saltwater - Soak the garment

in cold saltwater for 3-4 hours. Remove garment and apply liquid detergent to stain. Launder as usual.

6. Baby

Powder,

Corns tarch

Cornmeal - Make a paste of water and your choice from the trio and apply it to the

Directions:

spot. When it dries, brush away the blood

Start with your dry garment. Do not rinse the

stains. Repeat if necessary.

oily stain with water first. Apply a few drops of your best dishwashing liquid to each stain and let it soak in. Apply technique by rubbing it gently to help it work all the way through. Wait 5 minutes, and then rinse the garment with warm water. Some oil stains are pretty stubborn so repeat as necessary.

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Feature

4) TOILET BOWL STAINS Baking soda and vinegar are two of my favourite and the most useful household products whose powers when combined, create a mighty duo in the world of cleaning. Not only do they work hard, but watching them fizz when combined is still pretty entertaining. Hard water stains are a common problem and can range anywhere between easy-to-remove and “that’s it, We’re getting a new toilet.” Let’s save your pocket and the environment some heartache with this simple but effective combination.

Directions:

Pour approximately 1 cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl and give it a whirl with a toilet brush. Let it sit for about one minute. Add about 1 cup of baking soda to the toilet bowl, then add another 1 to 2 cups of vinegar. This will create the fizz we love so much. Let the solution sit for about 10 minutes. Use a toilet brush to swirl the solution around again, making sure to apply the solution onto any stains that are above the water line. Don’t flush the toilet just yet. Let the vinegar and soda solution sit for up to 30 minutes if you can. Swish it around a few more times until the stains are gone. If any stain remains, scrub it with the toilet brush or a stiff-bristled nylon brush. Flush the toilet to rinse.

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Directions:

5) GROUT CLEANER

Mix together 3/4 cups of baking soda

If you’ve got a tiled shower, you've earned

together with 1/4 cup of bleach to create

my respect. It takes a brave soul to enter

a thick paste. Using gloves and an old

into that type of relationship. Grout is just

toothbrush or similar tool of your choice,

mean. They hold onto things like a bitter

apply the paste to the dirty grout and let it

old man still grumbling about an argument

sit for about 10 minutes. You want to do this

from 1952. Grout however, is the household

in sections to avoid taking in too much of

bleach’s

the vapour they produce for too long.

redemption

this

lineup.

Personally, the combination of bleach and baking soda may just have saved my sanity. Heads up, it’s like combining fire with fire

And there have it! A stain removal hack for

so ventilate your work space as much as

every summer situation.

possible and work quickly.

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Feature

Nowhere nuh safer dan yaad -

Celebrating Independence Day at home By: Shantall Wheatley

ver the last four months we have all recognised our true strength and ability to survive

Zoom-live:

Virtual celebrations

have become the new normal.

This

alone. While quarantining due to

Independence Day, connect with friends

the coronavirus pandemic, you

and family over Zoom or another video

may have learned a new skill;

conference platform by hosting a virtual

from cooking to shaving, styling your hair

party or happy hour live stream. You can

and giving yourself a manicure or pedicure.

mount your flags, play your favourite

This is a new found independence that you

festival or reggae songs, and keep the

should continue even after the pandemic has

independence spirit alive with your

passed. On the 6 of August, 2020 Jamaica

family and friends from the comfort of

will celebrate its 58th year of independence.

your home.

While you may not be able to do it in the Grand Gala style you had hoped, you can still celebrate Independence at home. Here are a few ideas on how to keep the celebrations alive.

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2. Movie night: If you and your family prefer to have a serene Independence Day this year you can watch a movie together. Try

using

the

Netflix

party

chrome

extension. This allows you to watch the same movie simultaneously and chat with your friends and family. Here are two suggestions to add to your watch list:

t ReMastered: Who Shot the Sheriff – a documentary centred around reggae icon Bob Marley

4. Show off your cooking There is no better way to skills:

showcase your 'Jamaicaness' than to prepare an authentic Jamaican meal. This is a great family activity that everyone can be a part of and enjoy. So get out your mittens and prepare your Independence Day breakfast and dinner. While you may not be able to have your family over for a bar-be-que how about doing a curb side drop off or pick up. Take the kids on this adventure, enjoy a little family time and

t Sprinter – a movie that highlights the life of a young Jamaican boy and his dream of becoming a star athlete.

share the goodies that you prepared. This year may not gone the way you planned, but I am sure you may have learned new ways to get the things on your checklist done. This

3. Storytelling:

This Independence

Day get the kids involved and keep them entertained with some traditional storytelling. If you are worried about keeping your little ones

amused with

stories like Bredda Anansi and Annie

Independence Day challenge yourself and keep the Jamaican spirit alive by hosting a family happy hour, movie night or cook up a storm. Whatever you choose to do at home this holiday, celebrate and create new traditions. l

Palmer try using YouTube channels like “Pop Story Gimme” and “Ring Ding Again” that are dedicated to keeping this tradition alive.

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Feature

Mom, Dad… I’m ready to move out!”

By: Dwayne Berbick

Said

child

ever,

but as we

millennials approach the twilight zone, reality is quickly setting in. Whether we like it or not, an upgrade to Adulting 2.0 is inevitable. For some it’s marriage, for others its finally choosing the right pet, but for most it means the pursuit of homeownership. It’s a journey often described as complex, so we sought the help of Financial Blogger Gillian Jackson, to lay this crooked path to your own set of keys straight. A Senior Business Advisor with the Jamaica National Group, @MsGillyJ as you perhaps may know her by her Twitter

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handle, has been serving course after course of financial and wealth management nuggets to young people on the timeline. She does not consider herself a financial advisor (she is not licensed as such), however her research on different financial products and services has saved many; literally and figuratively. “I started in August 2019 but it’s something that I have been thinking about for years. I wanted to start a blog to assist persons to understand some of the processes and products related to banking and to other financial institutions and I started with mortgages because that's the

most complex loan that an individual can apply

age would be beneficial as you will get a head

for” she says.

start and be able to pay off the mortgage sooner. It's a little sacrifice early to get a larger benefit

And we are happy she did. Her blog,

in the future”.

financialcentsibility.com (cute name right?) is isthat thatone onestop stop shop shop for for many many young

And there are many other benefits to home

to manage their personal professionals trying trying to manage their

ownership that the Financial Blogger cited, to

finance. The testimonials speak for themselves. personal finance. The testimonials speak for

include security and control over your living

“People have“People let me know thatme because themselves. have let know of thata

situation and the ability to customise your living

post thatofthey saw they tooktook steps to because a post that theyeither saw they steps

space to suit your needs. What’s more, “persons

purchase a home. I amI am grateful when eveneven one to purchase a home. grateful when

who own their home do not have the threat of

person improves theirtheir knowledge because I do one person improves knowledge because

being evicted by a landlord looming over their

that that there is noisclass thatthat teaches the Irecognize do recognize there no class teaches

heads or the threat of increased rent, which

important aspects of homeownership” she tells the important aspects of homeownership” she

landlords have the right to raise by 7% each

us. us. tells

year” she adds.

On that note, we asked whether she was seeing

Millennials often complain of carrying the

more young persons becoming homeowners.

burden of expectations. That by a particular age

Like a true data scientist, she explains that her

they are expected to ‘have it together’. When it

data set at the moment only includes personal

comes to buying a house though @MsGillyJ says

testimonials but notes that the interest by young

it’s more a matter of circumstances rather than

persons is overwhelming.

age. “If you start working from very early and continued...

But why should young people consider homeownership? According to @MsGillyJ “it should definitely be considered, especially for an individual/family paying a significant portion of their income in rent. The money that is being paid in rent could be used to pay a mortgage instead. If you do decide that buying is something that you can consider, based on your lifestyle needs and the ability to afford it, then doing so from a younger

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Feature are earning a steady and stable income then

She underscores that purchasing a home is

as soon as you have the economic latitude to

a big commitment but emphasizes that the

be able to afford a mortgage in an area that's

reward is even bigger. “The commitment that

suitable for you to live in then start as early as

you make now will pay off in the long run with

possible! Think of it this way- a mortgage is

the satisfaction of home ownership. Having a

usually 30 years long. If you want to pay it off

place to call your own, having creative latitude

by the time you retire then ideally you should

to design and modify your home and having an

start before you are 30. If you can't, then that is

investment that you can pass on to your kids

ok” she explains.

etc. is a reward that comes with sacrifice”.

So what are her Top 5 t ips to prospect ive millennial homeowners?

Period.l

1..

Save about 20% of the value of the purchase price to cover deposit, fees and closing costs.

2. Do Do your your research research -- Use Use aa calculator calculatorlike likethe the

ones ones on on my my website website (financialcentsibility. (financialcentsibility. com) assist you you with to determine com) to assist determine the the payments payments and andthe thefees. fees.

3. Shop around and use a real estate agent

to help with the search (it doesn't cost you anything!).

4. Use your NHT benefit if you have one! You will save a lot of money in the long run.

If you are borrowing in excess of the NHT amount, you only have to visit your financial institution because they have a Joint Financing Mortgage Programme that processes your entire application, inclusive of the NHT portion.

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Gillian Jackson is a financial blogger. For more tips and tricks on making that big move you can visit her blog at financialcentsibility.com or follow her on Twitter @MsGillyJ.

Feature

Just chill out!

WAYS TO BEAT THE HEAT

By Kadian Chin-Matheson

he Metrological Service of Jamaica

What if your employer tells you ‘no, you can’t

has declared that this will be one of

move into your cubicle to stay cool, go home.’

the hottest summers, and if sweating

What if your planned vacation to cooler parts

through your clothes at 6 a.m. has

of the world was put on hold due to COVID-19,

not given you sufficient notice, let

and now you are trapped in the tropics.

me tell you, summer is here and it is

hot!

An immediate option to counter the heat would

If you do have an AC, but like most people, you are scared breathless thinking about the electricity bill.

be to make use of air conditioning. But, what if the AC goes out, or you aren’t fortunate enough

The question now becomes how do you beat the

to have an AC at home.

heat?!

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Feature

ONE: TAKE A COLD SHOWER

TWO: STOCK UP ON ICE

A cold shower will help to lower your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

It is easy to get dehydrated

core temperature, cooling you right down.

during the summer and

A cold shower before bed can mean the

hot water is no incentive to

difference between restful sleep and hell.

increase water intake. Add iced water to your

There is also the added benefit of invigorating

summer menu to stay hydrated. This will have

the skin and improving circulation.

the added benefit of staving off heat related illnesses. Additionally, placing ice packs at pulse points such as the temples, wrist, neck and groin will help to cool you down.

THREE: USE LIGHT CURTAINS AND BEDDING When you are hot and sweaty it is hard to get a good nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep. To reduce tossing and turning change your curtains and bedding to lighter fabric. Cotton linen is cool and breathable, and should help you keep cool while you get some sleep.

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FOUR: ADD AWNINGS

SIX: OUTDOOR COOKING

The ideal would be big leafy trees near the

Summer is for the outdoors and summer nights

house providing shade and glorious breeze.

are the best to get some fresh air and do some

Unfortunately, we do live in the Caribbean and

cooking. As cooking inside increases the heat

summer does mean trimming trees as part of

and humidity in the house, maximize the use

our hurricane preparedness exercise. As an

of those grills, BBQs or coal stoves to prepare

alternative, install awnings. While there is an

meats and vegetables.

initial installation cost, there is no recurrent monthly expense. The awning will provide

Instead of heavy stews and soups try simple

shade over windows and doors and help to cool

light meals such as salads, fruits, sandwiches or

down the house.

cold meats. Changing your diet to beat the heat will also help to maintain your summer body, if

Some awnings can be used to batten down

you were lucky enough to get one in the first

windows during a hurricane.

place, post-COVID.

continued...

FIVE: AIR THE HOUSE During the days, before you go to work, close the windows and doors. Limit the ‘greenhouse effect’ for windows that face the sun during the day by closing the drapes, curtains or shutters or install UV filters. When you get home in the evening open the windows and doors to air the house and create a draught throughout. This is known as ‘free cooling’. Turn on a fan to help circulate the cooler air. Switch off unnecessary heat sources. Use shaded lamps instead of overhead bulbs to lessen heat sources.

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Feature

SEVEN: MIST YOURSELF A DIY mister is also a viable option to stay cool during the summer. Place a spray bottle in your refrigerator to chill. After whatever activity you did outside in the unforgiving heat, spray yourself with the cool water.

EIGHT: FAN, FAN, FAN Whether or not you have air conditioning, get a FAN! It is impossible to over stress this. Remember, if you do have air conditioning, fans can be used to circulate the chilled air in a space. Fans come in all shapes and sizes. They can be powered by electricity or battery. They are also portable, easy to move from room to room; some can also be worn on your person. Some brands offer modern innovations such as voice control, smart thermostat or mobile app control. Some fans can also span up to 84 inches in diameter.

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NINE: GET THE GADGETS If the fans and air conditioning arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t working, get the gadgets. One possible option is a non-air conditioning system such as Geizeer, which uses a large fan to blow air onto an ice pack, to cool a small area. Another option to try is a cooling vest. The vest is immersed in water and the special fabric absorbs the water. Air passing over the waterproof jacket, causing the water to slowly evaporate cooling the surface of the jacket and the wearer.

TEN: SPICY FOOD If all else fails, eat spicy foods. It might sound counterproductive but hear me out. Eating spicy food causes an initial flush of heat through your body which causes your skin to sweat. Air makes contact with sweat on your skin which lowers the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s temperature. Whichever way you decide to stay cool this summer, remember to have fun and stay safe. l

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Expert Article

LOVE It or LIST It ?? By Winston Roberts

o you have been living in your home for quite some time. You may be ready to start a family or maybe the kids have left the nest and your once crowded home feels too large. Whatever the

scenario, your dream of living in a home that you love should always be a reality. This may be achieved by either listing your existing home for sale and relocating or continuing to love your home and renovate it. Before making your decision, let us take you through a few considerations that will make your decision a little easier.

continued...

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continued...

1. KNOW WHAT YOU WANT

A real estate agent - They will advise you on what it would take to list your

You need to begin by asking yourself "What

home and based on their experience

do I really want?". Make a list of all the things

with current market conditions, provide

in your present home that you have fallen out

you with an estimate of what your new

of love with. Some of these may include the

home may cost. Additionally, they will

deterioration of the community, the kitchen

advise you if the current market condition

space being too small, limited number of

is suitable to list your home. As you can

bedrooms, the list could go on.

imagine, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the real estate industry will

In addition to the list above, make another

be present in their mind.

list that details the must haves of your dream home or reasons to stay in your current home.

With this information you will be able to

The list can include things like proximity to

answer the following questions:

the central business district, preservation of sentimental value of your present home, and ability to earn extra income. Compare both lists to see which outweighs the other.

2. SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE

1. Will I be able to find a home that matches all my must haves? 2. If I were to sell my present home could I afford that new home?

After you have outlined your “must haves” in a home, it is important to obtain professional advice, to assess if your existing home can satisfy those needs with renovation, or whether you should list your home in a bid to purchase another that’s best suited for you. You can consult the expertise of:

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Expert Article

LOVE It or LIST It ? -

A an engineer, engineer, an an A general general contractor, contractor, an architect or any building architect or any other other qualified qualified building

Whicheveroption option choose, there Whichever youyou choose, there may be may obligations be legal obligations that will be legal that you will beyou required to

ifyour yourpresent presenthome homecan can be be renovated renovated to This to become become your your dream dream home. home. This

authority(ies) to carry out may renovation. carry out renovation. There also be There may thecertain need to carry out the need toalso carrybeout legal actions

professional may provide provide you you with with great great professional may support to review reviewyour yourlist listand and advise support to advise if

assessment should include include an an estimate estimate assessment should for costs and and whether whether for the the total total renovation renovation costs the the proposed proposed renovations renovations are are structurally structurally viable. viable.

required to assatisfy, such asneed the possible satisfy, such the possible to obtain to obtain a permit from the relevant aneed permit from the relevant authority(ies) to

certain legal actions to and perfect the sellingof to perfect the selling purchasing purchasing of a home. To ensure aand home. To ensure your dream doesyour not dream does not become a nightmare, become a nightmare, be sure to get the be sure get the advice of competent advice of to competent professionals. professionals.

3. CAN YOU AFFORD TO LOVE IT OR LIST IT? At this stage you you should should now now be be mindful mindful of the price for for which which you you may may sell sell your your home, or buy a new new home, home, and and the the costs costs to to renovate your home. With With this this information information itit is important that you assess the theoption optionthat that suits your financial inancial situation. One analysis may discern that it may not be prudent to renovate a home at a cost that is greater than the market value of the home. In this instance, it may be best to relocate; but then, does the sentimental value of -

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your present home create that balance to renovate?

Whatever your response is, it is important

on purchasing a home that will require

that a rigorous analysis of all the possible

renovation it may take some time before

scenarios be carried out to ensure that

your dream becomes reality.

whether you love it or list it, you will not regret your choice. As such, be sure to contact the National Housing Trust to verify if you qualify for their Home Improvement Loan or loan products to purchase a home.

4. HOW LONG CAN YOU WAIT? It is important for you to know how long you can wait until your dream becomes a reality. Renovations may take several months to be completed subject to the technicality of the scope of works and whether there

TIME TO MAKE THAT DECISION

is proper management of the works. It

The decision can only be made after much

will require a lot of energy and patience.

consideration regarding what is best

So, if you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stand the heat of the

suited for your circumstances. Whichever

construction process, especially while you

option you choose, it should result in your

are residing in the construction zone, the

dream becoming a reality.

option to renovate may not be right for you. Listing your home and relocating may be less stressful and may be completed within a shorter time frame, especially if you plan on relocating into to a turnkey home. However, if you are planning

Love It or List It? itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all up to you!

Winston Roberts is a Project Management Consultant. He can be contacted at winston. roberts@live.com

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NHT News

NHT Left: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Show me yuh keyâ&#x20AC;?- Prime Minister, The Most Honourable Andrew Holness shares in the excitement as new homeowners show off their keys at a handing over ceremony at the SilverSun Estate

2. (Right) NHT beneficiaries, Mark Chin and

Donna Chippy beaming with pride after receiving their letters of possession for their lots at Creighton Hall, St. Thomas.

Above: Prime Minister, The Most Honourable Andrew Holness congratulates a new homeowner and her son.

Above: Prime Minister, The Most Honourable Andrew Holness shares a light moment with then Minister without Portfolio with responsibility for Water, Housing and Infrastructure Senator Pearnel Charles Jr., NHT Board Member Nesta-Claire Hunter and NHT Managing Director Martin Miller at a handing over ceremony for the Darliston and Shrewsbury communities in Westmoreland.

Left: Symbolic

Groundbreaking at Hummingbird Meadows

Left: Prime Minister, The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Member of Parliament for South Central St. Catherine, Dr. Andrew Wheatley (left) , NHT Chairman Lennox Channer (second left) and West Indies Home Contractors Limited Chairman Peter Melhado (right) cut the ribbon with a new homeowner at the handing over ceremony of the SilverSun Estate, Innswood, St. Catherine. 6 4 H O M E & A W AY

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Feature

Wicker away! By: Rochelle Bonitto

o you have bought your little piece of paradise in Jamaica and you are now faced with the task of furnishing the space. Why not “WICKER"?

Wicker has held its position over the years and have popped up in very glamourous home decors, from the iconic Peacock Chairs in the 17th century to the rocking chairs and plant holders in contemporary spaces today. The word ‘wicker’ is believed to be of Scandinavian origin. This multi-faceted area of craft has been documented as far back as ancient Egypt. It is believed that Moses was

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placed in a wicker basket as a baby and put to float on the River Nile where he was found by Pharaoh’s daughter. As a result, there is a baby basinet called the “Moses Basket” which is very sought after and is available on popular online market places such as Amazon, EBay and Etsy. Wicker is a globally accepted craft made from material such as paper, rattan, bamboo, cane and seagrass. In recent times there has been an upsurge of imitation wicker made from strips of plastic. The decision to purchase wicker furniture made from natural or plastic material is dependent on the space in which you intend to furnish. If the area is prone to mold or mildew it is recommended that the synthetic wicker is used. However, wicker made from natural material offers a certain distinct vibe especially in tropical countries, such as Jamaica. Nothing compares to that inviting feeling that is conveyed in a natural wicker-based decorated environment, it adds a rustic accent without compromising modernity, elegance and beauty. Wicker, due to its intricate texture, maintains a certain personality and charm that communicates a feeling of “no worries man”.

Certainly, too

much wicker may be overbearing but just enough in the form of a few pieces of furniture and artwork will have your space feeling easy like Sunday morning every day of the week. Imagine a few wicker artwork pieces being mounted on a wall in designated areas of your home or vacation villa, especially on your patio and close to large continued...

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Feature

windows. It only makes perfect sense since most persons sit on patios to relax. Indeed, wicker has a way with influencing paradise. Wicker furniture is also easier to maintain and move around, in comparison to bulkier furniture items. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to explore and wicker a way!

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Feature

Staycation 2020

By: Shantall Wheatley

et setting to a spontaneous faraway waterfront locale may not be on your calendar this summer, but what about home décor? This summer, how about regenerating your

energy

and

transforming

your sanctuary into something that makes you completely comfortable and relaxed. You can revel in a luxurious staycation by booking a trip to your favourite home and garden and furnishing store. While you are quarantined in your safe havens this summer lets diseño (design), by exploring some ways in which you can transform your sanctuary with new décor. continued...

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Feature

1. Get a little ret ro; mix t he old wit h t he new –

2. Splash –

. Give your room life by adding a little colour. Make your bedroom,

Rekindle your modern designs with a touch

kitchen or living room your destination this

of tradition to create a chic and stylish

season and get summer time fine from

design. TEMZA Interior designs & Build

the comfort of your home.

Studio recommends layering old and new

approach is to wake up your room or even

while adding a personal and unique touch

your cabinets with color. A great idea is to

to get the perfect spring redesign. One

paint an accent wall. Accent walls are the

example of this is patterned wallpaper.

perfect style update for a dull room.

The simplest

Believe it or not, this is a new tune that you should definitely consider singing this

Bold colors are the new neutral this season.

summer. This relatively traditional décor has

According to the colour classification system

recently made its way back into the home

Pantone, Classic Blue is the color of the

design space so consider taking advantage

year. We have seen a lot of firsts this year so

of this trend to bring that summertime feel

consider trying something new this summer.

indoors. They are great statement pieces in

Classic Blue brings a sense of peace and

small spaces such as your powder room.

tranquility to the human spirit, and aids in concentration. This may be just what you need this summer.

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4. Be Bold –

Don’t be afraid

to stand out, let your design speak volumes. Allow your creativity and experimental persona to create a bold new look. How about a royal bedroom? This design is actually trending this summer. Try transforming your bed with canopy. Canopy beds have taken on a new persona and no longer need to

Sus tain t hings –

be draped in heavy fabrics and chunky Keep it

headboards, modern versions are now

chic and classy while giving back to nature.

made with acrylic, metal, and sleek

This season explore eco-friendly details like

upholstered frames. This may just be

bamboo hardwood flooring, smart home

what you need this summer to create

technology, and earth-conscious lighting.

your very own hotel suite.

This will give your home a warm earthy element. Interior decorators from Signature Design Kitchen and Bath recommend taking advantage of the trending Natural, Rattan, Rugs, Wicker and Woven décor this spring.

Instead of worrying about what you are unable to do this summer how about refocusing that energy on something you can do. Take on the challenge, broaden your horizon and do some interior decorating. Try some of these ideas in one or all rooms in your home and don’t forget to be bold and brave. Create your own staycation destination and add that to your resume. l

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Feature

SUN’S Out, Thumb’s Out By: Jae-Anne Bell

f plants would rather curl up and die than

plants are rooting for us to win at this whole

live with you, this is definitely for you.

gardening thing. They actually allow us to set

This may come as shock but plant care is

them and almost forget them. And they’re not

actually supposed to be pretty fulfilling.

mad about it! No shade here.

Consider this your gardening life jacket. Grab on tight with those brown thumbs

‘cause you’re in for a hot and dirty ride’.

These are my top 5 recommendations of plants that thrive in direct sunlight. You can readily find them at your local plant or garden supply

There’s a subset of plants that are a brown

store. In fact, many of them you may remember

thumb’s redemption. These are flora that not

passing very often. Let’s take a look at these

only do well in direct sunlight but in fact require

unsung garden heroes:

it. Amazing, I know! In other words, these

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1. Crown of Thorns

3. Duranta Gold

And we’re we’re off off to to a And a regal regal start start with with the the Euphorbia Euphorbia Milii, known as the Crown of Thorns. Milii, known as the Crown of Thorns. Typically Typically

This plant celebrity can be found along many

found in in hues hues of of red, found red, yellow yellow and and pink, pink, the the Crown Crown of Thorns is a soldier in the fight against of Thorns is a soldier in the fight against plant plant death. The The Crown Crown of of Thorns death. Thorns is is actually actually aa cactus cactus and does well in even the poorest of soils and does well in even the poorest of soils only only

requiring adequate adequatewater water drainage. Set requiring drainage. Set your your Crown to sit itwhere it will getofplenty of Crown to sit where will get plenty sunlight sunlight andlong, before long, you’ll be or thequeen king or and before you’ll be the king of queen of gardening. gardening.

walkways and featured along the walls lining many gardens. Duranta is an extremely easy-togrow shrub in tropical climates and well-drained, moist, fertile soils. They won’t even be mad at sandy soils so bring on the challenge for this champion. With its dense leaf structure, Duranta Gold is easily pruned into almost any shape you desire. They can be used to create interesting focal points on lawns and gardens. Full sunlight and lots of water are the only things they require. If for any reason, they start to wilt, they may just be quietly gesturing that they’d like some water. They usually bounce right back after a good swim like most of us do in the summer.

2. Bougainvillea Thought the Crown of Thorns was cool? Bougainvilleas adore sunlight EVEN MORE than Crown of Thorns! Don’t be fooled by their delicate looking flowers or unsuspecting charm, bougainvilleas are b-b-b-bad-to-the-bone. They require a minimum of five hours just sitting out in the sunlight. If they get anything less, they may not bloom very well at all. Bougainvilleas are literally begging you to leave them hanging... out in the sun!

4. Silver buttonwood The Conocarpus Erectus, gets its more commonly known name, Silver Buttonwood, from the layer of soft white hairs covering its leaves and the brownish-red fruits it bears that look like buttons. Never make the mistake of underestimating the soft hairy Silver Buttonwood plants, because they are able to grow well in difficult soils. Buttonwoods make beautiful hedges and are an excellent plant to use in seaside settings because of its high tolerance for salty air and soil. Talk about a triple threat!

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Feature Now youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re off to a great start! Use this guide to show everyone that even brown thumbs can be redeemed with a little strategy. There are many more plants that prefer brown thumbs and hours of sunlight to grow and bloom well. Remember, this is your chance to become gardening royalty. Regularly be on the lookout for more plants that just soak up the sun and you might just become its successful new plant dad or mom. l

5. Yellow Bell

My personal favourite, the Yellow Bell is also called by the name, Allamanda, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got sunshine written all over it. Commonly found in varieties of yellow, the flowers of this plant are also found in arrays of pink. Allamandas grow in full sun and moist, well-drained soil to keep it happiest. Without direct sunlight, the Allamanda plant will still grow but it won't bloom well. Bonus points for the Yellow Bell because this flowering shrub is drought and forgetfulness tolerant. For the first few months at home, it's best to try to remember to keep it well watered though, to get it settled into life with you, of course.

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Feature Feature

Child

proofing

your Living Room By: Lajuane Thomas or many of us, most of our time at home is spent in the living room; that central space that often functions as entertainment area, theatre and playroom. It is forever the space where life happens in the

F home.

scamps seek out adventure and never fail to find ingenious uses for our mundane pieces. Whether it is converting the sofa into a trampoline or meting out discipline to our glass centre pieces. Albeit, the only crime our pieces may be guilty of is accentuating our space.

True to form, adding a child to the equation requires general adjustment. These curious

So, the question is, how do we maintain comfort and style while keeping the living continued...

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Feature

room safe from the little inquisitors? After all, we find ingenious ways to protect the resilient bundles of joy, but who protects the home? We, from Home & A Way, have come up with some simple recommendations to transform the living room into a child-friendly space, without sacrificing style:

Coloured walls – moving away from white walls is a big step. Colour not only makes a statement it also creates an ambience. Let’s be honest, like myself, I'm sure you too have realised that properly maintaining white walls is a strain. I dare say that it may even be outside of human ability. More importantly, colour hides the evidence when kids decide to use walls as an outlet for their creativity – never mind the books and papers we provide them with.

Child safety – putting in general safety measures can help to ensure the logevity of your living room and safety of your young 'chargie'. Simple tricks like installing socket protectors, ensuring wires are out of sight and reach and relocating breakables will go a far way keeping the space tidy.

Change the layout – repositioning furniture is also a useful strategy. Arranging the furniture along the walls acts as an added layer of protection for the walls as well as creates added space. Larger space in the centre of the room means the kids have a wider area for their adventures and will be better governed by your vigilant sweeps of the area (fulfilling the required role of a ninja that comes with childcare).

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Feature

Child-friendly furnishings -

Do low-impact activities -

catering to your youngster does not mean sacrificing style. There are designs that can provide the best of both worlds. One such option is furniture coverings to protect and accentuate the space. Additionally, increasing the soft furnishings, such as rugs, cushions and throw pillows, can really add that je ne sais quoi.

although you may want the little one to get in their quota of daily physical activities, there are other ways to build their cognitive and motor skills while indoors. Fun can be found in reading together, building pillow forts, putting together puzzles and telling stories. Or, give them the chance to wow you with a conversation, or their creativity with washable markers, fudge sticks, glue and giant loose paper.

Teaching life skills not to be confused with child labour, letting them help out around the house is also a great balance of practical and fun lessons. Let them help to put away their toys, share in some the light kitchen work, like baking brownies or making smoothies. After all, learning to feed oneself is always a useful skill.

Now that you have created a safe space, without sacrificing style, how do you keep them busy? Well, there are some ideas that your child (and living room) will thank you for:

These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg in helping you to balance between your youngsters and your living space, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great place to start. Excited about the possibilities? Look out for the next issue of the Home & A Way as we continue to explore the promising options that come with your home. l

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Feature

What to do on Lockdown! By Shauna-Gae Clarke

"What do I do?" Was Was the the cry cry of of many many persons persons who who were were forced into quarantine quarantineduedue to global the forced into to the global COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 pandemic. During During lockdown, lockdown, many many of of us us struggled struggledto to cope the reality reality that that life life as aswe weknew knewit cope with with the itliterally literally came to a standstill. At the came to a standstill. At the beginning beginning of us enjoyed may have enjoyed the some of ussome may have the ‘free time’, ‘free time’, as rolled the days on, we but as thebut days on, rolled we started to started to and grow boredhaving and nothing restless, grow bored restless, to having do! This led to feelings do! Thisnothing led to to feelings of restlessness and of restlessness and sometimes defeat. sometimes defeat.

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Well, I am happy we made it to the other side and now have this opportunity to share some things you can do to pass time, if we ever have to endure another lockdown …….

Yikes!

f Learn a New Skill

f Get to know the Family Again There I said it! With our fast paced, repetitive lifestyles of waking up, going to work and/or school, running a business, doing everything else in between, doing chores, taking care of the family’s needs, it can leave little to no

There is an infinite number of academic and

room for spending quality time together . I

technical skills available for your learning

hope that during the lockdown (and with all

pleasure. During the lockdown, many of

the members of the family being at home

these were made accessible to anybody

at the same time) families used the time to

who wanted to be engaged and learn

get to know each other again. Spending

something new; and get this, they were free!

meaningful time together, brings happiness

Courses were being offered by many top

and strength to the family unit.

local and international institutions, including universities and even culminated with official certification. Now that is a very productive way to pass time while updating your resume!

f Get Creative in the Kitchen

f Make a Business Plan Remember that diary you stashed away in a safe place with all your business ideas that you couldn’t find the time to develop because of your priorities? Thanks to the lockdown, many businesses were born because time

Many of us have many hidden talents,

became abundant. There is always a benefit

including ‘Top Chef’, if only we had the time.

to be derived from even our most challenging

Well, the next time you are on lockdown,

adversities.

throw on your apron, heat the oven, mix those ingredients together and get creative in the kitchen. Be sure to share those new recipes and delicious meal ideas with your friends.

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Feature

f Make it Fun Excited about art in any form? Well, there are many ways in which you and your family can create beautiful art, whether via writing, painting,

drawing,

sculpting,

singing,

dancing, building, creating content for a blog, establishing a YouTube channel and the list goes on. You can make it organized by scheduling your projects and activities by days or weeks. With the many options available, you will never run out of things to do.

f Rejuvenate A little bit of R and R (rest and relaxation) goes a long way in helping the body to recharge and rebuild. Many persons rarely have the luxury of fulsome rejuvenation of mind and body. Commit to finishing a book, exercising, catching up on sleep orâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;Ś doing absolutely nothing. When you do find yourself with a bit of free time, just relax!

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My own place and space: A Millennial's Dream “Stop buying avocado toast if you want to buy a home” The most controversial statement of 2017? The most controversial statement of 2017? Maybe not. Maybe not. Controversial enough to infuriate millennials globally...definitely. Controversial enough to infuriate millennials globally...definitely. Australian developer

and

year-old

Australian developer 35 year-old multimulti-millionaire Tim and Gurner sent tongues millionaire when Tim Gurner sent tongues wagging wagging he quipped that millennial when he quipped that millennial homeownership homeownership goals were being thwarted goalsto were being thwarted to their penchant due their penchant fordue store bought ‘pear for store bought ‘pear and bread’. and bread’. Persons were not having it, why? Persons were not having it, why? Firstly, millionaire, that is all.

By: Danielle Edwards

It discredits effort of manyofmillennials Secondly, it the discredits thesoeffort so many making sacrifices break intotothe housing millennials makingtosacrifices break into market whilemarket still trying the housing while to stillbalance trying toeveryday balance expenses expenses and debt and repayment. everyday debt repayment. The statement statement also also reminded reminded us us that that there there is is The a pervasive pervasive narrative narrative that that millennials, millennials, when when a compared to to previous previous generations generations are are frivolous frivolous compared with their their spending spending habits. habits. with The truth truth is, is, most most millennials millennials are are The taking the the plunge plunge into into real real estate. estate. taking

desirous of of desirous As a a matter matter As

of fact, fact, thanks thanks to to millennials millennials there there is is a a seismic seismic of shift within within the the housing housing market. market. According According to to shift global trends, trends, millennials millennials represent represent the the largest largest global share of of the the home home buying buying market market for for the the past past share five years. years. five Millennials may may be be showing showing up up later later to to the the Millennials game than than their their parents, parents, but but the the fact fact is is they they are are game showing up up and and continue continue to to do do so. so. showing The National National Housing Housing Trust, Trust, NHT NHT continues continues to to The partner with with thousands thousands of of millennials millennials to to finance finance partner places and and spaces spaces to to call call their their very very own. own. places With several several loan loan financing financing options options available, available, With there is is something something for for everyone everyone and and quite quite a a there few millennials millennials are are turning turning to to the the NHT’s NHT’s Joint Joint few Finance Mortgage MortgageProgramme, Programme, JFMP. Joint The Finance JFMP.The continued... H O M E & A W AY

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Feature Financewas JFMP Mortgage established was in established 2003 andinallows 2003

H.A.A:Congratulations, H.A.A: Congratulations,you you purchased purchased a

and allows contributors contributors to secure more that require financing. additional Under

house! It is such a significant step, especially

funding the Programme, to applythe directly contributor to anywill of be theable ten

as aa young youngadult. professional. When didWhen you decide did you to

participating to access their institutions NHT entitled for loans amount financed at the

decide purchase to and purchase what motivated and what motivated your decision? your

by theinterest NHT NHT. Inrates other and words, that amount the contributor will be

decision?

applicable that the contributor NHT interest borrows rates. from This amount any of

G.H: It may be hard to believe but I knew that I wanted to hard purchase a home early G.H: It may be to believe butasI knew

will 10 the be partner combined financial with whatever institutions additional at their

as myI wanted teenageto years. Whileamost teenagers that purchase home as early

amounts rate. interest that the Repayment contributor is made borrows to from the

were with the people next big thing, as my consumed teenage years.Many may not

the participating partner institution.institution at their interest

I was realise familiarising the housing even but amyself housewith is possibly one

rate. Repayment is made to the participating

market and ifwhat the only possibilities were. of the few, not the investment thatI

will get his/with combined herwhatever NHT entitled additional amount amounts at the

institution. Home and A Way

(H.A.A)

sat with one such

spent much inofvalue my free appreciates overtime time.browsing Thereforereal for

millennial homeowner and environmentalist

estate websites. As Irepresented matured I realised that me, owing a home more than

Home Way (H.A.A)her sathomeownership with one such Giselleand Hall A(G.H) to share millennial homeowner and environmentalist journey.

purchasing earlier would mean just a space ato house reside but an opportunity to cheaper monthly repayments. build generational wealth. .

Giselle Hall (G.H) to share her homeownership journey.

Many people may not even but a While most teenagers wererealise consumed housethe is possibly of the few, if not the with next big one thing, I was familiarising only investment that appreciates in value myself with the housing market and what overpossibilities time. Therefore home the were.forI me, spentowing mucha of my represented more thanreal just estate a space websites. to reside free time browsing but I an opportunity to build generational As matured I realized that purchasing a wealth.earlier would mean cheaper monthly house repayments.

H.A.A: How long did it take for you to save for your home? H.A.A: How long did it take for you to

save for your home?

G.H:

It took me approximately six years. I

Iwas wasblessed blessedto tosecure secureaa job job after after I graduated from university. Once I earned my first salary when I was85% promoted I started started saving. to put Even approximately into a and began earning moreofI 6tried to keep savings account overaabit period years. Even my expenses the same. and began earning when I was promoted Giselle Hall enjoying a relaxing afternoon with her pet cat Peachy

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a bit more I tried to keep my expenses the same.

H.A.A: must have the budgeting skills H.A.A: YouYoumust have the budgeting skills of

of a whiz kid. How did you manage to save so a whiz kid. How did you manage to save so much and still survive? much and still survive?

G.H: Life is about balance however saving for G.H: Life is about balance however saving for a

a home requires sacrifice. At a very young age home requires sacrifice. At a very young age it it was instilled in me that “if yuh want good, yuh was instilled in me that “if yuh want good, yuh nose haffi run”. When I have a goal, I remain nose haffi run”. When I have a goal, I remain very focused. Instead of spending at the salon I very focused. Instead of spending at the salon I learned to do my hair and nails. I carried lunch learned to do my hair and nails. I carried lunch to work almost every day, when persons were to work almost every day. Whenever I did go going out on a weekly basis, I often I opted to out I ensured to stick to my budget. stay in because I knew it would have cost me

significantly. When I did go out I ensured the H.A.A: What were some of the steps you meal I had was something I budgeted for. took or would advise someone to take before commencing the search process?

many financial institutions like the NHT

f have Have an open mind. mortgage calculators on their website

So many people enter the search with a rigid which makes the calculation process easier. idea of what they would like and sometimes

not what you will be able to afford. f that’s Have an open mind.

My experience taught me that no house So many people enter the search with a rigid will tick all the boxes. So the rooms may idea of what they would like and sometimes be great but the bathroom fixtures require that’s not what you will be able to afford. My updating or the living room is a little small experience taught me that no house will tick but the kitchen is great. Unless you are all the boxes. So the rooms may be great building a home to your own specifications, but the bathroom fixtures require updating no house will be perfect. It is important or the living room is a little small but the that young professionals realise that there kitchen is great. Unless you are building is nothing wrong with a fixer upper. They your own home to your own specifications, are cheaper and you can make the changes no house will be perfect. It is important to the property over time. Homeownership that young professionals realise that there is never a sprint, it is a continuous journey. is nothing wrong with a fixer upper. They

are cheaper and you can make the changes H.A.A: What were some of the steps you G.H: H.A.A: Was the house hunting process quick to the property over time. Homeownership took or would advise someone to take before f Get your pre-approval letter from the andiseasy? What was your experience? never a sprint, it is a continuous journey. . commencing the search process? NHT.

G.H: My process took about six months and H.A.A: Was the house hunting process quick G.H: f Have an idea of what you want and can and some persons may think that’s a long time easy? What was your experience? f afford. Get your pre-approval letter from the however the house hunting process can last

NHT It is so important to have an idea of what

you want and can afford. If your priority is

f Have an idea of what you can afford. privacy and yard space, then an apartment

It is so important to have an idea of what you may not be for you. With regards to what want and what can afford. If your priority is you can afford, know your budget and stick privacy and yard space then an apartment to it. I had created a payment schedule may not be for you. With regards to what in excel to work out what my monthly you can afford, know your budget and stick payments would be like if I bought a house to it. I had created an amortization schedule at varying prices and how long it would take in excel to work out what my monthly me to repay. This gave me an idea of my payments would be like if I bought a house monthly mortgage payments. Additionally, a varying prices and how long it would take many financial institutions like the NHT me to repay. This gave me an idea of my have mortgage calculators on their website monthly mortgage payments. Additionally, which makes the calculation process easier.

for up to two years. I had a great realtor who G.H: My process took about six months and

was patient and understood what I was looking some persons may think that’s a long time for so that helped to shorten the period of however the house hunting process can last searching. So, if you are going to work with a for up to two years. I had a great realtor who realtor ensure that they are not solely focused was patient and understood what I was looking on the business aspect of ‘selling houses’ but for so that helped to shorten the period of they actually make it a priority to understand searching. So, if you are going to work with a who you are, the reasons you are pursuing realtor ensure that they are not solely focused homeownership and where you see yourself in on the business aspect of ‘selling houses’ but 10 years. they actually make it a priority to understand who you are, the reasons you are pursuing continued... homeownership and where you see yourself in 10 years. continued... H O M E & A W AY

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H.A.A.: That two year search is the truth! It’s great onlysearch needed H.A.A: Thatthat twoyou year is six themonths. truth!

after that you found the needed house, you It’sSogreat you only six fianced months.it Joint Programme. Sousing afterthe youNHT’s found theMortgage house, you fianced it What was that Joint aspectMortgage of the process like? using the NHT’s Programme.

What was that aspect of the process like? Let’s just say I am an even prouder

G.H: NHTLet’s contributor the G.H: just sayhaving I am benefitted an even from prouder Programme. I was ablebenefitted to supplement my NHT contributor having from the NHT loan with a loan financial Programme. I was ablefrom to another supplement my

institution. Thea NHT’s portion coupled with NHT loan with loan from another financial their lowThe interest rates made mywith monthly institution. NHT’s portion coupled their payments feasible. I had burrowed the low interest rates madeIfmy monthly payments entire Ifsum my financial feasible. I hadfrom burrowed the entire institution sum from theother monthly payments wouldthe have been the financial institution, monthly unbearable. payments would have been unbearable. With regards to loan the process, loan process, I was With regards to the I was happy happy that I didn’t to visit the NHT. that I didn’t have to visithave the NHT.

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The financial institution was able to process bothfinancial their portion andwas the able NHT’s in The institution to sum process house, talk about and efficiency! There is so much both their portion the NHT’s sum in house, “upabout and efficiency! down” involved the purchasing talk There isinso much “up and process, one less place to visit is time saved. down” involved in the purchasing process, one Additionally, I like isthe factsaved. that myAdditionally, mortgage less place to visit time justthe onefact monthly payment. I islike that my mortgage is just one monthly payment. This is why contributing is important, youismay this money being deducted This why see contributing is important. You may from your salary and wonder why is see this money being deducted from ityour even necessary, butif ititis!is You know salary and wonder evennever necessary. whattruth the is, future your You dream of The it isholds very where important. never homeownership concerned, think big. know what the isfuture holds sowhere your Additionally, your contributions are like a dream of homeownership is concerned. Your savings tool, ifare youalso don’t access your benefit, contributions like a savings tool, if the refunds are available. You can also transfer you don’t access your benefit, the refunds are your benefits to assist your children, so you available. You can also transfer your benefits to really can’t lose. assist your children, so you really can’t lose.

H.A.A: So after the process was completed, H.A.A afterwork the process was completed, and the : So paper approved, can you

After I purchased the house I wasn’t able to Yes. After I purchasedand the that’s house ok! I wasn’t able furnish immediately I didn’t

your keys?

G.H:

months after purchase. slept on aan air mattress beforethe I was able to Ipurchase bed. mattressofbefore I was purchase a bed. Instead a stove useable a 3toburner hotplate,

I was ecstatic. After years of hard work my dream had finally After realised. years of When hard work myopened dream the haddoors, finally been I finally

a sofa, spring fold out and chairs. Yourdon’t family and friends will for understand if they it and be friends understand if they don’t may time will to evaluate yourand friendships. Don’tit

and the the paper work when approved, can got you describe moment you finally describe your keys?the moment when you finally got Glad bag buss! Glad bag buss! I was ecstatic.

to furnish immediately and that’s ok! commence the furnishing process untilI adidn’t few commence a few months afterthe thefurnishing purchase.process I slept until on an air

Instead aofmini a stove a 3aren’t burner possibly fridge.use If you able hotplate, to afford a mini for fridge. you aren’t afford apossibly sofa, spring foldIf out chairs.able Yourtofamily

realized. When I finally opened Ibeen ran through the house, up and down the the doors stairs I ran Ithrough the house, upofand stairs and screamed. It is one thedown best the feelings

may be time to evaluate friendships. Don’t be embarrassed, you areyour in your OWN home, be what embarrassed, you are your OWN do you can when youincan afford to. home,

and I to screamed.. is one theowner best feelings ever, know thatIt you areofthe of real ever, toIt’sknow owner Iof real estate. minethat andyou I canare dothe whatever want.

f With a home comes responsibility.

It’s mine and I can do about whatever I want. Iestate. never have to be concerned a landlord I never have to an be concerned aboutposition a landlord placing me in uncomfortable or placingme me notice. in an uncomfortable position to or giving You are just required giving me You payments. are just required to maintain ournotice. mortgage When you maintain our you mortgage payments. you own a home walk different, talkWhen different own you a home you walkabout different, talk different and feel different yourself and the and you feel different about yourself and we the world. Sometimes we delay a goal because world. Sometimes delay we believe that it maywetake tooa goal long because to achieve believe that will it may too so long achieve but the time passtake anyway just to start, with but the will pass anyway what youtime have and where you so are.just start, with what you have and where you are.

H.A.A: So after the process was completed, H.A.A: is palpable,can is there and the Your paperexcitement work approved, you is any other advice that describe the moment whenyou youthink finallyyoung got professionals could benefit from? your keys?

G.H:ffDon’t Don’tfeel feelpressured pressured into into fully fully G.H: furnishing your home. furnishing your home.

do what you can when you can afford to. Homeownership isis wonderful a wonderful it requires Homeownership butbut it requires a responsibility. So remember to conserve on high level of financial responsibility. Conserve utilities and other with on utilities and otherexpenses. expenses Remember, as best you can. the right mindset andright healthy spending habits, Remember, with the mindset and healthy homeownership possible. spending habits, is homeownership is possible. Giselle’s story story isis one one of of the the thousands thousands of of Giselle’s stories about about millennial millennial homeownership homeownership right right stories here in Jamaica. The NHT recognises your your here NHT recognises sacrifices and and hard hard work work and and we we believe believe that that sacrifices every Jamaican, Jamaican, young young or or old old deserves deserves the the every opportunity to to create create their their very very own own space space to to opportunity call home. home. Who Who knows, knows, our our next next feature feature could could call be you! you! be So let’s let’s JOIN JOIN you you on on this this journey journey because because this this So isn’t just just about about turning turning aa key, key, it’s it’s about about building building isn’t legacy. aa legacy.

To find more about the NHT's Joint Finance Mortgage Programme and other products and services visit our website at www.nht.gov.jm.

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Expert Article

Sparking

Learning at home

By: Brittany Singh Williams

e have all spent the last few

month’s

navigating

the uncharted territory of a global pandemic and its effects on the “homework-life” balance.

are challenged to ensure we stay healthy, financially provide for our families, maintain emotional stability and master a new job as a “teacher”. With the closure of physical schools, the Ministry of Education, Youth & Information has attempted to provide equitable and

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quality learning opportunities. While they cannot guarantee access to hardware such as tablets or Wi-Fi for all students, they have provided “enrichment” lessons where possible. This has led many families to take schooling into their own hands or in some cases, waving the white flag and giving up on the idea of schooling all together. The shift has left many parents and caregivers feeling overwhelmed by the very thought of having to “play school” for a few more months. We can’t change this reality but we can attempt to make the most of this homeschooling experience. But first:

Stop, Take a Deep Breath, Repeat “I got this!” and; Follow these steps to make learning fun and bearable. continued...

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Expert Article

CURATE A LEARNING SPACE Children need a dedicated area in the home that is not only comfortable and well lit, but provides a subconscious prompt for learning. It is meant to be a space they can not only learn in, but unleash their creative juices by getting messy if they need to. You may need to let go of micro-managing, while still ensuring they keep it clean. Try to remove as much clutter as possible and keep only their learning tools in the area, such as books, pencils, craft items, tablets etc. Get your children in on the decorating process by displaying their artwork or posters of choice.

GET ORGANIZED Do I still have work deadlines to meet? Do I need to physically go to work? Does my child need to attend online classes or complete assignments? When are these assignments due? How can I ensure we all get our tasks done? Who and when will someone cook, clean and iron? These are just a few questions you must consider when completing a weekly schedule or timetable. Your children are already used to abiding by a timetable at school, why not

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make a flexible and visible schedule at home

the day you can check in with open-ended

that gives everyone an idea of what they should

questions, quick games and a great joke here

be doing at a given time? For example: 10:00

and there. To end the day, share your sunny

am - 11:00 am Online Class (Child), Weekly

and shady spots during dinner!

Meeting (Dad) and Lunch Preparation (Mom). Depending on how old your children are, this

ESTABLISH FAMILY REWARD SYSTEMS

could be a fun activity you work on together as a family, this strategy increases buy in and

You're probably wondering by now, how on

participation from your children.

earth will I get my child to follow a schedule? I can barely get him/her to brush their teeth!

As you get organized, consider including CONNECTION TIME and REWARD SYSTEMS.

Everyone, young and old, loves a great reward for doing a good job! Have each family member set three individual goals and make

CONNECT WITH YOUR CHILDREN

them visible on a chart. Determine a reward for the entire family. For example, Family

Setting intentional time to communicate, play

Movie Night or Ice Cream Sundae Party. All

and connect with your children at specific

week, the family members can track how they

points during the day is critical for surviving

are doing on their individual goals. All tasks

homeschooling. Not only does this establish

should be completed to unlock the ultimate

family bonds but it helps children to feel safe,

weekly reward. This method reaffirms that the

understood and valued. It also gives you a

family is a team and everyone plays a part in

chance to become more “human” in your

making things go smoothly.

child’s eyes. I recommend starting your days

continued...

with a morning meeting, discussing what everyone's goals for the day are and the things they need to work on. This helps the family set intentions for working together. Throughout

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Expert Article EXPLORE ALTERNATIVES You may have already considered that the traditional way of schooling isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t best for your child or their learning experiences could be further enhanced but you didn't know where to start or you were scared to make a change. Now is the time to throw traditional schooling out the door, and put alternative education to the test! Consider bringing your learning interactions outside; use their passions (such as cooking, cars, nature or even dolls) to teach lessons; sign up for personalized online classes; get an academic coach; or, get radical by letting your child create their own schedule, making time to discover new things on their own! There is no denying, this season is difficult for both parents and children. Our children are adjusting to new routines, missing their friends and some may even feel frustrated with their schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; online or worksheet efforts. This is the best time to encourage exploration for the whole family. Let go of the expectations and preconceived notions of schooling and instead, work on helping your child develop a love for learning, rather than forcing them to learn!

Founder of Spark Education, Brittany Singh Williams is an Education Strategist and Academic Coach, she is passionate about working with families to equip their children with skills to thrive in school and life. Download these sample worksheets from the Spark Covid-19 Survival Kit at www.spark-education.com/media

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She can be reached via her website at www.sparkeducation.com or by telephone 876.576.7756.

Feature

To the Beach!

Summer's TOP Reads :

By: Kadian Chin Matheson

t last, we can all get back to making summer beach plans; and what goes better with sun, sand and surf than a good book. With so many amazing reading options available, here are a few recommendations to take along with you to the beach. continued...

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Expert Feature Article

CRAZY RICH ASIAN TRILOGY By Kevin Kwan

The drama unfolds as Nicholas’ grandmother, Su Yi, is on her deathbed, the entire ShangYoung clan arrives to grieve and backstab

Last year we all fell in love with Kevin Kwan’s

their way to further wealth.

Crazy Rich Asians. This summer go relax on a beach, and complete the trilogy with China Rich Girlfriend and Rich People Problems.

Brilliantly written, Kevin Kwan cleverly pulls you again and again into the compelling world of the wealthiest and elite Asians.

In China Rich Girlfriend, fall in love all over again with Rachel Chu and her beau in shining billions, Nicholas, as they get ready for their

BECOMING By Michelle Obama

wedding and make plans for the future. But wait, is that drama on the horizon? Do we

In her memoir, Michelle Obama invites you into

finally get to know who is Rachel’s father?

her life as only she can, with wit and honesty and maybe a little dancing. As the first black

In Rich People Problems, Kwan takes us back

woman to serve in the role of First Lady to the

into the world of the rich while they vie for

United States of America, Mrs. Obama tells

a piece of the greatest inheritance in Asia.

of the experiences that helped shape her into

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the woman she is today. From growing up in the South side of Chicago, to becoming an executive needing to balance the necessities of her young family. Becoming offers readers an insight into the triumphs and disappointments of both her public and private life. It further explores the grit of its subject, as she establishes herself as a powerful advocate for women and girls around the world, dramatically transforming the ways that families pursue healthier and more active lifestyles; all while standing with her husband as he guided a nation. The beach is the perfect place to indulge in this revelatory work that invites you to discover a woman who is wise and down-to-earth, that is loved and admired the world over.

continued...

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Feature Expert Article

WE’RE GOING TO NEED MORE WINE by Gabrielle Union AROUND THE WAY GIRL by Taraji P. Henson THE MISADVENTURES OF AWKWARD BLACK GIRLS by Issa Rae THE LAST BLACK UNICORN by Tiffany Haddish

THE LAST ODESSEY by James Rollins James Rollins is an expert at combining clandestine operations, science, history, myth and legend in to his novels and The Last Odyssey is no different. Perfect for a day on the beach. In this instalment, the city of Troy, whose

Yes, I know this is not ‘A’ book, and yes,

legendary fall was detailed in an ancient town

saying ‘5’ might have been a bit misleading.

and believed to be myth, is rediscovered by

But honestly, how do you decide which to

archaeologists. The question has now become,

recommend when all this black girl magic,

if Troy was real, how much of the tales of gods

humour, honesty and tea is being spilt in

and monsters, curses and miracles could also

these brilliant and wildly different books.

be true and awaiting discovery?

These dissimilar autobiographies explore

Find a quiet spot with a good view, ignore

the gamut of what it is to be woman. They

everyone, while you indulge in the adventures

dive into topics that are as mundane as being

of Sigma Force as they retrace the path of

awkward while black, to topics that are heavy

Odysseus’ famous ship to the very gates of

and compelling as race, fertility, poverty,

hades.

wealth and fame. While Sigma Force is a series, most of the The life stories shared by these women are

novels can be read as stand-alone stories.

chocked full of warmth and wisdom. They

Happy Reading! l

are thought provoking and more often than not downright hilarious. Any of these women would be wonderful company to take with you as you rediscover the wonders of the beach.

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Wealth Creation, Health, Security, Comfort, Investment, Legacy. HEAD OFFICE

4 Park Boulevard, Kingston 5 Tel: (876)929-6500-9 Toll Free: 888-991-2185-7 CUSTOMER CARE

Toll Free: 888-991-2232 E-mail: wecare@nht.gov.jm Webpage: www.nht.gov.jm

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