Home A WAY &
DECEMBER 2015
l ISSUE 2
NHT, 40 YEARS STRONG! l NHT Reduces Interest Rates, Increases Loan Limit
lIrie Christmas in the Sun lSmart Homes
AN NHT HOUSING MAGAZINE
CONTENTS 2 4 6 10 14 18
Editorial Messages 40 Years of Housing Independent Jamaica Angel’s Grove: A Community of Choice Irie Christmas in the Sun
Housing Developments & Services for the Diaspora
22 26 28 32 36 38 39 44 49 52 56 58 59
The Great Christmas Fix Up NHT Increases Loan Ceiling, Reduces Interest Rates Smart Homes: A Reality in Jamaica Jennifer Jones: An Entrepreneur with a Little Extra Small Business is Big Business How to Register with the NHT Buying Land from Overseas - Part 2 Landscape Architecture’s Role in Jamaica Get Fit, Stay Fit NHT Happenings Feedback Staying Mortgage Healthy
Land of Water: A Policy Approach to Rainwater Harvesting
62 64
The Energy Saver’s Guide 20 Legal Do’s and Don’ts for Landlords
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.
EDITORIAL
- The Editorial Committee
E
specially observant readers of this magazine (there must be a few) might note that there is something familiar about the cover of Issue 2 of Home & A Way. This is Union’s Estate in Twickenham Park, St Catherine, developed by the National Housing Trust (NHT) in 2010 and a symbol of public/private partnership amongst developers, the NHT and public sector workers. It’s shot using a drone (credit to Dean Clarke) and is symbolic in two major ways. We chose Union’s Estate because it shows that partnership amongst the NHT, developers and the people of Jamaica is what has kept us over the last 40 years. We used a drone as well to symbolize that even as we look back over the last 40 years, there is a future to consider and technology will play a great part in that future. Anniversaries are celebrated with numbing regularity by organisations, including, obviously, this one. But we hope we’ve at least departed from this sometimes dreary tradition by looking outward and in, capturing the exciting 40 years the NHT has been through for both the organisation and also our contributors. Drawing the borders of history is, to some degree, arbitrary, but it’s safe to say that these last 40 years have marked an era of unusual change in housing in Jamaica. As development takes place, housing was, in short, reborn. Many of the bones remain in place—buildings, key public infrastructure—but much has changed in style, design and appetite. You need only flip through this magazine and the accompanying photographs to see how different housing in Jamaica now looks. Smart houses? How in the world did we get here? In selecting what to feature in this issue, we relied on the foundation of the NHT and how it has impacted more than just construction. In this issue, you will see the NHT’s impact on home ownership, affordability, entrepreneurship and community development. You will also see a taste of housing to come with our features on smart houses and landscape architecture, these are only two features of the constantly shifting lenses and tools relating to housing that the NHT has been part of over the last 40 years. We invited some distinctive writers from our staff and business partners whose skills and experiences are sprinkled throughout the pages of this magazine. It’s Christmas as well, and so we have wrapped in red a little treat on the season for you. It’s Christmas; we’re the big 4-0 and so you would agree there is much to celebrate! So let’s celebrate those moments in history of long ago and not so long ago and those moments yet to come.
It’s a Celebration Time! 2 H O M E & A W AY
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CREDITS Editor:
NHT Magazine Committee
Sales/Advertising:
Eileen Dunkley-Shim eadunkleyshim@gmail.com Tel: (876) 855-9081
Contributors:
Patria-Kaye Aarons, Karelle Ashley-Jones, Karen Booker, Mark Drew Martin, National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), Jason Patterson, Lorna Phillips
Publisher:
National Housing Trust, 4 Park Boulevard, Kingston 5. Tel: (876) 929-6500 www.nht.gov.jm wecare@nht.gov.jm
Design and Layout: Sutherland Wade Associates Ltd.
Printers: MAPCO Printers
Special thanks:
All our advertisers and contributors All rights reserved. Permission from the publishers must be given in writing prior to reproducing any article within Home & A Way.
MESSAGES NHT CHAIRMAN Dr. the Hon. Carlton Davis
I
t is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the second issue of Home & A Way.
I welcome you on the cusp of yet another milestone in the history of the National Housing Trust, NHT. The architects of this institution in 1976 had a plan in mind for an entity that would assist Jamaicans across the length and breadth of the country in home ownership. Almost 40 years later and the institution has stacked up for itself a credible list of achievements having delivered in excess of 186,000 housing benefits to its contributors. While this is a good indicator, it does not truly capture the impact of the NHT in its 40 year history which undoubtedly continues to leave an indelible mark on the lives of hundreds of thousands of Jamaicans. The NHT in its next 40 years must redouble these efforts to continue delivering on its mandate of increasing and enhancing the stock of available housing in Jamaica as well as providing financial assistance to the most needy of its contributors who wish to build, to buy, or to repair their homes.
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While at its core, the NHT assists in housing, the Trust has also demonstrated that housing cannot be viewed in a vacuum of strictly block and steel but must be strategically integrated into a broader plan for community development especially among low income contributors. As you flip the pages of this magazine you will indeed find proof of this. The NHT has boosted entrepreneurship in its schemes through the Entrepreneurial Challenge and has given communities a greater sense of governance and social responsibility through initiatives such as its Best Schemes Competition. These two areas are proof that the Trust has established itself as a key pillar of Jamaica’s national development with the empowerment of ordinary citizens through home ownership and community involvement. Whether you are a stakeholder seeking an update on our activities and services, a prospective contributor, a homeowner, or staff member exploring the opportunities we offer, or a person who is simply interested in learning more about us, you are most welcome to navigate through Home & A Way whether in hard copy or online.
ACTING MANAGING DIRECTOR Mr. MARTIN MILLER
W
elcome to the second issue of Home & A Way magazine.
We’re almost 40! That’s significant for us at the NHT, as it presents a moment for us to look at our history and our achievements and to plan for the next 40 years to see our organisation continue to grow. In order to succeed, growth is inevitable as the world moves forward at an ever-quickening pace. Since the NHT’s very beginning, it has continued to demonstrate impressive growth in terms of product offerings, research and development, geographic reach and of course number of contributors. This growth has enabled us to be innovative, creative, and among the first—and in some notable cases, the very first—to provide new solutions for the housing market. I am confident that this issue of our magazine will be an excellent read on the vision, achievements, and impact of the last 40 years and the 40 to come. As part of our continued growth, recently, the NHT announced two policy measures; a reduction in interest rates by one percentage point and an increase in the loan limit for
some contributors to $5.5 million. You may be wondering what this means for you. Without hesitation, I can say that the measures are expected to have only positive effects. We understand that affordability remains a challenge for all Jamaicans and so we hope with the measures announced, we are supporting the growth of the housing stock and continuing to put home ownership within the reach of more of our over 400,000 contributors. It also means that NHT contributors will be better able to take advantage of the over 9,000 solutions the Trust will be bringing on board over the next two years, some with the assistance of private partnerships. The NHT family will continue working to further develop new products, new policies and provide support to the customer base as we continue to grow as an organisation and also as the premier housing finance institution in the Caribbean. Growth is not without challenges, but challenges present opportunities and these new opportunities will help the NHT retain its position of leadership in the housing market and provide customers with best-of-breed products. In this issue of Home & A Way magazine, you will see the history of our growth, where we are as a housing sector and some of the ideas the NHT is looking at in our delivery of housing solutions.
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NHT Feature
40 YEARS
of housing Independent Jamaica
I
f the adage, “what a difference a day makes” holds true, can you imagine 14,600 days? That’s right, 14,600 days or 40 years is what the National Housing Trust (NHT) celebrates in 2016. Much has happened over the period since the organization was
established in 1976 to improve the supply of housing solutions to our nation. In its 40th year, the NHT celebrates its role as a contributor to nation building having built over 90 schemes, and provided over 189,000 mortages. The organization wrote approximately 57.4% of all mortgages granted and completed 54.7% of all houses constructed in Jamaica over the past 10 years. The organisation has also been instrumental in the development of social programmes and initiatives targeting inner city youths, rural infrastructure and social transformation. Come with us on a journey down memory lane to highlight some of the defining moments of this 40 year journey.
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1976...
1976: The National Housing Trust was established. The first loan beneficiaries were selected on July 1 of that year.
1979/1980: NHT began to offer loans on concessionary terms to persons with disabilities.
1983/1984: The first payments of contributors’ refunds were made.
1986: NHT celebrated its 10th anniversary. Asset growth was dramatic, reflecting the organisation’s prudent financial management. Total assets moved from $53.6 million at the end of the NHT’s first year of operations to top the billion-dollar mark in 1986.
1988/1989: The total value of housing loans disbursed by the Trust in any one year, reached the billion-dollar mark for the first time.
1983... H O M E & A W AY
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NHT Feature
1992...
1990...
1989/1990: The largest single housing project to be built in Jamaica was started at the Greater Portmore Scheme in St Catherine. Ten thousand units were built in the scheme over four years.
1992/1993: NHT launched its Best Schemes Competition
geared
towards
celebrating
1992...
innovation, community development and the improvement of NHT communities.
1996: NHT celebrated its 20th anniversary and awarded its 50,000th mortgage.
1997/1998: The NHT Citizen’s Charter was formally launched.
1998/1999: The Trust received the Jamaica Employers’ Federation Award for Public Sector Leadership.
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.
1999/2000: NHT received the Caribbean Employers’
2013: NHT introduced online scheme applications yielding
Federation Award for Innovative Human Resource and
faster processing times. The NHT once again received the
Industrial Relations Practices.
Prime Minister’s Trophy for the Best Customer Service Entity in the Public Sector.
2002/2003: NHT built Emancipation Park as a gift to the people of Jamaica.
2014: NHT began accepting contributions and mortgage payments online. The Trust also launched its mobile unit:
2010: The NHT introduced Home Grants of up to $1.2 million
“NHT on Wheels”. The NHT in this year copped the prestigious
to successful applicants with weekly incomes less than
Jamaica Employers’ Federation (JEF) Employer of Choice
$10,000. It was also in this year that NHT contributors began
Award (2012) while its ‘Go Green’ initiative won the Human
applying for refunds online.
Resource Management Association of Jamaica, HRMAJ Innovative Award for bringing significant saving costs to the
2011: The NHT was the recipient of the Prime Minister’s
organization.
Trophy for the Best Customer Service Entity in the Public Sector.
2015: The Trust rolled out a 9,000 housing solutions plan to be completed in 2017. The Trust also reduced interest rates by one percent point and increased the loan limit to $5.5 million for some contributors. l
ly d u o r p NHT, g n i s u o h t n e d n e p inde ica! Jama
2002... H O M E & A W AY
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Feature
ANGEL’s GROVE:
a Community of choice!
W
elcome to Angel’s Grove; a community of choice, developed by the National Housing Trust (NHT) in 2002. This vibrant community is nested in the Rio Cobre Plains of St Catherine; on the outskirts of the capital, Spanish Town. And much like the rich history of the neighbouring capital, this community of approximately 2,000 persons, has been shaping a lasting
legacy of their own. A vibrant citizens’ association has been leading the charge.
NHT Chairman Dr. the Hon. Carlton Davis on a tour of the community centre led by Melrose Johnson King (second right) 1 0 H O M E & A W AY
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“We strive for excellence and only the best. We
Wednesday July 29, 2015 they handed over
are persistent. We are optimists not pessimists
a storage unit along with equipment such as
and we try at all times to be an exceptional
sledgehammers, crowbars, ropes, flashlights
community and we settle for nothing less” says
and diving gear to the men and women in the
their President Melrose Johnson King.
Flat Bridge area who perform rescue efforts in the Gorge from time to time. The team
It’s a very unique community made up of people of different socio-economic
mobilised the resources from corporate entities in Spanish Town. Mrs Johnson King says the project has been in
backgrounds. Teachers, nurses, police officers and other professionals as well as self-employed
persons
the making for the last two
“
years pointing out that many times, they have
reside here. Despite their
witnessed the efforts of
different
backgrounds,
the Flat Bridge divers
they have bonded under
whom she described as
their motto: “We are
“brave and selfless”.
our Brother’s Keepers” The work of Angel’s Grove
which has resulted in the establishment
of
has not gone unnoticed. NHT
different
social and interest groups in the
chairman Dr the Hon. Carlton
community some of which have turned into
Davis, says the community is by far one of
income earners for some members.
the best examples he has seen of community responsibility and self-reliance. “There is a
“You come to the community centre and you like
tendency to believe that everything can only be
an idea and you want to learn, we’ll teach you.
done from Gordon House or the Office of the
We teach persons to crotchet, we teach persons
Prime Minister and the Ministry of Finance but
to knit, sew; we do just about everything. We
a lot of things can be done by the communities
have these resources and persons volunteer
themselves with assistance from the government
their time. We try to stand on our own two feet
and corporate Jamaica from time to time” the
instead of going around to politicians. We help
Chairman says.
each other” says the proud president. Dr Davis adds that the work of the citizen’s One such interest group in the community is the
association is a model for all Jamaican
Emergency Response Team which has taken their
communities that others should be encouraged
activities outside the perimeter of Angel’s Grove
to emulate, indicating that the NHT will be
and into the neighbouring Bog Walk Gorge. On
looking at ways to make communities more continued... H O M E & A W AY
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Feature says
They have used the proceeds from their
“communities need a structure. After we
winnings to complete their community
build houses, we should allow them and the
centre; an 1800 sq. feet building which
infrastructure to not deteriorate”.
provides a fully equipped cyber centre
self-reliant
and
sustainable.
He
and employment agency for residents. We The work of the Angel’s Grove Citizen’s
asked President Melrose Johnson King, for
Association
without
a bit of advice for other communities who
recognition or reward. For the last six years,
would like to be another Angel’s Grove in
Angel’s Grove has been participants in the
their own neck of the woods. “Don’t give
NHT’s biennial Best Schemes Competition
up. You won’t always get 100 per cent
and they have quite a bit of silverware to
participation but if you get two persons
show. Their gutsy attitude has taken the
you work with them, if you have five you
community to two well-deserved second
still work with them and you will accomplish
place finishes (2009, 2015) and in the 2011
what you will” she says.
has
not
gone
staging of the Competition which aims to promote community development and
Angel’s Grove! A model NHT community,
innovation in NHT communities they were
fostering development through team work
declared champions.
while building a better, safer community for its citizens.l
“
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Feature
IRIE CHRISTMAS
T
in the sun
he crisp air, the sounds of
Yes, the Christmas saga continues as
huge boom boxes belting the
Jamaicans quickly move with the best
Christmas tides, Christmas
intention to make their Christmas an irie
lights - Jamaicans call them
one.
pepper
brighten
Family and friends from all over the world,
every home; it’s Christmas
whose lives have taken them out of the
Jamaican style!
country, make every single effort to be
lights-
home for the Christmas season. Spirits lift this time of the year. Songs such as ‘Mek di
On Christmas Eve also called ‘Grand
Christmus ketch yuh in a good
Market Night’ the streets are riddled with
mood’ is characteristic of the
irie, joyful and fun-filled activities plunged
emotions of people during this
in the Jamaican culture. Throughout the
time of year.
busy streets Jamaicans can be seen openly dancing and prancing to the reggae beats.
Street vendors parade their wares- clothes, toys for the children and decorations for the house.
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People are joyous, happy and free.
Children to
are
‘Grand
taken Market
style with local spices. They complement the rice and gungo/red peas.
Night’ by their family They are
Dessert is a competitive serving of the
bought toys and food,
Jamaican rum cake or fruit cake. Why is it
and usually have their
competitive you may ask? Well, everyone has
pictures taken for the
their own technique and skill to preparing this
Christmas
albums,
delicacy and after dinner they serve up a slice
some in recent times
to see who bakes the best Christmas cake.
even with a Jamaican
A drink of sorrel, chased with your favourite
Santa Claus.
spirit, if you please, always accompanies this
members.
afternoon treat. Preparation for Christmas meals is a very special event; most Jamaicans begin from
The family house is filled with laughter and
the evening of Christmas Eve. First, there is
cheer as individuals reminisce on the good ol’
breakfast; this menu is usually very ‘light’ as
days, making yet another Christmas memory.
the Christmas dinner menu takes precedence. A little roast breadfruit with ackee and saltfish
Despite the commercialisation of the season,
or salt mackerel along with boiled dumplings,
an important part of the Jamaican Christmas
yam and banana is an ideal breakfast for many
culture is the recognition of the birth of
families. A cup of hot chocolate replaces the
Jesus, the son of God. The first Sunday after
regular coffee or tea.
Christmas Day is celebrated at church. This very special day is spent by most Jamaicans
On the very special Christmas Day the house is
in the presence of God as shouts of praise
filled with a tantalizing aroma of different food
echoes throughout the church hall as persons
items being prepared in the kitchen or outside
reflect in gratitude.
on coal pots or on wood fire. The delectable taste of various meats such as curried mutton
Year after year, this beautiful island continues
also called ‘curry goat’, baked and fried
to celebrate a ‘joyful, Irie Christmas in the
chicken, pot roast beef, oven baked ham and
sun’. l
escoveitched fried fish are seasoned in fine
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Feature
HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS & SERVICES for the DIASPORA
T
he 6th staging of the biennial Jamaican Diaspora Conference, which took place in June 2015, provided the backdrop for a vibrant discussion on ‘Housing Developments and Services for the Diaspora’. The session
Notable initiatives including the launch of a housing
brought together panelists from the leading
magazine - ‘Home & A Way’, which was rolled out at the
housing construction and financing institutions locally as
conference, online payment services, toll free lines and
well as members of the Diaspora to explore strategies for
frequent round table discussions among key stakeholders.
the exploitation of investment and financing opportunities
Mrs. Graham also highlighted the NHT’s research into the
in the local housing industry among members of the
housing needs of Jamaicans both locally and abroad which
Diaspora.
she indicated could provide insight for housing developers.
Senior Project Manager from the National Housing Trust
The need for increased access to information to facilitate
(NHT) Cordell Williams-Graham, explained that the
increased investment in the housing sector was further
organization, as the leading housing institution is keen
reiterated by Managing Director of the Jamaica Mortgage
on enabling Vision 2030 - Jamaica as the place to live -
Bank, Courtney Wynter. In keeping with this focus, Mr.
by creating communities of choice in which Jamaicans at
Wynter announced the launch of the JMB’s Home Building
home and abroad want to live. Mrs. Graham indicated that
Services. These services, Mr. Wynter indicated, would
the NHT has therefore been actively exploring initiatives
assist members of the Diaspora to gain access to a vetted
that facilitate partnership, stimulate construction and
list of reputable and qualified construction companies
provide convenience. Access to information on housing
and professionals that they could employ when building,
and housing needs by members of the Diaspora, as well
buying or repairing their homes locally.
as housing developers and service providers are also promoted by the NHT. Mrs. Graham highlighted that the NHT
Managing Director of Richmond Housing Development
has been doing its part to facilitate the needs of members
Corporation, Steve Bennett, indicated that the Diaspora
of the Diaspora one of which was to return to Jamaica to
was very interested in investing in real estate in Jamaica
live as well as to contribute to the NHT in order to assist
but wanted to invest in housing developments which
relatives back home in accessing housing.
catered to their needs. As a developer, he noted that
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outside of the multiple financing options available for members
the ‘retirement housing branding’ from local housing offerings
of the Diaspora, his company’s success was largely facilitated
to the Diaspora and replacing it with a ‘mixed communities’
by their ability to gain access to critical information about the
which included residential housing in a secure environment
housing needs of the Diaspora.
surrounded by a mix of social and recreational amenities as well as commercial activity that catered to the needs of all age
Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Victoria Mutual Building Society, Peter Reid,
groups.
highlighted that his
company would continue to be innovative by exploring multiple
Earl Samuels, indicated that the concept of mixed communities
financing options including, remittances as a source of income
has been on the table for some time and required key
or down payment. This was supported by Assistant General
stakeholders to lobby the government for its implementation.
Manager, Finance and Mortgage Operations at the Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS), Earl Samuels. Managing
Other concerns raised by members of the Diaspora included
Director of the Housing Association of Jamaica (HAJ), Karl
the need to reduce squatter settlements, tackle crime and
Bennett, welcomed this move noting that this was critical to
violence, address customs issues as well as the tedious land
his company’s success in selling housing solutions.
transfer process and increase access to property maintenance services.
Members of the Diaspora, including panelist, Clive Saunders, a returning resident from the United Kingdom, highlighted the
Mrs. Graham noted that as the leading housing entity in
resounding desire of many Jamaicans to return to Jamaica
Jamaica, the NHT would continue to lead the discussions on
to live. Barbara Peart, a retired Jamaican Professional from
housing and welcomed the partnership of the Diaspora and all
the United States of America indicated that while desirous of
stakeholders in the industry. She noted that this collaborative
returning to Jamaica to live, she was dissuaded by a number
approach is what it would take for Jamaica to become the place
of factors including the limited availability of amenities and
of choice to work and do business but most importantly to live
access to health care. Mrs. Peart also recommended lifting
and raise families.
l
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Feature
k The Great Christmas k k -UP x i F by Karen Booker Design Group ‘Tis the season to be jolly, fa la la laaaa, la la la la…. It’s the time of year when we try to forget our troubles and soon after the Christmas breeze begins to blow it’s all about “nice time” with family, friends, food and fixing up the house before “Chrismuss come.” Back in the day when I was a little girl, my job was to wash all of the “crockery,” (for all of you who are not familiar with the term, it’s the collection of bone china and crystal glasses that are only used on special occasions, if at all and kept in the buffet,) I would have to dry them with a dish cloth and put them back. Needless to say the final count was never the amount that I started with… but anyway, we won’t belabor the point just in case my mother reads this.
This is also the time of travel, when town goes to country and country comes to town, and friends and family come home from “fareen.” In light of this fact, the annual “Chrissmuss” update takes place. Houses get fresh coats of paint, inside and out, stones and tree trunks are whitewashed. It is a time of “newness.” Imperative that, new drapery is hung throughout the house and the bathroom is outfitted with new shower curtains and towels. The kitchen is never ever overlooked or outdone and fresh curtains are essential. Furniture is acquired to accommodate and impress visitors over the season.
The Holiday Fix up
Jamaican Christmas comes with pepper lights. A string or two can be seen in most homes during the holiday season. But in recent times they have been seen less and less with the escalating electric bills. Those who can afford it will have Christmas trees and perhaps poinsettias. Fresh Christmas trees may be locally grown, or imported. Poinsettia bushes grow in many yards, but thousands of compact potted poinsettias are imported each year for the season. At this time of year, yellow is the predominant colour of the wildflowers all over the countryside.
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Christmas wreath...
A CHRISTMAS WREATH
CENTREPIECE FOR THE DINING TABLE
A beautifully decorated Christmas wreath is the perfect way to set the tone for the holidays when placed at the entrance of your home. Christmas wreaths are surprisingly easy to make and the benefits are instantaneous. Get a picture of a beautifully decorated wreath. Use it as a guide, trust me, you do not have to be crafty.
For festive dining, A centerpiece can be as simple or as elaborate as you would like, it makes a statement. Again, get a picture of one that appeals to you and use it as your guide. There is no right or wrong, just have fun.
Here’s what you will need:
Wreath Christmas Ribbon Christmas picks Pine cones Glue gun If you can’t make a bow, drape the ribbon throughout the wreath. Place the picks anywhere you desire on the wreath and glue on the pine cones. That’s it!
Here’s what you will need:
Hurricane shade, or candle holder, Pillar candle Christmas picks Round or square mirror about 12” Christmas balls Ribbon
Here’s how you do it:
Place hurricane shade or candle holder on mirror, arrange garland around the base of the shade, insert Christmas picks and Christmas balls in the garland for added appeal you can then adorn with ribbon. That’s all she wrote… continued...
Centerpiece... continued...
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Garlands...
GARLANDS Garlands can be the most dramatic element in your decorating when draped on the mantle, on the staircase, over doorways, on arches, get the drift... use it anywhere you want! Decorating the garland follows the same principle as decorating the wreath.
Here’s what you will need: Garland Ribbon Christmas picks Christmas balls Glue gun
Here’s how you do it:
Lay out the garland, Arrange then glue the Christmas Picks and Balls in the garland. Then intertwine the ribbon. Again, it’s just that simple! So here’s the thing, Christmas decorating should be festive and run the gamut from country/rustic to ultra-glam. It’s a personal thing. Take your creative inspiration from all the magazines and of course the internet.
Keep in mind:
• Once you have decided on a theme, stick to it or you will not get the desired effect. • Keep your colors consistent and coordinated • Coordinate your wrapping paper • Think color and sparkle for maximum impact This is the one time when an overkill of bling will not be considered ghetto fabulous!!! After the Holidays are over and the trimmings have been put away, the decorating will last for another year just to do it all over again the following season! l
Contributor: Karen Booker is a returning resident and CEO of Karen Booker Design Group. Email: karenabooker@gmail.com
NHT News
NHT INCREASES Loan Ceiling, REDUCES Interest Rates The National Housing Trust has increased its individual loan limit for some new applicants, from $4.5 million to $5.5 million and reduced the interest rate on loans to contributors who apply as of November 1, 2015. Here are some FAQs on the new policies.
k
Among the new measures announced by the NHT is a new loan limit for construction purposes. What exactly does this mean?
k
Will all borrowers be able to access the new loan limit?
k
In addition to the new loan limit there is also the reduction in interest rates. What is the rate of reduction?
k
This policy change is a move to stimulate the construction of new housing developments and to boost the purchasing power of contributors. The new loan limit as you mentioned increases from $4.5m to $5.5m. Applicants to benefit from the increased loan limit are those who are buying properties in new housing developments as well as those constructing new housing units.
As much as we wanted to have extended it to all contributors borrowing from the NHT, unfortunately we will not be able to at this time. For the moment it will only extend to new, first time borrowers in new developments as of November 1, 2015. New, first time borrowers are persons who are not homeowners and who have never received a loan from the Trust.
To improve affordability, the Trust has reduced interest rates by one percentage point across the board, for all new loan applicants. And what this means for our low income earners and these are beneficiaries earning up to $7,500 weekly, new beneficiaries in this group will now enjoy home loans at 0% interest. At the upper end, persons earning over 20,000 weekly will repay loans at a rate of 6%.
In addition, new applicants employed to the public sector will benefit from this rate concession while continuing to enjoy the 1% interest rate reduction that had been granted to them in 2010. Why is the NHT undertaking this measure at this particular time? Construction is a vital economic driver. It provides jobs for thousands of skilled workers and increases the net worth of persons who buy homes so we hope the new measure will stimulate the sector and by extension the economy. For our customers, the last time we adjusted our loan ceiling was in 2010 and since then we have seen an increase in costs and this has restricted the ability of would be homeowners to buy new properties. As the primary mortgage source for thousands of Jamaicans, we are moving to address that situation with the two policy adjustments we have made.
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Changes to the NHT’s Interest Rate Policies
Interest Rates for Special Programmes
Interest Rates for New Applicants
Weekly Income Band Minimum wage - $7,500
0%
Contributors who are 55 years & Over (NM55) 0%
$7,501 - $10,000
1%
0%
0%
2%
5%
3%
$10,001 - $20,000
3%
2%
2%
4%
5%
3%
$20,001 and over
5%
4%
4%
6%
5%
3%
Contributors who are Public Sector Workers (PSW)
Disabled Persons (DP)
All Other Contributors
Contribution Refund Towards Deposit (CRTD) Loan
Solar Water Heater (SWH)
0%
0%
5%
3%
Expert Article
SMART HOMES: A Reality in Jamaica!
T
hink of “smart house” and what
appliances in your home so they can ‘talk to
perhaps comes to mind is that 1999
each other’. The end result is lower electricity
movie of the same name where a
bills, greater security and better management
teenager wins a fully automated
of the home.
dream house in a competition, but soon the computer controlling it
It helps in allaying some of the occasional
begins to take over. That’s enough to not be
fears you might have after rushing out the
interested in the idea but housing developers
house earlier that morning or while you are
have been demonstrating that a smart house is
on vacation. Think about it, when you’re away
in fact possible, minus the crazy computer bit.
from home you sometimes get these nagging little doubts as to whether you turned the air
So how do smart houses work? Firstly, let us
conditioning off, did you leave the iron plugged
highlight how they do not work. They are
in? Or if you are a parent, you might wonder
not self-cleaning or self-cooking or any at all
who will let in the children when they get home
domesticated so you still have your chores
from school, or who will monitor them to ensure
around the house to do; at least for now. What
they actually do homework and not spend all
they do however is connect all the devices and
afternoon watching TV?
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“It is more than just having an app. A real e smart hom is where you have full integration of the different features of your home...”
still a relatively new name in the housing industry promising to “breathe life into your building”. Beyond making homes automated, there is some amount of “smart construction” to houses as well by this company. On the construction side, they offer different building systems geared at reducing construction time, lower costs and guaranteeing energy and environmental security. At Hillel Academy, the company has constructed two classroom blocks using these various building systems with features such as self-cooling walls.
A smart house fixes all these worries.
Of interest is their Control 4 System, which allows homeowners to experience the smart homes’
It’s not totally a foreign concept, but Brian Yap
concept. “Any device in your home that uses
Sam of Green Concepts International Limited
electricity can be put on your network and at your
who has been making automated homes a reality
command; you are able to control its usage”, Yap
for some Jamaicans, says there is some amount
Sam explains. Most systems installed to date,
of misconception about smart homes.
he says relate to lighting, home security, home theatre and entertainment. With internet access
“It is more than just having an app. A real smart
at any time, from anywhere, you are able to open
home is where you have full integration of the
doors, turn on lights, AC units or even turn on
different features of your home” he says. The
your television while you rush home to catch your
company which started just over 5 years ago is
favourite drama using your phone or tablet. continued...
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Expert Article
Jamaicans who are keen on gadgets are the ones leaning towards smart homes at the moment.
Saleem is one Jamaican who has been taking advantage of automated systems in his home. He has his entertainment system and his lighting made ‘smart’. It was automated by Yap Sam’s Green Concepts and today the homeowner says he has been reaping the benefits of greater security, convenience and energy efficiency including lower electricity bills. According to Yap Sam, Jamaicans who are keen on gadgets are the ones leaning towards smart homes at the moment. He explains that depending on the level of automation you require it may be a costly undertaking, many however have opted to do it in a modular manner, for example one room at a time. He admits Jamaicans have not been rushing to take advantage of smart homes, but with increased internet penetration and the continued convergence of technology with our daily lives, homeowners locally may very well soon be making the ‘smart’ choice. l
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Feature
NHT CELEbrates entrepreneurship
Jennifer Jones:
An Entrepreneur with a Little Extra
Jennifer Jones: An Entre preneur with a Little Extra
W
hen Jennifer Jones decided to resign her job of 12 years to start her own company, she had no capital or business plan, only her faith. This conviction seems to have been enough as the 50-yearold now sees her products on the shelves of health and cosmetic industries, a success she has attained with a little boost she received after winning the 2015 National Housing Trust Entrepreneurial Challenge. After several loan applications to aid her in the establishment of her business were denied, the competition, which is aimed at assisting new and potential entrepreneurs, could not have come at a better time for the mother of three.
Entrepreneurial Challenge. The competition promised entrants training and development opportunities aimed at helping them to acquire skills for transforming their business from an idea into a reality and in building on their existing business to meet market standards. The competition also offered 9 awards totaling $10.6 million. Excited about the prospects of the challenge and how well it suited her current circumstances, Jones quickly applied. She admitted that at that time, she was not very confident in her ability to win a competition of this nature, because, “I never hear anybody from Portland win anything yet,” she expressed with laughter. continued...
“They (loan institutions) would only give loans to people who had a business over two years and you had to demonstrate that your business was earning enough funds to pay (them) back,” she said. Having none of the two, her business idea of manufacturing products made from coconuts came upon an insurmountable roadblock. But Jennifer remained optimistic, putting her faith to the test. During the summer of last year, Ms. Jones was doing a routine check of the newspaper when she stumbled on an advertisement inviting applications from residents of NHT housing schemes to enter the organisation’s
Photo courtesy of The Gleaner
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Feature Jennifer Jones: An Entre preneur with a Little Extra
As the competition progressed, Ms. Jones said it provided her with the opportunity of sharing business ideas and ultimately forming partnerships with other individuals who had ideas that complemented her own. One such partnership came through meeting Michelle Carpenter, owner of an event planning company called Beautiful Beginnings. “Michelle and I sat beside each other the first day of our session. We started sharing ideas and I realized that our businesses could help each other. So I decided that I would provide her with coconut shells and she could use that as the base of her packaging,” she explained. But unknown to Jennifer was that they would both go on to win two major awards with a cash value of $2 million (each). The former Executive Assistant expressed that her excitement and elation could not be contained. But for Jones it was more than just winning, it was being a part of a competition that offered her an invaluable experience. “The wealth of knowledge we (participants) got from it (the competition) was more than we could ever pay for. It reinforced what you knew and gave you ideas as to what you didn’t,” she said. This entrepreneur, who admitted trying her hand at hairdressing, catering and janitorial services, noted that without the assistance of the Trust her business would still be struggling.
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“NHT put me two years ahead of where I thought I would be at this time. As a result of winning this challenge, I have gotten a lot of exposure and so my customer base has increased. It also added to my business, as with the funds I received I was able to pay for additional training, such as learning to make bar soap, which I have added to my line,” she said. Nature Premium, the name of Jones’ business, aims to make healthy, value added products, offering jewelry, candle holders, moisturisers, virgin oil and bar soaps which are all made from coconut. In an effort to eliminate waste and remain environmentally friendly, Jennifer gives coconut trash to farmers for top soil and animal feed. Through her involvement in her community’s - Fair Prospect Gardens - Youth and Environmental Club, the trash is used to form compost which helps in forming the top soil needed to help in the beautification of the community’s gardens. Jennifer’s products are praised because of the health benefits they provide. Her coconut virgin oil, she noted, is of a better quality than those that can be found in stores. “Whilst those found in the supermarket are better for you than the vegetable oil, they are often bleached refine and deodorized, so they lose some of their nutrients. They also use copper coconut that is pre-dried before it is processed,” she noted.
The coconut virgin oil is also used as a dietary supplement for weight loss, as it boosts the immune system. Used for skin, hair care and oral hygiene, the product has been purchased in bulk by medical health facilities who re-sell them to their patients. They can also be found on the shelves of several local hair stylists in Port Antonio who use it as a cuticle oil and put it in their hair treatment products. It has also been used by cosmetics industry such as Tru-Shade Cosmetics as a part of their make-up line.
Despite the uncertainty that often comes with owning your own business, Jennifer Jones remains optimistic and excited about what lies ahead. “In business you have to do something you love, because if you don’t love it as soon as something comes up you will quit. So make sure you love it enough to stick with it through the highs and lows,” she said.
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NHT Feature
Smal l
BUSINESS is BUSINESS
B ig 3 6 H O M E & A W AY
- by Patria-Kaye Aarons
AN NHT HOUSING MAGAZINE
W
hen my Goddaughter Rochelle was 5, I bought her a pack of imported candy, and she read the wrapper and asked “Auntie, what is a blue raspberry?” and I was stumped. I didn’t know what it was or what to tell her. I may not know a raspberry, but I sure know a mango, a june plum, a guava. Those are the tastes of paradise and those are the tastes we capture at my company Sweetie Confectionery.
Starting the company was no easy feat, but along the way, I’ve learnt some lessons that I want to share with others hoping to start their own businesses. 1. GO FOR IT! The time will never be right. The start-up capital will never be enough. The idea won’t be perfectly refined…but go for it anyway. Jamaica needs crazy dreamers with grand ideas to just forge ahead and do new things. Once it’s a dream you wholeheartedly believe in, you will work hard to make it happen and you’ll be surprised how much things fall into place along the way. If you’re timid (and don’t have a little touch of crazy), do not become an entrepreneur. 2. SORT OUT YOUR BOOKS Pay your taxes, hand over your NHT contributions, stay on top of your earnings and expenditures. Unless you truly know your numbers, you will never know if you’re running a profitable business. Not so comfortable with the numbers? Outsource a professional accounting firm to help you manage your financial obligations. You want to ensure that you run a compliant business and are making money. 3. COLLABORATE WITH OTHER SMALL BUSINESSES WHEN YOU CAN We don’t all have to be cut throat competitive. There is enough success to go around for all of us, and when two or three small businesses come together, we are a much more powerful force. Buy raw material together, share equipment, lobby together. There is power in numbers.
Contributor: Patria-Kaye Aarons is owner of Sweetie Confectionery. Email: findpatria@gmail.com
4. FIND YOUR STRENGTH If you are entering business to become a metoo, rethink your strategy. As Jamaicans we are way too creative and innovative for that. Find your own niche. Establish what you do differently or better and build your business around that strength. 5. TAKE CARE OF YOUR PEOPLE You cannot do everything alone. Recognize the importance of your staff in the success of your business. People should feel valued in your team and you should strive to make your company a desired place to work. If you take care of your people, they will take care of you. In my business, happy staff is a MUST (because miserable people will make bad tasting Sweetie). l
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HOW TO REGISTER WITH THE NHT •
Visit your NHT office and ask for a Declaration of Income Form and a Self-Employed Questionnaire or download these forms at www.nht.gov.jm/self-employed
•
Fill out the forms and take them to the Compliance Department at the NHT. Your National Insurance (NIS) card Your Taxpayer Registration (TRN) card A valid form of identification such as a voter registration card, driver’s license or passport Two passport size photographs Proof that you are operating a business
You should also take the following items with you: Depending on the type of business you do, the
NHT may also ask you to bring in other documents such as proof of the amount of money you earn. Once you have brought all the documents, a compliance officer will tell you how much money you should contribute each month.
EXPERT Article
step by step guide to
Buying land from OVERSEAS Part 2
Choosing the Right Attorney
FEAR NOT...
5
Here are ways to maximise your chances of selecting the professional that will do a great job for you.
B
uying your own property in Jamaica is a dream of many. To do it successfully you are advised to engage an attorney to assist you. But how do you choose one when you live so far
away? There’s certainly no shortage of lawyers in Jamaica. Yet somehow, finding a good one can appear quite daunting. Especially when you read in the newspapers about the arrests of some high profile attorneys or you hear from friends and others about their harrowing experiences with lawyers. These stories can leave you feeling unnerved, and cause you to wonder how on earth you will choose a good one. Well fear not. Here are 5 ways to maximise your chances of selecting the professional that will do a great job for you. continued...
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EXPERT Article
Firstly, widen your sphere of influence.
website
Most people make their choice by turning
to see that they are included on the roll of
to their friend who either is an attorney or
attorneys. It will tell you how long they have
who will refer them to one. And that’s where
been registered (which will give you an idea
their search ends. Instead, that’s where your
as to their level of experience) and it will
search should begin! Ask a solicitor or lawyer
confirm that they have a current practicing
where you live now or ask allied professionals
certificate. Then, check his or her website,
back home such as architects, bankers and
blog and other social media for information
insurance consultants, to refer who they know.
about his or her practice. Remember this
Be specific, tell them that you are looking
media is a form of advertising, so do assess
for an experienced and reputable property
them with a critical eye. Look out for the sole
lawyer and collect 3 or 4 names.
practitioner who practices every area of law
at
www.generallegalcouncil.org
under the sun! Remember, you are looking Secondly, it’s time to think about what is
for a competent property lawyer, not a jack
important to you. Of course you want one
of all trades.
who knows the law and can apply it properly, that goes without saying. But what else
Fourthly, it’s time to pick up the phone.
are you looking for in your lawyer? Do you
Armed with your requirements and your data,
need accessibility? What about their means
you are now ready to call your prospective
of communication – do you need to skype,
lawyers and find out whether they can assist
call or e-mail them? What level of experience
you and whether you want to work with
are you looking for? Do you have multiple
them. Although it’s tempting to make the
elements to your transaction such as probate
conversation all about fees, don’t! This is
or divorce, and you need a lawyer who can
not about getting the cheapest lawyer, but
handle those aspects too? Are there multiple
about getting the lawyer that is right for
parties to your transaction who will also need
you. So, this is the time to ask about your
to get along with your lawyer? Answering
proposed transaction so you can gauge
these questions first will help you to refine
their knowledge, their willingness to share
your list.
information, how well you get along, how they plan to keep you up to date and their
Thirdly, now do your homework! It’s time
resourcefulness. Again, be specific with your
to check out the lawyers on your list. Most
questions and ensure that what you hear lines
importantly, check the General Legal Council
up with your research. You should also check
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that there be no conflict of interest if you decide to engage this attorney; meaning that he or she is not already engaged by the other party. Lastly, select your attorney. By now you should have a really good feel for who you want to work with. Make your selection and ask whether he or she can take your matter at this time. Lawyers can be busy, and you want to know that you and your matter will receive the attention you deserve. Ensure that the professional fees and costs of the transaction are properly explained to you up front and that your engagement is written up in a contract. After that, your role is to remain involved and engaged, right up to the time you are handed the keys to your home! .l
Good luck! Contributor: Lorna Phillips is a commercial and real estate Attorney-at-Law and partner in the law firm Nicholson Phillips. Email: lorna@nicholsonphillips.com
Feature
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE’s ROLE in
Jamaica
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- by Mark Drew Martin
I
fell in love with gardens when I was a kid
trees, in order to protect themselves, emit
running around the garden my Mother
compounds like a-pinene and limonene which
had designed for our home in Kingston.
are antimicrobial organic compounds which
The garden had everything a child could
protect the tree against rotting and insects.
want; trees for shade and to climb; ponds
By inhaling these compounds, they can boost
for sound and to harass the fish; roses
our immune system and fight cancer. (Forest
to smell and to impress girls with bouquets;
Agency of Japan)
and hedges for demarcation and for playing hide and seek. There were lawns for football,
Most people I meet have no full understanding
cricket and frisbee and water pods from my
of who a landscape architect is or what they
favorite tree, the African tulip (Spathodea
do. It grates my teeth when someone who
campanulata). You would get these pods and
is slightly familiar with my profession, comes
chase your siblings or friends and squeeze
up to me and says, ‘So how is de ‘gyaadnin
the liquid on them. This was good till Mom
business?’ (I enjoy a fleeting religious moment
realized that the water stained the clothes but
as I pray that the earth opens up and swallows
not before you heard the ominous warning
this person like Port Royal).
‘Chicken merry, hawk is near’. Landscape Architecture has to do with the My Mother’s garden ‘planted’ the earliest
whole environment of man and since plants
inspiration of the benefit of gardens. Who
and natures are part of man’s life, knowledge
wouldn’t enjoy a picnic with a friend at Hope
of plants is essential from being able to use
Gardens to lie on a blanket under the shade of
them holistically and aesthetically. Plants assist
a large canopy tree, or listening to the sounds
in creating spaces where voids once existed.
of a mocking bird or the arguing banter of the Jabbering crows?
Plants and their accessories like pathways, boulders, and water create outdoor rooms
Who wouldn’t love to hike to the Blue
and intrigue. A space must be positive and be
Mountains and walk through forests on trails
the constant product of a purpose. It is not by
to view streams and rivers? Did you know that
accident that Zen gardens seem peaceful and
spending time in nature or visiting a forest can
serene.
aid in stress relief and physical ailments? Yes, the Japanese refer to this pastime as ‘Forest
Landscape Architecture is involved with
Bathing’ (Shinrinyoku). The science behind the
Botany, Horticulture, Fine Arts, Industrial
benefits lies in the emission of phytoncides
Design, Geology, and the earth sciences,
which are wood essential oils. Some coniferous
geography and ecology. continued...
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Feature
The seasoned Landscape Architect (LA) has
One of the goals of this Landscape Architect
always
practices
is to become an integral part of the design
such as water harvesting and creating
process in the provision of homes to
natural energy. Working with the land, one
all Jamaicans. We have seen too many
begins to understand the finiteness of our
developments built that lack the basic facility
resources. If LA’s are brought in early into a
of landscaping such as a tree for each house.
design with an Architect, we will try and get
Too often we hear, ‘we cannot afford that’.
cisterns designed within the home and water
I beg to differ. I would say, ‘we cannot not
retention areas in the gardens that double
afford to provide a basic amenity such as
as ponds to display lilies and maybe a water
a tree’. Imagine this. A new low income
feature. Many people do not realize that
development is completed and each house
TV’s and other household appliances emit
gets one or two trees. The contract calls for
positive ions which are harmful, a water fall or
the home owner to care for the tree/trees.
fountain, even your bath emit negative ions
You would be surprised how well these
which are healthy. Now you know why a bath/
new proud homeowners would care for a
shower feels good.
tree that offered shade to their homes and
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performed
sustainable
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yards and better still, bore fruit. Suppose a development had several species of fruit trees. Think of the sharing that would exist? Ackee; Breadfruit; Mangoes; Avocados; Moringa and more. A well designed home and garden works for you and not against you. That’s why a Landscape Architect needs to understand topography,
geography,
geology
and
atmospheric conditions. A good landscape architect mimics nature. A great landscape architect creates nature for their client. A place where ecology is not only understood but it is in balance.
l
Contributor: Mark Drew Martin is a Landscape Architect and owner of Gardenism. Email: design@gardenism.com
Feature
“GET FIT STAY FIT� Karelle Ashley-Jones with Fitness Ambassador
F
itness is important to me because it is my key to a healthier quality of life. I am now 46 years old and I thoroughly enjoy life. I attribute that to my exercise regime over the years. I am well rested, mentally alert, physically fit, spiritually at peace and I am able to keep up with my 4 year old daughter! When I first started to introduce fitness in Jamaica it was not very well received. Most persons wanted to continue to eat as they please with very little physical activity. Now, it is so inspiring to see how we have become so much more health conscious as a country and I love that. continued...
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Feature
How To Begin Living A Healthier Lifestyle ...
These are my 9 ways towards a healthier lifestyle!
Are you ready to finally start an exercise program that you can stick to for life?
1.
An exercise program that is fun coupled with a nutritional plan where you actually enjoy the food works.
k
Need an exercise program & nutritional plan...
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YOU FIRST HAVE TO GET YOUR MIND IN A HEALTHY PLACE: You have to realize that eating right and exercising regularly is now going to be a part of you and your regular routine. It’s just like getting up and taking a shower or brushing your teeth. Exercise and eating right have to become second nature. Just think if you went a day without taking a shower or brushing your teeth! You have to get yourself to that place with your new exercise regime.
2. GIVE YOUR BODY A CHECK- UP:
Make sure you consult your physician so you know what your limitations are, and be sure to seek a fitness professional so that they can recommend and demonstrate safe and effective exercises.
3. SET YOUR GOALS:
Know what it is that you want to achieve. If it is to lose weight set short term goals that are realistic and attainable. Believe and you will achieve.
4. FIND EXERCISES THAT YOU ENJOY:
Know what it is that you want to achieve. If it is to lose weight set short term goals that are realistic and attainable. Believe and you will achieve.
5. DRESS FOR SUCCESS:
Ensure that you are wearing proper, breathable exercise clothes and the right footwear. Ladies, a good sports bra is key and gentlemen nothing too tight below the belt.
6. EXERCISE WITH A FRIEND:
Exercising together with a friend always makes it easier and more fun. You can set goals together and keep each other on track, not to mention, a little friendly competition will always keep you motivated.
7. MODIFY, NOT ELIMINATE EATING
HABITS: I believe in modification and not deprivation. You can still eat all the foods you enjoy but in moderation. Eat smaller meals and eat more often. Use low fat substitutes for snacks such as yogurt, eat lean meats and of course add fruits and vegetables to your diet.
8. BE CONSISITENT:
This is not a “one time trial and then I am going to go back to my old ways” program. You have to now have a mind set that this is going to be your new way of life and you are going to consistently exercise and eat right for the rest of your life.
9. REWARD YOURSELF WITH DAILY
AFFIRMATIONS: Learn to motivate yourself. Love yourself for who you are. Look in the mirror every morning and say “I look good”, “I love me” “I am going to exercise and eat right today for me”. Believe in yourself! Once you have these foundational tools in place, you are now on your way to a healthier lifestyle and will be able to
“KEEP FIT AND STAY FIT” Contributor: Karelle Ashley-Jones is a Fitness Instructor and Fitness Ambassador. Email: jamfit.jamaica@gmail.com
NHT News
NHT happenings...
1. (Above) Prime Minister the Most Hon. Portia
Simpson Miller hands over the letter of possession to Mr. Patrick Buchanan one of 140 beneficiaries of lots at Creighton Hall in St. Thomas.
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.
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3.
(Left) Winners All: (left to right): NHT Entrepreneurial Challenge Awardee, Alexander Bryan; NHT Community Liaison Officer, Rosalind Rodney; awardees Taneta Johnson, Shawn Williams, Olive Wright, Michelle Carpenter and Jennifer Jones; NHT Customer Service Representative, Amy Thame; awardees Jermaine Parkinson and Shamecka Welsh and Animation Officer, Entrepreneurial Challenge, O’Neil Jones.
4. (Left) Winner of the Promising
Youth Award in the NHT’s Entrepreneurial Challenge, Alexander Bryan (left) of Alex’s Upholstery, makes sure his guests are comfortably seated on furniture upholstered by his establishment. With him are (second left to right) NHT Chairman Dr. the Hon. Carlton Davis; Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Noel Arscott and Minister Without Portfolio in the Ministry of Transport, Works and Housing, Hon, Dr. Morais Guy.
6.
5.
(Above) NHT Board Director Granville Valentine plants a flower with the help of Executive Director YUTE Build Alicia Gentles at the Maxfield Park Children’s Home on Labour Day.
(Above) Taneta Johnson of Taneta’s Health and Wellness Centre, accepts her award for social enterprise from NHT Chairman Dr. the Hon. Carlton Davis at the Entrepreneurial Challenge Awards ceremony.
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“thank
you!”
NHT Feature
FEEDBACK k
YOUR SATISFACTION: OUR GOAL At the NHT we are delighted to serve you, our contributors, especially since we are contributors ourselves.
We thank you for your ongoing feedback: compliments, commendations and
complaints as these give a reference point to which current and potential contributors can gauge the advantages and benefits of selecting a specific product or service. Here are some of the recent comments made by our contributors/mortgagors overseas: “It was a pleasure to choose the National Housing Trust to be a voluntary contributor especially with the excellent service from Ms Jessica Meredith and the hard work she did to assist me to achieve my NIS card so that I could be a customer at NHT. I will recommend the NHT to anyone in the U.S.A based on the excellent service that I received from her.”
- S. Davis, USA “I for one have always been a part of the chorus that sang out against the horrible customer service that’s usually meted out by Government associated agencies and their respective affiliates. However, I was pleasantly surprised yesterday when a loan interview that was scheduled for a time outside the regular opening period, was actualised. This was done to accommodate my wife and I as we were unable to meet a time during the regular opening hours. The NHT staff were so professional, patient and to say accommodative, would be an understatement. They went through the somewhat rigorous process of copying, explaining, guiding, advising and all that which was necessary to complete the process. We were accommodated for more than two hours subsequent to the office closing time. On behalf of my wife, a very big THANK YOU for the sacrifices that were made to accommodate us; you went above and beyond your call of duty, THANKS.
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This has changed my whole perspective and approach, realising that one cannot broad-brush and label all agencies the same, because they fall under one umbrella or because of an unfavourable experience from one. This is testament of why you guys have already been recipients of the Public Sector Customer Service Award and were no doubt deserving of such. Commendation also must be extended to the leadership of the team.”
- H. Francis, Jamaica “Thank you all you make my payment easy and trouble free”
- L. Kelly via Facebook “I just wanted to big up the NHT Team with their excellent service. Thanks alot you guys were great with helping me six months ago when I was buying my house.”
- C. Brown-Wright via Facebook
NHT Feature
k STAYING MORTGAGE HEALTHY k Your house is probably one of your biggest assets and the National Housing Trust wants you to keep it. If you are not yet a mortgagor but you are considering applying for a loan, this information is also for you.
COMIC STRIP: If wi did only av a likkle more on the income side, wi would a get more to borrow
Mek me see wha yuh put dung (studies it). Naw man, wi earn more dan dis a month time
The comic strip highlights the importance of doing an accurate estimate of your income and expenses, so as to see how much you can afford to borrow. HERE ARE A FEW TIPS TO HELP YOU TO MAINTAIN A HEALTHY LOAN ACCOUNT: 1.
Do not overestimate your income, and just as importantly, do not underestimate the amount of money that you spend every month. If grandma’s pension is already budgeted for, it is not a good idea to include it as an income for the family.
2.
Many of our contributors join with relatives or friends so they can get more money to buy or build. When you do this, you are actually creating two mortgages. If the person you are joining with is not reliable or has no interest in the property you must make sure your income will allow you to pay the two loans.
3.
Remember to do a monthly budget and avoid skipping payments. In fact, when you get extra money you should consider pre-payment which is to pay ahead as a cushion against hard times.
4.
Your mortgage payments are due by the 15th day of each month. If you do not make the full monthly payment by this time, you will be charged a late fee of 5 per cent on the amount that is outstanding for that month.
5.
If you lose your job or face any situation resulting in a loss of income, don’t go into depression, contact the NHT immediately. Do not ignore notices sent to you, act on them quickly.
From weh? (Man Looks around, spots his grandmother) All grandma... a right inside yah fi har pension come every month But dat caan even buy har medicine!
Yuh a joke … a income, put it dung!
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Home ownership is one of the greatest investments you could make, so let us protect this asset by consistently paying your mortgage every month. l
Expert Article
: r e t a W f o d n a L a policy approach to rainwater harvesting
T
here are still too many people in rural areas that do not have access to safe drinking water. It often requires excessive effort to fetch water for even basic household usage. But it’s not just a rural problem. Recent periods of prolonged droughts that have affected the island especially the Kingston Metropolitan Area/ Region, declining capacity of water storage facilities such as the Mona
Reservoir and Hermitage Dam and subsequent water restrictions imposed by the National Water Commission in the distribution of potable water supply to some areas have highlighted the need for a policy framework that supports and encourages rain water harvesting. Given the particular needs of rural communities, the Government has sought to promote the use of appropriate technologies and approaches in rural water provision, continued...
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Expert Article storage facilities during drought periods can be maintained and or increased to ensure a ready supply of water.
with a mix of options depending on remoteness and other special characteristics including; self-provision through individual household rainwater tanks and wells.
In the preparation of development orders, policies have been developed by NEPA to encourage rain water harvesting, and the recycling of wastewater. In the development approval process conditions have also been included on development applications for the retention of storm water on site and rainwater harvesting. l
As a proactive measure, rainwater harvesting policy would be included in Parish Development Orders which lay out the terms of all urban and rural developments, to augment the potable water supply system during periods of rainfall. Through this measure, the capacity of the water
some policies extracted from Draft Development Orders 1. “Rainwater harvesting will be encouraged in residential and other developments to improve access to potable water supply system.”
2. “All new developments shall be required to provide rain water harnessing facilities or other suitable water source to satisfy the needs of the development.” 6 0 H O M E & A W AY
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Contributor: National Environmental and Planning Agency (NEPA).
3. “Rainwater harvesting will be encouraged by the planning authorities for residential, other developments and areas without public water supply.”
4
4. “Rainwater harvesting will be encouraged in new residential and other developments as a supplement to the public water supply system.”
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Feature
Feature
The
Saver’s Guide - by Jason Patterson
I
t’s far easier to control our energy usage than energy costs, and you have the power to save energy, and money, in your own home. Some solutions are low cost/no cost; others require investment, but all have the potential to give good returns. Let’s get started:
Electronic gadgets use a substantial amount of energy even when turned off (“phantom energy”). This costs you money. How can you stop it? Unplug your cell phone & laptop chargers, radios, televisions and attached electronic gizmos when they’re not being used. (Extra Tip: Plug electronics into a power strip, then turn the strip off when not in use for one click savings.) Switch to LED light bulbs. LED light bulbs can reduce your lighting expenses by as much as 50 percent. Improving lighting efficiency is one of the easiest changes you can make. LED light bulbs last longer, are more durable, and offer similar or better
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light quality than other types of lighting. An investment in LED light bulbs has a quick payback period and an impressive return on investment (ROI). (Extra Tip: Start by replacing light bulbs with the longest operating hours.) Solar water heaters can provide 100 percent of a household’s hot water. If you have an average-sized family, approximately 33 percent of your electric bill is the cost of heating water. The NHT’s Solar Water Heater Loan provides financing to contributors and recognized institutions for the installation and retrofitting of solar water heating systems. (Extra Tip: If you can’t make the switch to solar water heating immediately, consider lowering your water heater temperature setting from 140ºF to 120ºF. This will save you money while keeping water hot enough for showers.) l Contributor: Jason Patterson, Managing Director Avenir Energy Solutions. Email: jason@avenirenergysolutions.com Web: www.avenirenergysolutions.com
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Feature
Do’s and Don’ts 20for Legal LANDLORDS
(of Residential Properties)
Some people find themselves with an additional home and decide that it would be a good idea to rent it out. You don’t have to be rich to be in this situation. It could happen to you by way of inheritance from a family member; marriage to someone who also has a home; you could be living away from home for a lengthy period;
Renting your property can be a great way to earn additional income.
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or it could be a deliberate investment strategy. In any case, renting out your property that you are not living in can be a great way of earning additional income. However, there are some legal requirements that you must abide by if you are not to run afoul of the law.
DO remember that your property is likely to be
1.
governed by the Rent Restriction Act which means that certain restrictions apply automatically. They include your inability to charge whatever rent you choose, your inability to deny tenancy to someone with children, and your inability to automatically evict a tenant whose lease term is up.
DO seek the consent of your mortgage provider if you
2.
are still paying for a mortgage on the property. Most mortgage deeds either preclude you from renting the property secured by the mortgage, or require you to ask for their permission first.
DO pre-qualify your tenants. Obtain references, verify
3.
their identity, run credit checks and obtain a letter of good standing from their previous landlord. If you don’t know how to do this, seek help from your lawyer or another professional.
DON’T discriminate against prospective tenants
4.
based upon their gender, race, place of origin, social class, colour, religion or political opinions.
DO apply to the Rent Assessment Board for a
5.
determination of the rent. The assessor will take into account the location, and all the amenities that the property has to offer. He will also take into consideration your own assessment of an appropriate rental amount. Therefore it pays to do your homework as to what rents are being charged in your area for properties offering similar amenities to yours BEFORE the rent assessment officer arrives to inspect your property. DO take note that the tenant also has the right to apply to the Rent Assessment Board for a determination that the rent you are charging is fair.
7. Security deposits paid prior to the commencement of the
tenancy can provide a useful fund from which to draw in the event that the tenant damages your property or fails to pay the rent one month.
DO
appreciate that although some landlords However do request a security deposit, such requests are presently unlawful. Some landlords request first and last months’ rent as an alternative way of obtaining funds up front. You could lawfully do this too, but this approach does not provide an additional fund in the way a security deposit does, and may still leave you having to dip into your own pocket to replace items damaged by the tenant.
DO ask your lawyer to draft a tenancy agreement.
8.
A well drawn tenancy agreement will address your unique needs and may prevent many arguments from occurring.
9.
DO ensure that you have a means of regularly and
efficiently collecting the rent e.g., use of a bank standing order. DO provide a rent book detailing the rents paid and if you wish, a receipt for each rental payment.
10.
DO maintain formality when dealing with your
tenant. Ensure that all communications are in writing and that you maintain a file with copies of all your own letters as well as those received from the tenant. Make a note of all telephone calls and what was said, then follow up with a letter. Formality assists both parties to remain business-like and professional, and limits disagreements.
continued...
DO remember that the law provides for annual rental
6.
increases of 7.5%. If you think your property warrants a greater increase in any particular year, based upon the level or type of improvements you have made, you should seek a determination from the Rent Assessment Board.
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11. When you rent out your property to someone, you
are required to give them what the law describes as ‘quiet enjoyment’. This means that you must leave them alone to enjoy the property and their privacy.
DO
make appointments with the tenant beforehand to inspect the property on a regular basis. This will also enable you to spot possible repair and maintenance issues quickly. You can resolve them more quickly that way.
DO maintain the property. The law requires you
12.
to keep the property in a ‘tenantable state of repair’ and to observe reasonable standards of maintenance’.
13.
DON’T use your spare keys to access the
property even if the tenant refuses to allow you to access the property for inspection or maintenance. The tenant can sue you for trespass.
14. The
most common complaints of landlords include non-payment of rent, failure of the tenant to maintain the property and other persons living at the property that were not previously agreed.
DO turn to your tenancy agreement first to see whether it
addresses the particular concern you have. If it does, write a letter or call asking to meet with the tenant and request him or her to come into compliance with the tenancy agreement by a certain time.
15. If the approach set out above does not work
DON’T go any further without seeking the assistance
of your lawyer or the Rent Assessment Board. Either of them can intervene to bring about an amicable resolution, and if that fails, to have the Rent Assessment Board or the Resident Magistrates Court determine the matter.
Contributor: Lorna Phillips is a commercial and real estate Attorney-at-Law and partner in the law firm Nicholson Phillips. lorna@nicholsonphillips.com 6 6 H O M E & A W AY
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16. The
law is very strict about preventing unlawful
evictions.
DO
ensure that you are on good legal ground if you wish to evict your tenant. For instance, your desire to sell the property or the tenant’s apparent failure to maintain the property properly are not in themselves good legal reasons for eviction. However, if the tenant is persistently failing to pay the rent, this is good legal reason to seek eviction.
17.
DO serve a proper Notice to Quit in keeping with
the law once a decision is taken to evict the tenant. The law is strict on the required contents of a valid notice. Your lawyer or the Rent Assessment Board can advise you.
18. If the tenant refuses to obey the Notice to Quit,
DO
ask your lawyer or the Rent Assessment Board to help you to take the matter to Court, since only the court can issue an eviction order.
19.
DON’T turn off the electricity or water in the
hope of making it so uncomfortable for the tenant that he or she leaves. The tenant can pay for the electricity and water service and deduct the relevant sums from the rent, whilst lawfully remaining in your property.
20. If you are experiencing problems,
DO seek help
from professionals such as lawyers, property managers, the Rent Assessment Board or real estate brokers to assist you with any aspect of the process. They have considerable experience dealing with tenants and can provide much needed support and reassurance.
kk k Being a landlord can be a lucrative and sensible way of utilising a property that you are not living in. Keep this list of do’s and don’ts handy because being a successful landlord means knowing and applying the law. l