Bernard Lodge Estates makes housing affordable for first timers

JAMAICANS TURNED out in droves at the Housing Agency of Jamaica (HAJ) Open Day Fair on Wednesday to view model units of the Bernard Lodge Estates, which will house more than 1,000 persons along the Spanish Town bypass.

The construction of units, which consist of studios and one-bedroom houses, is set to get under way by the beginning of September. Consumers will pay J$4 million and J$4.9 million, respectively, enjoying both 270 and 370 square feet spaces.

First preference

Gary Howell, sales and marketing manager at the HAJ, told The Gleaner that first-time owners will be given first preference.

"Homeownership is a huge challenge for the average person in Jamaica, and for the most part, the poor are not catered to," said Howell. "This initiative in particular, will be focused entirely on first-time homeowners. They will certainly be getting first preference," he continued.

He added: "Persons just can't afford it, and we want to raise the numbers in terms of people who are able to afford decent houses. I assure persons that this is value for money, the lot sizes are very large, you have adequate space to do additions, something you can enjoy for a lifetime."

Anxious for construction

Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Transport and Works, Dr Morais Guy, lauded the initiative, adding that he was anxious for the construction to begin.

Mark Brown, a potential homeowner, told The Gleaner that he is anxiously looking forward to owning his home.

"If I don't grab this one, I don't think I will ever be able to own one (home) again, because things continue to increase, and I believe these prices are reasonable. I have already made down payments, and I am here to ask many questions and to be clear," he said.