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Real Estate in Ocho Rios, Jamaica | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on May 07, 2023

Summary: The average cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Ocho Rios, Jamaica is around $200,000 USD. These properties typically include a living room, kitchen, two bedrooms, and one or two bathrooms. Amenities may include a pool, patio, and/or garden. The average cost of a nice 3 bedroom home in Ocho Rios is around $250,000 USD. These properties typically include a living room, kitchen, three bedrooms, and two bathrooms. Amenities may include a pool, patio, and/or garden. Foreigners are allowed to own property in Ocho Rios. However, they must obtain a permit from the Jamaican government before they can purchase a property. The best way for an expat to search for a home to buy in Ocho Rios is to use a real estate agent or search online. There are many websites that list properties for sale in Ocho Rios. The most desirable neighborhoods in Ocho Rios are Turtle River Park, Runaway Bay, and Discovery Bay. These areas are close to the beach and offer a variety of amenities.

How do I find a place to live in Ocho Rios?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One option for finding a place to live in Ocho Rios is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Airbnb, HomeAway, and VRBO offer a variety of rental properties in the area. Additionally, there are many local real estate agents who specialize in helping people find a place to live in Ocho Rios. It is also possible to find rental listings in local newspapers and on bulletin boards in the area. Finally, asking around in the local community can be a great way to find out about available rental properties," remarked one member in Ocho Rios.

"When we first moved to Ochi, we were staying in an apartment that was rented out by my husband's company. Since the apartment was a bit far from downtown and also very dark, we started looking around for a new place. Our lease was almost up, so we were actively on the lookout. A friend of ours saw a sign right outside a nice looking complex advertising a real estate agency and we called right away. Now we live in an ocean front apt and couldn't be happier," explained one expat living in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Ocho Rios?

"Expat homes and apartments in Ocho Rios are typically modern and spacious, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the homes and apartments have balconies or terraces that offer stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. The interiors are often decorated with bright colors and tropical accents, and the kitchens are usually well-equipped with modern appliances. Expats in Ocho Rios can also enjoy access to a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and tennis courts," said one expat who made the move to Ocho Rios.

"We got lucky with our apartment. We have all the amenities many people in Jamaica go without (running water, washer & drier, hot water, AC etc). We even have a dishwasher which we never used, since electricity here is extremely expensive. Our kitchen appliances are modern and really nice. Our internet is much faster than in the US. We have a 2 bedroom/2 bathroom, with a nice balcony overlooking the ocean and the pool. We take our baby son for a swim almost every day," explained one foreigner living in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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What is the average cost of housing in Ocho Rios?

If you are thinking about moving to Ocho Rios, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"I think the housing costs are about the same, since we lived in a very expensive area in the US. That being said, I think that the cost of living here may be higher than in the US. Our supermarket runs are much pricier than back home, and electricity alone is more than triple down here," explained one expat living in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

"The cost of housing in Ocho Rios varies depending on the type of accommodation and location. Generally, the cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $500 to $700 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost up to $1,000 per month. Prices for larger homes and villas can range from $1,500 to $3,000 per month," said one person in Ocho Rios.

Should I buy or rent a home in Ocho Rios?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Ocho Rios, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Ocho Rios can be a great investment, as the area is known for its beautiful beaches and lush tropical landscape. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the cost of purchasing a home. Renting a home in Ocho Rios can be a great option for those who are looking for a more affordable option, as it can provide a more flexible living situation. Additionally, renting can be a great way to get to know the area before committing to a purchase. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Ocho Rios should be based on individual needs and preferences," said one person in Ocho Rios.

What do I need to know when buying property in Ocho Rios?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Ocho Rios, they said:

"When buying property in Ocho Rios, it is important to research the area and the local market to ensure you are making a sound investment. It is also important to understand the local laws and regulations regarding property ownership and taxation. It is also important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the availability of amenities such as schools, hospitals, and transportation. Additionally, it is important to consider the safety of the area and the potential for natural disasters. Finally, it is important to work with a reputable real estate agent who can provide guidance and advice throughout the process," explained one expat in Ocho Rios.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Ocho Rios?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Ocho Rios, they said...

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Ocho Rios. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of real estate in the country. However, foreigners may need to obtain a license from the Jamaican government if they wish to purchase more than five acres of land for personal use or for agricultural purposes. It is also recommended for foreigners to hire a local attorney to help navigate the property buying process and ensure all legal requirements are met," explained one person living in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Ocho Rios what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In a rental property in Ocho Rios, tenants can typically expect to find a refrigerator, stove, oven, microwave, and washing machine. Additionally, some properties may include a dishwasher, air conditioning, and other small appliances," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Ocho Rios.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Ocho Rios:

We asked foreigners in Ocho Rios what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats looking for homes in Ocho Rios often start their search by browsing online real estate websites and local classifieds to get an idea of the available properties and their prices. They may also join expat forums and social media groups to seek advice and recommendations from fellow expats who have already gone through the process of finding a home in Ocho Rios. Another common approach is to engage the services of a local real estate agent who is familiar with the area and can help navigate the local property market. Expats may also network with locals and other expats to get word-of-mouth recommendations for available properties. Visiting Ocho Rios in person is also a good idea, as it allows expats to explore different neighborhoods and get a feel for the area before committing to a property. While in the area, they can attend open houses and schedule viewings with real estate agents to see potential homes firsthand. Lastly, expats should consider their specific needs and preferences, such as proximity to schools, work, or amenities, as well as their budget and desired property type, to help narrow down their search and find the perfect home in Ocho Rios," explained one foreigner living in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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