H.O.M.E.™ by Ferguson Law — Property Explainer

What a Property Purchase in Jamaica Really Costs

A Jamaican property transaction involves 6 categories of fees beyond the purchase price. Together they can add 10–20% to your total cost. Ferguson Law explains every figure before you commit to anything.

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01

Transfer Tax

Seller pays2% of Selling price

Paid on the transfer of the title. A 2% charge on the agreed Selling price, normally paid by the seller.

02

Stamp Duty

Both parties pay$5,000

A government duty on the transfer documents. Both buyer and seller pay this at closing. Each party pays half of this amount.

03

Registration Fee

Both parties pay0.5% of Selling price

A charge to the National Land Agency to register the title in the new owner's name. Both buyer and seller pay this fee. Each party pays half of this amount.

04

Attorney's Fees

Buyer & seller eachNegotiable

Legal fees for conveyancing — searches, agreements, compliance and completion. Both parties retain their own attorney.

05

Valuation Fee

Buyer paysFixed by licensed valuator

A licensed valuation is required by every bank and the NHT before mortgage approval. Non-negotiable for financed purchases.

06

Survey Fee

Buyer paysVaries by lot size

Confirms the boundaries and exact size of the lot. Required for most purchases and always recommended.

07

Mortgage Processing Fee

Purchaser pays1–3% of loan amount

Charged by the lender for processing and approving the mortgage application. Varies by institution.

08

Life Insurance

Purchaser paysMonthly premium

Required by most lenders as a condition of the mortgage. Covers the outstanding balance in the event of the borrower's death.

09

Agreement for Sale

Purchaser & Vendor equally~J$100,000–150,000

Legal fee for drafting or reviewing the Agreement for Sale — the binding contract that governs the transaction.

10

Sundry Legal Costs

Purchaser pays~J$30,000–40,000

Miscellaneous disbursements including searches, compliance certificates, courier fees and other incidentals.

The bottom line

Most buyers are surprised. You won't be.

Every deal is different. Book a 20-minute consultation and Ferguson Law will walk you through the exact costs for your purchase — before you sign anything.