Frequently asked questions

Ferguson Law provides legal services in the areas of:

• Real Estate and Conveyancing
• Property Development
• Mortgages and Loan Documentation
• Commercial and Business Law
• Intellectual Property Law
• Sports Law and Athlete Representation Matters
• Wills and Estate Planning
• Probate and Letters of Administration
• Contract Drafting and Review
• Divorce

Yes. Ferguson Law regularly assists first-time homebuyers with every stage of the purchase process, including contract review, title investigations, mortgage transactions, NHT purchases, developer purchases, and closing procedures.

Absolutely. A significant portion of the firm's work involves assisting Jamaicans and foreign nationals who are purchasing, selling, inheriting, or managing property in Jamaica while residing overseas.

The firm utilizes secure electronic communication, video conferencing, and digital document management systems to make the process as convenient as possible for overseas clients.

Yes. Due to the firm's extensive banking and financial services background, clients benefit from practical guidance regarding mortgage financing, lending requirements, loan approvals, refinancing, and transaction structuring.

Legal fees vary depending on the nature and complexity of the matter.

Common fee structures include:

• Fixed fees for certain conveyancing and transactional matters
• Percentage-based fees for real estate transactions where appropriate
• Hourly rates for consultations and advisory services
• Project-based fees for commercial and business transactions

Clients are provided with a fee quotation or engagement terms before work commences.

Yes. Consultations may be arranged in person, by telephone, or via video conference for overseas clients.

Transaction timelines vary depending on factors such as financing approval, title issues, developer requirements, and regulatory processes. During the consultation, the firm can provide an estimated timeline based on the specific circumstances of the transaction.

Clients choose Ferguson Law because of:

• More than 10 years of legal experience
• More than 20 years of banking and financial services experience
• Specialized training in conveyancing and real estate transactions
• Experience serving overseas-based clients
• Clear communication and practical advice
• A client-focused approach aimed at reducing stress and uncertainty throughout the legal process

WhatsApp: (876) 320-0235
Business Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

For urgent enquiries, prospective clients may contact the firm via WhatsApp or by booking a consultation online.

In many cases, yes.

Ferguson Law regularly assists overseas clients with property purchases while they remain abroad. Much of the transaction process can be completed through electronic communication, video conferencing, courier services, and properly executed Powers of Attorney where appropriate.

If you are unable to travel to Jamaica to sign in person, a Power of Attorney (POA) lets someone you trust act on your behalf. A few key points:

• A POA allows the named agent to sign documents on your behalf
• In order to be used in a real estate transaction a POA must be stamped and registered at the Registrar General's Department (RGD). Your lawyer can assist with that
• Must be properly drafted, executed and (in some cases) notarised or apostilled
• Should be LIMITED to specific transactions — not a general / blanket POA

Ferguson Law can draft, execute and register your POA correctly so your purchase is never held up by a paperwork technicality.

Yes, provided proper due diligence is conducted.

One of the most important protections available to an overseas buyer is engaging an independent Attorney-at-Law who will:

• Verify ownership of the property
• Investigate the title
• Review contractual terms
• Identify encumbrances and restrictions
• Confirm planning and development approvals where necessary
• Ensure funds are properly accounted for

Legal due diligence significantly reduces the risk of fraud, title defects, and unexpected liabilities.

Before completion of the transaction, Ferguson Law conducts title investigations through the National Land Agency and reviews supporting ownership documentation to verify the seller's legal right to sell the property.

Where necessary, additional investigations may be undertaken to identify mortgages, caveats, easements, judgments, or other encumbrances affecting the property.

Requirements vary depending on the transaction, but typically include:

• Valid government-issued identification
• Proof of address
• Tax Registration Number (TRN)
• Source of funds documentation
• Financing documents (if applicable)

Additional documentation may be required for corporate purchasers, trusts, or estates.

Yes.

The firm can advise on the process and documentation required to obtain a Jamaican Tax Registration Number (TRN), which is generally required to complete property transactions in Jamaica.

Yes.

Many Jamaican financial institutions offer mortgage products for Jamaicans residing overseas. Eligibility requirements vary among lenders and may depend on:

• Country of residence
• Employment status
• Income source
• Credit history
• Debt obligations

Ferguson Law's banking and financial services experience enables the firm to provide practical guidance throughout the financing process.

The deposit amount is negotiated per transaction — though it is usually at least 5%. It depends on the seller, developer, and financing arrangements. Ferguson Law will confirm the right figure for your specific deal during your consultation.

In addition to the purchase price, buyers should generally budget for:

• Transfer Tax (where applicable)
• Stamp Duty (where applicable)
• Registration fees
• Legal fees
• Survey costs (if required)
• Mortgage-related expenses
• Valuation fees
• Insurance requirements

The firm can provide a detailed estimate of transaction costs at the outset of the transaction.

Common mistakes include:

• Purchasing without independent legal advice
• Paying down payments before due diligence is completed
• Relying solely on verbal representations
• Failing to verify title ownership
• Underestimating transaction costs
• Not obtaining financing pre-approval
• Using unqualified intermediaries

Early legal guidance can help avoid costly delays and disputes.

The timeline depends on several factors, including:

• Financing approval
• Title status
• Seller readiness
• Regulatory requirements
• Developer obligations (for new developments)

A straightforward transaction may proceed relatively quickly, while more complex matters may require additional time.

Yes.

The firm can assist from the initial review of the property through to completion and registration, including:

• Contract review
• Title investigations
• Mortgage documentation
• Communication with lenders
• Completion arrangements
• Registration and post-closing matters

This allows overseas clients to have a single point of contact throughout the transaction.

Clients benefit from:

• More than 10 years of legal practice
• More than 20 years of banking and financial services experience
• Specialized conveyancing training through the National Land Agency Conveyancing Course
• Experience serving overseas-based clients
• Clear, practical communication
• A commitment to making property ownership in Jamaica as straightforward as possible