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Investing in Jamaican Real Estate

Picture yourself waking up to the gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore, the warm sun casting a golden glow on your face, and stepping onto your private balcony, greeted by breathtaking views of pristine beaches and lush green mountains. This is the allure of investing in a Bessa Living real estate unit– a chance to own a slice of paradise and create an enchanting home in the heart of the Caribbean.

 

Jamaica, with its captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is not just a dream vacation destination; it’s also a haven for real estate investment. The country’s thriving tourism industry presents opportunities for homeowners seeking both financial prosperity and a blissful lifestyle. As one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, Jamaica attracts millions of visitors each year to its various renowned attractions, coupled with vibrant cultural festivals, creating a constant demand for accommodations. This makes investing in real estate in Jamaica a smart choice, as Bessa homeowners can benefit from the high rental demand and attractive returns that come with a flourishing tourism industry.

 

For homeowners looking to unleash the full potential of their investment, vacation rentals and short-term stays are an ideal avenue. Travelers today seek personalized experiences and unique accommodations that reflect the local culture. By offering your property as a vacation rental, you can tap into this growing trend, catering to the demand for authentic Jamaican experiences. To make your investment journey even more effortless, consider participating in rental pools managed by reputable companies like Bessa Resort Management. By joining a rental pool, you can leave the hassle of property management to the experts. Professionals will handle marketing, bookings, maintenance, and guest services, ensuring maximum occupancy rates and a seamless experience for both you and your guests. This hands-off approach allows you to sit back, relax, and reap the rewards of your investment.

 

Moreover, Jamaica’s commitment to economic stability and investor-friendly policies enhances the allure of real estate investment. The government has implemented initiatives such as Special Economic Zones and tourism expansion plans, creating a favorable environment for investors. This translates into security, transparency, and potential capital appreciation for homeowners.

 

So, why wait? Now is the time to seize the golden opportunity of investing in Jamaican real estate. Embrace the allure of the Caribbean, unlock the potential for financial prosperity, and create an enchanting home in paradise. Let Jamaica’s charm and beauty captivate you every day. Your dream investment awaits in this tropical haven.

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Why NOW is the best time to buy a luxury home

Each person has their own unique set of factors that motivates them to make any purchase. These factors include your income, risk appetite, interests, and so on. So when considering making any significant purchases, like investing in real estate, it is important to do so at the right time. In this article, we will outline why NOW is the best time to buy a luxury home (and why Bessa should be your location of choice). 

Your Investment can work for you 

Whether your focus is on having a space for you (and your family) to relax and decompress, or you’re interested in generating income, an investment in the luxury real estate market affords you the flexibility to choose what’s best for you!

Bessa affords you the opportunity to access the opportunity to earn income while having your own tropical destination to escape to.

Increase in Rent Prices

Speaking of rental opportunities, research in the housing market indicates that rent prices for luxury homes will continue to rise at a minimum of three percent per year.  Additionally, with more remote job opportunities becoming available to professionals around the world, more persons are choosing to work from beautiful destinations they can do their work while being able to enjoy the benefits of their destination in their downtime. 

It is also anticipated that travel and short-term rentals will face increased demand as more persons travel, having been locked away for some time, increasing the opportunities for sustainable income generation. 

Right now is a good time for investors to invest in luxury properties like Bessa that can drive major profits long term.

Real Estate Investments Remaining Stable

It is also a good time to purchase a luxury property as investments in the real estate sector have been resilient and reliable for many owners. Properties continue to hold their value and have even increased in worth, despite the financial climate. 

 

With Bessa’s unique location, providing homeowners access to beach, river, and pool amenities, our properties were designed to support the upward movement, even in the years to come. 

 

Jamaica’s North Coast Is A Prime Real Estate Location

In addition, the country’s climate and natural lush landscapes inclusive of expansive white sand beaches, refreshing rivers, and lush vegetation positions Jamaica as one of the Caribbean’s prime real estate locations. 

 

These amazing features make it one of the most sought-after destinations for investors, so if you want to own a property on the North Coast- the time is now. 

Purchasing a piece of real estate is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be a hard one. At Bessa, your luxury property is an investment into your future, unlocking enviable access to beach, river, and infinity pool features on Jamaica’s pristine North Coast. If you’re interested in getting more information about Bessa, check out our properties here or email sales@bessaliving.com.

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How a Luxury Community Serves You – Pros and Cons of Luxury Gated Communities  

 

We all have our expectations of how our living spaces will be once we decide to purchase property. Savvy home buyers are more meticulous in their search and expect the highest standards without compromising on their needs. However, within any living space, there are challenges to be expected amidst all the advantages. Today we will be sharing the Pros and Cons of Luxury Gated Communities.

 

Pros of Luxury Gated Communities

 

Convenience

A luxury gated community is built with the intention of providing necessary and premium amenities. They typically offer gyms, swimming pools and a wide range of recreational spaces. Gated communities are also often centrally located and well-connected to nearby cities. This makes them accessible to the best schools, hospitals, offices, restaurants and shopping centres.

 

Property Maintenance

With a purchase of a Bessa property, you have access to quality property maintenance all year round for all your amenities and landscaping needs. Overseas? No problem. At Bessa, we ensure that the common areas of your property are well taken care of and maintained. This is a significant benefit for homeowners in gated communities as opposed to those who purchase stand-alone homes who have the personal responsibility of maintaining their properties. Additionally, within a gated community, costs to perform property maintenance are usually shared among all residents within the community, so your expenses are significantly reduced.

 

Safety and Security

Luxury gated communities are facilitated with 24-hour security and surveillance. You can avoid unwanted visitors, and intruders can be kept away at the gate as security is expected to do the necessary checks with you before allowing anyone inside. These communities also contain CCTV cameras, electronic fences and  intercom systems available on the premises for your protection.

 

Controlled Access

Luxury gated communities consist of strict gate policies to regulate the entry and exit of each individual. With only residents and invited guests allowed through the gates, the likelihood of encountering crime or unwelcomed behavior within the community is greatly reduced. Gated communities don’t completely stop crime, but they do deter it, particularly if there is a security guard at the gate rather than just a keypad entry.

 

Cons of Luxury Gated Communities

 

Expensive Costs

Living in a luxury gated community can be pricey. You may be required to pay homeowners association fees which can come with a hefty price tag as you are paying extra for the maintenance and security fees. However, as aforementioned, costs are shared by residents within the community as opposed to living in a non-gated community where you will be solely burdened with all maintenance costs. Therefore, although expensive, costs are shared and ultimately reduced.

 

Restrictive Rules

Many private communities consist of specific rules that residents are required to follow. This could include what colours to paint your house or even how high the grass in your lawn is allowed to grow. Ensure that these rules are compatible with your lifestyle before making an offer to purchase. These rules often ensure a consistent look and feel of common areas within a community, and establish the type of behaviour expected of residents and their guests. This oftentimes assists in the maintenance of property value.  If you’re big on individuality and self expression, or you have a much more laid back approach, it is possible that you might struggle with these restrictions.

 

Gatehouse Frustrations

It can be very appealing to have restricted access into the community since it may deter unwelcome visitors. However, it can be frustrating when you have to go through those gates every day. You may have to wait in a line just to get in or out depending on what times you tend to come and go. Also, each time you’re having guests over, you will have to inform the guard so that they can gain entrance, which can become frustrating.

 

Overall, living in a luxury gated community has significant benefits that will allow residents to attain greater means of security while still accessing important resources. They also have access to quality property maintenance at reduced costs as opposed to standalone homes or those in non-gated communities. However, all living spaces have their share of challenges and that’s why it’s important for potential homeowners to make strategic decisions regarding what elements they are looking for when purchasing property.

 

For more information on Bessa Properties, click the link below.

http://bessaliving.com/our-properties/  

 

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How To Choose the Right Investment Property

An investment property is a solid investment option with the ability to grow your wealth long-term. It can be an attractive option for those seeking passive income or an additional financial security during retirement. To help you move forward on your investment journey, here are a few factors to consider when choosing the right property.

1. Look for Growth Areas

It is important to stay abreast with factors such as population growth, the state of the economy or the development of local infrastructure. All these factors contribute to the appreciation of your property’s value overtime. Oracabessa, St Mary for example, is seeing a major growth in infrastructure and will only get better in the future. It’s always great to get in “before the get-in gets expensive”.

2. Choose Low-maintenance Properties

Look for a property that is ready to be moved into or rented out immediately (unless you have big plans to add value through renovating). Choose one with little to no maintenance, as properties with pools and large gardens need time and care. A similar property on a smaller block with a pool or garden for all the residents to enjoy will be easier to maintain, as there will be a designated caretaker.

3. Figure Out What People Want 

Be sure to choose a property type which appeals to your target market. A small unit may be more affordable than a house, but if the local market consists of  large families, your investment property won’t appeal. A Bessa Investment Property will attract individuals who are looking for a vacation property near the beach and away from a crowded city. Factors such as off-street parking or proximity to public transport are also important to consider. 

4. What are the Future Plans of the Area

It is important to learn what plans are in place for an area’s development when investing. This will help you decide if the area is the right fit for your property. Development and council websites provide information on upcoming infrastructure projects. Consider any residential developments going up near amenities, such as schools and shopping hubs. At Bessa, the nearest shopping district is in Ocho Rios which is a few minutes away. This means you may need some form of transportation or plan to spend money on transportation.

5. Getting What You Want

The most important thing when choosing the right Investment Property is getting what you want!  Be sure to do the necessary checks on the property to ensure that all amenities are working effectively. Ensure that the electricity is set up correctly, no leaks in the pipes and a proper sewage system. These are the simple things that people often overlook that can cause the most damage. If there is an extra cost to check that things are up to code, add it to your budget. Choosing the right investment property requires adequate research, so garner the facts from as many sources as you can.

For more information on Bessa Properties, click the link below

https://bessaliving.com/our-properties/

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Bessa’s Ultimate Guide to Luxury Property Renovation

The renovation of a property is a huge undertaking and can even be stressful for most people. However, there is a true reward that comes from owning a property and even a greater reward when you can customise the space to your liking. Renovating your luxury property is a great way to elevate the space and increase its value.  

If you’re considering the renovation of your new property, then read on for all you need to know on how to complete the project to a high standard. 

Pricing the Renovation

Before committing to renovating your property, It is important to decide if you will be renovating the entire house all at once, or doing select rooms in stages. In this same breath, start looking for Interiors Designers and discuss with them your vision for your property; how do you want it to look and feel? After discussing your vision with them, request a quote, as this will give you a clear understanding of all the expenses for the project.  

Reconfiguring the Space

There are some properties, especially strata developments that will have limitations on how you can reconfigure the building. Reach out to the builder or a surveyor to find out the rules that apply when changing the outside of the property. You can then adapt accordingly to ensure you get a final result that you’re happy with but also aligns with strata regulations.

Use the Original Features to your Advantage

The great thing about BESSA, is the modern decor style and open-layout plan within our properties. This includes high ceilings with wooden panels, french windows and basic furniture. If you desire to modernise aspects of the home, such as the decor, you can do this whilst ensuring that the more modern touches fit neatly alongside the original features of the property. This will bring out the beauty of the existing architectural design. 

Decoration

Once the structural changes are in place, it’s time to take things up a notch by decorating your property. This is all about your personality and creative vision coming together within your space. With the help of your interior designer, begin gathering inspiration of various design styles, themes and colour palettes that align with your aesthetics. At BESSA our design style is described as “Tropical Caribbean Luxury”, which is an elevated take on contemporary meets beach house chic. We have played on using modern features and mixing them with interesting pieces like a light-fixture made of wicker, that we’ve used in our Living Room space. It is important to know what you are taking on, how much it will cost and what changes are legally possible for you to make to the property should you wish to. Once you have the relevant facts, renovating the property can be a rich and joyful experience for you and your guests.

If you are interested in purchasing a property overseas, click the link below to learn more. https://bessaliving.com/our-properties/

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The 5 Best Places to Visit in OracaBESSA

Oracabessa and its environs have plenty to offer, from the island’s best hotspots, to the beaches, cuisine and amazing historical landmarks. Whatever your vibe, you’re guaranteed an opulent experience.

We’ve rounded up five (5) of the best places to add to your travel itinerary when you visit Oracabessa.

1. Galina Lighthouse

Located on the North Coast, is the Galina Lighthouse. The Tower’s structure is made of concrete, painted white and is over 40 feet high. The light is approximately 60 feet above sea level. The lighthouse flashes a white light lasting 1.2 seconds and is followed by 10.8 seconds of darkness. 

There are seven lighthouses in Jamaica and they are all of significant importance to Jamaica as they were each built during the colonial period. The Galina Lighthouse stands out as it is quiet and private and its location on the shoreline makes it the perfect backdrop for beautiful vacation photos.

2. Goldeneye

GoldenEye is the name given by famed novelist Ian Flemming to his estate in Oracabessa Bay. The house was built in 1946 on a 15- acre property, located on a cliff which overlooks a private beach. 

Today, the property has been transformed into a luxurious collection of private villas, cottages and beach huts. The resort hosts a plethora of activities including sailing, snorkeling and deep sea fishing. 

3. James Bond Beach

James Bond Beach, sits on a small peninsula at Oracabessa Bay, approximately 10 miles from Ocho Rios on Jamaica’s north coast. The beach is known for its incredibly fresh seafood served at the popular Moonraker “Jamaican” Bar & Grill Restaurant. 

It also possesses an expansive lawn; a regular venue for concerts for a few international artists such as Ziggy Marley and Rihanna. Historically, the beach got its name from the first James Bond Movie “Dr. No” which was filmed on location. 

4. Noel Coward’s Firefly House

Oracabessa is the home to some of the most talented people in the Film Industry such as Noel Coward – an English Playwright, Director, Singer and Composer. While vacationing in Jamaica at the nearby Ian Flemming home, Noel fell in love with the property next door and later bought it.

The property is perched on a hillside with stunning views of the coast. Today, it is used as a gift shop and museum and is a great location for events. If you are a history buff, this is the perfect place for you.

5. Miss T’s Kitchen

For our next location, we are heading to Ochi Rios to the popular Miss T’s Kitchen. From the colourful decor, rustic country cuisine, to the pulsating reggae greeting you upon arrival, this place is reminiscent of true Jamaican Culture. 

The restaurant offers authentic Jamaican cuisine including fall of the bone oxtail, sumptuous baked crab back or even some delicious curried goat. If you’re a real foodie,  Miss T’s Kitchen is a great place to indulge in delicious, authentic Jamaican food.

 

In search of excitement ? Then get those flights booked now and visit Oracabessa!

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5 Tips for Decorating Your Bessa Investment Property

So you’ve signed the dotted line. You’ve purchased your Bessa Investment property in the scenic Oracabessa, St. Mary Jamaica. Now it’s time to reflect the beauty of the landscape inside your property. Afterall, you want to make a great first impression. Your space should not only look stylish but achieve maximum returns too! So, here are 5 practical tips for decorating your Bessa Investment Property.

1. Budget Planning

It is always wise to set a budget for major life purchases. Effectively managing your finances allows you to make necessary purchases for your house without overspending. Crunch some numbers to understand your financial position; see if you have enough to spend or if you will need more through a loan. You can also make a list of the ‘priority’ pieces for each room and add an estimated cost. Purchasing larger items such as a refrigerator is a better option compared to vanity items such as a magic bullet blender.

2. Create Ambiance with Lighting

Let there be light! Did you know lighting can make a world of difference in your space? If done correctly, lighting has the ability to make a room look larger than it is. You can also use lighting to transform the mood of a room such as switching up light bulbs and adding lamps to create a warmer and more inviting space. A popular trend is tray ceilings where recess lighting is used to offer a clean, modern look.

3. Add Photography & Art

Photos, prints, art or just simply hanging items that tell a story, is a wonderful way to personalize your space. You can find prints at local art fairs, stores and even online and get them framed at an affordable price. Try a  “Gallery Wall” which is an excellent way to infuse colour and pattern into a space. Most importantly, it is an amazing way to show who we are and the things we love in our spaces.

4. Add plants… Lots of them!

Plants are a relatively inexpensive way to bring life to your space. Not only do they enhance the overall experience of a space, but plants are a great way to boost moods and productivity, and also eliminate air pollutants, leaving you healthier and happier. Opt for an array of potted succulents such as a Jade plant or Aloe Vera if you’re after something low-maintenance that still looks pretty.

5. Opt for a few Statement Pieces

Add character to your home! Make your home a conversation starter for anyone as soon as they enter the room. A statement piece can transform your room giving a boost to any bland interior while reflecting your style and personality. The piece can be anything bold, unique, unassuming or even provocative. This can be a jewel toned sofa or a hand-made rug from Egypt. Remember the golden rule “less is more”.  Don’t go overboard but do just enough to enlighten your space.

Interested in Bessa Properties? Click the link below to learn more.

https://bessaliving.com/our-properties/

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7 Considerations when buying a Luxury Home Overseas

Bessa Living

What does luxury mean to you? 

Imagine waking up from your beachfront property with views of the Caribbean Sea just steps away, with sounds of waves crashing against rocks and the smell of the seaside breeze.

Purchasing an investment property overseas is by no mean an impulse buy and it requires a lot of time and planning just to see if it’s right for you. There is of course the allure of owning another property on an Island like Jamaica which can help to diversify your investment portfolio.

If you are thinking of purchasing a Luxury property Overseas, here are 7 things to consider:

Proximity to the beach 

The Caribbean is known for its beautiful white-sand beaches and mesmerizing blue waters! You deserve to wake up to views of the beach.

Other natural features

Does your new home have access to any other natural features like rivers, tropical foliage, mountains, or even a biking trail? How are the conservation efforts in that area?

Ease of travel

Does it get any more convenient than an International Airport is just 5 minutes away? Jet in and out with privacy and at your convenience 

Outdoor spaces 

Nobody comes to the Caribbean to stay inside! What activities can you do in and around the area? How about paragliding and hanging gliding through the forest? 

Activities 

Again, nobody comes to the Caribbean to stay indoors! Think about exploring activities that are available to you. You could use your trusted Google or ask the locals!  

The Community

It is always to research the community just to see how and where you would fit in. Is it a Beach Community or maybe a fishing community? This will help to tell you the type of people you will have to deal with on a daily basis and also your neighbours.

Your neighbours 

If you are one of those people who have no idea who your neighbours are, you need to! Owning a property overseas could be in the hands of your neighbours as they will be your saving grace to keep an eye on your property. 

If you are looking to invest in a property overseas, we recommend Bessa, located just 10 miles east of St. Ann, Jamaica. This beautiful property offers scenic views of the lush vegetation and access to the beach. For more information, please contact sales@bessaliving.com

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Managing your vacation property overseas made easy

bessa living

So you’ve purchased your dream property overseas — but what’s next? Maintaining the property!

If you are thinking about how well you manage the property while being away, you are not alone in this. Several investors and homeowners face this problem after purchase as it can be tricky to run their own household and also manage another property remotely. If you are faced with a conundrum and are looking for help, the solution is simple … Property Management! 

If this is something you’ve never thought about or it crossed your mind briefly, here are a few benefits of considering Property Management.

Although you might be on the other side of the world, you still are responsible for your tenants and managing the property. A qualified and effective property manager could be your closest ally in this endeavor.

Benefits of Property Management for Overseas Investors

Less stress 

Avoid having to deal with middle of the night emergencies, chasing down rent, evicting people from your property, tenants who wreck your property, rental scams, lousy vendors, piles of paperwork and the list goes on.

 

More freedom 

Live and invest wherever you want with the constraint of needing to be near your properties. Additionally, you can live and travel without the requirement of always being available in the event that your tenants have a need you have to tend to. Once you have found a good management company, it doesn’t matter if you live in the country. Some landlords live in other countries and simply collect their checks every month without ever seeing the property.

 

Free up more of your time 

Time is money, and for many investors, their time can be more profitably spent in areas other than servicing their properties. When you focus on asset management you’re working on your business, when you manage your own properties you work IN it. Additionally, you have more time to spend with family or friends doing things you enjoy.

Bessa understands that you are busy, and has introduced a unique Property Management solution for the savvy investor. Choose to have our team of professionals maintain your property while you maintain your life at home.

This is a great way to make your investment work for you, while you collect earnings without lifting a finger. 

Find out more information by contacting us at sales@bessaliving.com 

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5 Things To Do in Oracabessa

Oracabessa

Away from the hustle and bustle of Ocho Rios is Oracabessa which is located along the North Coast of Jamaica with pristine white-sand beaches, picturesque sunsets- just without the fuss. 

Oracabessa is a relatively quiet town with stunning beauty, rich history, and even-better-kept secrets. 

This is what makes it the ideal vacation home destination; providing a permanent chance to slow the pace and join island time. 

Your time here isn’t limited to reading on the beach (though that sounds tempting), there are activities for the discerning looking for more to do. Here are five (5) things to do in Oracabessa, Jamaica:

turtle hatching

Witness Turtle Hatching 

Witness the magic of helping baby turtles make their way to the sea with turtle hatching activities mere steps away from your front door at Bessa. 

Not only is this a fantastic experience, but you also join a team of persons dedicated to rebuilding this endangered species. The work of local Oracabessa homeowner Mr. Mel Tennant and The Oracabessa Bay Fish Sanctuary has helped to increase the survival rate of the turtles from 37 percent in 2005 to over 80 percent today.

Bessa is proud to share our beaches with these majestic creatures and has been careful to minimize any impact on our marine neighbors. 

https://www.goldeneye.com/meet-man-saving-jamaicas-sea-turtles/

 

Take a dip in James Bond Beach 

Named after the famous James Bond Franchise, because of the time author Ian Flemming is said to have spent there, this white-sand beach with sprawling lawns and pristine water calls to the most discerning of travelers and provides a relaxing getaway. 

Ian Flemming Airport

Jet anywhere in the world

The Ian Flemming International Airport is a stone’s throw away from Bessa. 

Named after the famous author of the James Bond series, the Ian Flemming International Airport gives unparalleled access to the world and offers the privacy you never knew you needed.

Fire Fly House

Visit FireFly House

Take an off-road adventure to the jaw-dropping views at FireFly House; the home of Sir Noël Coward, famed English playwright, composer, director, actor, and singer. 

Experience breathtaking views from this historic location and even take a tower of Sir Coward’s house filled with relics of yesteryear. 

Visit Sun Valley Plantation

Sun Valley Plantation offers an immersive experience into nature, including a tour of a working plantation and flourishing botanical garden. Experience personalized service with garden tours alongside the Crescent River while sipping freshly made fruit juice made from the best of what is in season. Taste the exotic fruits, and learn about the medicinal value of the herbs and spices that grow on the property. 

Ideal for nature lovers who want to escape to a tropical paradise. 

Ready to make Oracabessa your home yet? See https://bessaliving.com/our-properties/ for how you can make this slice of island paradise your home.