In the tumultuous decades spanning the sixties and seventies, Jamaica faced a host of challenges within its real estate sector, prompting an urgent call for reform. The catalyst for change emerged with the establishment of a commission in 1973, led by the esteemed Sir Herbert Duffus. Tasked with a comprehensive review of the industry, the commission’s findings painted a bleak picture: numerous investors had poured their funds into land and properties with little assurance of returns.
In his interim report of 1976, Sir Duffus underscored the critical need for legislative action to rein in developers and salespersons, highlighting instances of deceit and incompetence that had resulted in failed ventures and financial ruin for investors. This report served as a cornerstone for subsequent legislative initiatives aimed at rectifying the sector’s deficiencies.
Even preceding the Duffus Commission, endeavors were underway to draft laws addressing the escalating issues in real estate. Draft bil…
