Prefab houses shake up housing market

Jamaicans may soon be swapping car payments for mortgage payments as prefabricated homes hit the market, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar housing.

Lisa Williams, who co-founded Island Imports Limited with her partner, Tandra Dixon, believes the concept will appeal to more and more Jamaicans because of its affordability.

"We've seen the high prices in the Jamaican market, and there are a lot of people who can't afford traditional homes," Williams told THE WEEKEND STAR.

Prefabricated houses are built off-site in factory-controlled conditions and then transported to their final location.

Island Imports' units arrive folded, with steel frames, concrete panels, vinyl flooring, cabinets, lighting, and plumbing fixtures already in place, and are assembled on-site with hurricane straps for safety. Each home is tested up to Category 5 hurricane standards, ensuring durability and security.

Williams said the idea to offer prefabricated houses was inspired by the high demand for affordable housing in Jamaica.

"The housing crisis in Jamaica and the extremely high costs to become a home-owner motivated us to explore the options," she said.

"We live overseas, so we're pretty much used to prefabricated buildings, since we use them in America," she added.

Island Imports, which has been operating for nearly a year, imports a range of prefabricated buildings, including houses, offices, restaurants, and shops. Units start at about $3.9 million for a one- or two-bedroom home, while a four-bedroom option can reach $6.5 million.

"You could pretty much compare the prices of the houses to prices of cars. For example, the starter units are like $3.94 million, pretty much the same price as a car, and it could also be financed by the bank the same way you would do a car," Williams explained.

The concept has generated particular interest among young professionals struggling, many of whom have to fork out at least $80,000 per month for rent.

Williams told THE WEEKEND STAR that the feedback from buyers has been largely positive, though some persons have noted space limitations.

"Some people want more space than even the largest unit offers, but that's a small minority. Most people are happy, and many are really in love with the concept," Williams said.

She is confident that as more Jamaicans experience prefab housing, demand will continue to grow.

"It's a very good alternative to traditional housing. There's a lot of people that have doubts, and we understand because it's a new concept, especially in our market, but it's very affordable and it works," Williams said.