WITH robust interest in its three categories of modular homes since a May 7 launch, H&L Homes is confident that even if other players enter the market, it will be able to maintain its competitive edge.
It’s banking on a combination of factors that include the goodwill H&L has stockpiled in the local construction market over the last nine decades, the strength of its international suppliers, and upskilling of local contractors.
“Our ability to offer this building system to the market at such affordable prices stems from the synergy between pre-engineered modular design and long-term supplier partnerships. We maintain our competitive edge through a robust logistics network, our relationships with international manufacturers, a growing pool of University of Technology, [Jamaica]-trained contractors, and Bureau of Standards Jamaica certification that ensures confidence in both quality and financing eligibility,” said H&L Homes Chief Category Manager Patrick Chambers.
“Together, these advantages allow us to offer a high-performance building system at a price that is accessible for more Jamaicans. The fact that H&L has been serving the Jamaican market with building materials and supplies for over 90 years is testament to the fact that the company is innovative and responsive to the evolving needs of the Jamaican people,” he added in written responses to queries from the Jamaica Observer’s Real Estate on the Rock.
If the market demands it, Chambers is confident H&L Homes will be able to “support the materials required for 1,000 or more homes annually”.
The venture is being touted as “a shift in how we think about building in Jamaica”.
“Our homes are designed from the ground up as modern, durable, and efficient structures — engineered to meet the real demands of Jamaican families. With certified materials and a simplified build process, our solution delivers speed, quality, and peace of mind for homeowners seeking an alternative to traditional or improvised methods,” Chambers told the Sunday Observer.
He added, “Notably, many prospective buyers who have toured our model units have referenced a range of local mortgage institutions they are actively engaging, which reflects growing confidence in our housing solution.”
Once site preparation is completed a purchaser who hires a competent contractor could have a completed unit within two months. Chambers and his team have been kept busy, on Wednesdays and Thursdays, showing model units to potential clients.
“The response has been encouraging across all target groups. We’ve seen particular interest from first-time homebuyers, developers seeking scalable and sustainable options, and individuals looking to build retirement or rental properties,” he said.
“The Bougainvillea model, priced from $4.1 million, was specifically designed with new homeowners in mind. While we do not allocate units by buyer type, our range of models ensures that affordability and access remain central to our offering. Our goal is to help make homeownership more inclusive across a broad socioeconomic spectrum,” he added.
In addition to the 332-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom Bougainvillea, the other options are the 450-square-foot two-bedroom, one-bathroom Hibiscus which goes for $4.5 million, and the 944-square-foot three-bedroom, two-bathroom Poinciana that goes for $8.9 million. Prices do not include GCT.
“The process begins with a quotation request, followed by a 70 per cent down payment. The remaining balance is due within three months, after which materials are delivered to the customer, who will then manage the construction and installation to get the finished product,” said Chambers.
Modular kits include everything needed to build: the Eternit brand’s high-strength concrete panels, exterior and interior doors, windows and mouldings, ceramic bathroom and floor tiles, a kitchenette with sink and faucet, bathroom fixtures, electrical, a metal tiled roof, and a water tank.
“Once site preparation, including the laying of a foundation, is completed by the homeowner, the average build time is six to eight weeks for the installation of the Eternit building kit, along with finishings, fixtures and fittings which the customer can also purchase from H&L. The units are dispatched through our islandwide warehousing network, ensuring reliable access,” Chambers told the Sunday Observer.
While buyers have the option of using their own contractor to complete the project, H&L Homes is working on ensuring that there is a pool of them available with expertise in its product.
“We are partnering with UTech, which will be offering a certificate programme for the training of contractors for the installation of H&L Homes in accordance with the manufacturer’s standards,” explained Chambers.
“The training programme, which is being finalised, focuses on dry construction techniques, seismic-resistant assembly, and efficient installation of our modular components. While customers may choose to work with their own contractors, those who complete UTech’s certification will be better positioned to ensure the structure performs exactly as designed,” he added.