The Realtors Association of Jamaica (RAJ) is appealing to property owners to list their vacant homes, apartments, warehouses and investment properties for both short and long-term rental to help address what it says is a housing and storage shortage caused by Hurricane Melissa.

In a release on Monday, the RAJ said property owners are uniquely positioned to play a crucial role in supporting the national recovery process.

“This is a moment for compassion and partnership,” said RAJ President Gabrielle Gilpin-Hudson. “We are encouraging owners of vacant properties to put their properties to good use and place them on the market to help support relief efforts.

“It’s our chance to make a real difference while putting investments to meaningful use,” she said.

RAJ said its members stand ready to provide professional and efficient support to property owners in preparing, listing, and renting their properties, while also assisting families and businesses in identifying suitable spaces for housing or storage.

“Our realtors are trained to make the listing and rental process seamless and transparent for both owners and tenants,” Gilpin-Hudson said. “Together, we can help families find stability and help businesses get back to serving their communities.”