Home » News & Insights » Feel the Island Vibes: The Agency Makes Waves with New Jamaica Office

Feel the Island Vibes: The Agency Makes Waves with New Jamaica Office

by | Feb 21, 2024

One beautiful island, countless amazing adventures—The Agency is thrilled to announce the launch of our new office in Jamaica. The Agency Jamaica marks our first office in the country. 

The office will be led by Matthew “Taff” Stevenson, Rebecca Stevenson, Sean O’Neill, and Ian Hurdle who will all serve as Managing Partners, as well as David Thwaites, who will serve as Managing Broker. The new office joins The Agency’s existing offices in the Caribbean including in Turks & Caicos, The Bahamas, The Cayman Islands, and the Dominican Republic.

“We are thrilled to launch our first office in Jamaica as The Agency continues to expand strategically, forging partnerships with like-minded industry leaders across the Caribbean and beyond,” said Mauricio Umansky, CEO and Founder of The Agency. “It’s an honor to once again partner with Sean O’Neill and Ian Hurdle while welcoming Taff Stevenson, Rebecca Stevenson, and David Thwaites to The Agency family as we embark on this exciting next chapter for our brokerage.”

Nestled amidst the azure waters and lush landscapes of the Caribbean, Jamaica offers a unique blend of tropical beauty, rich culture, and unparalleled lifestyle opportunities. With its warm climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant communities, the island presents an irresistible allure for those seeking to experience the ideal Caribbean lifestyle.

“Jamaica is such a special country with a strong culture that appeals to both locals and visitors alike,” said Jim Ramsay, Executive Vice President of Franchise Sales at The Agency. “Our expansion into Jamaica and the greater Caribbean has been unprecedented. By leveraging our extensive network of leading agents and unrivaled marketing strategies, we are poised to redefine the real estate landscape in Jamaica.”

 

ABOUT TAFF STEVENSON

Matthew “Taff” Stevenson is a dynamic force in the real estate world, currently leading the charge as Managing Partner at The Agency Jamaica. Taff’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. Bursting onto the scene in 2021, he swiftly captured the industry’s attention, winning the Coldwell Banker Jamaica Realty’s Rookie Of The Year title. 

With a passion for excellence and an unwavering commitment to client satisfaction, Taff seamlessly navigates the complexities of the real estate landscape. Specializing in commercial properties, Taff’s expertise spans a wide spectrum, from coveted office spaces to luxurious boutique hotels and prime commercial land. 

A global citizen with roots in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Taff’s journey took him from the hallowed halls of Brighton College in the United Kingdom to the prestigious University of Cape Town, where he pursued degrees in Labor, Organizational Psychology, Human Resource Management, and Enterprise Management. 

“The innovative marketing of The Agency perfectly resonates with the ethos that Rebecca and I bring to our business. We look forward to showcasing our client’s properties and our beautiful island of Jamaica on a global stage. Jamaica’s real estate offerings are unparalleled, and The Agency stands unrivaled as the preeminent global boutique network in the industry,” shared Taff.  

 

ABOUT REBECCA STEVENSON

Born and raised on the vibrant island of Jamaica by a Jamaican father and British mother, Rebecca Stevenson brings a unique cultural blend to her role as Managing Partner at The Agency Jamaica.  Her journey into real estate began after achieving a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Drama and English from the University of Hull in the United Kingdom. 

Now, as Managing Partner of The Agency Jamaica, Rebecca is not just a real estate expert with ten years of experience. With over a decade of experience in the real estate industry, Rebecca is a true island expert, adept at navigating diverse property transactions ranging from homes and villas to boutique hotels and commercial buildings. 

Her dynamic leadership style, characterized by vivacity and compassion, has earned her recognition as a top producer, including winning the #1 Producer award in 2021 out of 90 agents at Coldwell Banker Jamaica Realty. Beyond her remarkable achievements, Rebecca also serves as a Director on the Board of the Realtors Association of Jamaica, showcasing her commitment to advancing the industry. 

“We are absolutely thrilled to be a part of The Agency. It is a phenomenal brand with a spirit of excellence that will give our clients the first-class service they deserve,” said Rebecca. “We look forward to highlighting all that Jamaica has to offer to The Agency’s global network, from condominiums in our capital city of Kingston to coastal properties, 18th-century estates and mountain hideaways. The variety of real estate offered in Jamaica is one-of-a-kind.”

 

ABOUT SEAN O’NEILL

A creative negotiator and expert problem solver, Sean O’Neill also serves as Managing Partner of The Agency Turks & Caicos and is proud to leverage his mastery of island real estate and background in law to serve a distinguished clientele at The Agency Jamaica. With meticulous attention to detail and a knack for anticipating challenges before they arise, he possesses an uncanny ability to find common ground with his clients and fellow agents, ensuring a satisfactory sales process from start to finish. 

A qualified attorney, he has built a reputation on his ability to consistently negotiate the most favorable outcomes for his clients. For Sean, there is nothing more satisfying than sharing the Turks and Caicos lifestyle with new buyers from around the world. 

 

ABOUT IAN HURDLE

One of the top producing agents serving the Turks and Caicos luxury market and representing luxury property across the Caribbean, Ian Hurdle, who also serves as Founder and Director of The Agency Turks & Caicos brings more than 30 years of experience in the real estate, construction, property management, and hospitality industries to his role as Managing Partner of The Agency Jamaica. 

A specialist in “Caribbean curb appeal” and the luxury vacation villa rental market, Ian has represented buyers and sellers in many of Turks and Caicos’ record-breaking sales. An annual award winner and guest speaker, Ian is recognized as a ‘Top Agent’ and social media marketing expert both regionally and internationally having been featured in Mansion Global, WSJ, The New York Times, Robb Report and Forbes. His expansive network, diverse service offerings, and consultancy in many of the region’s foremost luxury resort developments make him a go-to agent for savvy buyers seeking luxury property in the Caribbean. Ian currently serves as the President of the Turks and Caicos Real Estate Association. 

 

ABOUT DAVID THWAITES

With an impressive career spanning more than 30 years, David Thwaites serves as Managing Broker at The Agency Jamaica, based in Kingston. Specializing in appraisals and commercial real estate, David has developed an extensive professional skill set. Whether evaluating property values or facilitating complex commercial deals, his expertise and experience ensure that clients receive top-notch service. With strong attention to detail, excellent negotiation skills, and an eye for spotting opportunities, David’s strengths ensure that buyers, sellers, and investors receive sound advice and specialized, unmatched service every step of the way. 

A former farmer and land developer, David has a distinct, grassroots understanding of the island’s landscape. David’s dedication to his profession is evident through his membership in the prestigious Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. This accolade highlights his commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in the field. From exquisite architectural designs to breathtaking locations, he has a genuine passion for connecting clients with the best that the island has to offer. Originally from Kingston, David brings a deep understanding of the local market and its unique dynamics. 

 

The Agency’s office in Jamaica will be located at Unit 15A, 9-11 Phoenix Avenue Kingston JM KGN 10. 

To learn more and to browse available listings in Jamaica, visit TheAgencyRE.com/region/Jamaica.

Ready to make a move?
Let’s get started.

Explore Listings