When Shermel A. Jeffers Chandwani decided to pivot from a successful career in banking to launch her own real estate business, she set out on a journey that has since redefined luxury real estate in St. Kitts & Nevis. As the Owner and Managing Director of SAJ Interior Design & Real Estate Services, Shermel has leveraged her finance and client relations expertise to create a boutique agency celebrated for its impeccable service and industry innovation.

From Banking to Boutique Real Estate Leader

Shermel’s career began in the banking sector, where her skills in financial services quickly garnered recognition. From 2005 to 2012, she earned over 25 awards as the Top Personal Lending Officer at RBC Royal Bank of Canada, a testament to her ability to guide clients toward sound financial decisions. However, in 2014, a trusted friend encouraged her to take a leap of faith into entrepreneurship, sparking the creation of SAJ Interior Design & Real Estate Services on January 1, 2015.

“Shermel, you are great with people and you can sell ice to an Eskimo,” her friend had said. This encouragement ignited a passion that has since changed into one of the Caribbean’s premier real estate consultancies.

A Trendsetter in Luxury Real Estate

Today, SAJ Interior Design & Real Estate Services is renowned for its expansive portfolio, valued at over $300 million. Shermel’s background in banking uniquely positions her to offer clients comprehensive guidance on mortgage financing. “We don’t just sell properties; we provide a holistic experience by counseling clients on their financial options and connecting them with the right financial institutions,” she explains.

This dual expertise in finance and real estate sets SAJ apart, allowing the agency to deliver exceptional service unmatched in St. Kitts & Nevis. The firm has become a trusted partner for buyers and sellers worldwide, attracting clients from Canada, China, Europe, the UAE, the UK, and the U.S.

Accolades and Recognition

SAJ’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, the firm was named the “Best Luxury Boutique Real Estate Consultancy in St. Kitts & Nevis” by Luxury Lifestyle Awards. It was also recognized as one of the “Top 100 Luxury Real Estate Brokers of the World” for 2024. These accolades highlight SAJ’s pivotal role in advancing the Caribbean’s luxury real estate market.

Building a Legacy of Social Impact

Shermel’s journey is not only about business success but also about making a positive social impact. Drawing from her years in banking, she remains passionate about financial literacy, helping clients understand the importance of savings and sound investment strategies. By demystifying the mortgage process, she has enabled countless families to achieve the dream of homeownership.

Looking Ahead: Broader Horizons

Shermel’s vision for the future is ambitious yet grounded. “I see SAJ becoming a powerhouse in the real estate industry, not just in St. Kitts & Nevis but throughout the Caribbean region,” she says. This goal reflects her dedication to growth and her unwavering commitment to excellence.

As SAJ Interior Design & Real Estate Services continues to flourish, it remains a beacon of professionalism, integrity, and innovation. For those seeking a partner to navigate the complexities of luxury real estate in the Caribbean, Shermel A. Jeffers Chandwani and her team stand ready to deliver unparalleled expertise and service.

Discover why SAJ Interior Design & Real Estate Services is the “Best of the Best” in Caribbean luxury real estate. Reach out today to experience their Commitment to Excellence and turn your property dreams into reality.

Written in partnership with Tom White