"Until Raúl Castro takes it away from you": Cuban shows off his house and cars in Cuba, sparking debate on TikTok

A TikTok video of a Cuban showcasing his house and cars has sparked a debate about the Cuban economy. Opinions on expropriations and the disparities in the real estate and automotive markets in Cuba are highlighted.

House of Cubans in CubaPhoto © @josesantalla433 / TikTok

A Cuban shared a video on TikTok showcasing his new home and the cars he owns, which quickly sparked debate among the platform's users.

In the images, the man shows a one-story house with a modern facade, a porch with rocking chairs, a covered garage, and a solar energy system installed on the roof.

The entrance also features two cars, one being a black Toyota Corolla and the other a white Nissan Sentra, both models highly sought after in the Cuban market.

The video was accompanied by numerous comments that reflect the divided opinions on the country's economic reality. One of the most controversial said, "Until Raúl Castro falls in love with one of those and takes them away from you," referring to the arbitrary expropriations that have marked Cuba's recent history.

Other internet users focused on the value of houses compared to that of cars: “I don’t know why a house in Cuba is worth less than a car, when it is more necessary,” wrote one user, while another added, “I wouldn’t even want a house in Cuba on a dirt street for free.”

There were also messages of support and recognition for the personal effort of the video’s protagonist. "Blessings, man, dream achieved. Everything is so beautiful; it feels great to see your effort and enjoy it," commented a follower.

The publication once again reflects the deep contradictions of the real estate and automotive markets in Cuba, where acquiring a home is cheaper than buying a used car, despite the housing crisis the country is facing.

Frequently Asked Questions about Home and Car Ownership in Cuba

Is it safe to own a house in Cuba?

The legal security of being a property owner in Cuba is a topic of debate. Although some owners claim to live without issues thanks to having legal documentation, fears remain regarding potential arbitrary expropriations. The country’s history and the ambiguous legal framework create distrust among citizens.

Why is a car more expensive than a home in Cuba?

Cars in Cuba are extremely expensive due to scarcity and high import costs. Although there is a housing crisis, the real estate market does not reach the exorbitant prices of cars, which often exceed the cost of a home due to their high demand and limited purchasing options.

What is the perception of luxury in Cuba?

Luxury in Cuba Generates Mixed Opinions. While some view the ownership of modern homes and luxury cars as a symbol of personal success, others see it as insensitive to the economic reality faced by the majority. Social media reflects these divisions, highlighting the inequalities in the country.

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Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.