A young Cuban woman in Tennessee has shared on TikTok five aspects that, based on her experience, she wishes she had known before signing her first rental contract in the United States. The video, posted on her profile @unacubanaenknoxville, has sparked debate among those who identify with her points and others who believe her claims do not apply to all situations.
In her testimony, the young woman states that not paying a month's rent can be enough to end up on the street: "They send you an eviction notice, and within three days, you have to start looking for a place to sleep," she says. She also comments that some homes are handed over in poor condition despite being advertised as clean and renovated: "There are cockroaches, dirty floors, the smell of cigarette smoke, and if you've already signed the contract, you just have to deal with it."
Another point mentioned is the existence of clauses that make it difficult to exit the contract without penalty: “They say you can leave whenever you want, but if you do so before the year is up, you have to pay two months' rent and you lose your deposit.” Furthermore, it is noted that there are additional monthly charges for maintenance, administration, and insurance, resulting in an initial rent of $1,300 ultimately costing $1,700.
Lastly, remember that since this is a rented property, aesthetic changes such as painting or hanging pictures cannot be made without authorization, or you risk losing your security deposit.
The video has received mixed responses. Some people agreed with the testimony. “Where I live, if you fall behind, they only give you an extra 10 days and charge you a $500 fee,” one person commented, who also clarified that their apartment “is very nice.” However, other users pointed out that the conditions described do not apply in all states or contracts.
"But they won't kick you out for being a day late," replied another user, suggesting that there is room for negotiation. Another comment added, "I was told all of that when I went to sign the contract. If you don't speak English, they give it to you in Spanish, and everything is explained," assured someone else. There was also a reminder that it's the tenant's responsibility to read the legal documents carefully before signing: "You have to read the contract," they said bluntly.
This is not the first testimony from the same user. A few days ago, she also shared her experience working at Walmart, explaining that the $15 per hour wage barely covers her basic expenses, including rent. "One works in this country to pay bills and stay alive, not to save or live well, literally to survive," she stated at that time.
His case is part of a growing trend of Cubans in the United States who are using social media to share how they are coping with the high cost of housing in cities like Miami, where the average rent exceeds $2,300 per month, and in areas like California, where living alone can be financially unfeasible for many newcomers.
While some Cubans manage to find more affordable housing in places like Kentucky or Tennessee, others face disproportionate prices in cities like Miami. On TikTok, a Cuban searching for rent in that city claimed that the cheapest efficiency cost $1,500 and came "without a kitchen". Another user, outraged, showcased a room for rent at $1,200 and described it as “a closet converted into a kitchen.”
Even within the same city, experiences can vary widely. In Hialeah, residents of a condominium reported structural deterioration, excessive charges, and poor management. Some mentioned that moving in requires between $5,000 and $7,000 just to cover the deposit and the first few months.
An open conversation about rent in the U.S.
The video by @unacubanaenknoxville has been one of many that highlight the challenges of renting in the United States, especially for newly arrived immigrants without credit history or stable contracts. Although some of her claims have been disputed in the comments, her testimony resonates with common concerns within the migrant community.
At the end of the video, the young woman concludes with an invitation to debate: "I believe many of these things are exaggerated and out of place, but let me know in the comments what is the most abusive thing that has happened to you in a rental."
Their publication has achieved precisely that: to open a conversation in which frustration, useful advice, comparisons between states, and above all, the attempts of many to find stability in a complex system converge.
Frequently asked questions about renting and living in the United States for Cuban immigrants
¿Cuáles son los principales desafíos al rentar una vivienda en Estados Unidos?
Renting a home in the United States presents several challenges, especially for newly arrived immigrants. Failure to pay a month's rent can result in a swift eviction, in some cases in as little as three days. Additionally, some homes may be delivered in poor condition, and there are clauses that make it difficult to exit the lease without significant penalties. Also, additional monthly charges are often added that significantly increase the initial rental cost.
Why is it important to read the rental agreement before signing it?
Reading the rental contract is crucial because it contains all the clauses and conditions that will govern the relationship between the tenant and the landlord. This includes terms of eviction, policies regarding aesthetic changes to the property, and any additional charges that may apply. Failing to understand or overlooking these details can lead to unpleasant surprises and unexpected costs.
How do rental costs vary across different states in the U.S.?
Rental costs in the United States vary significantly between states and cities. In cities like Miami, rents can be extremely high, with prices often exceeding $2,300 per month. However, in places like Kentucky or Tennessee, more affordable housing options can be found. The differences in the cost of living and local real estate market conditions influence these prices.
What strategies can help save money while living in the United States?
Saving money in the United States requires financial organization and the adoption of certain strategies. Establishing a clear budget and prioritizing responsible consumption are key steps. It is also advised to take advantage of discount stores for basic purchases and to avoid unnecessary spending on luxury items. Saving is not solely dependent on income, but rather on how daily expenses are managed.
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