Features of purchasing real estate in Cuba
Buying a home in the country is not the easiest task, as there are serious requirements for this. Offers are divided into several categories:
- resort housing located in the coastal zone;
- private houses located away from the sea;
- city apartments;
- commercial properties.
You can buy inexpensive real estate in Cuba, but there are significant restrictions. The acquisition of property by citizens from other states is prohibited, with the exception of specialized condominiums built by foreign organizations operating on the basis of a license.
Property prices in Cuba
Housing prices in Cuba are not very expensive, although prices fluctuate within a very wide range. The difference is due to the location of the immovable objects. The distance from Havana plays a big role in the cost.
On average, the cost of apartments was 150-200,000 U$D. The construction of this residential area was carried out by the Spanish. In total, more than 200,000,000 U$D was invested in this project. More than 100 more foreign construction companies are in line to receive licenses to implement housing projects in Cuba.
Prices for luxury apartments are also quite low - about one and a half thousand per square meter. Secondary housing can even be purchased for pennies. No resort in the Caribbean, except Cuba, can boast of such prices. But only a local citizen can buy real estate here.
Payment for the purchase is made through a bank deposit. After completing the transaction, you must wait 30 days to register the property in the national registry. After which the foreigner can be considered the full owner of the house.
According to the new law, any Cuban citizen or foreigner with a permanent residence permit is allowed to conduct a transaction directly with a local real estate seller.
Secondary housing here is even cheaper, and real estate in the provinces costs mere pennies. There are simply no such prices in any Caribbean resort. All this only fuels interest in purchasing Cuban real estate.
Real estate market in the republic
When purchasing, it is important to focus on your financial capabilities. The old fund is available for those with a small budget. And premises in elite centers are not cheap.
New building
Modern housing is considered a rarity here. Most of these facilities provide complexes created specifically for foreigners. Active construction of such buildings is underway in Monte Barreto, El Electrico and Marimora. You can buy housing in Cuba both at the construction stage and in a completed building. But the cost can be up to 1000-2000 dollars per 1 sq. m. meter, which comes to 200 thousand for the entire facility.
Before committing to a transaction, it is important to select a company with care. Ask for a government license with all required stamps and signatures. This is the only way to safely buy an apartment in Cuba.
Secondary housing
In this case, we can talk about the cheapest real estate. Thus, a small apartment costs $15,000, and a small house in the province costs $5,000. If you wish, you can become the owner of a luxurious penthouse for just $700,000. It has an enclosed garage and three bedrooms. The secondary market does not stand out for its comfort and needs renovation. The main advantage is the close location to the beaches.
Buying houses and villas
Many are wondering whether there will be a reduction in prices and whether it will be possible to purchase real estate in the elite segment. At the moment, the cost is growing extremely slowly but steadily. It largely depends on the type and total area of the object, as well as the arrangement of the surrounding area.
You can buy a house in Cuba in the following categories:
1st floor, bedroom and bathroom. There is a terrace, and the yard has a green area. | less than $2500 |
1 or 2 floors, several bedrooms and from one to 3 bathrooms. There is a terrace and a garden. | $2500-3500 |
1-2 floors, 3 bathrooms and 2 bedrooms. There is a terrace and patio. | $4000 |
1-2 floors, 4-5 bedrooms, dining room, several bathrooms, terrace with living room. A garage, patio and laundry facilities are also available. | $4000-7500 |
2 floors, from 3 bathrooms and 5 bedrooms. There is not only a living room, but also a dining room with a terrace. There is a laundry room, garage and patio. | $7500-8000 |
When choosing, it is important to focus on the availability of repairs on each floor. The material of the roof and walls and the improvement of basements are taken into account. The quality of furniture and interior items is no less important. Most of the houses are equipped with built-in wardrobes and a dishwasher. In general, this is ready-made housing that you can move into and stay in comfortable conditions immediately after the transaction is completed.
Commercial real estate
The market for such objects is still being formed, since previously only exchange was allowed. But today you can buy premises for a business. At the resorts there are special complexes in which foreigners can invest. Real estate sales in Cuba average $1,500 per 1 sq. m. m.
Flat rent
Rent of a one-room apartment in the city center will cost 400-500 dollars per month. Housing outside the capital will cost 250-300 conventional units. The size will increase if the apartment or house is not far from the resorts. You can rent housing in Cuba in a wide range, depending on individual preferences.
Low housing prices allow tourists to rent small private houses to spend time in a comfortable “home” environment. In the city you can also rent a room or an apartment. The premises most often have furniture, toilet paper, air conditioning and built-in wardrobes. However, when deciding to enter into a transaction, be sure to inquire whether the owner of the house has a license to rent out his property.
Prices in different regions
The reputation of an area shapes demand.
Traditionally, prices are higher at resorts. They are distinguished by developed infrastructure and well-equipped beaches. Average prices in rubles for real estate in Cuba are 9,500-19,000 rubles. for 1 sq. m. In secluded places you can find interesting objects with minimal investment. If you need a house on the coast, you will have to spend a significantly larger amount with similar parameters.
Property prices in Havana
Housing prices in Cuba are among the lowest. In the capital, a lot depends on the distance of the object from the city center. An area in the heart of Havana will cost $200-300 per 1 sq. m. m. On the outskirts, the payment will be $150-200, which is almost 2 times less.
The main part of the objects belongs to the secondary market. Even at a low cost, major repairs will have to be made. Therefore, it is necessary to provide in advance for such expenses that go towards landscaping and restoration work.
How much does it cost to live in Flores?
This is the place where Soviet specialists were traditionally stationed. It has some design features. Usually these are solid panel houses of old construction, currently requiring significant repairs.
Here you can buy real estate in Cuba inexpensively. With a small budget, such investments allow you to purchase cheap housing with the opportunity to spend time on the beach.
Prices in Varadero
This is a popular Cuban resort known for its wonderful summer holidays. It is suitable for purchasing housing for the holiday period. Prices are higher here, but they are generally affordable.
This is one of the regions where companies offer housing to foreigners legally. The following rates apply:
- apartments in the complex - $107,000;
- villa - $151,000.
After purchase, you will not have to carry out repairs or invest in restoration. New facilities of high quality are offered here.
Cuban real estate in Santa Clara
It is a city with numerous attractions and an interesting political history. Private buildings are widely represented here. Comfortable houses are offered. The cost of housing in Cuba in Santa Clara directly depends on the square footage:
- 100 sq. m. - $370,000;
- 200 sq. m. - $780,000-1.4 million;
- 300 sq. m. - $2.3 million;
- 500 sq. m. - $3.5 million.
Comfortable facilities with relatively low investments are offered here. It is important to focus on the required area and arrangement.
Real estate prices in various regions of Cuba
The reputation of a particular region shapes the demand for real estate and determines the final cost. Traditionally, properties in so-called resort areas are in demand: coastal areas with good beaches and developed infrastructure. Such houses and apartments are often purchased as vacation housing. Current prices in rubles for real estate in Cuba can be found out based on the average cost per square meter in US dollars: in the city center it is $150-200, in the outskirts - $250-300.
Property prices in Havana
The cost per square meter in the capital depends on how far the property is from the city center. Purchasing housing in the heart of Havana will cost an average of $200-300 per sq. m. meter. Real estate on the outskirts of the city is offered at almost half the price - $150-200 per sq. m. meter.
Most of the properties in the capital are secondary housing, and almost all of them require major repairs. Therefore, when planning to buy an apartment in Havana, you should also consider the costs of its restoration and improvement.
How to find suitable accommodation in Cuba
The search for real estate can be carried out either independently or with the help of specialists. In the latter case, additional payment will be required. Internet access in the country is limited to certain public areas. It is expensive and the connection speed is slow. If Internet is required, it is important to consider this factor before purchasing real estate.
Through websites
When searching on your own, pay attention to message boards. They allow you to get an idea of the parameters and prices.
Gabinohome.com is an international resource with a good reputation. In the section with Cuba there is a serious selection of real estate. Revolico.com is a universal board with a large catalog. But there is no personal access function here. The advertisements contain the seller's contact information, which results in an appointment being made directly. Goopti.ru is a project covering various countries where you can view and place advertisements. Offers for both sale and rental are available.
Arkadia.com is an international board for renting and buying real estate. You can contact the owner through feedback. Registration is required to use most features.
Cubavivienda.com is a project that is focused only on the local market.
Independent search
You need to come to a country where they select a house or apartment in real conditions. This is convenient because the property is available in a suitable area. Notices from owners are posted on windows and doors. Come into the house to discuss the terms.
Contacting agencies
The profession of a realtor has become possible since 2013. Since this period, services have appeared from both individuals and companies. Objects of interest are selected and full support is provided. The lack of widespread Internet access does not allow online contact with agents, so you should contact an intermediary.
How and where to find housing in Cuba
You can search for housing in Cuba on your own by exploring virtual bulletin boards, or you can trust the professionals. When choosing the second option, be prepared to pay for the services of specialists.
It should be noted that Internet access in the country is still limited to certain public areas. Moreover, despite the fact that this is a very expensive pleasure, the connection speed leaves much to be desired.
That is why advertisements are often submitted by realtor intermediaries themselves.
Sites for searching for advertisements for the sale of real estate in Cuba
If you are interested in housing in Cuba, virtual bulletin boards will help you buy it.
Gabinohome.com is an international resource with an excellent reputation. The section dedicated to Cuba has a large selection of apartments and houses. It is possible to work through your personal account and create a Favorites list with your favorite objects.
Revolico.com is a universal virtual bulletin board with a large section dedicated to real estate. The personal account function is not provided. The ad immediately provides the seller's contact information.
Goopti.ru is an international project designed for posting and viewing advertisements related to the sale and rental of property. Registered users have access to a personal account.
Arkadia.com is an international message board for the sale and rental of real estate. Contact with the seller is carried out through the feedback form directly on the website. Viewing ads is available without registration. Use of other site functions requires registration.
Cubavivienda.com is a website focused on the Cuban real estate market. It features a very convenient search form. It is possible to work through your personal account.
Self-search options
If you already live in the country, then you can start searching for a suitable house or apartment during a regular walk around the area you are interested in - notices with information about the sale of property are posted directly on the windows and doors.
Another option is to view forums of foreign citizens who have moved to permanent residence in this country.
Professional real estate agencies in Cuba
The real estate profession was legalized in Cuba in 2013. Since that time, a culture of providing services in the real estate market for individuals and legal entities began to take shape in the country. Anyone interested in selling real estate in Cuba is now provided with professional services for selecting properties and supporting transactions.
Unfortunately, the lack of Internet in the country makes it almost impossible to work with professionals remotely. Therefore, you can find a suitable agent through an intermediary company in your country or by directly visiting the place.
Housing acquisition procedure
First you need to determine the appropriate value of real estate in Cuba. Here the purchasing process is allowed in two ways.
- Personally, as a foreigner. Prices for such offers range from $150,000. And the objects are located in strictly defined areas.
- To a trusted person. In this case, you can purchase real estate directly from citizens.
A foreigner can choose one object for vacation or permanent residence. It is also possible to purchase a car. Lawyers are involved in the process.
Payment for the purchase is made through a bank deposit. After completing the transaction, you must wait 30 days for registration through the national registry. Then you can be considered the full owner.
Preparation of necessary documentation
Purchasing real estate here does not require a lot of confirmation. Depending on the status of the foreigner, the following may be requested:
- passport;
- marriage certificate with a Cuban (if available);
- legality of the origin of funds;
- Residence permit.
In general, when purchasing real estate from a foreign company, you need a passport and confirmation of the legality of the finance.
Advantages of buying a home in Cuba
Purchasing real estate in Cuba brings the following undeniable advantages to private investors and legal entities:
- mild natural climate, providing many opportunities for a comfortable stay;
- sightseeing; low prices for luxury real estate;
- friendly attitude of the local population towards foreigners.
Mortgage lending in Cuba
It is still in its infancy, since the state has not previously worked actively with banks. Foreigners can receive a loan if they confirm their income and identity. It’s good when there is a guarantor among local residents. There is no precise concept of a mortgage, as consumer loans and cash are provided.
Bank selection
There is a state financial institution in the country, but there are also 8 commercial ones. Not all of them provide services to individuals. Most have a narrow specialization.
List of documents
If you require a loan for real estate, a standard list of documents is required:
- identification;
- data on the source and amount of income;
- confirmation of a Cuban residence permit;
- certificate of residence.
Bank employees have the right to request additional information, so it is important to clarify this point before submitting an application.
Real estate in Cuba: nostalgia for the Soviet Union
Every year, real estate in Cuba becomes more and more attractive for tourists from all over the world (including Russia). For those who come here for the first time, it seems that they are in paradise.
Indeed, the natural conditions here are heavenly. Snow-white sandy beaches, azure bays and eternal summer do not leave anyone indifferent.
In addition, Liberty Island is located just 350 km from Miami, which is why Cuban real estate is considered so attractive on the world market.
Who buys real estate in Cuba and what properties are in greatest demand?
In addition, Cuba is a country with a very rich history, so in many large cities you can see many different attractions. One of them is its island inhabitants. Life is very difficult for many of them, but they do not lose optimism and share it with others.
Another reason why Cuban real estate is of interest is its cheapness.
For example, in Havana, a small apartment can be purchased for 15 thousand dollars, a small house with a plot - for 5 thousand dollars. More prestigious housing is also inexpensive.
An apartment in the very center of Havana can be purchased at the rate of $1,500 per sq. m. m.
A full-fledged house in Cuba will cost 80 thousand dollars, and a large house located near the coast will cost 200 thousand dollars.
Secondary housing here is even cheaper, and real estate in the provinces costs mere pennies. There are simply no such prices in any Caribbean resort. All this only fuels interest in purchasing Cuban real estate.
There is no particular demand for Cuban real estate yet. Foreigners shop more than buy. They probably remember the situation when, in 1962, Fidel Castro nationalized all real estate owned by foreigners without paying the owners a single peso.
Residents of the United States are showing the greatest interest in real estate in Cuba in a “neighborly way.”
It is also of interest to citizens of Russia and Ukraine. The main reason is low cost.
In addition, real estate in Cuba for citizens of the former USSR also means nostalgia for those times. The greatest demand among foreigners is for apartments in new buildings and houses purchased for personal residence. Land plots are not for sale here.
The most expensive and cheapest real estate in Cuba
Prices for Cuban real estate fluctuate widely. First of all, they depend on the condition of the housing, the distance from Havana, the city center or the beach. For obvious reasons, housing in the provinces is much cheaper than in the capital. But if the housing is located near the beach with good infrastructure, then its cost will be quite high.
The cheapest housing in Cuba are small one-room apartments (akin to our Khrushchev apartments) and small private houses in the provinces. Such an apartment will cost 15 thousand dollars, and a house - 3-5 thousand dollars.
The most expensive housing is located in luxury buildings with luxurious penthouses and houses. The cost of such living space is estimated at 1–2,000 USD per square meter.
Foreigners can purchase housing in new buildings that are being built by foreign contractors under a license from the Cuban government.
New houses are being built in areas such as El Electrico, Monte Barreto, Alamar, Marimor. The residential complexes have everything you need for a comfortable stay. The price per square meter of living space in such houses is $1,200, and the apartment as a whole costs from 150 to 200 thousand dollars.
This option can hardly be considered a budget option, but a foreigner will be guaranteed to own this property without obtaining a residence permit. To purchase such real estate cheaper, you can invest money in it during the construction stage.
What taxes will you have to pay and how much will it cost to maintain the property?
When purchasing local real estate, the buyer must be prepared to pay a tax of 8% of the value of the property (the seller also pays the same tax).
As for the maintenance of a house or apartment, here it costs from 3 to 5(!) dollars per month . For water, gas and electricity you need to pay 1-2 dollars .
There is no heating at all in the land of eternal summer.
Legal features of purchasing real estate
It would seem that, having familiarized themselves with the prices of Cuban real estate, foreigners should rush to draw up documents for the purchase of local housing. But herein lies the main problem.
The fact is that it is not so easy for foreigners to purchase Cuban real estate.
By the way, quite recently even local residents could not freely buy housing for themselves . The fact is that the Cubans could not dispose of their own real estate as they wanted, although this right was guaranteed by the local Constitution. That is, they could neither sell nor give their home to anyone.
Today everything has changed. Cubans now have the right to dispose of personal real estate at their own discretion: they can buy, sell and even set their own price for it. But this change did not affect foreigners. They can purchase real estate only under certain conditions.
Foreigners can only purchase real estate properties that are located in clearly designated locations.
You can also buy housing in Cuba using a proxy or by obtaining a residence permit. The easiest way to obtain citizenship and purchase Cuban real estate outside of licensed development is to marry a Cuban citizen and register housing in her name. But in this case, you will have to prove that the money spent on the purchase of real estate was obtained legally.
In addition, no one can guarantee that the “other half” will not want to take possession of the property and will not accuse the spouse of actions that undermine the foundations of the state. Of course, there is also a “black” market in Cuba . There are no problems with it - pay a certain amount and live. Just how long? Local authorities can take away such real estate any day, so it’s better not to risk it.
In general, foreigners can only wait for now that they will soon be able to purchase real estate on the island without resorting to illegal tricks, without changing citizenship and without permanently residing on the island.
Renting a home in Cuba
You will find current offers on online boards with a specific focus. The owners offer daily, weekly or monthly payment. The price is set in advance. Rent in Cuba averages $20 per day.
The size increases if apartments or houses are located in the resort area. The furnishings, furniture and landscaping of the area are taken into account. You can rent housing in Cuba in a wide price range, but a lot depends on your preferred conditions and your own ideas about comfort.
Procedure for purchasing housing
Only recently the purchase of real estate on the island. Cuba has become possible for foreign citizens from foreign companies, which have begun to actively build residential complexes here. However, even such an operation with the purchase of housing on the revolutionary island of freedom may fail among foreigners, since the Cuban government still reserves the right at any moment to confiscate absolutely any property in the country in favor of its people.
Real estate in Cuba has different price categories. You can only buy an apartment or a house. Land plots in Cuba are not for sale!
List of required documentation
Buying real estate in Cuba does not require a large list of documents. Depending on the status of a foreign citizen, the following documents may be required:
- citizen's passport;
- documents confirming the legal origin of the funds used to purchase real estate;
- supporting documents confirming the presence of a residence permit;
- marriage certificate with a Cuban citizen.