The recent listing of a horizontal property rental in Vedado, Havana, priced at €2,200 per month, has sparked significant controversy on social media. This has ignited a heated discussion about the soaring rental prices in Cuba's capital.
Posted by Brian Caraballo on the "Vista Habana" Facebook group, the listing advertises an apartment situated near Línea and G in Vedado, one of Havana's most central and desirable areas. The apartment features three bedrooms, four bathrooms, a living room, dining area, L-shaped terrace, main kitchen, and an additional independent kitchen for one of the rooms. It also includes a garage, foyer, and an elevator with a backup generator, making it a highly comfortable option within the city's real estate market.
The accompanying photo gallery showcases a tastefully furnished apartment with modern decor and exclusive amenities, a stark contrast to the everyday realities faced by most Cubans. The monthly rent of €2,200 has elicited a variety of reactions on social media. Many users have pointed out that the offer is clearly aimed at foreigners or Cubans living abroad, while others argue that even by international standards, the price is excessive.
Adis Kessler remarked, "Not even in Germany," suggesting that even in that country, similar properties would not reach such a high rental price. Asiel Almaguer Trujillo questioned, "Does this rent include power outages?" highlighting the irony of the high cost in a country plagued by electricity issues. Cochita Álvarez echoed this sentiment, asking, "Does the power go out?"
Leonel Rodríguez commented, "My friend, not even on Brickell Ave in Miami! Get real, this is Cuba," comparing the rental price unfavorably to those in exclusive areas of the United States. Alina Vento expressed her surprise at the steep rent with a sarcastic nod to The Sims game: "Ctrl+Shift+C 'motherlode' Enter," referencing the famous cheat code for unlimited money.
Real Estate Market Tensions in Cuba
This listing highlights a growing trend in the Cuban real estate market, where rents priced in foreign currencies have overshadowed those in national currency, making housing even less accessible. The post also stirs the ongoing debate about the viability of buying or renting a home amidst Cuba's persistent economic crisis.
Recently, another property in Vedado has caught attention, both from potential homeowners and investors. This ground-floor apartment, located in a 1948 building near Línea, Paseo, and the Meliá Cohiba hotel, is on sale for $30,000. Its garage is a significant selling point in an area where parking is notoriously difficult.
FAQs on Havana Apartment Rentals
Why is the apartment rental price in Havana so high?
The high rental price is primarily due to targeting foreign nationals and Cubans living abroad, who can afford to pay in foreign currencies. Additionally, the apartment's location in a central and desirable area of Havana, combined with modern amenities, contributes to its elevated price.
Are there affordable housing options in Havana?
While affordable options exist, they are often limited and may not offer the same level of comfort or amenities. The shift towards rentals priced in foreign currencies has made it increasingly difficult for average Cubans to find affordable housing.