Instead of staying silent in the face of criticism, TikTok user Isa (@leyanetcalixto) chose to respond in the most straightforward way she could imagine: by announcing her purchase of a second home in Holguín.
"We've received a lot of criticism since I shared that I bought my first house in Cuba, and now I want to show you that I've purchased a second one," Isa states in the opening of her brief 17-second clip.
The new property, located on the upper floor of the same building she previously acquired, is currently undergoing renovations.
In the comments, Isa clarified the layout: "One is downstairs, and the other is upstairs."
Viral Fame and Criticism
Having lived in the United States for four years, Isa initially caused a stir in July when she revealed her first dilapidated home in Holguín. That video garnered 75,000 views and over 2,600 likes.
In her latest clip, she teased that she would soon unveil the interior and mentioned they are finishing "pouring the missing slab."
Mixed Reactions on Social Media
The responses to her second video were mixed. "Amazing house," one user commented, while another jokingly noted, "They're building a condominium."
Negative remarks were also present, with one user writing, "I wouldn't take that mansion even if it was given to me." Isa replied with a smile, "Don't worry, I'm not giving it away."
A supporter came to her defense: "I'm amazed at the negative comments from men. It's unbelievable, that's just envy."
A Growing TikTok Trend
Isa's situation is part of a growing trend on TikTok where Cuban emigrants buy rundown properties on the island—financed by their savings in dollars—and document each stage of the renovation for thousands of followers.
Similar stories have gone viral in recent months, such as that of an 18-year-old who bought a house for $2,500 and amassed over 1.4 million views.
Isa concluded her video with a direct invitation to those interested in following the journey: "Follow me if you want to see this process."
Exploring the Trend of Property Purchases in Cuba
Why are Cuban emigrants purchasing homes in Cuba?
Cuban emigrants are buying homes in Cuba as a way to invest their savings and potentially create a future home if they return. It's also a trend to document the renovation process on social media, gaining views and engagement.
How are these property purchases funded?
These property purchases are often funded by the emigrants' savings in dollars, which can stretch further in the Cuban real estate market.