Do the hard checks before the exciting search.
Cuba property is a diligence-led market. The wrong order is to collect photos, fall in love with a building, and then discover that the buyer cannot lawfully own, pay, operate, or exit the asset.
Classify the buyer
Nationality, residency, U.S.-person status, funding route, timeline, and intended use determine whether a search is viable.
Choose the lawful path
The path may be permanent-resident residential purchase, rental, lease, approved foreign investment, management rights, or a watchlist only.
Screen sanctions and counterparties
Before any payment, identify sellers, operators, banks, hotel groups, managers, and any state-linked party.
Select location and asset type
Havana, Varadero, Trinidad, Vinales, and the cays each imply different tourism, legal, and operating risk.
Inspect title and property condition
Review title, occupancy, licenses, roof, utilities, water, power backup, internet, structural condition, and renovation scope.
Model downside first
Use conservative tourism, occupancy, capex, power, and exit assumptions before discussing upside.