A Cuban woman living in the United States expressed her shock on TikTok after coming back from Cuba to discover her rental property completely trashed by the tenants. The video, shared on her account @yemayacomoggun, reveals stained and deteriorated walls, a bathroom in appalling condition, a ruined new stove, damaged curtains, and widespread filth throughout the house.
The owner, known as Yamayaobbatala, detailed that this was her first home, delivered to the tenants with pristine, white walls. She chose to rent it out after moving elsewhere for business reasons, not wanting the property to remain vacant. Upon her return from Cuba, the state of her home left her speechless.
"This was my first little house, and I moved for my business. I rented it out so it wouldn't sit empty," she narrated while filming the damage.
Her anger escalated as she showcased each damaged area. "This is what happens when you rent to people who don't appreciate the effort or value. It's why I don't want a house in the U.S. anymore," she stated.
Her harshest words were directed at those who left the property in such disarray: "Returning from Cuba to this mess. These people shouldn't live in houses, but in dumps."
The ordeal even made her abandon a planned project. She had contemplated purchasing a farm but dropped the idea entirely after discovering her home in ruins. "I don't want a farm or a house. I just want to live in the moment, simply in a nice home," she declared.
This incident is not isolated within the Cuban community in the United States. In August 2025, another Cuban woman reported a similar situation with a rented trailer left in disarray, filled with discarded clothes and food remnants, and a broken railing.
Earlier this month, a Cuban resident of Katy, Texas, named Taty opted to sell her house instead of renting it after real estate experts warned her about potential tenant damage within a year or two. "We know we're going to lose money," Taty admitted, but she considered selling the safer choice.
Joara Hernández, a Cuban realtor from Miami, also gained attention for a video showing a property in a deplorable state, illustrating the strict requirements she imposes on clients, asserting that "not even three security deposits cover the damages."
Legally, property owners in the U.S. can use the security deposit to cover damages exceeding normal wear and tear, provided they document the property's initial condition with dated photos or videos. The time limits for claims vary by state: 21 days in California, 30 days in Florida and Texas, and 14 days in New York.
"This is why I never want to rent to anyone again, to anyone, to anyone," Yamayaobbatala concluded, echoing the sentiments of an increasing number of Cuban property owners who have faced similar challenges in the U.S.
Understanding Rental Challenges for Cuban Property Owners in the U.S.
What challenges do Cuban property owners face when renting their homes in the U.S.?
Cuban property owners often encounter issues with tenants leaving homes in poor condition, which can result in significant financial loss and emotional distress.
How can landlords protect themselves from tenant damage?
Landlords can safeguard their properties by requiring a security deposit, documenting the property's condition before renting, and understanding the legal timeframes for damage claims based on state regulations.