PAPERWORK & LEGAL
How to do a home swap (permuta) in Cuba: a step-by-step guide
Updated 19 October 2026 · 6 min read
Swapping homes in Cuba without a traditional purchase is still, for many families, the most practical option. Here we explain how the process works, what changed with the new 2026 housing legislation, and which mistakes to avoid.
What is a permuta?
It is the exchange of one home for another between their owners. Unlike a sale (where the property is paid for) or a donation (given for free), in a permuta each party hands over their property in exchange for the other's — with a cash compensation if the homes are not of equal value.
Three ways to swap
- Simple swap: two homes of similar value change hands with no extra payment.
- Swap with compensation: one party adds money to make up the difference in value.
- Chain swap: when there is no direct match, three or more families link their swaps together. It's the most delicate option, because if one link fails the whole deal falls through.
The new Housing Law is now in force
Since 21 October 2026 Law 187, the Housing Law (Official Gazette No. 86 of 2026), has applied, replacing the 1988 law. It allows a home to be swapped for one or more homes, or for other assets or rights, always before a notary in the province and with the home registered in the Property Register. A compensation payment can be agreed, and a person who swaps can end up owning two homes (articles 96 and 97). In a swap with compensation, the tax for the party receiving it is calculated on the cadastral value plus the compensation. We explain it in detail.
The steps, one by one
1
Check the documents for both homesTitle deed in order, with no encumbrances or pending disputes — the most common reason swaps fall through halfway.
2
Value each property independentlyBoth homes are valued separately to determine whether there is a difference in value between them.
3
Confirm ownership limitsThe law limits how many homes each person can own. After the swap, neither party may exceed that number.
4
Complete it before a notaryThe notary verifies ownership, confirms there are no legal charges, and drafts the deed with the details of the exchange.
5
Pay the compensation, if applicableIt is paid in the same act before the notary, with a bank instrument or another means that is not cash. Agree with the notary which one you will use.
6
Record the swap in the Property RegistryThis step makes it enforceable against third parties. It usually takes a few days; confirm the exact timeframe with your notary.
Mistakes that cause the most conflicts
- Agreeing to a swap without legalised documents.
- Not checking whether any heirs have rights over the home.
- Valuing "by eye" instead of independently.
- Not putting the compensation in writing before a notary.
- In a chain swap, moving forward before every home has its paperwork in order.
- Following advice based on the 1988 law: since 21 October 2026 Law 187 applies.
Planning a permuta?
We check the documents for both properties before going ahead, and support you at every step — even from outside Cuba.
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This guide offers general information and is not a substitute for legal advice from a notary. Conditions may vary from case to case; always confirm the current details before signing any document.