New reforms enacted in Cuba technically recognize an individual’s right to own private property and is a significant break from Fidel Castro’s socialist philosophy. The reforms could help solve the country’s horrendous housing shortage if the government is prepared to take steps to allow them to work, especially by addressing rampant corruption, but also could open the door to the Cuban people calling for political reforms.

The establishment of a legal housing market for Cuban citizens and foreign residents on November 10, which had been banned since the early 1960s, build on minor reforms passed in March that allow Cubans to own and operate small businesses. According to the Cuban government, at least 600,000 new housing units are needed to meet demand.  Cuban families will be limited to one home and one vacation home, sales must be done through a Cuban bank, and property transactions will be subject to an eight percent tax.