Buying Real Estate in Israel Without Losing Your Mind (or Your Money)

Buying a home in Israel isn’t just about bricks and mortar. For many people, it’s tied to big dreams like starting fresh in a new country or creating a stronger connection to the land of Israel. But navigating the Israeli real estate market? That part can be overwhelming.

Doug Goldstein teams up with Debbie Goldfischer, Founder and CEO of Buyitinisrael.com and host of the popular podcast On The House, to break it all down. She knows the ins and outs of buying property here and shared insights that every English-speaking buyer should hear before diving in. Whether someone is planning Aliya, investing from abroad, or searching for a permanent place to land, these are the things that matter most.

A picture-perfect apartment... or a walk-through reality?

Buying off-plan is tempting. The designs look sleek, the buildings are modern, and the perks can sound amazing. But what someone sees in a brochure doesn’t always match reality. With second-hand homes, it's a different story. A buyer can walk in, check the lighting, meet a neighbor, and feel the space in real time. That kind of clarity is hard to beat.

Off-plan deals come with variables that might surprise first-time buyers. Construction delays happen. Prices can shift due to rising material costs, which in Israel are tracked by the construction index. It's not just theory. It can directly affect the price tag. The good news? Some developers cap this cost or remove it altogether. It's worth asking.

Playing the long game

If someone isn't planning to move right away, buying off-plan might make a lot of sense. Developers usually offer payment plans in stages, making it easier on the wallet. Plus, early buyers often get to choose layouts, finishes, and upgrades, which can be both fun and practical.

New homes also meet today’s building standards. Think energy efficiency, stronger safety features, and built-in shelters. Over time, those benefits add up. Still, second-hand homes have one big edge, they’re in neighborhoods that are already up and running. Schools, grocery stores, synagogues, and public transportation are all in place. That convenience matters, especially for families.

To rent or to buy?

Many people wonder if they should just rent. Debbie had strong thoughts here. Renting in Israel can work, but the market is still catching up. Tenant protections are weaker than in other countries, and year-to-year leases don’t offer much stability.

Renting short-term can be smart for someone still figuring out where to live. But Debbie's advice was clear. Don’t rent in a neighborhood that you wouldn’t be able to buy in. Otherwise, you might get attached to a place you can’t afford later on. Some buyers choose to own a property in a different neighborhood as a way to build equity, even if the family is not living there yet. That way, they’re at least on the property ladder.

Note: This is for educational purposes only and does not provide financial, legal, or tax advice. Please speak with a qualified professional about your specific situation.

If you’re thinking of using your U.S. investment account to fund an Israeli property purchase, make sure you speak with a licensed financial professional. Schedule your free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation now at www.profile-financial.com/callto see how we can help provide tailored advice to your U.S. accounts and Israeli goals.