Your questions about buying property in Israel | IsraelStart

Prepare for your property purchase in Israel

Start with your total budget, preferred cities and planned move-in date. These answers will help you identify the next steps and topics to discuss with your adviser.

Does IsraelStart handle both new-build and resale properties?

Yes. You can browse 300+ new-build developments across Israel or entrust us with the search for an existing property that matches your criteria. Both paths can be pursued in parallel.

How does the personalised property search work?

Together we draw up a brief: cities or neighbourhoods, budget, timeline and must-have criteria. We then consult several sources and present an explained selection, property by property: criteria met, trade-offs and points to confirm.

Do you have access to unlisted properties?

Part of the resale market never appears in online listings: local agencies, owners selling directly, neighbourhood networks. We consult these sources too; the availability of a property is never guaranteed.

What if no property matches my criteria?

We tell you so. We then review the brief together — area, budget, criteria — or continue monitoring the market, as agreed.

How are new-build developments presented?

The catalogue lists 300+ new-build developments across Israel. For each development you are interested in, we gather the floor plan, specifications, payment schedule and timeline with you, and list the points to confirm with the developer and your lawyer.

What is the difference between buying new-build and resale?

With new-build, you often buy off-plan, with staged payments and handover on a projected date. With resale, you visit the property as it is and the timeline is negotiated with the seller; the condition of the building and the rights to the property are checked case by case.

How long does a purchase take?

It depends on the property and your situation. With resale, the timeline is negotiated with the seller; with new-build, handover takes place on the development's projected date. We set a realistic timeline with you as soon as the brief is drawn up.

Can I buy in Israel without being an Israeli citizen?

Yes. Buying property in Israel is open to non-residents and residents alike. Some situations, such as the nature of the land rights, are checked with the lawyer before you commit.

Can I buy remotely?

Yes. Depending on what is agreed, viewings take place by video or are followed by a detailed report, and the signing is prepared with your lawyer, including by power of attorney. If you already live in Israel, we organise on-site viewings.

In which languages can I be supported?

The website is available in six languages: French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian and German. Exchanges take place in the language of your choice, and in Hebrew with local contacts.

Can I get a mortgage (mashkanta)?

Israeli banks can finance residents and non-residents alike, within limits set by regulation. The amount available depends on your status, your income and the property. A mortgage broker reviews your file before you commit.

How does taxation work between my country and Israel?

The treatment of your income and your property depends on your tax residence and on the tax treaty between your country of residence and Israel, where one exists. This point should be validated with a tax adviser; our legal guide sets out the principles.

How much does the support cost?

Describing your project is without commitment. The scope of the assignment and any fees are presented to you in writing before any decision; they depend on your project and the support you want.

What costs should I plan for on top of the price?

As a guide, acquisition costs often amount to around 10 to 13% of the price: purchase tax (mas rechisha), legal fees and ancillary costs. The exact amount depends on your status, the property and the price. Our tax and fees simulator gives an initial estimate, to be confirmed with the lawyer.

Who checks the property and the contract?

An independent lawyer of your choice checks the rights to the property and the contract. IsraelStart facilitates exchanges with the three professionals relevant to your project — lawyer · broker/financing · architect — without replacing them.

What rental yield can I expect?

Yield depends on the city, the property and the purchase price. We help you estimate it property by property, including charges and taxation, rather than relying on an average.

What happens after the purchase?

Depending on your needs: an introduction to an architect for the fit-out, or to a property manager for letting. These services are separate and presented independently.

How does the referral program work?

Refer someone and they'll get priority support. You'll be rewarded for each completed purchase through your recommendation. Referrals are cumulative with no limit.

Need an answer tailored to your situation?

Tell us your country of residence, preferred cities and essential requirements. We can help refine your search and identify the points to review together.