Your questions about buying in Israel
Clear answers to the questions asked by buyers living in France or elsewhere abroad. For your personal situation, always consult an Israeli lawyer.
Buying in Israel while living in France
Can I buy property in Israel while living in France?
In many cases, yes. The rules do, however, depend on the property — in particular the status of the land, for example land managed by the Israel Land Authority — and on the buyer’s situation. An independent Israeli lawyer checks these points before any commitment. See Buying property in Israel from France.
What are the main steps of a purchase?
Defining the project and budget, searching and viewing, choosing a lawyer, legal checks, negotiation, signing the contract, payments, then registration. The details are set out in our guide The steps of buying property in Israel.
Do I need to come to Israel to buy?
Part of the project can move forward remotely: conversations by WhatsApp and email, and video calls on request. We nevertheless recommend visiting shortlisted properties in person before committing. Arrangements for signing remotely should be discussed with your lawyer.
What should I ask before making an offer?
About the property, permits, costs, financing and timeline: we have put together a practical list in The essential questions to ask before buying.
Costs, financing and advice
What costs should I plan for on top of the price?
Mainly the purchase tax (mas rechisha), whose amount depends in particular on your situation, legal fees and agency fees, as well as any bank and currency exchange charges. Rates and scales change: ask your lawyer for an estimate before making any offer.
Can a purchase in Israel be financed with a loan?
Israeli banks and some foreign banks may consider financing for non-resident buyers, on their own terms and under rules set by the Bank of Israel. O Realty does not offer financing: please enquire directly with the banks or a mortgage broker.
Are prices shown in euros?
No. Prices are shown in Israeli shekels (₪), the currency of the transaction. The amount in euros depends on the exchange rate at the time of payment.
Does O Realty give legal or tax advice?
No. O Realty is a real estate agency: we do not provide legal, tax or immigration advice. These questions are for an Israeli lawyer, a tax adviser and, for aliyah, the official bodies. Our guides give general reference points and cite their sources.
The Sea of Galilee and the Galilee
Where is Poria Illit?
Poria Illit is a residential village set in the hills overlooking the south-western shore of the Sea of Galilee, about ten minutes by car from the centre of Tiberias. See Real estate in Poria Illit.
Why choose the Sea of Galilee area?
For the landscape, the light, a calmer pace of life and the proximity of a full-service city. The advantages and the points to consider are set out in Why choose the Sea of Galilee and the Galilee.
Which areas do you cover?
Poria Illit, Tiberias, the shores of the Sea of Galilee and the villages of the Lower Galilee. See our areas.
Talking with O Realty
How can I contact you?
By WhatsApp or phone on +972 50 777 4411, or by email at Ori@ORealtyServices.com. All contact details are on the Contact page.
Can a video call be arranged?
Yes, on request. Let us know your availability and your time zone by WhatsApp or email.
How do I get more information about the Poria Illit villa?
From the villa’s page, use the WhatsApp or email button: the message automatically mentions the property concerned.
Let’s talk about your project in the Galilee
A first conversation to understand your expectations, your budget and your timeline. No commitment.