A clear checklist, to print or keep on your phone, for asking the right questions of the seller, your lawyer and your bank.
Before making an offer, take the time to ask the right questions. Here is a practical list, organised by who to ask.
This list helps you prepare for your meetings; it does not replace the analysis of your lawyer or your tax adviser.
About the property
- What is the exact living area and the plot size? Which documents are these figures based on?
- What is the orientation? How does the property perform in summer and in winter?
- Is the view lasting? Is any construction planned nearby?
- Were any works and extensions carried out duly authorised?
- Does the property have a safe room (mamad)?
- What condition are the roof, waterproofing, pool and fittings in?
- What are the annual running costs and the amount of arnona (municipal tax)?
- What is included in the sale (kitchen, air conditioning, furniture)?
For your lawyer
- What is the status of the land: land managed by the Israel Land Authority or privately owned?
- Do my personal circumstances allow me to acquire this property? Are any special consents required?
- What does the Land Registry extract (Tabu) show? Are there any mortgages, attachments or third-party rights?
- Do the buildings comply with the permits?
- Are there rules specific to the locality (admission procedure, restrictions on use)?
- How much will the purchase tax be in my situation?
- What payment schedule should we propose, and what guarantees should be provided?
- What are your fees, in writing?
For your bank
- What proportion of the price can you finance, given my residence and the type of property?
- What are the costs and the timeline for the loan?
- How can I transfer the funds and limit exchange-rate risk?
For your tax adviser (country of residence)
- What declarations do I need to make (bank account, property, any income)?
- How would any rental income be taxed?
- Does the property fall within the scope of a wealth tax in my country?
For yourself
- How many weeks a year will I live in the property, and who will look after it in my absence?
- Does my budget include all costs and a margin for exchange-rate movements?
- Have I visited the region on weekdays as well as at the weekend, in summer as well as in winter?
To place these questions within the purchase process, see The steps of buying property in Israel.
