PBYR Group - FAQs

Can I buy a home in Israel if I’m not an Israeli citizen?: Yes, absolutely. Foreign citizens can legally purchase property in Israel. The process is slightly different than it is for Israeli citizens — including higher purchase tax (Mas Rechisha), more complex mortgage approvals, and needing a trusted Israeli lawyer to represent you. Many of our clients at PBYR Group begin their purchase before making Aliyah or while living abroad.
What is the full cost of buying a home in Israel — beyond the list price?: In addition to the property price, buyers should budget for:Purchase tax (Mas Rechisha): 5%–8% for citizens, 8% for foreignersLawyer fees (~1% + VAT)Linkage to construction index (for new builds/off-plan)Connection and registration fees (Arnona, water, electricity)Optional: upgrade packages (kitchens, tiling, smart systems)At PBYR Group, we provide transparent cost estimates upfront so you’re never caught off guard.
What is Mas Rechisha and how much will I pay as a foreign buyer?: Mas Rechisha is Israel’s property purchase tax.Foreign buyers pay 8% on the full purchase price (as of 2025)Israeli residents may qualify for reduced brackets or exemptionsNote: If you make Aliyah within 12–24 months, you may be eligible for a refund or tax adjustment.
Can I buy property in Israel from abroad?: Yes. Many clients purchase remotely, especially from the U.S., UK, and South Africa. You’ll need an Israeli real estate attorney, who can sign on your behalf via power of attorney.PBYR Group works closely with English-speaking lawyers and ensures full transparency, video walkthroughs, and digital communication at every stage.
Are homes in Israel move-in ready or do I need to finish them myself?: It depends on the project.Spec homes are typically turnkey, including kitchens, flooring, pools, and landscapingShell homes or off-plan properties often come with a standard spec but may require you to choose, upgrade, or finish certain elements (e.g. kitchen, light fixtures)PBYR Group walks you through what is included — and what isn’t — so you can plan accordingly.
How long does it take to buy and move into a new home in Israel?: Move-in ready homes: 1–3 months (standard contract, title transfer)Under construction: ~12–18 monthsOff-plan: 18–30 months, depending on the stageEach project is different. We’ll advise you on realistic timelines before you commit.
Is it safe to buy off-plan or in a new development?: Yes — if the project is backed by strong developers and protected by proper legal structures.All off-plan purchases should be through trust accounts (חשבון נאמנות) managed by certified lawyers.PBYR Group only works with vetted, reputable developers and provides full transparency about timelines, risks, and protection.
Are there any benefits for Olim buying a home in Israel?: Yes! New immigrants may be eligible for:Reduced purchase taxMortgage assistanceNefesh B’Nefesh supportTiming is important — if you buy before Aliyah, you’ll want to structure the purchase to qualify within 12–24 months.

Where are religious English-speaking families buying in Israel?: Popular communities include:Eden Hills (Dati Leumi, Zionist, strong Anglo base)Ramat Beit Shemesh (Aleph, Gimmel, Dalet)Efrat, Neve Daniel, Gush EtzionModiin, Yad Binyamin, Rehovot suburbsAt PBYR, we help clients find Torah-aligned communities that fit their lifestyle, kids' schooling, and long-term family vision.Yerushalayim- all across the city- new construction opportunities
Do I need a lawyer to buy a home in Israel?: Yes — a lawyer is legally required in Israeli real estate transactions and handles:Due diligenceContract negotiationFund transfers through trust accountsLand registration (Tabu)We connect you with experienced, English-speaking attorneys who understand the needs of foreign buyers.
Can I get a mortgage in Israel as a foreigner?: Yes — but it’s more complex. Most banks offer up to 50% loan-to-value (LTV) for foreign nationals.You’ll need to provide:Proof of incomeCredit reports or bank referencesAdditional documentation translated or notarizedWe can guide you to mortgage advisors who specialize in working with Anglos and Olim.
What’s the difference between buying from a developer vs. a second-hand home?: New developments may offer customization, warranty, and modern layouts — but take longer to complete and are linked to construction index inflation.Second-hand homes may be move-in ready but often require renovation and come with less legal flexibility.PBYR helps you weigh both options based on your timeline, family needs, and budget.
What protections do I have for my payments in new builds?: Funds are held in a trust account and released only at pre-agreed construction milestones.This is a legal standard in Israel, and developers cannot access your full payment until specific stages are completed.We ensure every contract includes clear protections, timelines, and specs.
What’s the benefit of working with a boutique agency like PBYR Group?: We’re not just salespeople — we’re your real estate advocates.We pre-filter properties to match your hashkafa, community goals, and Aliyah timelineWe explain the why behind every detail — not just the whatYou get personal guidance, access to trusted legal & financial professionals, and ongoing support before and after your purchase
Can I buy a home and rent it out until I make Aliyah?: Gravida vulputate aliquet tempor sit. Neque sed pretium non urna sed etid aenean haretra quam placerat adipiscing penatibus aliquam adipiscing gravida elemeAYes. Many families buy now and rent short-term or long-term until they move.We can advise you on rental potential, management options, and how to structure your purchase with flexibility in mind.ntum aliquet eget senectus felis enim diam molestie.

The Faqs: Buying Real Estate in Israel – What Religious Anglos Need to Know.

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