Buying property in Israel from abroad involves specific steps, different from a standard purchase back home. Here are the key points to know before signing.
Checking the Land Registry (Tabu)
Before making any offer, a Land Registry (Tabu) check confirms the seller’s identity, the absence of liens or mortgages on the property, and any existing easements. This step is essential and should never be skipped, even for a property that appears to be in order.
The Sale Agreement
The sale agreement (Heskem Mechira) sets out the terms of the transaction: price, payment schedule, handover date, and the seller’s warranties. Its drafting and negotiation deserve particular attention, especially for a buyer who does not live in Israel and cannot follow every step in person.
Tax Obligations
Acquiring property in Israel triggers a purchase tax (Mas Rechisha), whose rate depends on the buyer’s status (resident, non-resident, new Oleh). A future resale will in turn be subject to capital gains tax (Mas Shevach). Anticipating these obligations from the outset avoids unpleasant surprises.
Getting Support
Guidance in your own language, from the first conversation through to signing, makes it possible to understand every document before committing to it. This is especially useful for foreign buyers or new Olim, who are often encountering these procedures for the first time.
This article is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For your specific situation, please contact the firm.