Holiday Home in Givatayim for American Families
Holiday Home in Givatayim for American Families
Some American families want an apartment in central Israel for regular visits to children and grandchildren, for business trips or for long summer stays. Tel Aviv is an obvious choice, but many prefer the calmer streets of Givatayim, just across the city line. A holiday home here offers easy access to Tel Aviv's culture and beaches, walkable local shops and a neighborhood atmosphere. This guide covers choosing the right apartment, looking after it from the United States, renting it between visits and planning taxes in both countries.
Why Givatayim Works for Visits
Givatayim combines quiet residential streets with quick access to Tel Aviv. Families can walk to cafes and shops on Katznelson Street, visit the observatory park on Givat Kozlovsky and reach Tel Aviv's museums, markets and beaches in a short ride. For visiting grandparents, the walkability is a major advantage, and for grandchildren the local playgrounds and parks make a long stay feel like home rather than a hotel visit.
Selecting an Apartment
For a home that stands empty part of the year, a renewed or newer building with an elevator, a safe room and good management is often the most practical choice. Consider parking for visiting relatives and a layout that allows the whole family to gather for meals.
A renewed or newer building
Elevator and safe room
Room for family gatherings
Walking distance to shops and transport
Caring for the Home from Abroad
A relative, neighbor or paid manager should check the apartment regularly, pay building fees and municipal property tax, and arrange repairs. Remote water valves and smart locks help. Keep a list of reliable tradespeople so that problems can be handled quickly despite the time difference. Before each visit, ask your contact to air the apartment, check the air conditioning and water heater, and stock a few basics, so that the family can settle in comfortably after the long flight.
Renting Between Visits
Renting the apartment to professionals on assignment or families on sabbatical can cover costs. Medium-term rentals often fit well around family visits. Short-term rentals may be restricted by building rules or regulation, so consult an Israeli lawyer before listing.
Renewal and a Second Home
If you choose an older building, ask whether a TAMA 38 or pinui-binui project is planned. Construction could make the apartment unusable during your visits for a period. A building where renewal is already complete may suit a holiday home better, and your lawyer can check the status in municipal records.
Taxes in Israel and the US
Owning an additional residential property in Israel has particular purchase tax implications, and your residency status matters. Rental income and a future sale also have consequences in both countries. Consult an Israeli tax advisor and a US CPA to plan ownership and use.
Buying from the US
An initial visit, remote video viewings and a power of attorney for your Israeli lawyer allow most families to complete the purchase without repeated trips. Agree on call times that suit both time zones and keep documents in a shared folder. Ask your lawyer to explain how the apartment could later pass to children or be sold, since planning for these steps early is easier than changing ownership later.
Frequently asked questions
Is Givatayim close to the beach
The Tel Aviv beaches are a short drive or bus ride away.
Should I avoid older buildings
Not necessarily, but check whether renewal is planned, as construction could affect your use of the home.
Who looks after the apartment while I am away
Usually a relative, neighbor or paid manager who visits regularly.
Do I need a US CPA
Yes. Owning and renting property in Israel can affect your US tax reporting.
Elkayam Group
Kobi Elkayam Real Estate Ltd belongs to Elkayam Group, a family business in its third generation, with partners and backing companies across development and urban renewal. Our Tel Aviv office on Rival Street is close to Givatayim, and our team works in English, Hebrew and French.
Considering a holiday home in Givatayim Reach out to discuss the right building for your family.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv