Holiday Home in Hod HaSharon for American Families
Holiday Home in Hod HaSharon for American Families
Many American families spend the Jewish holidays, summer vacations and family celebrations in central Israel. When relatives live in the Sharon, staying in hotels or rentals quickly becomes tiring. A second home in Hod HaSharon puts you minutes from family in Ra'anana, Kfar Saba or Herzliya, with space for a large holiday table and room for guests. This guide looks at what makes a good part-time home in the city, how to keep it secure and maintained while you are in the United States, and what to consider if you want to rent it when you are away.
Why a holiday home here rather than the coast
A beach apartment is appealing, but if your family life revolves around grandchildren in the Sharon, a home near them is often used far more. Hod HaSharon offers quiet streets, parks for children and easy drives to the beaches of Herzliya and Tel Aviv when you want the sea.
It also allows a smooth transition if you later decide to live in Israel for longer periods or make aliyah.
What to look for in a part-time home
A building with an elevator and parking, helpful for older family members
A sukkah balcony or private garden for holiday meals
Walking distance to a synagogue if you observe the Sabbath
Good storage, so you can leave belongings between visits
A protected room and reliable air conditioning
Keeping the home safe while you are away
An empty apartment needs regular attention. Arrange for someone to visit periodically, run water, check for leaks and collect mail. Smart locks, cameras and remote thermostats let you check in from the US, but they do not replace a trusted local contact.
Pay the municipal property tax and building fees by standing order from an Israeli bank account to avoid missed payments across time zones.
Renting between visits
Some owners rent the apartment to long-term tenants and return to a hotel during visits, while others keep it for family use only. Short-term rentals are less common in Hod HaSharon than in tourist cities, and building rules or municipal requirements may apply. Ask your lawyer whether the building bylaws allow short stays before you plan on that income.
Buying the home from the US
The legal steps are the same as any purchase by a foreign resident. Your Israeli lawyer checks the registration, liens and permits, and you can sign through a power of attorney. Transfer funds only according to the payment schedule in the contract and through your lawyer's guidance.
Because purchase tax and ongoing taxes can differ for a second property and for foreign residents, involve an Israeli tax advisor early and let your US CPA review the plan.
Furnishing and setup
Israeli apartments often come without kitchen appliances or light fixtures, depending on the contract. Plan a furnishing budget and schedule, and consider using local suppliers who can deliver while you are abroad. Keep an inventory list for insurance and for any future tenants.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hod HaSharon suitable for a holiday home
It suits families whose relatives live in the Sharon and who value a quiet, residential setting over a tourist atmosphere.
Can I rent it out when I am not there
Long-term rental is common. Short-term rental may be limited by building rules and local regulations, so check with your lawyer first.
Who looks after the apartment during the year
Many owners use a family member or a paid property manager for periodic inspections, bills and repairs.
Does owning a second home affect my taxes
It can, both in Israel and in the US. Consult an Israeli tax advisor and a US CPA before you buy.
Elkayam Group
Kobi Elkayam Real Estate Ltd, known as Elkayam Group, works from Rival Street 37 in Tel Aviv and carries three generations of family experience rooted in industry since 1945. Our team speaks Hebrew, English and French, works with backing companies and partners, and helps American families buy and maintain homes they use only part of the year.
Looking for a family holiday base in Hod HaSharon Let us help you find the right home.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv