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Holiday Home in Israel for Florianopolis Families

Holiday Home in Israel for Florianopolis Families

Families from Florianópolis often look for a holiday home that offers the same things they love at home, which means sea, green hills, trails and a sense of space. Israel has several places that fit, from the Carmel above Haifa to the valleys of the Galilee and the beaches of the central coast. Owning a second home there, however, means dealing with rules on letting, management from a distance, fixed costs and declarations in two countries. This guide compares regions, explains letting rules, describes maintenance and management, sets out fixed costs and summarises tax duties.

Sea and mountain on the Carmel

Haifa rises from the Mediterranean to the top of Mount Carmel, with neighbourhoods such as the German Colony at the foot of the Bahai Gardens and leafy streets higher up. Nearby, the Carmel forest offers trails, and beaches like Dado and Bat Galim are close. For island families, this combination can feel familiar.

Haifa is also a mixed city where Jewish and Arab residents live side by side, with a cultural life that feels different from Tel Aviv. Neighbourhoods such as Ahuza and Denya on the ridge offer quiet streets and views across the bay.

The Galilee for trail lovers

The Galilee offers hiking, springs, vineyards and the Sea of Galilee. Towns such as Rosh Pina, Safed and communities in the Upper Galilee are popular bases. Homes here often have gardens and views but may be further from services, so check access to shops, clinics and transport.

  • Rosh Pina for charm and views

  • Safed for history and art

  • Communities near the Sea of Galilee for water and rest

The central coast for frequent visits

If you plan to visit often or have relatives in the centre, Tel Aviv, Herzliya or Netanya may be more practical. They are close to Ben Gurion Airport and offer beaches, culture and services. They also have more established markets for letting when you are away.

A flat near the sea in Netanya or Herzliya can also serve as a base for day trips to the Carmel and the Galilee, so some families treat it as a compromise between convenience and nature.

Letting to guests

Before planning to rent the home to visitors, check the building bylaws, municipal rules and any licensing requirements. Some buildings forbid short lets, and rental income is taxable. Your lawyer should review this before you commit.

Think as well about who would stay. Galilee homes attract hikers, couples and families on long weekends and holidays, while Haifa draws visitors to the Bahai Gardens and the university.

Maintenance and management

Homes in the Galilee may need garden care and attention to heating in winter, while coastal homes need protection from salt air. A local manager can inspect regularly, arrange cleaning and repairs and welcome guests. Agree on reporting, keys and approval limits in writing.

If the home has a garden, arrange watering through the dry summer, when rain is rare, and have gutters and roofs cleared before the winter rains. Small tasks like these protect the property and spare the family unpleasant surprises on arrival.

Fixed costs of a second home

Expect to pay arnona, building or community fees, insurance, utilities, maintenance and management, whether or not the home is used. A realistic annual budget helps you decide whether letting is necessary and how many weeks a year the family can realistically use the home.

Tax duties in both countries

In Brazil the home joins the asset list on your annual return, and any guest income is reported as income from abroad in the way your accountant indicates. On the Israeli side, owning a second home changes how purchase tax is calculated, and short let income has its own treatment. Get written guidance from a Brazilian accountant and an Israeli tax advisor before signing.

Frequently asked questions

Is Haifa a good holiday base

For families who like sea and mountains together, yes. It is also calmer and often less crowded than Tel Aviv.

Are Galilee homes easy to let

Demand exists, especially on weekends and holidays, but it is seasonal and management can be more demanding.

What fixed costs should we expect

Arnona, community or building fees, insurance, utilities, maintenance and management, even when the home is empty.

Do we have to report rent in Brazil

Yes, according to the rules for foreign income. A Brazilian accountant will guide you.

Elkayam Group

Kobi Elkayam Real Estate Ltd is part of Elkayam Group, a family enterprise with roots in the forties and three generations of experience behind it. From Rival Street 37 in Tel Aviv we operate in development, urban renewal, pinui-binui and TAMA 38, and in combination and complex deals with the support of backing companies and partners, and we can issue guarantees. Our Hebrew, English and French speaking team coordinates the local services a holiday home owner needs.

Looking for sea and trails in Israel. Let us help you compare the Carmel, the Galilee and the coast.

+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv

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