Holiday Home in Israel for Montreal Families
Holiday Home in Israel for Montreal Families
For Montreal families, a trip to Israel during the long Quebec winter or for the chagim is a cherished tradition. Many families from Côte Saint-Luc, Hampstead and Dollard-des-Ormeaux spend Pesach in Netanya or Jerusalem, while others choose Tel Aviv or Herzliya for the beach. A holiday home can replace the annual search for rentals with a place that belongs to the family, and it can often be rented out when you are in Montreal. This guide covers where Montreal families buy holiday homes, how to balance family use and rental, and practical matters of management and taxes.
Designing Around Family Use
Consider how many relatives will visit at the same time, whether you need a sukkah balcony, and whether walking distance to synagogue matters. Many Montreal families prefer apartments with lifts and parking to host older parents.
A clear picture of family use helps narrow the options.
Favourite Destinations
Netanya is a natural choice for many French-speaking families, with seafront apartments and a familiar community. Jerusalem suits families who want to spend chagim near the Old City and synagogues. Herzliya and Tel Aviv appeal to those who want beach and culture, and Eilat offers winter sun on the Red Sea.
Ashkelon and Ashdod offer seaside living with a strong French-speaking presence.
Netanya for seafront holidays in a French-speaking setting
Jerusalem for chagim and heritage
Herzliya and Tel Aviv for beach and city life
Eilat for winter sun
Renting When You Are Away
Holiday rental can help cover running costs, but peak demand often coincides with the holidays when your family wants to be there. Some owners accept this trade-off, while others choose a long-term tenant and use hotels during visits.
Check building bylaws and municipal rules on short-term rental with your Israeli lawyer.
Management in French
In Netanya and Ashdod it is often possible to find property managers who work in French. They can handle cleaning, check-ins, maintenance and bill payments.
Israel is usually seven hours ahead of Montreal, so agree on reporting times that suit both sides.
Getting There from Montreal
Nonstop flights from Montreal to Tel Aviv have operated at various times, and connections through Paris and other European hubs are common. Choosing a home within reasonable reach of Ben Gurion Airport simplifies arrivals with children and luggage.
Netanya, Herzliya and Tel Aviv are all well connected to the airport by road and rail.
Tax Considerations
If you rent your holiday home, the income may be taxable in Israel and reportable in Canada at both federal and Quebec levels. Owning foreign property may also involve reporting.
Consult a Canadian accountant who knows Quebec and foreign property, and an Israeli tax advisor.
Furnishing and Preparing the Home
A holiday home needs to be ready the moment the family lands after a long flight. Many Montreal owners keep linens, kitchen equipment and a kosher kitchen setup in place, with separate sets for Pesach if the family observes it.
If you plan to rent the apartment, choose durable furniture and keep personal items in a locked cupboard. A local manager can check the apartment before each family visit so beds are made and the refrigerator is working.
Air conditioning, solar water heating and good shutters are practical details that make a real difference in the Israeli summer.
Frequently asked questions
Where do Montreal families buy holiday homes
Netanya and Jerusalem are the most common, with Herzliya, Tel Aviv, Ashdod and Eilat also popular.
Can the property be managed in French
Often yes, especially in Netanya and Ashdod where French-speaking services are widespread.
Can I rent it out part of the year
Usually, subject to building bylaws and local rules. Your lawyer should check before purchase.
Will rental income affect my taxes
It may. A Canadian accountant familiar with Quebec and an Israeli tax advisor can explain the implications.
Elkayam Group
Elkayam Group is based at Rival Street 37 in Tel Aviv and brings a family background of three generations to its work in development, urban renewal and complex transactions. The team works in French, English and Hebrew, which Montreal families often find reassuring when choosing a holiday home.
Contact us to explore holiday home options for your Montreal family.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv