Holiday Home in Israel for New York Families
Holiday Home in Israel for New York Families
For many New York families, the Israeli holiday home is a long-held dream. Parents from Riverdale or the Five Towns picture Pesach with grandchildren around the table, a sukkah on their own balcony in Jerusalem or August mornings on the Tel Aviv promenade. Others want a base for children at yeshiva, seminary or university. A holiday apartment is used differently from a primary residence, so the priorities shift toward location, hosting space and easy upkeep while you are back in New York. This guide walks through those priorities and the areas New York families most often consider.
Jerusalem for the Chagim
If your Israel visits revolve around Pesach and Sukkot, Jerusalem is the obvious choice for many families. Neighborhoods such as Rehavia, Talbiya, the German Colony, Baka and Old Katamon are within walking distance of synagogues, the city center and in some cases the Old City.
Walking distance matters most on Shabbat and chag, so map the route to the places you will actually go before you choose.
The Coast for Summers
Families who come mainly in summer often prefer the coast. Tel Aviv beachfront neighborhoods, Herzliya Pituach and Netanya each offer a different atmosphere. Tel Aviv suits those who want culture and restaurants, Herzliya Pituach feels more residential, and Netanya has a promenade and an established English and French speaking community.
Caesarea is another option for families looking for a private house, a garden and a quieter setting within reach of both Tel Aviv and Haifa.
Design an Apartment for Hosting
A sukkah balcony, not covered by the balcony above
Extra sleeping space for married children and grandchildren
A kitchen that can be kashered or kept separate for Pesach
Storage for holiday items so you do not bring them each time
Air conditioning in every room for the summer months
Caring for the Home When You Are in New York
Apartments that stand empty for months can develop problems quietly, from a slow leak to a dead water heater. Arrange regular inspections by a manager or relative, keep the building committee payments current and ask for photos after each visit.
Because Israel is usually seven hours ahead, a quick message in your evening often gets answered by the time you wake up.
Should You Rent It Out
Some owners rent to other visiting families during the chagim they are not using, or offer a medium-term lease to a student. Short-term rental rules, building policies and tax treatment all need checking. Speak with your Israeli lawyer, an Israeli tax advisor and a US CPA before listing the apartment.
Buying Logistics for New Yorkers
Nonstop flights from JFK and Newark make it practical to fly in for viewings and for the signing. A power of attorney lets your lawyer handle other steps. Buying a second home in Israel may be treated differently for purchase tax than a single residence, so get advice early.
Frequently asked questions
Can a sukkah be built on any balcony
A sukkah needs to be open to the sky, so balconies covered by the one above are not suitable. Many new buildings in religious areas offer staggered sukkah balconies.
What is the best area for a summer home
Tel Aviv, Herzliya Pituach and Netanya are popular choices, depending on whether you prefer city life, a residential feel or a large English-speaking community.
How often should someone check the apartment
Many owners arrange a visit every few weeks, plus an inspection and cleaning before each arrival.
Is a second home taxed differently
Purchase tax may differ if you own more than one residence. An Israeli tax advisor can explain what applies to you.
Elkayam Group
Elkayam Group, formally Kobi Elkayam Real Estate Ltd, is headquartered on Rival Street 37 in Tel Aviv. The family story spans three generations and began with a family business in 1945. Today the company works in development, urban renewal and combination deals alongside backing companies and partners, and its English, Hebrew and French speaking team helps New York families find apartments that suit how they live in Israel.
Imagining your own holiday home in Israel. Let our team show you where it could be.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv