Holiday Home in Israel for Philadelphia Families
Holiday Home in Israel for Philadelphia Families
Families from Wynnewood, Elkins Park, Huntingdon Valley and Cherry Hill often spend Pesach or summer in Israel, sometimes with several generations traveling together. Owning a holiday home changes the experience from finding a rental each year to having a familiar place of your own. It also means taking responsibility for an apartment thousands of miles from Pennsylvania. This guide explores the locations that suit Philadelphia families, the questions to ask before buying, and the options for renting the property when you are not there.
Questions to Ask First
Before looking at listings, agree as a family on a few basics.
How many weeks a year will we realistically spend there
Will grandparents, children and friends use it
Do we want city life, beach or countryside
Will we rent it out between visits
Who will care for the property locally
Jerusalem for Family and Festivals
Jerusalem remains the top holiday choice for many Philadelphia families, particularly for Pesach and Sukkot. Neighborhoods such as Rehavia, Talbiya, the German Colony and Baka offer walkable streets, synagogues and access to the Old City.
Holiday demand in Jerusalem is concentrated around festivals, so the apartment may sit empty for long periods unless you arrange longer tenancies.
The Coast from Netanya to Caesarea
Netanya has a long history of holiday owners from abroad, with its promenade, beaches and an established English and French speaking community. Herzliya Pituach offers a more upscale coastal feel near the marina.
Caesarea, with its antiquities, golf course and villa neighborhoods, appeals to families who want a quieter, spacious setting between Tel Aviv and Haifa.
Countryside Alternatives
Some Philadelphia families prefer the Galilee, around Rosh Pina, Safed or the Sea of Galilee, for hiking and a slower pace. Zichron Yaakov on the Carmel ridge combines wineries, a historic center and views of the Mediterranean.
These areas may have more seasonal demand and fewer management services, so plan maintenance carefully.
Renting and Managing When You Are Away
Longer lets to students or visiting professionals give steady use, while short stays require more work and may face building or local restrictions. A local manager can handle guests, cleaning and repairs.
Remember that arnona and building committee fees continue year round. Discuss how rental income will be taxed with an Israeli tax advisor and a US CPA.
Buying Smart as a Second Home Owner
Purchase tax on an additional home usually differs from that on a sole residence, and rules change. Have an Israeli lawyer explain the current position before you commit.
Choose a building with an elevator and a mamad, and check parking if you plan to rent a car after arriving at Ben Gurion from connecting flights through Newark or Europe.
Furnishing and Preparing the Apartment
Furnishing a holiday home from abroad takes planning. Many Philadelphia owners buy furniture and appliances in Israel rather than shipping from the US, since Israeli electrical standards and apartment sizes differ. A kosher kitchen setup, a Shabbat friendly lighting arrangement and enough beds for visiting relatives are common priorities. Keeping a simple inventory helps a local manager or cleaner prepare the apartment before each family arrival and check it after guests leave.
Frequently asked questions
Is Jerusalem or the coast better for a holiday home
It depends on how you use Israel. Jerusalem suits festivals and family visits, while the coast suits summer and beach holidays.
Can we lend the apartment to friends
Yes, although any regular paid use should be structured properly and reviewed for tax purposes.
What costs continue when we are not there
Arnona, building fees, utilities and maintenance continue. Build them into your planning.
Do we need a local manager
Most overseas owners find a trusted local manager or contact essential for security and upkeep. The manager can also receive deliveries, handle repairs and prepare the apartment before each visit so it is ready when you land.
Elkayam Group
Elkayam Group operates from Rival Street 37 in Tel Aviv and carries forward a family background that began in 1945, now in its third generation. We work in development, urban renewal and complex transactions, backed by companies and partners, and our team works in Hebrew, English and French so Philadelphia families can follow every step.
Looking for a holiday home in Israel from Philadelphia Let us help you choose the right place.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv