Holiday Home in Israel for St Louis Families
Holiday Home in Israel for St Louis Families
St Louis families often visit Israel for extended periods, especially for holidays, family celebrations and to see children studying there. Hotels and short-term rentals quickly add up, and many families start to wonder whether a holiday home would make more sense. Owning a second home in Israel provides a familiar place for the whole family and a base for future plans, such as retirement or aliyah. It also requires thoughtful management from Missouri. This guide explains which locations St Louis families favor, what makes a good holiday apartment and how to care for it from afar.
Choosing Between City, Sea and Hills
Jerusalem is a favorite for families who want holidays near the Old City, synagogues and cultural life. Neighborhoods such as Rehavia, Talbiya, the German Colony and Baka are popular with overseas owners. Families who prefer the beach look at Netanya, Herzliya, Tel Aviv or Ashkelon.
The Galilee offers green hills, springs and quiet villages, while Zichron Yaakov combines wine country charm with proximity to the sea.
Think about who will use the home most. Grandparents may value an elevator and a nearby clinic, while teenagers may prefer a lively area near cafes and the beach. A location that works for several generations keeps the holiday home in regular use.
What Makes a Holiday Apartment Work
Choose a building with an elevator, good security and an active building committee. Apartments close to shops, synagogues and public transport make visits easier without a car. Newer buildings include a safe room, which is reassuring for older relatives staying alone.
Walkable location
Space for visiting relatives
Durable finishes and appliances
Secure owner storage
Care and Maintenance from St Louis
Israel is usually eight hours ahead of St Louis. A caretaker or property manager can check the apartment regularly, deal with repairs and prepare it before visits. Pay arnona and utilities through an Israeli bank account on automatic payment, and keep contact details for the building committee handy.
Ask the caretaker to check the apartment after winter storms, when roofs and windows can leak.
Before each visit, the caretaker can air out the rooms, turn on the water heater and stock basic groceries, so the family arrives to a ready home after the long journey.
Should You Rent It Out
Some families rent their holiday home to long-term tenants and plan shorter visits, while others offer it as a short-term rental during periods they are away. Short-term rentals may face municipal and building restrictions and require more management.
Rental income has tax consequences in Israel and the United States. Consult an Israeli tax advisor and a US CPA before you start.
Planning Visits Around the Calendar
Demand for holiday apartments peaks around Jewish holidays and during the summer. St Louis families often visit during winter break, when coastal Israel is mild compared with Missouri, or in summer when children are out of school. Schedule maintenance and renovations for quieter periods.
Flights from Lambert usually connect through Chicago, New York or Europe, so allow a travel day on each side of your visit.
The Purchase Process
Buying a holiday home follows the standard Israeli process, led by your own lawyer. Purchase tax for a second home may differ from a first home, so consult a tax advisor before deciding. Families sharing a holiday home across generations should agree in writing on ownership shares, usage schedules and cost sharing, with the help of a lawyer.
Frequently asked questions
Where do St Louis families buy holiday homes in Israel
Jerusalem, Netanya, Herzliya, Tel Aviv and Zichron Yaakov are popular choices.
Can I rent the home when I am not there
Often yes, subject to local and building rules. Get legal and tax advice first.
How do I pay bills from St Louis
Most owners set up automatic payments from an Israeli bank account.
Is purchase tax different for a holiday home
It may be, depending on other properties you own. Consult an Israeli tax advisor.
Elkayam Group
Elkayam Group, located at Rival Street 37 in Tel Aviv, continues a family legacy founded in 1945 and carried forward by three generations. Kobi Elkayam Real Estate Ltd works in development, urban renewal, pinui-binui, TAMA 38, combination deals and complex transactions, supported by backing companies and partners and able to provide guarantees. We work in Hebrew, English and French.
Planning a family holiday home in Israel Talk with Elkayam Group from St Louis.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv