Holiday Home in Ramat Gan for American Families
Holiday Home in Ramat Gan for American Families
Some American families want a pied-a-terre in central Israel for regular visits to children, business trips or long summer stays. Ramat Gan offers a practical alternative to Tel Aviv, with easy access to the city, the light rail and the airport, and residential neighborhoods where a family can settle in comfortably for a few weeks. This guide looks at choosing a suitable apartment, caring for it while you are in the US, renting it between visits and handling taxes in both countries.
Why Ramat Gan Works as a Base
Ramat Gan's location is its main advantage. From the Diamond Exchange area or the city center, Tel Aviv's business districts, cultural venues and beaches are a short ride away. The Ramat Gan National Park offers space for walks and family picnics, and the light rail simplifies travel without a car.
Choosing the Right Apartment
For a home that stands empty part of the year, a building with a doorman, elevator and active management can offer peace of mind. Tower apartments near the Diamond Exchange often provide these services. Families who want a quieter feel may prefer Ramat Chen or Tel Binyamin.
Buildings with lobby staff or strong management
Access to the light rail or Savidor Center station
Space for visiting children and grandchildren
A location near your family in Israel
Caring for the Apartment
Arrange for someone to check the apartment regularly, pay building fees and municipal property tax, and manage repairs. In a tower, building management may help with access and deliveries. Smart locks and remote monitoring tools, where permitted, make oversight from the US easier. Keep a written list of trusted plumbers, electricians and air conditioning technicians, so that a local contact can arrange a repair quickly while you are asleep in the US.
Renting Between Visits
Renting to professionals on assignment, visiting academics at Bar-Ilan or medical staff at Sheba can help cover costs. Medium-term rentals often fit well around family visits, and a furnished apartment can appeal to these tenants. Short-term rentals may be restricted by building rules or local regulation, so consult an Israeli lawyer before listing the apartment.
Urban Renewal and a Second Home
If you choose an older building, ask whether it is part of a TAMA 38 or pinui-binui plan. Renovation could make the apartment unusable for a period, which matters if you rely on it for visits. A newer building or one where renewal is already completed may suit a holiday home better.
Taxes in Israel and the US
Owning an additional residential property in Israel has specific purchase tax implications, and your residency status matters. Rental income and a future sale also have tax consequences in both countries. Consult an Israeli tax advisor and a US CPA to plan ownership and use.
Buying from Abroad
An initial visit, remote viewings by video and a power of attorney for your Israeli lawyer allow most families to complete a purchase without repeated trips. Schedule calls to match the time difference, often early morning on the US East Coast, and keep every document in a shared folder that your lawyer and CPA can access.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ramat Gan convenient for visiting Tel Aviv
Yes. The cities border each other, and the light rail and trains make travel simple.
Should I buy in a tower or an older building
Towers often offer building services suited to part-time owners, while older buildings may involve renewal plans. Consider how you will use the home.
Can I rent the apartment when I am away
Often yes, subject to building rules and regulation. Your lawyer should review the arrangement.
How will this affect my US taxes
Rental income and a future sale may need to be reported. A US CPA can advise.
Elkayam Group
Elkayam Group, a family business spanning three generations, works in development and urban renewal across Gush Dan with partners and backing companies. From our office on Rival Street in Tel Aviv, our team speaks English, Hebrew and French and helps families choose a second home that fits their plans.
Looking for a holiday home in Ramat Gan Reach out to plan the purchase with our team.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv