Buying or selling property in Israel from the U.S. can feel overwhelming. Different laws, language barriers, and fast-moving markets make it challenging to navigate alone.
That’s where Genesis Estates comes in — your trusted, English-speaking real estate agent in Israel.
We specialize in helping U.S.-based clients buy, sell, or invest in Israeli real estate with full transparency, bilingual support, and end-to-end guidance.
📞 Book Your Free Consultation
Schedule a complimentary call with our team and speak with a bilingual real estate expert who specializes in helping Americans invest in Israel.
Why U.S. Buyers Need Specialized Help in Israel
Israel’s property market operates very differently from the United States.
There’s no Multiple Listing Service (MLS), negotiations are more personal, and contracts are typically drafted in Hebrew within days of the offer.
Having an experienced, bilingual agent who understands both systems is critical to protect your investment and ensure a smooth experience.
How Real Estate Transactions Differ Between Israel and the U.S.
| Aspect | United States | Israel |
|---|---|---|
| Listings System | Centralized MLS | No MLS — relies on agent networks and private listings |
| Agent Representation | Buyer & seller agents share commission | Buyer and seller each pay their own agent |
| Contract Process | Offer, inspection, financing contingency | Quick process — “Zichron Devarim” then binding contract |
| Language & Legal | English contracts | Hebrew contracts, reviewed by Israeli attorney |
| Closing Timeline | 30–60 days | Typically 2–4 weeks |
| Payment Flow | Escrow accounts | Direct transfer with attorney oversight |
Genesis Estates bridges these differences by combining Western-style transparency with local expertise and hands-on representation.
Real Estate Fees in Israel vs. the U.S.
Understanding how commissions and costs are structured helps you plan smarter.
| Fee Type | Typical in the U.S. | Typical in Israel |
|---|---|---|
| Buyer’s Agent Fee | Paid by seller (2.5%–3%) | Paid by buyer (1.5%–2% + VAT) |
| Seller’s Agent Fee | 5%–6% split | Seller pays 2%–3% + VAT |
| Legal Fees | Often part of closing | Separate attorney (0.5%–1%) |
| Closing Costs | Escrow, title insurance | Purchase tax, registration, lawyer, agent |
| Property Management | Optional (8–10%) | Optional (5–10%) |
Genesis Estates provides a written breakdown of all fees upfront — no hidden charges or surprise costs.
How the Real Estate Process Works in Israel
1. Property Search
There’s no single portal listing every property. Genesis accesses private networks, local agents, and off-market opportunities tailored to your needs.
2. Due Diligence
We coordinate legal verification, zoning checks, and ownership records through trusted Israeli attorneys.
3. Negotiation
Negotiations are usually direct and fast-moving. We handle every step with your legal team to protect your interests.
4. Contract Signing
Contracts are drafted in Hebrew and legally binding upon signature. Our bilingual experts review every detail and translate key terms.
5. Closing
We ensure smooth fund transfers, tax clearances, and title registration — even if you’re abroad.
Buying Real Estate in Israel from the U.S.
You can purchase property in Israel entirely remotely with the help of Genesis Estates.
We handle:
- Virtual property tours and neighborhood analysis
- Power of attorney setup so you can close without travel
- Currency transfer coordination with Israeli banks
- Liaison with English-speaking lawyers and accountants
- Complete purchase-to-ownership guidance
Our bilingual team manages every step so you can invest confidently from anywhere in the world.
Selling Property in Israel from Abroad
Selling property from the U.S. is just as simple with Genesis Estates.
- We list and market through local and international channels
- Manage property showings, negotiations, and offers
- Handle legal paperwork remotely through your lawyer or notary
- Coordinate all tax filings and proceeds transfers
- Provide transparent reporting at every stage
You focus on your return — we handle the details on the ground.
Real Estate in Major Israeli Cities
Tel Aviv
Israel’s most dynamic market. We specialize in high-end apartments, new developments, and investment units with strong rental yields.
Our Focus:
Luxury and beachfront properties, investment analysis for Airbnb or long-term rental income, and access to exclusive off-market listings.
Jerusalem
A mix of tradition and opportunity, ideal for long-term investment and family homes.
Our Expertise:
Navigating religious neighborhoods and zoning laws, helping diaspora families purchase near desired communities, and guiding through renovation and tax processes.
Herzliya & Netanya
Coastal gems popular among international buyers, perfect for vacation homes and high-end rentals.
Our Services:
Luxury property sourcing near Herzliya Pituach marina, managing vacation rentals, and consulting on renovation and resale strategies.
Haifa
Northern Israel’s tech and education hub, ideal for affordable investments and long-term tenants.
Genesis Advantage:
ROI forecasts and market insights based on real rental demand and appreciation trends.
Investment and Rental Property Expertise
Genesis Estates goes beyond traditional brokerage — we’re also experts in rental and investment properties.
Our Investment Services Include:
- Market research and rental yield analysis
- Identifying high-return investment zones
- Full purchase-to-rental conversion support
- Ongoing property management after acquisition
Typical yields range between 2.5%–4.5% in Tel Aviv and 4%–6% in Haifa or Netanya, depending on property type.
We combine data-driven insights with local expertise to help you grow your portfolio safely.
Legal Assistance and Compliance
Every transaction in Israel involves local legal oversight — and Genesis ensures it’s done correctly.
We Provide:
- Access to trusted English-speaking real estate attorneys
- Translation and review of Hebrew contracts
- Handling of Mas Rechisha (purchase tax) and registry filings
- Coordination of power of attorney for remote closings
- Cross-border compliance with U.S. tax advisors
Our legal network ensures every transaction is secure, compliant, and transparent.
Step-by-Step: Buying or Selling from the U.S.
- Free Consultation — meet your Genesis advisor via Zoom or WhatsApp
- Custom Property Search — receive curated options based on your goals
- Virtual Viewing & Offer — review videos, inspections, and terms
- Legal Coordination — we connect you with vetted lawyers for review
- Remote Signing & Payment — secure digital process through POA or notary
- Ongoing Support — transition to property management or resale planning
Why Choose Genesis Estates
- Bilingual Experts fluent in English and Hebrew
- Specialists in both U.S. and Israeli real estate systems
- Transparent, fixed fees with full written breakdowns
- Legal, investment, and property management under one roof
- 100% digital process for overseas clients
📅 Book Your Free Consultation
Schedule a consultation here and speak with a local expert who understands your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy property in Israel as a U.S. citizen?
Yes. Foreign nationals can freely purchase most residential and commercial properties in Israel, with only limited restrictions on agricultural land.
Do I need to be in Israel to complete a transaction?
No. With power of attorney, all documents can be signed remotely through an Israeli notary or local consulate.
How are real estate agent fees structured?
Buyers usually pay 1.5%–2% + VAT; sellers pay 2%–3% + VAT. Legal and notary fees are separate. Genesis provides full transparency before any commitment.
Can Genesis help with investment and rental properties?
Absolutely. We specialize in identifying rental opportunities, calculating ROI, and managing the property post-purchase.
Do you offer legal assistance?
Yes. We coordinate with experienced, English-speaking Israeli lawyers to handle contracts, registration, and taxation.
Do you manage properties after purchase?
Yes. Our Property Management in Israel division handles maintenance, rent collection, and tenant placement for overseas owners.
