Think you know Real Estate? Israel plays by different rules

You know real estate, the process, the paperwork, the players. Maybe you’ve even bought and sold a few homes — so you assume buying in Israel will be similar.

That’s where so many smart, experienced buyers go wrong.

Israel’s real estate system follows its own rules. The terms may sound familiar (at least in their English translation) — mortgage, contract, inspection — but the order, timing, and legal implications can be completely different.

Take one of the biggest surprises: in the U.S. or Canada, signing a contract is just one step on the way to closing. It’s not final until all your conditions are met — financing, inspections, appraisals, and so on.

But in Israel, the moment you sign, you’re committed. Legally and financially. Even if your mortgage isn’t yet approved. Even if the property’s details haven’t been fully checked. Many buyers learn this the hard way — losing tens of thousands of shekels simply because they didn’t realize how binding that first signature really is.

1. “My lawyer will handle everything.”
   Unless your attorney specializes in Israeli property law, they might not review all the crucial details — from liens and ownership issues to zoning and permits. And even if you do have a lawyer who specializes in Israeli property law, you have to make sure you are working with one who has a sterling reputation and will represent your best interests.
   
   
2. “The real estate agent represents me.”
   In Israel, most agents represent the seller, not the buyer. Their job is to close the deal — not to protect your interests. You will want to get a buyer’s advocate on your side to make sure all your rights are being exercised.
   
   
3. “It’s the same process as back home.”
   It’s not. There’s no standard escrow system, insurance works differently, and there are fewer built-in safeguards. The type of property you are buying here might not even exist in America. Every stage requires thorough due diligence.
   
   
4. “If other people bought there, it must be fine.”
   Not necessarily. Each property has its own unique legal, financial, and technical realities — and what’s safe for one buyer might be risky for another. The reality can change from one day to the next in terms of what issues might be at stake, what costs might be involved, and what the process might look like.

Buying in Israel can be deeply rewarding. And when you do it right, it doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming at all.

At The Getter Group, we guide foreign buyers through the entire process with full transparency and peace of mind. Our experts handle every detail — from negotiation and due diligence to legal review, mortgage coordination, professional collaborations, and beyond.

Join our free webinar, “I want to buy in Israel. But how?” Choose the time that works for you: 11 a.m. Sunday, October 26th, or 11 a.m. Tuesday, October 28th, 

We’ll explain how the process really works, what to watch out for, and how to buy confidently — not blindly.