Question 1

How do I buy property in Jerusalem as a foreigner?

Accepted Answer

Foreign citizens can legally buy property in Israel without residency. The process involves finding a property, signing a purchase agreement through a licensed Israeli lawyer, paying purchase tax (mas rechisha), and registering the property with the Israel Land Authority. Shlomo Benzaquen specializes in helping international buyers navigate the Jerusalem real estate market.

Question 2

What are the most popular Jerusalem neighborhoods for buying a home?

Accepted Answer

The most sought-after Jerusalem neighborhoods include Rehavia, Old Katamon, German Colony (Moshava Germanit), Baka, Talbiya, Har Nof, Arnona, Ramot, French Hill, and Pisgat Zeev. For those seeking suburbs, Givat Zeev, Efrat, Beit El, and Mevaseret Zion offer excellent options near Jerusalem.

Question 3

What is the average price of an apartment in Jerusalem in 2025?

Accepted Answer

Jerusalem property prices rose approximately 6.4% in the first half of 2025. Average apartment prices vary by neighborhood: central areas like Rehavia and Talbiya range from $800,000 to $3,000,000+, while neighborhoods like Ramot, Pisgat Zeev, and Har Nof offer more affordable options starting from $300,000. Contact Shlomo Benzaquen for current market pricing.

Question 4

Can I rent out my Jerusalem property as an investment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Jerusalem is a strong rental market, especially for short-term rentals near the Old City and for long-term rentals in neighborhoods with high demand. Popular investment areas include Rehavia, German Colony, Old Katamon, and Baka for short-term rentals, and Ramot, French Hill, and Gilo for long-term rentals.

Question 5

What is arnona and how much is it in Jerusalem?

Accepted Answer

Arnona is the municipal property tax in Israel. In Jerusalem, rates vary by neighborhood and property size, typically ranging from 200 to 800 ILS per month for residential apartments. New immigrants (Olim) may be eligible for discounts. The specific rate is listed on each property listing.

Question 6

What features should I look for in a kosher Jerusalem apartment?

Accepted Answer

For a kosher-friendly Jerusalem home, look for apartments with a sukkah balcony (mirpeset sukkah) for Sukkot, a shabbat elevator in buildings with 4+ floors, a kosher kitchen with separate dairy and meat areas, and proximity to synagogues. Many properties in Rehavia, Har Nof, and Ramot are built with these features.

Question 7

Why choose RE/MAX Jerusalem and Shlomo Benzaquen?

Accepted Answer

Shlomo Benzaquen is a top RE/MAX real estate agent in Jerusalem with extensive experience in luxury properties, investment real estate, and helping both local and international clients. He offers exclusive listings, multilingual service, and deep knowledge of Jerusalem neighborhoods, market trends, and Israeli real estate law.