In this opening episode of Season 8, we tackle one of the most common and important questions for foreign buyers and Olim: Should I buy or should I rent? To guide us through the financial realities and emotional considerations, we’re joined by Rifka Lebowitz, certified financial planner, author of Smarter Israeli Banking, and founder of Living Financially Smarter in Israel. With over 25 years of experience, Rifka has helped thousands of families plan for financial stability and success in Israel.

In this episode, you’ll discover what it costs to rent in Israel, from deposits and municipal taxes to insurance and agent fees. We explore how much of your income should reasonably go toward rent and why that number shifts depending on your stage of life. Together with Rifka, we unpack the cultural and financial reasons that homeownership is such a priority in Israel, as well as the creative strategies Israelis and Olim use to save for a down payment and finally get on the property ladder.

We also dive into the pros and cons of buying a smaller “starter” apartment in the periphery or through government-subsidized programs, and look at how exchange rates, inflation, and retirement planning can all influence the rent-versus-buy decision. Finally, we discuss why emotional security is just as important as financial security when it comes to having a home in Israel.

Resources and links:

Join the Living Financially Smarter in Israel Facebook group
For more information or to contact Rifka, visit rifkalebowitz.com

The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, or professional advice for any specific transaction. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals before making any decisions or entering into transactions based on the content discussed.

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Israel Real Estate: Keys or Contracts? Navigating Renting vs. Buying in Israel