Location vs Features – Tips for Apartment Hunting in Tel Aviv
Location, Location, Location
Tel Aviv’s charm lies in its many distinct neighborhoods; each with its own story, atmosphere and attractions.
With waves of Olim Chadashim, foreign investors and expats relocating to Tel Aviv, as it is in any other city around the world, certain neighborhoods are seemingly more attractive than others.
Choosing a specific area to live in is based on recommendations, reviews and wanting to stay close to family, friends or a specific community that can ease with settling into Tel Aviv.
The Tel Aviv real estate along with the type of construction varies and is very different from what foreigners are accustomed to. Many buyers and renters are unsure as to what to expect and for most astonished finding the construction standards poor.
As one of my top questions when asking buyers and renters: “what are the most important features and amenities do you look for in an apartment?” I find that a lot of the answers I get, unfortunately, are false expectations.
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When it comes to finding an apartment in Tel Aviv, I can’t help but wonder: do we really need to choose one over the other?
Finding just the right location & features combo in Tel Aviv can be tricky, but once understanding Tel Aviv’s distinct architecture within each of its neighborhoods, the process just becomes easier,
Location, location, location – THE first rule to real estate and Central Tel Aviv has it all. Considered one of the hottest, most expensive and sought after real estate locations in Tel Aviv and the Gush Dan district, with International fame, close proximity to its shores and the luxury of having every amenity one desires within a short walking distance, and it’s no wonder buyers and renters alike are willing to pay top-shekel for location and convenience and compromise on amenities.
Most buildings in Merkaz Tel Aviv were built from the 1930’s onwards till the 1950’s & 60’s, where elevators let alone parking were not key factors. The famous 1930’s Bauhaus buildings are spread across the older parts of the city, and though the city was declared a world heritage site, the upkeep of these buildings isn’t always up to standard. A clear result of this neglect is the simple fact that the “White City” isn’t really white, but rather Gray.
Most buildings, unfortunately, are old, semi neglected and not appealing to say the least; some buildings were renovated throughout the years, some are very well kept and for the majority the possibility of going through a major face-lift sometime in the near-far future, is still in process.
The good news is, the city is putting in a lot of effort into improving the condition of these buildings, helping in the preservation of the international style Bauhaus architecture along with the city’s overall façade.
If you’re on a budget and looking to live in Merkaz (Central) Tel Aviv, my advice to you is this – ask yourself some key questions in order to understand what’s important to you and what are you willing to compromise on. Stay as open minded as possible when it comes to the apartments and buildings, take time to walk around and explore its streets, understand the architectural style and construction and look out for building amenities. Time how far it is to go from one place to another and see what’s around you. Understand the market value by speaking to a few local agents, accept the fact that renovations & constructions will and can happen anywhere and at any given time, and realize that living so close to everything comes with a price.