10 Questions to Ask When Hiring an Israeli Lawyer

Choosing your Israeli real estate lawyer might be the single most important decision you make in your property purchase journey. They are your legal shield, your advocate, and your guide through a complex system that operates very differently from what you're used to in the United States.

But here's the challenge: not all Israeli real estate lawyers have experience working with American clients. Some are brilliant legal minds but struggle to communicate clearly in English. Others are great communicators but lack specific expertise in the unique challenges American buyers face.

The right lawyer for you must be both legally excellent and culturally bilingual—fluent not just in Hebrew and English, but in American expectations and Israeli realities.

Here are the ten essential questions you should ask any lawyer you're considering, and what their answers should tell you.

Question 1: How Many American or Foreign Clients Do You Represent Each Year?

Why this matters: Experience with international clients means the lawyer understands the unique challenges you face—language barriers, distance, unfamiliarity with Israeli systems, and the need for extra clarity in communication. A lawyer who primarily works with Israeli clients may not be equipped to provide the level of explanation and support you need.
What you want to hear: "A significant portion of my practice focuses on representing American and other English-speaking buyers. I typically handle 20-30 international transactions per year." This shows they have a proven track record and systems in place for serving clients like you.

Question 2: Will You Handle My Transaction Personally, or Will It Be Delegated?

Why this matters: In larger law firms, junior associates or paralegals often handle the routine parts of transactions, with the senior lawyer only stepping in for critical moments. This isn't necessarily bad, but you should know upfront who will be doing the actual work.
What you want to hear: "I will personally handle all critical aspects of your transaction—contract review, negotiations, and communication with opposing counsel. My team may assist with administrative tasks like document preparation and filing, but I oversee everything and am your primary contact." This gives you the benefit of both senior expertise and efficient execution.

Question 3: How Do You Communicate with Clients? What is Your Response Time?

Why this matters: You're managing this transaction from 6,000 miles away, possibly across a significant time zone difference. Clear, prompt communication is essential. A lawyer who takes days to respond to emails or doesn't use video calls will make this process far more stressful than it needs to be.
What you want to hear: "I respond to client emails within 24 hours during business days, often sooner for urgent matters. I'm available for scheduled video calls and can accommodate US time zones when needed. I also provide written summaries of all important developments, so you always know exactly where your transaction stands."

Question 4: What is Your Fee Structure?

Why this matters: Understanding exactly what you'll pay and what's included prevents unpleasant surprises. Israeli lawyer fees typically range from 1% to 2% of the purchase price, but fee structures can vary significantly.
What you want to hear: "My fee is [X%] of the purchase price, which includes all standard legal services: contract review and drafting, Tabu search, due diligence, negotiation, coordination of escrow, and representing you at closing. Additional services like handling complex title issues or representing you in disputes would be billed separately at an hourly rate, but I would discuss this with you before incurring any extra charges." This gives you clarity and prevents scope creep.

Question 5: What Does Your Due Diligence Process Include?

Why this matters: The thoroughness of the lawyer's due diligence determines what problems get caught early versus what blindsides you later. You need to know exactly what checks they perform as standard practice.
What you want to hear: "My due diligence includes a comprehensive Tabu search to verify ownership and check for liens, obtaining building permit verification from the municipality, checking for any outstanding property taxes or building fees, reviewing the building's management documents and financial health, verifying zoning compliance, and obtaining tax clearance certificates. I provide you with a written due diligence report explaining my findings in plain English."

Question 6: Have You Dealt with [Specific Issue Relevant to Your Situation]?

This question should be tailored to your specific circumstances. For example:

If you're buying an older property: "Have you handled transactions involving properties with unpermitted renovations? How do you resolve these issues?"
If you need Power of Attorney: "How many clients have you represented using a US-executed Power of Attorney? What's your process for ensuring it's valid and properly apostilled?"
If the property is in a complex inheritance situation: "Have you resolved title issues involving multiple heirs?"
Why this matters: Specific, relevant experience means the lawyer won't be learning on your dime. They'll know exactly how to handle your situation because they've successfully navigated it before.

Question 7: How Do You Handle Disagreements with the Seller's Lawyer?

Why this matters: Real estate negotiations can become contentious. You want a lawyer who is a strong advocate for your interests but also knows when to push and when to compromise. A lawyer who is too aggressive might blow up a good deal; one who is too passive might let you get taken advantage of.
What you want to hear: "My approach is to be firm on issues that materially affect my client's rights and financial interests, but reasonable on issues that don't. I'm not afraid to push back when the other side is being unreasonable, but I also keep the end goal in mind—getting you the property on fair terms, not winning every argument. Before taking any aggressive stance, I always consult with my client to ensure we're aligned on strategy."

Question 8: Can You Provide References from Recent American Clients?

Why this matters: There's no better indicator of how a lawyer will work with you than hearing directly from clients who were in your position. A lawyer who is confident in their service should be willing and able to provide references.
What you want to hear: "Absolutely. I can connect you with two or three recent American clients who would be happy to share their experience. I'll provide their contact information with their permission, and you can ask them anything you'd like about my communication, expertise, and how the transaction went."

Question 9: What Happens if a Major Problem is Discovered Late in the Process?

Why this matters: Problems can and do arise even in well-managed transactions. You want a lawyer who has a clear process for handling crises and who will protect your interests even when it's inconvenient or difficult.
What you want to hear: "If a significant issue is discovered—say, an unexpected title problem or a serious defect found during inspection—I immediately notify you with a clear explanation of the problem, the legal implications, and your options. We then formulate a strategy together. My job is to give you the information and legal analysis you need to make an informed decision, and then to execute whatever course of action you choose—whether that's negotiating a solution, adjusting the price, or walking away from the deal."

Question 10: How Do You Work with the Client's Project Manager or Other Professionals?

Why this matters: If you're working with a project management company (like Coming Home), your lawyer needs to be collaborative and communicative with the whole team. A lawyer who views themselves as working in isolation will create coordination problems.
What you want to hear: "I work collaboratively with the client's project manager, architect, tax advisor, or any other professionals involved. I understand that we're all on the same team working toward the client's success. I provide legal updates and documents to the project manager as needed, participate in coordination calls, and ensure everyone has the information they need to do their job effectively. That said, I always maintain attorney-client privilege and won't share confidential legal strategy without your explicit approval."

Red Flags to Watch For

As you ask these questions, be alert for warning signs:

Vague or Evasive Answers: If a lawyer can't give you clear, specific answers to these questions, that's concerning.
Dismissiveness: If they act like your questions are unnecessary or seem annoyed by your need for clarity, imagine how they'll treat you during the stressful parts of the transaction.
Overconfidence: A lawyer who guarantees everything will go smoothly or who minimizes risks is not being honest with you. Real estate transactions involve risk, and a good lawyer acknowledges this while explaining how they mitigate it.
Poor English Communication: If you're struggling to understand them during the initial consultation, it won't get better during the transaction.

The Coming Home Difference: Pre-Vetted Expertise

One of the most valuable aspects of working with Coming Home is that we've already done this vetting work for you. Our network of lawyers has been carefully selected based on their expertise with American clients, their communication skills, and their proven track record of successful transactions.

We don't just hand you a list of names; we match you with the specific lawyer whose expertise aligns with your particular situation. And throughout the process, we coordinate between you, your lawyer, and all other professionals, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.

Choosing the right lawyer shouldn't be a shot in the dark. With the right questions and the right guidance, it becomes a clear, informed decision.

The right lawyer for you must be both legally excellent and culturally bilingual—fluent not just in Hebrew and English, but in American expectations and Israeli realities.

Here are the ten essential questions you should ask any lawyer you're considering, and what their answers should tell you.

Question 1: How Many American or Foreign Clients Do You Represent Each Year?

Why this matters: Experience with international clients means the lawyer understands the unique challenges you face—language barriers, distance, unfamiliarity with Israeli systems, and the need for extra clarity in communication. A lawyer who primarily works with Israeli clients may not be equipped to provide the level of explanation and support you need.
What you want to hear: "A significant portion of my practice focuses on representing American and other English-speaking buyers. I typically handle 20-30 international transactions per year." This shows they have a proven track record and systems in place for serving clients like you.

Question 2: Will You Handle My Transaction Personally, or Will It Be Delegated?

Why this matters: In larger law firms, junior associates or paralegals often handle the routine parts of transactions, with the senior lawyer only stepping in for critical moments. This isn't necessarily bad, but you should know upfront who will be doing the actual work.
What you want to hear: "I will personally handle all critical aspects of your transaction—contract review, negotiations, and communication with opposing counsel. My team may assist with administrative tasks like document preparation and filing, but I oversee everything and am your primary contact." This gives you the benefit of both senior expertise and efficient execution.

Question 3: How Do You Communicate with Clients? What is Your Response Time?

Why this matters: You're managing this transaction from 6,000 miles away, possibly across a significant time zone difference. Clear, prompt communication is essential. A lawyer who takes days to respond to emails or doesn't use video calls will make this process far more stressful than it needs to be.
What you want to hear: "I respond to client emails within 24 hours during business days, often sooner for urgent matters. I'm available for scheduled video calls and can accommodate US time zones when needed. I also provide written summaries of all important developments, so you always know exactly where your transaction stands."

Question 4: What is Your Fee Structure?

Why this matters: Understanding exactly what you'll pay and what's included prevents unpleasant surprises. Israeli lawyer fees typically range from 1% to 2% of the purchase price, but fee structures can vary significantly.
What you want to hear: "My fee is [X%] of the purchase price, which includes all standard legal services: contract review and drafting, Tabu search, due diligence, negotiation, coordination of escrow, and representing you at closing. Additional services like handling complex title issues or representing you in disputes would be billed separately at an hourly rate, but I would discuss this with you before incurring any extra charges." This gives you clarity and prevents scope creep.

Question 5: What Does Your Due Diligence Process Include?

Why this matters: The thoroughness of the lawyer's due diligence determines what problems get caught early versus what blindsides you later. You need to know exactly what checks they perform as standard practice.
What you want to hear: "My due diligence includes a comprehensive Tabu search to verify ownership and check for liens, obtaining building permit verification from the municipality, checking for any outstanding property taxes or building fees, reviewing the building's management documents and financial health, verifying zoning compliance, and obtaining tax clearance certificates. I provide you with a written due diligence report explaining my findings in plain English."

Question 6: Have You Dealt with [Specific Issue Relevant to Your Situation]?

This question should be tailored to your specific circumstances. For example:

If you're buying an older property: "Have you handled transactions involving properties with unpermitted renovations? How do you resolve these issues?"
If you need Power of Attorney: "How many clients have you represented using a US-executed Power of Attorney? What's your process for ensuring it's valid and properly apostilled?"
If the property is in a complex inheritance situation: "Have you resolved title issues involving multiple heirs?"
Why this matters: Specific, relevant experience means the lawyer won't be learning on your dime. They'll know exactly how to handle your situation because they've successfully navigated it before.

Question 7: How Do You Handle Disagreements with the Seller's Lawyer?

Why this matters: Real estate negotiations can become contentious. You want a lawyer who is a strong advocate for your interests but also knows when to push and when to compromise. A lawyer who is too aggressive might blow up a good deal; one who is too passive might let you get taken advantage of.
What you want to hear: "My approach is to be firm on issues that materially affect my client's rights and financial interests, but reasonable on issues that don't. I'm not afraid to push back when the other side is being unreasonable, but I also keep the end goal in mind—getting you the property on fair terms, not winning every argument. Before taking any aggressive stance, I always consult with my client to ensure we're aligned on strategy."

Question 8: Can You Provide References from Recent American Clients?

Why this matters: There's no better indicator of how a lawyer will work with you than hearing directly from clients who were in your position. A lawyer who is confident in their service should be willing and able to provide references.
What you want to hear: "Absolutely. I can connect you with two or three recent American clients who would be happy to share their experience. I'll provide their contact information with their permission, and you can ask them anything you'd like about my communication, expertise, and how the transaction went."

Question 9: What Happens if a Major Problem is Discovered Late in the Process?

Why this matters: Problems can and do arise even in well-managed transactions. You want a lawyer who has a clear process for handling crises and who will protect your interests even when it's inconvenient or difficult.
What you want to hear: "If a significant issue is discovered—say, an unexpected title problem or a serious defect found during inspection—I immediately notify you with a clear explanation of the problem, the legal implications, and your options. We then formulate a strategy together. My job is to give you the information and legal analysis you need to make an informed decision, and then to execute whatever course of action you choose—whether that's negotiating a solution, adjusting the price, or walking away from the deal."

Question 10: How Do You Work with the Client's Project Manager or Other Professionals?

Why this matters: If you're working with a project management company (like Coming Home), your lawyer needs to be collaborative and communicative with the whole team. A lawyer who views themselves as working in isolation will create coordination problems.
What you want to hear: "I work collaboratively with the client's project manager, architect, tax advisor, or any other professionals involved. I understand that we're all on the same team working toward the client's success. I provide legal updates and documents to the project manager as needed, participate in coordination calls, and ensure everyone has the information they need to do their job effectively. That said, I always maintain attorney-client privilege and won't share confidential legal strategy without your explicit approval."

Red Flags to Watch For

As you ask these questions, be alert for warning signs:

Vague or Evasive Answers: If a lawyer can't give you clear, specific answers to these questions, that's concerning.
Dismissiveness: If they act like your questions are unnecessary or seem annoyed by your need for clarity, imagine how they'll treat you during the stressful parts of the transaction.
Overconfidence: A lawyer who guarantees everything will go smoothly or who minimizes risks is not being honest with you. Real estate transactions involve risk, and a good lawyer acknowledges this while explaining how they mitigate it.
Poor English Communication: If you're struggling to understand them during the initial consultation, it won't get better during the transaction.

The Coming Home Difference: Pre-Vetted Expertise

Choosing the right lawyer shouldn't be a shot in the dark. With the right questions and the right guidance, it becomes a clear, informed decision.

10 Essential Questions to Ask When Hiring an Israeli Real Estate Lawyer

Question 1: How Many American or Foreign Clients Do You Represent Each Year?

Question 2: Will You Handle My Transaction Personally, or Will It Be Delegated?

Question 3: How Do You Communicate with Clients? What is Your Response Time?

Question 4: What is Your Fee Structure?

Question 5: What Does Your Due Diligence Process Include?

Question 6: Have You Dealt with [Specific Issue Relevant to Your Situation]?

Question 7: How Do You Handle Disagreements with the Seller's Lawyer?

Question 8: Can You Provide References from Recent American Clients?

Question 9: What Happens if a Major Problem is Discovered Late in the Process?

Question 10: How Do You Work with the Client's Project Manager or Other Professionals?

Red Flags to Watch For

The Coming Home Difference: Pre-Vetted Expertise

10 Essential Questions to Ask When Hiring an Israeli Real Estate Lawyer

Question 1: How Many American or Foreign Clients Do You Represent Each Year?

Question 2: Will You Handle My Transaction Personally, or Will It Be Delegated?

Question 3: How Do You Communicate with Clients? What is Your Response Time?

Question 4: What is Your Fee Structure?

Question 5: What Does Your Due Diligence Process Include?

Question 6: Have You Dealt with [Specific Issue Relevant to Your Situation]?

Question 7: How Do You Handle Disagreements with the Seller's Lawyer?

Question 8: Can You Provide References from Recent American Clients?

Question 9: What Happens if a Major Problem is Discovered Late in the Process?

Question 10: How Do You Work with the Client's Project Manager or Other Professionals?

Red Flags to Watch For

The Coming Home Difference: Pre-Vetted Expertise