How can I get and understand Israeli apartment floor plans in English?

For English speakers navigating the Israeli real estate market, floor plans (tashrit) can be a significant hurdle as they are almost always written in Hebrew. Understanding the layout is crucial, so overcoming this language barrier is essential.

Here are the best ways to get and understand Israeli apartment floor plans in English.

Step 1: Requesting the Plan

First, you need to obtain the floor plan.

• From the Real Estate Agent: The listing agent or developer’s sales office is the first place to ask. Simply request the tashrit for the apartment you are interested in. They will typically send it as a PDF file.
• It Will Be in Hebrew: Do not expect them to have an English version. The official plans submitted to the municipality are in Hebrew, and these are the ones used for marketing.

Step 2: Translating the Key Terms

The good news is that floor plans use a limited and repetitive vocabulary. By learning a few key terms, you can understand the vast majority of any layout.

Here is a glossary of the most common terms you will find on an Israeli floor plan:

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Step 3: Using Tools and People to Help

• Google Translate App: The camera function on the Google Translate app is incredibly useful. You can simply point your phone’s camera at the floor plan on your computer screen or a printout, and the app will provide an instant, augmented-reality translation of the Hebrew words.
• Ask Your Agent: Your real estate agent’s job is to help you. Send them the plan and ask them to walk you through it over the phone or to label the key rooms for you in English. Any good agent who works with international clients will be happy to do this.
• Consult with an Architect or Designer: If you are in the final stages of purchasing a property, especially an off-plan apartment where you can make changes, it is wise to consult with an architect or interior designer. They can not only translate the plan but also provide crucial insights into the layout’s functionality and potential.

By learning a few key terms and using the simple tools available, you can easily demystify any Hebrew floor plan and gain a clear understanding of your potential new home.