The Value of a Machsan (Storage Room) in Israeli Real Estate
A “machsan” (מחסן) is a private storage unit associated with an apartment, and it is a key feature that adds significant value and appeal to a property.
Types of Machsanim:
-
Attached to the Property Deed (רשום בטאבו): This is the most valuable type. The machsan is legally part of the property you are buying, with its own defined space in the land registry.
-
Attached to the Apartment (צמוד לדירה): The machsan is for the exclusive use of the apartment according to the building’s regulations, but it might not be a separate registered unit. Still very desirable.
-
Common Storage (מחסן משותף): Some older buildings have a shared storage area for all residents. This is much less convenient and adds minimal value.
Location Matters:
-
Floor-Level Machsan (מחסן קומתי): A storage room located on the same floor as the apartment is the most convenient and sought-after.
-
Ground Floor/Basement Machsan: The most common type, located in the building’s parking garage or basement.
-
Storage within the Apartment: Some apartments have a small, internal utility or storage room.
Why is a Machsan so Important?
-
Adds Value: An apartment with a private, registered machsan can be worth 5-10% more than an identical apartment without one. The added value can be tens or even hundreds of thousands of shekels in expensive areas.
-
Practicality: Israeli apartments are often not large, and a machsan provides essential space for storing items not used daily, such as suitcases, bikes, baby equipment, and Passover dishes.
-
A Key Feature in New Construction: Almost all new apartments sold today come with an associated machsan and parking space as a package.
-
Rental Appeal: An apartment with a machsan is more attractive to potential tenants, especially families, and can command a higher rent.
When searching for a property, specifying “apartment with a private machsan” is a smart move. It’s an investment in a more organized lifestyle and a more valuable asset. Always verify the legal status of the machsan with your lawyer to ensure it is for your exclusive, private use.
