Dreaming of owning your first home in Israel but worried that prices are just too steep? Good news! Israel’s famous “Dira BeHanacha” housing lottery—also known as the “Apartment at a Discount” program—is continuing into 2025. Here’s the scoop on exactly when the next drawing will take place, what you need to do to prepare, and how you can participate.
So, When is the Next Lottery Happening?
Mark your calendars: the next lottery round for the “Dira BeHanacha” discounted housing program is happening shortly after Passover. In 2025, Passover ends around mid-April, so you can expect the lottery to take place near the end of April.
This lottery kicks off the first of two planned rounds this year, giving thousands of hopeful homebuyers another shot at affordable apartments.
How Many Lottery Rounds Will There Be in 2025?
In total, the government is planning two major lottery rounds this year:
- First round: End of April (immediately following Passover)
- Second round: Scheduled for later in the year, most likely in autumn.
Splitting the lotteries into two separate events makes sure there’s a steady supply of discounted homes available throughout the year, giving you multiple chances to participate if you miss out the first time.
Which Cities Will Offer Apartments in the Next Lottery?
This upcoming round is focusing especially on towns located away from the busy center of Israel. The government wants to encourage more people to settle in the northern and southern regions of Israel, helping these communities grow and giving young families affordable choices outside major cities.
Cities that might be included this year include:
- Ofakim (Southern Israel)
- Shlomi (Northern Israel)
- Nahariya (Northern Israel)
- Tiberias (Northern Israel)
However, a limited number of discounted apartments might also still be available in more central locations, providing a bit of variety for applicants.
Special Priority for IDF Reservists
An important note: just like previous lottery rounds, about one-fifth of these discounted apartments will be reserved specifically for people currently serving in Israel’s army reserves. This special benefit makes it slightly easier for reserve soldiers to get a chance at affordable home ownership, continuing a popular policy from previous years.
What Do You Need to Do Before the Lottery?
If you’re thinking of joining this lottery, there’s one crucial step you must complete first—getting your eligibility certificate (called “Te’udat Zakaut”). This certificate proves you qualify for the program, mainly by showing that you’re a first-time homebuyer and don’t already own a residential property.
Here’s how to get it done:
- Visit the official government housing lottery website.
- Apply online and fill out the required details.
- Receive your certificate online, which usually remains valid for around one year.
- Pay a small fee (typically around 200 shekels).
Make sure you do this step before the lottery opens for registrations, since you can’t participate without it. Don’t wait until the last minute!
Too Long; Didn’t Read (TL;DR)
- Next “Dira BeHanacha” lottery is set for late April 2025, just after Passover.
- A second lottery round is planned for autumn 2025.
- Cities include Shlomi, Nahariya, Tiberias (north), and Ofakim (south), with limited central locations.
- Obtain your eligibility certificate early—it’s mandatory for lottery registration.
- IDF reservists continue to receive special priority in the lottery.
Stay informed, get your paperwork ready, and good luck on your journey to affordable homeownership in Israel!
