FAQ
Clients Ask – Robinson Answers
FAQ
General
Before purchasing the property, you can order a professional inspection by an external company that provides a detailed report on the property’s condition. Based on the results, it is possible to cancel the purchase agreement. In addition, extensive information about the property and its surroundings is available on various online platforms such as Zillow or Trulia.
Migration and demographic data can be found online. Once a property is selected, Robinson provides detailed reports from various websites with all the relevant information. Additionally, to minimize the risk of rent collection issues, the property management company runs a credit check on prospective tenants before signing a lease agreement.
Some companies embed the “guaranteed return” into the property price, which means the buyer essentially funds their own return. A high return is typically achieved by purchasing at a low price and consistently collecting rent. Rental market information is publicly available and can be used to estimate expected returns based on property size and location.
The property management company is responsible for providing peace of mind by managing the property on your behalf: overseeing tenants, updating city records for utility billing, handling tenant placement and removal, advertising rentals, signing lease agreements, collecting security deposits and rent, coordinating maintenance and repairs, paying taxes and bills, offering 24/7 support to tenants, and sending detailed monthly and annual financial reports to property owners.
Robinson provides full support during the first year of ownership, facilitating communication between you and the property management company. Our dedicated support department assists with translation, correspondence, and coordination. Continued support beyond the first year is also available upon request.
Understanding market trends requires research. Niagara Falls, for example, has unique characteristics: 15 million tourists visit annually, and the local government invests heavily in development. Based on our experience, rental demand in the area is strong. If market conditions change, you can always choose to sell and reinvest elsewhere.
No need to travel. All standard documents can be signed digitally, and sales are handled legally through licensed real estate agents. While Robinson can assist, any local brokerage can handle the sale. In the U.S., the standard commission for selling a property is 5%.
USA
In the U.S., fines and liens are attached to the property itself, not to the previous owner. That’s why every property purchase is insured by a Title Company, which checks the property’s financial history and confirms there are no debts. If any issues arise later, the buyer and the property are fully insured, and no claims can be made against the new owner. As part of the closing process, documents issued by the Title Company will officially register you as the new legal owner.
The property is covered by a building and liability insurance policy that includes coverage for major damages. However, it’s important to account for occasional maintenance or repair costs that may not justify making an insurance claim. The management company handles all such issues.
Major damages are insured, but it’s unrealistic to expect zero repairs. Minor issues are part of owning property, and in exceptional cases, they may slightly reduce the annual return.
In the U.S., typical construction involves a combination of wood and drywall with exterior siding. These homes are energy-efficient—easy to heat in the winter and stay cool in the summer. They’re also much more affordable and easier to repair or renovate than stone or concrete structures.
Beyond routine maintenance, a general refresh is recommended every three years. Many owners take the opportunity to paint and renovate when tenants move out. The average cost for interior painting and basic renovations is around $600.
If rent is not paid, the management company issues a formal 3-day notice to pay. If the tenant still doesn’t comply, and with the owner’s approval, they initiate a legal eviction process. The average cost for legal eviction is about $500. We strongly recommend a credit check for all tenants to reduce the likelihood of such cases.
Online estimations are often inaccurate. These websites use automated calculations based on all homes within a certain radius, including very different properties (older/newer, larger/smaller, or distressed sales like short sales), which distort the average. They also don’t take renovations into account. Robinson subscribes to professional real estate databases used by licensed agents, where home values are calculated using accurate and relevant metrics. For a precise valuation, ask Robinson for a full property analysis.
Israeli investors in U.S. real estate are first and foremost taxed in the U.S.—both federal and state taxes. Due to a tax treaty between Israel and the U.S., double taxation is avoided. If your Israeli tax rate is higher than the U.S. rate, you only pay the difference in Israel. Federal tax rates range from 10% to 39% (for income over $400,000), and state tax rates range from 0% to 8%.
Cyprus
Before purchasing, you can hire an independent inspection company to provide a detailed report on the property’s condition. One of the major advantages of investing in Cyprus is its geographic proximity to Israel—making it highly recommended to plan an investment tour with Robinson and personally visit potential properties.
Paphos is a well-established market with steady and growing demand, driven by strong tourism, government investment, a growing international community, and attractive tax benefits. We invest only in areas with proven demand and strong growth forecasts, backed by up-to-date market analysis and years of experience. When approached correctly, Cyprus offers a safe and highly attractive investment environment.
Greece
The property management company is responsible for marketing the property, showing the apartment, finding tenants, and coordinating lease agreements. If the property remains vacant for an extended period, alternative options are considered—such as short-term rentals or minor renovations to improve attractiveness.
There is no limit to the number of properties. You may also purchase multiple properties under a company name (local or foreign), depending on your investment strategy and tax considerations. We can assist with setting up a Greek company if needed.
You can order a professional home inspection conducted by local experts, which will provide a clear and objective assessment of the property’s condition. Additionally, the geographical proximity to Greece makes it easy to plan a short and effective property tour with Robinson to explore the opportunities firsthand.
Not necessarily. The entire purchase process can be completed remotely with a power of attorney granted to a local lawyer who will represent you. We’ll guide you and connect you with the relevant professionals—lawyers, notaries, real estate agents, and banks.
In most cases, bank financing in Greece is available only to local citizens. Foreign investors are typically required to bring full equity. However, there are alternative non-bank financing options, and we can explore the best fit for your situation.
Portugal
Before you make a decision, we recommend arranging a property inspection by a certified local company, which provides a detailed report on the condition of the asset. Portugal is a short flight away, so we strongly encourage you to schedule an investment tour with the Robinson team to explore properties on-site and get familiar with the city and its surroundings.
Porto is one of the fastest-growing cities in Portugal, driven by tourism, international relocation, and consistent urban development. Government incentives, tax benefits, and demand for rental housing support continued growth. We focus exclusively on prime locations with proven rental demand and appreciation potential, based on data-driven market analysis and our on-the-ground experience.
No. The entire purchase process can be handled remotely, including legal procedures, banking, and document signing. Our team coordinates with local professionals—lawyers, notaries, and real estate agents—to ensure a secure and efficient transaction on your behalf.
We connect you with a reliable local property management company that handles everything from tenant screening, rent collection, maintenance, and repairs, to regular reporting. We also oversee the management process and remain your point of contact for any issues that may arise.
Yes. Most investors can obtain up to 75% mortgage financing for up to 30 years, with competitive rates (typically Prime + 1%–1.5%). We assist in opening a local bank account and connect you with mortgage advisors who specialize in financing for international clients.
Our team provides continuous support, regular updates, and clear communication in your native language. From the initial purchase through ongoing management, we remain available to guide you and act on your behalf whenever needed.