Because of these super inflated housing prices people cannot afford to buy in Israel, and I'm sure as a result many thousands are then forced to lease apartments or condominiums and are paying extremely high rents (if they can afford to rent) - due to this lack of housing. It's a terrible situation for most people. The only people benefiting are the people who have already paid off their homes. The artificial housing shortage ensures their property always retains a super inflated value.