(Courtesy of Sand Real Estate) You wouldn’t expect the story of Chanan Sand breaking his brother Meir’s nose to be one they look back on fondly, but it is. What started as a heated basketball game and ended in a shared trip to the doctor became just another chapter in a lifelong dynamic defined by competition, trust and brotherhood. Even then, with Chanan urging “you go first” before the painful bandages came out, their bond was unmistakable.
That same foundation—built on years of pushing each other and navigating challenges side by side—now drives their work at Sand Real Estate.
With more than 15 years of experience in Israeli business and real estate, Meir and Chanan Sand are expanding to the U.S., opening a new office in Teaneck’s West Englewood business district on Palisade Avenue (next to V&N Realty). The location marks one of the first Israeli real estate companies to establish a brick-and-mortar presence in the U.S.
Bin Weil, Sand’s U.S. representative, leads the local office and works directly with prospective buyers. He has known the Sand brothers since their school days, when they traveled together from Ramot and Har-Nof through Katamonim to Efrat. Today, that same region—southwest of Katamon and the Old City—is home to one of Sand’s most ambitious projects: a new community under the Kol Dodi brand.
Kol Dodi was conceived during the shloshim of the brothers’ uncle, beloved Israeli singer Dedi Graucher. Inspired by his legacy, the Sands envisioned a community rooted in chesed, Torah and unity.
“Our uncle was a man of incredible chesed,” said Chanan. “We didn’t fully understand the impact he had until after he passed, when people shared their stories. We want Kol Dodi to carry that same spirit.”
The first Kol Dodi development, Berger Towers, is an approximately 400-unit residential complex designed as a full-service community. Plans include a school, makolet, gym and dedicated business and community spaces—all built around a strong sense of kehilla.
Rabbi Shmuel Silber, spiritual leader of the Suburban Orthodox Congregation in Baltimore, is guiding the vision of the community. He describes it as more than just a development.
“We are creating something truly unique,” he said. “A kehilla with inspired davening, shiurim, programming for all ages, and a real sense of unity. Whether someone is making aliyah or purchasing a second home, Kol Dodi will provide a framework for both spiritual and material success.”
A key focus of the project is supporting olim, with plans for an educational infrastructure that is sensitive to the needs of olim and at the same time helps them transition to contributing members of Israeli society.
Rabbi Silber also emphasized the role of the Sand team. “They are consummate professionals, holding clients’ hands from the first meeting until putting the mezuzah on the door,” he said. “I feel privileged to work with them.”
Berger Towers is strategically located near the junction of Jerusalem’s suburbs, offering proximity to the Kotel and Old City while avoiding the congestion of tourist-heavy areas. It sits adjacent to major landmarks such as Malcha Mall, Jerusalem Arena, Teddy Stadium and Emek Hatzeva’im, with easy access to Highway 16, Begin Street, and the expanding Jerusalem Light Rail system.
When asked what sets Kol Dodi apart, Bin points immediately to Rabbi Silber. “The more I speak with him, the more I’m struck by how genuine and relatable he is,” he said. “He brings a level of care and leadership that goes far beyond his role.”
Rabbi Silber, who also serves as dean of the Institute for Jewish Continuity and Yeshivas Mekor Chaim in Baltimore, plans to split his time between Maryland and the new community, where he will act as the spiritual leader of the on-site shul.
Interest in Berger Towers has already been strong, with approximately 140 units purchased by families across North America. Excavation has been completed, and construction is set to begin following Pesach.
Kol Dodi is also preparing to launch its next project, Embassy Court. Located near First Station off Caspi Street, the development will cater to a 60-plus community and feature amenities rarely seen in Israel, including a doorman, pool, spa, gym, event space, concierge with medical services and a Gymboree. About 40 units have already been reserved ahead of its official launch.
“We’re here to help families navigate what can be a confusing process,” said Meir. “Buying property in Israel isn’t always straightforward. Having someone local, whom you can meet with and rely on from purchase through move-in, makes a real difference.”
That local presence is central to Sand’s U.S. strategy. With an office in Teaneck, the team aims to provide accessibility and hands-on support for American buyers.
“We want people to know we’re here, in their time zone, and available,” said Bin.
For Bin, the role is also personal. Though he spent much of his childhood in Israel, he was born in the U.S. and lived in Teaneck during his early years, when his father, Aryeh Weil, served as rabbi of Bnai Yeshurun. His familiarity with both communities gives him a unique ability to guide buyers through the process.
Sand Real Estate itself remains deeply rooted in family. In addition to Meir and Chanan, their brother Zevulun is also involved in the business. The family’s commitment to community extends beyond real estate—they also run Project Shelanu, a tzedaka initiative that delivers food packages to 250 families in need ahead of the chagim.
To mark the opening of their Teaneck office, Sand is launching a New Neighbor Contest, offering gift certificates to local eateries over the coming months. Community members can enter by following their Instagram pages @sand.realestate and @koldodiisrael.
“We’re excited to meet more people in New Jersey and the broader tri-state area,” said Meir. “Teaneck is a strong, Zionistic community, close to New York and connected to so many others. We’re looking forward to being part of it.”
Sand Real Estate is located at 1401 Palisade Avenue in Teaneck and can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and www.sandgrp.com.