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Hazard Maps and Property Risks in Japan | What Buyers Need to Know Hazard Maps and Property Risks in Japan: What Buyers Need to Know Japan’s natural environment includes earthquakes, seasonal typhoons, and the potential for localized flooding or landslides. But these risks don’t mean you should avoid buying property altogether—they mean you should buy with knowledge and balance. What...
Why History Matters in Japan’s Real Estate To understand Japan’s land prices and general property market today, you need more than just a snapshot of current listings—you need context. Unlike many Western countries where real estate has climbed steadily for decades, Japan’s path has been anything but smooth: a dramatic bubble, a long stagnation, and now a market divided between...
Property Registration, Company Setup, Visa Support – and Can You DIY? Buying property in Japan involves more than signing a contract and paying the seller. Ownership only becomes official when it is registered with the Legal Affairs Bureau (法務局 / hōmu-kyoku). This is where judicial scriveners (司法書士 / shihō shoshi) play an essential role. What Does a Judicial Scrivener Do? A...
Selling Your Property in Japan: Costs, Agent Fees, and the Best Way to List Selling real estate in Japan can feel overwhelming—not only because of the paperwork but also because of the costs involved. Understanding the main expenses and knowing how to work with an agent can help you avoid surprises and sell with confidence. Main Costs of Selling a Property 1. Real Estate Agent Commission...
What are the Costs of Buying Real Estate in Japan Buying a home in Japan is exciting, but it also comes with a fair share of expenses. One of the biggest questions buyers ask is: how much are the agent’s fees, and what do I actually get for them? Real Estate Agent Fees (仲介手数料 / Chūkai Tesūryō) The standard commission for agents in Japan is: 3% of the property price + 60,000 yen +...
Do I Need a Real Estate Agent or Can I Just Buy the Property I Want on My Own? When people in Japan come across a house they like, many wonder: Do I really need a real estate agent, or can I just buy it directly from the owner? On the surface, skipping an agent might look like a way to save money. But the reality can be much more complicated. More Than Just a...
Can I Build on This Land? A Checklist for Buyers in Japan Picture this: your wife’s family’s friend has a vacant lot they’re looking to sell. It sounds like a great opportunity — maybe the land is cheap, maybe it’s in a location you’ve always wanted. You start imagining the possibilities: a house, a small café, or even a minpaku (short-term rental). But here’s the catch: in Japan, not...
Where Are Minpaku (Airbnb) Allowed in Japan? Minpaku (Airbnb-style rentals) have become a popular option for visitors to Japan. However, the rules are not the same everywhere. In fact, each city and prefecture sets its own guidelines. Therefore, before you buy or rent out a property, you need to understand exactly where minpaku are allowed. National Framework Japan introduced a nationwide minpaku law...
Property Types in Japan: A Complete Guide for Buyers & Investors Property Types in Japan Before buying property in Japan, it’s important to know the main property types in Japan. Options range from compact city manshon (マンション / condominiums) to rural akiya (空き家 / vacant houses), as well as tochi (土地 / land-only plots) and income-generating buildings. Each type has its own...
Before comparing listings or scheduling viewings, the most important step is to clarify why you’re buying. Japan offers opportunities for home ownership, stable rental income, and even hospitality ventures like minpaku and ryokan, but each path comes with its own rules and risks. Defining your goals now will shape your entire buying journey. Why Are You Buying Property in Japan? Japan’s property...