The Buying Journey

Explore thousands of translated listings on our interactive map. Filter by price, type, location, and size.

Use filters and saved searches to build a shortlist. Compare prices, layouts, and neighborhoods side by side.

Check nearby convenience stores, transit access, hazard zones, and neighborhood vibe. Google Street View is your friend.

Bookmark properties you like. When you're ready, send us an inquiry about the ones you're serious about.

Tell us which property you're interested in. We'll confirm availability and gather details from the licensed brokerage (宅建業者).

Visit in person or request a video walkthrough. We coordinate with the local agent to schedule a viewing at your convenience.

Confirm the property registry (ownership, mortgages, easements), zoning and rebuilding rules, road access, and whether the building has unregistered additions. Check flood/earthquake risk and building condition. You can commission an independent inspection (ホームインスペクション) and use findings to inform your offer — frame it respectfully through your agent.

Why is the owner selling? What's the neighborhood like? Any planned construction nearby? Any issues with the building? Now is the time to ask everything.

Submit a purchase application (買付証明書). This signals serious intent but is typically not the final binding contract. In some cases an application deposit may be requested — terms vary. Negotiation is normal.

As a foreign buyer, you'll need your passport, proof of address (can be overseas), and a signature certificate or notarized documents depending on the scrivener's requirements. Name format consistency (romanization) matters across all paperwork.

A licensed Real Estate Transaction Specialist (宅地建物取引士) explains the Important Matters Document (重要事項説明書). This covers zoning, rights, restrictions, road access, building status, and anything that could affect your purchase. This is a legally required step.

Sign the sale agreement (売買契約書) and pay earnest money (手付金) — usually 5–10% of the purchase price. From this point, cancellation follows the contract's terms: buyers can forfeit the deposit, and sellers may need to return double (手付解除).

If using a mortgage, finalize your loan. If paying cash, prepare the funds for transfer. International wire transfers to Japan take 2–5 business days.

Transfer the remaining balance to the seller, usually at the bank with all parties present (or via power of attorney if remote). All fees are settled: broker fees, scrivener fees, taxes, insurance, and prorated property taxes.

The judicial scrivener (司法書士) verifies identities and documents, then files the ownership transfer at the Legal Affairs Bureau. Your name goes on the property registry.

Once documents are verified and the registration application is submitted, keys are handed over. The property is officially yours. Congratulations — you own a home in Japan.

Contact the regional power company (TEPCO, Kyushu Electric, etc.) to start service. Can often be done online or by phone. Usually activated same day.

Call your local city/ward office to start water service. They'll send someone to turn it on, usually within a few days. Bring your property documents.

Contact the local gas provider. An inspector will come to your property to open the valve and check for leaks. You need to be home for this — takes about 30 minutes.

Apply for fiber optic (hikari) through NTT, au, or SoftBank. Installation can take 2–8+ weeks depending on provider. Pocket WiFi or mobile data works well as a bridge in the meantime.

Schedule any repairs or renovations. Key drivers include seismic upgrades, roof condition, termite/moisture remediation, plumbing, electrical, and insulation. Get multiple quotes — permits and structural rules vary by municipality.

Paid annually: fixed asset tax (1.4% of assessed value) plus city planning tax (up to 0.3%) where applicable. Bill timing varies by municipality. Non-resident owners often appoint a tax agent (納税管理人) so bills are handled reliably.

Japanese homes need regular upkeep — especially wooden houses. Budget for roof inspections, exterior painting (every 10–15 years), and seasonal checks for moisture and pests.

Many neighborhoods have a residents' association (町内会). Participation is optional but appreciated — it handles garbage schedules, local festivals, and neighborhood communication.

If your property has a yard, regular maintenance is expected. Overgrown properties can draw complaints. Some owners hire a local gardener for seasonal trimming.

Fire insurance (火災保険) is strongly recommended. Earthquake insurance (地震保険) is a separate add-on. Costs vary by property size and construction type — typically ¥20,000–50,000/year.

Farmland purchases require special permissions. Low-priced vacant homes may have different broker fee rules. Foreign buyer reporting requirements may change over time. We’ll keep you informed of anything that affects your ownership.