How to Buy Property in Japan: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Buy Property in Japan: A Step-by-Step Guide

Buying property in Japan can be exciting, but if you've never done it before, you might be wondering how the process actually works.

Where do you start? What happens after you find a property you like? And how do you get from searching online to actually receiving the keys?

The basic buying process is easier to follow once you understand the main steps.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the typical process of buying property in Japan, from searching for a property to receiving the keys.

Every property and transaction is different, so the exact process may vary depending on the property, seller and situation.

Step 1 — Find a Property

The first step is, of course, finding a property you like.

You might be looking for a home to live in, an investment property, a holiday home, or an akiya to renovate.

There are properties available all across Japan, and prices and property types can vary significantly depending on the area.

With Homee, you can search property listings across Japan in English, explore different areas and save properties you're interested in.

Homee is also a great way to learn about the Japanese property market. By exploring different areas and listings, you can get a better idea of property prices, locations and what your budget can actually get you in Japan.

Step 2 — Check the Property Details

Once you find a property you like, the first step is to check if it's still available.

In Japan, a property may still be advertised online even if it has already been sold or is under negotiation. So, you'll need to call the listing agent to confirm the current availability.

Depending on the property, there may be other things you want to check, such as the condition of the building, surrounding area, utilities, road access, renovation history or restrictions.

However, especially with older or lower-priced properties, it's not common in Japan to ask the listing agent a long list of detailed questions before a viewing. Older homes and akiya naturally come with some level of risk and uncertainty.

If you have specific concerns, you can do your own research first and then check the property more carefully during the viewing.

Step 3 — View the Property

Whenever possible, we recommend viewing the property before buying it.

Photos can tell you a lot, but they can't show you everything. A viewing gives you a better idea of the condition of the house, the neighborhood, access and how the property actually feels in person.

In Japan, viewing the property before making a serious purchase decision is also a normal part of the buying process.

Meeting the listing agent or seller in person can help build trust, especially when buying an older or lower-priced property. It also gives both sides a chance to understand the property and its condition better, which can help prevent misunderstandings later.

Step 4 — Submit an Offer

Found the one?

The next step is usually to submit a written purchase application, often called a kaitsuke (買付).

This normally includes your proposed purchase price and other basic conditions.

One thing that's important to understand about Japanese real estate is that submitting an offer does not automatically mean the property is yours.

The seller still needs to consider and accept the offer, and another buyer may also be interested in the same property.

How offers are handled can vary between transactions, so your real estate agent should explain the situation before you proceed.

Step 5 — Review the Documents & Sign the Contract

Once the main conditions have been agreed upon, you'll move toward the sales contract.

Before signing, there are several important documents to review. These may include the Important Matters Explanation (重要事項説明), Sales Contract (売買契約書), Property Condition & Equipment Disclosure Forms (物件状況報告書・付帯設備表), as well as other documents depending on the property and transaction.

These documents contain important information about the property, its condition, equipment, contract terms and your responsibilities as the buyer.

Take your time to review them carefully. If there's anything you don't understand, ask your real estate agent before signing.

A deposit is also commonly paid around the time of the contract, although the amount and payment schedule depend on the transaction.

Step 6 — Final Payment & Handover

The last major step is settlement.

On the settlement date, the remaining purchase price and other required costs are paid.

The ownership transfer registration is then handled, usually with the involvement of a judicial scrivener (司法書士 / shihō shoshi).

And finally...

You get the keys 🔑

Congratulations — the property is officially yours!

Buying From Overseas

You don't need to live in Japan to buy property here.

However, if you live overseas, there may be some additional procedures to consider, such as international money transfers, preparing documents issued outside Japan, and arranging the ownership registration process from overseas.

The exact requirements will depend on your situation and the transaction.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Buying a property in Japan can be a little different depending on the property, the seller and your own situation.

The steps above are a general guide, but every transaction is different.

If you find a property you like, take your time, check the information available to you, and ask questions when you need to.

And hopefully, enjoy the process too 😊

Thank you !

Homee Team