Guide to Buying Property in Japan as a Foreigner

Jyusen – Since 1979
Whether you're based overseas or living in Japan, buying real estate here can be a straightforward process when guided by licensed experts. Established in 1979, we are one of the oldest real estate companies in Japan. We have decades of experience helping buyers find their dream homes and investment opportunities.

Why Buy Property in Japan?
Japan offers unique advantages for property buyers:
⚫︎ Stable Market: Japan’s real estate market is known for its stability and transparency.
⚫︎ Residency Not Required: Foreigners can purchase property without needing residency in Japan.
⚫︎ Diverse Options: From traditional homes in historic neighborhoods to modern apartments in bustling cities, there’s something for everyone.
⚫︎ Lucrative Investments: High rental demand in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto makes Japanese property a sound investment.


STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE FOR FOREIGN BUYERS:
1. Understand Eligibility
⚫︎ Good News: No nationality restrictions apply to buying property in Japan.
⚫︎ Residency Not Required: You don’t need to be a resident or hold a specific visa to purchase property.
⚫︎ No Land Ownership Limits: Foreigners can own land and buildings outright.

2. Find the Right Property
⚫︎ At Jyusen, we provide access to: New & Resale Homes: Apartments, houses, and more. Vacation & Investment Properties: Including ski lodges and rental units in hotspots like Niseko or Tokyo.
⚫︎ Personalized Service: Tell us your preferences, and we’ll shortlist properties that match your criteria.

3. Secure Financing (If Needed)
⚫︎ Cash Purchase: Most foreign buyers opt to pay in full.
⚫︎ Mortgages: Available through Japanese banks for those with a visa or residency status. Some overseas banks also offer loans for Japanese property.

4. Conduct Due Diligence
⚫︎ Legal Check: Confirm the title and ensure the property is free of liens or disputes.
⚫︎ Inspections: Recommended for older properties to verify condition. ⚫︎ Taxes: Understand the annual fixed-asset tax and property acquisition tax.

5. Sign the Purchase Agreement
⚫︎ Deposit: Typically 5–10% of the purchase price.
⚫︎ Documents: Foreign buyers must provide identification, such as a passport, and sometimes a verified address.

6. Register the Property Judicial Scrivener
⚫︎ Assistance: A legal expert will handle the registration process to ensure the property is officially in your name.
⚫︎ Costs: Registration fees and stamp duties apply.

BUYING FROM INSIDE OR OUTSIDE JAPAN:

If You’re Outside Japan:
⚫︎ Remote Viewings: Jyusen offers virtual tours and video consultations.
⚫︎ Proxy Services: We can assist with appointing a representative to act on your behalf.
⚫︎ International Payments: Work with your bank to transfer funds for deposits and purchase.

If You’re in Japan:
⚫︎ On-Site Viewings: Schedule property tours at your convenience.
⚫︎ Face-to-Face Guidance: Visit our offices to discuss your options directly.

Costs to Consider:
⚫︎Purchase Price: Includes the property itself and sometimes furnishings.
⚫︎Taxes: Property Acquisition Tax (around 3–4%). Fixed-Asset Tax (0.3–0.6% annually).
⚫︎Agent Fees: Typically 3% of the purchase price + ¥60,000.
⚫︎Maintenance Fees: For condominiums or managed properties.

Why Choose Jyusen?
⚫︎Experience Since 1979: This makes us one of the oldest real estate companies in Japan.
⚫︎Multilingual Support: We assist in English, and many other languages.
⚫︎Comprehensive Services: From property search to after-sale management.

Ready to start?
Contact us for more details on buying property in Japan.