Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Japanese Real Estate
The complete process for overseas investors — from initial profile setup through closing, management, and tax filing.
Key Facts for Overseas Buyers
Foreign Ownership Allowed
Japan has no restrictions on foreign real estate ownership. Non-residents can purchase, own, and sell property with the same rights as Japanese citizens.
No Residency Required
You do not need to live in Japan or have a visa to purchase property. Remote purchases with local agent support are standard.
Multiple Financing Paths
Bank loans, seller financing, private credit, and joint ventures are all available — each with different requirements and terms.
Tax Obligations Apply
Non-residents pay 20.42% withholding on rental income (may be reduced by treaty). Annual filing requires a Japan-based tax representative.
The 10-Step Process
Create Investor Profile
30 minutesComplete your investor profile — budget range, investment objectives, financing preferences, preferred areas, and property types. This enables personalized opportunity matching.
Review Opportunities
1–4 weeksBrowse curated properties matching your profile. Public listings show location, yield, and financing availability. Register to unlock full underwriting reports with cash flow projections and risk analysis.
Property Analysis
1–3 daysAccess AI-powered underwriting reports with live market data (FX rates, interest rates, area comparables), cash flow projections, IRR estimates, and risk assessments.
Submit Interest
1–2 daysExpress interest through the platform. We connect you with the seller or their representative and begin negotiations on price and financing terms.
Due Diligence
2–4 weeksOur local team conducts comprehensive due diligence: legal (title, liens, zoning), physical (building condition, earthquake assessment), and financial (rent roll verification, expense audit).
Financing Arrangement
2–8 weeksStructure bank loans, seller financing, or hybrid solutions. We negotiate rates, terms, LTV, and payment schedules with lenders or the seller on your behalf.
Purchase Agreement
1–2 weeksBilingual contract review and explanation. All terms — price, payment, contingencies, handover — are explained in English or Japanese. Legal scrivener prepares registration documents.
Closing
1 dayCoordinate settlement, ownership registration, and title transfer at the Legal Affairs Bureau. Keys handed over. All closing costs settled.
Property Management
OngoingOngoing management: tenant sourcing, rent collection, maintenance coordination, repair reserve management, and renovation project execution. Monthly reporting in English.
Tax Filing & Ownership
AnnualAnnual income tax filing support through your Japan-based tax representative. Fixed asset tax management. Ongoing advisory on tax optimization and compliance.