John of Japan
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Get the 2026 Japan Home Buying Guide

5 steps to buying property in Japan as a foreigner - from search to keys in hand.

1 Find your Japan Fit - Choose prefecture before property
2 Search the right sites - Akiya banks, English platforms, hidden listings
3 Kill dealbreakers early - Roads, utilities, hazard zones checklist
4 Due diligence - What to check before signing anything
5 Closing day - Payment, registration, ownership transfer
Akiya Deep Dive Included

Japan has 9 million vacant homes. Some sell for ¥0. This guide shows you exactly how to navigate akiya banks as a foreigner:

12-step checklist from first inquiry to keys in hand
Copy-paste inquiry templates in English AND Japanese
5 conditions akiya banks require (that most buyers miss)
Non-rebuildable property warning signs to spot early
Hidden costs beyond renovation (with real yen estimates)
Also Included:
Full cost breakdown (fees, taxes, scrivener, agent)
Remote buyer logistics - POA, notarization, contacts
Red flags, scams, and deal-breaker checklist
Post-purchase obligations & community expectations
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Note: Foreigners can legally buy property in Japan. But property ownership does not grant a visa - residency is separate.