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Yes, Foreigners Can Buy Property in Japan — Here’s How (2025 Guide)

Thinking about owning your own home or vacation property in Japan?
Whether you’re in love with Tokyo’s city lights, Kyoto’s quiet charm, or Hokkaido’s ski slopes — the good news is: foreigners can buy property in Japan. And you don’t even need a visa to do it.

At I-inicle Realty, we’ve helped many international clients successfully buy homes and investment properties here in Japan. If you’re curious about how it all works, this guide is for you!

Step 1: Can Foreigners Really Own Property in Japan?

Yes, absolutely. Japan has no restrictions on foreigners buying land or buildings.
You don’t need a Japanese passport, residency, or even a visa. That said, owning property doesn’t give you a visa or residence status — those are separate.

Step 2: Know What You’re Looking For

Before you jump in, think about:

• Purpose: Is it for personal use, rental income, or future relocation?
• Location: Do you prefer Tokyo, Osaka, the countryside, or near the ocean?
• Property Type: Apartment, single-family home, or land?
• Budget: Remember to factor in taxes, agent fees, and any renovations.

Step 3: Work With a Real Estate Agent Who Understands Foreign Buyers

Language barriers and legal differences can be tricky. That’s why it’s important to work with an experienced, bilingual agent.
At Ainicle Realty, we specialize in helping non-Japanese clients. We’ll walk you through every step — in English — from property search to paperwork.

Step 4: Visit the Property (If You Can!)

It’s best to visit in person if you’re in Japan, but even if you’re abroad, we can offer online tours, floor plans, and full reports.
Be sure to consider:

• Building age and condition
• Monthly maintenance fees
• Neighborhood atmosphere
• Future resale or rental potential

Step 5: Make an Offer and Sign the Contract

Once you’ve found the perfect place:

• You’ll submit a purchase offer.
• If accepted, we’ll prepare a sales contract in Japanese (with full explanation in English).
• You pay a deposit (usually 5–10%).

No worries — we’ll make sure everything is clear before you sign.

Step 6: Financing Options

Most foreign buyers purchase in cash. However, you may be able to get a mortgage in Japan if you:

• Live in Japan with a long-term visa
• Have stable income here
• Have good credit history

Some buyers also use financing from their home country.

Step 7: Final Payment & Registration

After finalizing the contract:

• You make the final payment.
• A legal expert (judicial scrivener) handles the ownership transfer.
• You officially become the property owner!

Step 8: Taxes & Ongoing Costs

Here are a few common fees:

• Agent commission (~3% of purchase price)
• Registration tax
• Acquisition tax
• Legal fees
• Annual fixed property tax

We’ll provide you with a full estimate during your consultation.

Step 9: What Happens After You Buy?

Once the property is yours, you can:

• Move in
• Rent it out
• Use it as a vacation home

Need help managing the property while you’re overseas? We can connect you with reliable property management services.

Ready to Get Started?

Buying real estate in Japan as a foreigner might sound complicated — but it doesn’t have to be.
With the right support and clear advice, your dream home in Japan is more reachable than ever.

📩 Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Let’s make your Japan real estate dream come true!