Your Journey to Owning a Home in Japan
Step-by-Step Guide for Global Buyers
Whether you are living in Japan or planning to invest from abroad, buying property in a foreign country can seem complex. At Century 21 Hashimoto, we specialize in making this process seamless for everyone, including our international clients residing overseas.
This guide breaks down the entire buying process into simple, manageable steps. Our dedicated team is equipped to support you remotely, from the first virtual consultation to the moment you receive your keys, no matter where you are in the world.
Step-by-Step Guide
STEP01
Initial Consultation & Financial Planning
Your journey begins with a conversation, which can be held in person or via video call. We’ll connect with you to understand your needs, preferences, and long-term goals.
・Defining Your Dream Property
We’ll discuss your desired property type (e.g., apartment, house), location, size, and other essential features.
・Budgeting & Financials
We will help you create a clear financial plan. This includes determining your budget, understanding the required down payment, and estimating the various costs associated with a purchase, such as taxes and agent fees. For our overseas clients, we will advise on international fund transfers.
STEP02
Property Search & Viewings (In-Person or Remote)
Once we have a clear picture of your requirements, we’ll begin the search for your ideal home. We offer flexible viewing options to suit your needs.
・Curated Listings
We will provide you with a selection of properties that match your criteria from our extensive network.
For clients in Japan, we will schedule and accompany you on property viewings (“naiken” 内見), providing detailed explanations.
・Remote Viewings for Overseas Clients
If you are unable to visit in person, we can arrange live virtual tours via video call (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet). Alternatively, we can send you detailed video walkthroughs and high-resolution photographs, allowing you to inspect every aspect of the property from the comfort of your home.
STEP03
Submitting a Purchase Offer
When you find a property you love, the next step is to make an offer. This can all be handled digitally.
・Letter of Intent
You will fill out a formal offer document called a “Kounyu Moshikomisho” (購入申込書). This document states your desired purchase price and
any specific conditions.
・Negotiation
As your representative, we will submit the offer to the seller and handle all negotiations on your behalf to secure the best possible terms.
STEP04
Understanding Financing & Mortgage Options
Securing a mortgage from a Japanese bank has specific requirements.
・Mortgage Eligibility
: Please be advised that mortgages from Japanese financial institutions are generally applicable only to individuals who hold a Permanent Resident (PR) visa for Japan.
・Cash Purchases
For clients residing overseas or those without a PR visa, purchasing a property with cash is the most common and straightforward method.
・Guidance
We will provide clear guidance on all financing paths available to you based on your individual circumstances.
STEP05
Explanation of Important Matters (Juyo Jiko Setsumei)
Before signing the contract, Japanese law requires a licensed Real Estate Transaction Manager to provide a detailed explanation of the property. This can also be conducted remotely.
・Explanation of Important Matters (Juyo Jiko Setsumei)
This crucial step, the “Juyo Jiko Setsumei” (重要事項説明), covers all legal and physical aspects of the property.
・Full Transparency for Remote Clients
We can conduct this session via a video conference call with simultaneous translation support to ensure you understand every detail before proceeding.
STEP06
Signing the Purchase & Sale Agreement
With all details confirmed, you will proceed to sign the official Purchase and Sale Agreement (“Baibai Keiyakusho” 売買契約書).
・Binding Contract
This legally binding document finalizes the terms of the sale.
・Earnest Money Deposit
Upon signing, you will pay an earnest money deposit (“Tetsukekin” 手付金), typically 5-10% of the purchase price. We will provide secure
instructions for international wire transfers.
STEP07
Pre-Closing Inspection (Optional for Remote Buyers)
Just before the final settlement, a pre-closing inspection is conducted. If you are overseas, we can perform this inspection on your behalf, providing a full video and photo report for your approval.
STEP08
Closing & Handover of the Property
This is the final step where ownership is officially transferred. The process is designed to be secure, even for remote buyers.
・The Closing Meeting
The closing is overseen by a Judicial Scrivener (“Shiho Shoshi”司法書士) who handles the legal registration of the property title.
・Remote Closing Procedure
For clients residing abroad, the entire closing process can be managed remotely. We will work with a Judicial Scrivener who can act as your legal representative using a Power of Attorney.
・ Final Payments
You will transfer the remaining balance of the purchase price and all closing costs.
・ Receiving the Keys
Congratulations! Once the transaction is complete and the title is registered in your name, we will securely hold the keys for you or hand them over to your designated representative in Japan.
STEP09
Post-Purchase Support
Our service doesn’t end at the closing. We offer comprehensive support for our overseas owners, including:
・Property management services.
・Assistance with setting up utilities if you plan to move in.
・Guidance on tax-related procedures for property owners.
FAQs
- Can I buy property in Japan if I live in another country?
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Absolutely. There are no legal restrictions on foreign nationals owning property in Japan, regardless of your country of residence. Our team is fully equipped to handle the entire process for you remotely.
- Can I get a home loan without Japanese permanent residency?
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Securing a mortgage from a Japanese bank is generally limited to those with Permanent Resident (PR) status. For clients residing overseas or those in Japan without PR, purchasing with cash is the standard and most straightforward option.
- How can I be sure of the property’s condition if I can’t see it in person?
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We act as your eyes and ears on the ground. Through live video tours, detailed walkthrough videos, and extensive photo reports, we provide a transparent and thorough view of the property, ensuring you can make an informed decision with confidence.
Ready to Invest in Japanese Real Estate?
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Our bilingual team is here to navigate the complexities of the Japanese real estate market and ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.
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Our bilingual team is here to navigate the complexities of the Japanese real estate market and ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.
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We’re here to support your real estate journey in Japan.
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Whether you’re looking to buy a peaceful countryside home, invest in affordable Japanese property, or just have questions — we’re here to help.
Contact us today for friendly, English-speaking support.
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