🏠 Buy a House in Japan as a Non-Resident

Full Process Explained by TOKYO HOUSING

Looking to buy property in Japan but don’t live here? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re seeking a vacation home, an investment property, or a future retirement spot, this guide will walk you through the full process step by step.

🇯🇵 Can Non-Residents Buy Property in Japan?

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Japan.

• There are no legal restrictions — you can purchase land or buildings in your name, even if you don’t live in Japan. You do not need a Japanese partner, residency status, or a local company.

🔍 What’s the Best Way to Find Property?

You can start your search by:

• Working with a local real estate agent (like us!)
• Using online platforms such as Suumo or AtHome
• Browsing property portals on our website
  

💡 Making an Offer

Once you find a property you like, you submit a purchase application (買付申込書). If the seller accepts your offer, you move forward to signing the official contract.

📄 What Documents Are Required?

When buying property, you’ll need to sign a Sales & Purchase Agreement (売買契約書) and usually pay a deposit (5–10%). If you don’t speak Japanese, a certified interpreter is required during the signing.

• ✅ Passport
• ✅ Power of attorney ( if you’re not in Japan )
• ✅ Proof of address in your country
• ✅ Personal seal (hanko) or signature

💸 What Are the Real Costs of Buying Property?

Japanese banks generally don’t provide loans to non-residents. Most buyers pay in full via international bank transfer. Be prepared for the following costs:

Registration Tax - 0.4% – 2%

Acquisition Tax - 1.5% – 3%

Annual Fixed Asset Tax - 1.4%

Agent Fee - 3% + tax
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🔐 Your ownership is registered at the Legal Affairs Bureau by a certified judicial scrivener — at that point, you are officially the legal owner.
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🛂 Does Owning a Property Give You a Visa?

No, buying property in Japan does not grant you a visa or any residency rights.

However, you can:

• Visit Japan short-term
• Stay temporarily
• Rent out the property for passive income

🏠 If you rent it out, Japanese tax filings are required. And no matter where you live, you’ll still need to pay annual property taxes.

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🎯 Ready to Buy a House in Japan?

Let us take care of everything — from property search to paperwork and ownership registration.
You dream it. We make it happen.

📩 Contact us today to start your journey with Tokyo Housing.

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