Buy a House in Japan

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If you’re looking to buy a house in Japan, you’ve come to the right place!

Buy Home in Japan
Your Opportunity to Own Your Dream Home is Here!

We specialize in construction and real estate for foreigners in Japan. Whether for investment or residence, we have the perfect home for you!

Buying a Home in Japan
Why Choose EcoHouse?

We guarantee the best deal for your home purchase in Japan.

Experience and Tradition

Over 28 years of experience in the Japanese real estate market.

Total Security

Total transparency in negotiations, transactions, and regulations.

Specialized Support

Service in Portuguese, English, and Japanese. Count on us without any hassle!

Hassle-Free

Leave the paperwork to us—we handle all property documentation.

Custom Project

We create the perfect design tailored to your style and needs.

Quality Control

Complete construction from start to finish, using only the highest quality materials.

Property Investment Advisory

Get clarity on loan rates and hidden costs – we’ll find the most cost-effective solution for you.

Lifetime After-Sales Support

We handle every detail, far beyond just contracts and closing.

Buying a House in Japan -
Rules, Tips, and Essential Knowledge Before Your Purchase

Why buy a house in Japan?

Japan is one of the safest and most developed countries in the world, with impeccable infrastructure, high-quality education, excellent quality of life, and abundant opportunities.

Buying property in Japan offers numerous advantages:

Types of Properties for Sale in Japan

Property Types Available in Japan – Catering to Diverse Needs Budgets.

Main Property Types in Japan:

Houses (一戸建て - Ikkodate)

Traditional Houses (古民家 - Kominka): Wooden-built, Japanese-style homes, often located in rural areas.
Detached Houses (一戸建て - Ikkodate): Common in suburban areas.

Apartments (マンション - Manshon)

Residential Buildings – Typically multi-story structures with multiple housing units.

Land (土地 - Tochi)

Vacant lots for construction, with different sizes and locations.

* Some plots have specific building regulations (e.g., maximum height).

Commercial Properties (商業用物件 - Shōgyō-yō Bukken)

Shops, offices, restaurants, hotels, etc.

Mixed-Use Properties (住商用物件 - Jūshō-yō Bukken)

They combine residential and commercial space (e.g., a shop on the ground floor and a home on the upper level).

Rural Properties (農地付き物件 - Nōchi-tsuki Bukken)

Farms, houses with agricultural land (require special permission for purchase by foreigners).

Vacant Houses (空き家 - Akiya)

Abandoned properties, often in rural areas, sold at low prices (sometimes even for free, with conditions).

Renovation Properties (リノベーション物件 - Renovēshon Bukken)

Old properties in need of repairs, popular among investors.

Temporary Properties (短期賃貸物件 - Tanki Chintai Bukken)

Used for short-term rentals (like Airbnb).

Gated Communities (分譲住宅 - Bunjō Jūtaku)

Residential complexes with shared amenities (security, gardens, etc.).

Best areas to buy real estate in Japan

Tokyo (東京 - Tōkyō) - The heart of Japan

The Japanese capital is the main economic and cultural hub, perfect for those seeking high-value properties and guaranteed rental income. Neighborhoods like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Minato are excellent choices.

Osaka (大阪 - Ōsaka) – Financial and Cultural Center

With a more affordable cost of living than Tokyo, Osaka attracts investors and families. Highlights include Umeda and Namba.

Kyoto (京都 - Kyōto) – Tradition and Tourism

A historic city with high demand for short-term rentals, ideal for those looking to invest in tourist properties.

Fukuoka (福岡 - Fukuoka) – Rapid Growth

One of Japan’s most dynamic cities, offering excellent cost-performance for real estate purchases.

Shizuoka Prefecture (静岡県 - Shizuoka-ken) - Green and Peaceful Heart

It offers an exceptional quality of life, combining nature, a strong economy, rich culture, and proximity to major urban centers. Here are the top reasons to consider living in Shizuoka Prefecture:

1. Stunning Nature and Pleasant Climate

  • Breathtaking Views of Mount Fuji (on clear days, visible from multiple cities);
  • Diverse Coastline, featuring beaches like Shirahama (in Shimoda) and Miho (in Matsubara);
  • National Parks, including part of Fuji-Hakone-Izu;
  • Humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and less muggy summers than Tokyo.

2. Strong Economy and Job Opportunities

  • Industrial Hub: Home to major motorcycle (Honda – Hamamatsu), musical instrument (Yamaha), tech, and manufacturing industries;
  • Advanced Agriculture: Japan’s top producer of green tea (Makinohara region) and wasabi (Izu and Shizuoka);
  • Shimizu Port (清水港): One of Japan’s busiest ports, with robust logistics.

3. Easy Access to Tokyo and Osaka

  • Shinkansen (Tokyo ↔ Shizuoka): Approximately 1h~1h30 travel time;
  • Efficient Highways and Local Trains, Making Commuting Easy.

4. Top-Tier Gastronomy

  • Fresh Seafood: Sakura ebi (pink shrimp), katsuo (bonito), and Suruga Bay fish;
  • Premium Green Tea (緑茶 – Ryokucha): Experience matcha (抹茶) and sencha (煎茶) straight from the plantations;
  • Fujinomiya Yakisoba (富士宮やきそば) – A Famous Local Dish.

5. Lower Cost of Living Than Tokyo/Osaka

  • Rent & property prices 30~50% lower than Tokyo/Osaka;
  • High-quality schools and public services – ideal for families.

6. Safety & Quality of Life

  • Extremely low crime rates (typical of Japan);
  • Excellent infrastructure: Well-organized hospitals, transportation and leisure areas.

7. Traditional Culture & Unique Events

  • Festivals: Shizuoka Matsuri (traditional dances) & Enshū Daimyō Gyōretsu (historical procession);
  • Famous onsens: Atami, Izu, and Shimoda boast premium hot springs.

8. Growing International Community

  • Hamamatsu has one of Japan’s largest Nikkei & Brazilian communities (with Portuguese-language schools, markets and events);
  • Shizuoka City also offers foreigner support services, including Japanese language classes.

9. Excellent Returns for Investors

  • High Rental Demand: Many workers and students seeking housing;
  • Growing Tourism: Cities like Atami and Izu attract visitors year-round;
  • Property Appreciation: Areas near Shinkansen stations and coastal zones are increasing in value.

10. Perfect for living in Japan

  • Families (safety and excellent schools);
  • Professionals (strong industries);
  • Retirees (tranquility and health);
  • Foreigners (welcoming communities).

The step-by-step guide to buying a house for sale in Japan

Purchasing a Home in Japan as a foreigner requires thorough research, financial planning, and professional assistance. With the right information, you can acquire property safely and efficiently.

1. Rules for foreigners who want to buy a house in Japan

Japan does not impose legal restrictions on foreigners buying real estate, whether they are residents or not. However, some factors must be considered:

  • Residence Visa: Required—a permanent residency visa makes approval easier;
  • Bank Financing: Foreigners may face more difficulty in obtaining loans;
  • Required Documents: Residence card (在留カード - Zairyū card), proof of income (源泉徴収票 - gensen or payslip), health insurance (社会保険 - shakai hoken or 国民健康保険 - kokumin hoken);
  • Taxes and Fees: Apply equally to Japanese citizens and foreigners;
  • Rural Properties: May have restrictions (depending on the region).

2. Choose the Property Type

Japan offers various types of residential properties for sale, as mentioned earlier.

3. Set the Location and Budget

Prices vary by region, city, and location.
(Contact us for details.)

4. Find a House for Sale

At EcoHouse, you'll find the perfect home.

5. Visit and Evaluate the Property

Schedule a visit and discover all the benefits of the property and its location.

6. Financing

Payment Options for Foreigners:

  • Cash Payment: Ideal for Those with Capital;
  • Bank Financing: Japanese banks may require a permanent visa and fire insurance;
  • International Banks: May offer loans.

Types of Financing Available in Japan

  • Japanese Bank Financing: Some banks (such as Shinsei Bank, SMBC Trust Bank, or Prestia) offer loans to foreigners with permanent residency (永住権) or long-term visas (e.g., Japanese Spouse Visa, Highly Skilled Professional Visa);
  • Insurance-Backed Loans (Flat 35): Long-term financing (up to 35 years) with fixed rates, but requires stable residency and verified income;
  • Financing Through Brokers or Developers: Some companies offer custom plans for foreigners, but with higher interest rates.

Basic Requirements

  • Visa Status: Having a permanent visa or long-term visa (minimum 3-5 years of residency) increases approval chances;
  • Verified Income: Generally requires stable employment and an annual income of at least ¥3-4 million (varies by bank);
  • Credit History: Up-to-date accounts with no outstanding debts in Japan;

Required Documentation (Basic)

  • Residence Card (在留カード - Zairyū card);
  • Health Insurance (健康保険 - kenkō hoken);
  • Proof of Income (源泉徴収票 - gensen or payslip);
  • Driver's License (運転免許証 - unten menkyoshō) not mandatory.

Tips to Improve Your Approval Chances

  • Build a Good Credit Score: Use Credit Cards Responsibly;
  • Choose Properties with Strong Bank Appraisal Value: Newer properties or those in prime locations are more readily accepted as collateral;
  • Compare Interest Rates: Foreign banks (like Shinsei) may offer better terms for non-residents.

Alternatives If Japanese Financing is Denied

  • Financing from Your Home Country: Some international banks offer loans for overseas property purchases;
  • Cash Payment: If possible, negotiate a discount with the seller;
  • Leasing or Rent-to-Own Agreements: Purchase Option Included.

(Important) Credit Assessment (simulation and official evaluation)

Required Documents and Mortgage Requirements Vary by Buyer Profile. Many people give up on buying property because they think it’s too difficult – but EcoHouse simplifies the process for you!

Each bank has different conditions and perspectives when evaluating credit, which is why in some cases an applicant may be denied financing by one bank but approved by another.

EcoHouse has experience with several banks, so we will not create any documents or requirements for financing, as we believe we can find solutions for anyone, whether or not they have difficulties with financing and documentation.

Financing is one of the most important and attention-demanding parts of the property purchase process. One of the challenges is passing the bank’s credit assessment—as mentioned earlier, each bank evaluates differently, so it’s essential to know which bank best fits your profile for approval.

It’s also important to pay attention to the financing plans offered by each bank, such as the loan interest rate, repayment period, and whether the interest rate will remain fixed for the entire term or be recalculated.

All this information requires careful consideration when making your choice—but don’t worry. At EcoHouse, we’ll calculate and simplify everything for you, ensuring full transparency so there are no unpleasant surprises during repayment.

(Bonus) Bank Loan through FAT35

To obtain a bank loan through FLAT35, the property must be approved by an engineer. This involves document review and an on-site inspection to verify that the property meets the bank’s required technical standards, followed by the issuance of a verification certificate.

Document Review

In this stage, the engineer reviews the property deeds and construction blueprints to confirm that the property complies with the bank’s required technical standards.

Final Inspection

In this stage, the engineer personally visits the property to conduct an on-site inspection, verifying whether the current condition of the property meets the bank’s technical standards.

7. Main Acquisition Costs

Financing Expenses:

  • Loan contract stamp duty (印紙代 Inshidai): ¥200 ~ ¥480,000 (varies based on loan amount);
  • Bank administrative fee (銀行手数料 Ginkō tesūryō): 2,2%;
  • Taxa de escrituras para avaliação de crédito (信用調査料): ¥10.000 ~ ¥50.000;
  • Taxa de examinação da estrutura da casa (住宅検査費用): ¥30.000 ~ ¥100.000+ (se for uma avaliação detalhada).

Amounts may vary depending on the region, property type, and financial institution. If you're purchasing with financing, some costs may be reduced due to government incentives.

(Bonus) Main Acquisition Costs

Property Purchase Expenses:

  • Property purchase contract stamp duty (印紙代 inshidai): ¥1,000 ~ ¥480,000 (varies based on property value);
  • Property transfer and conveyance (所有権移転登記 - Ownership transfer registration)
    Registration fee: ¥1,000 ~ ¥2,000 per m² (varies by location)
    Legal fee: ¥5,000 ~ ¥100,000+;
  • Real estate agency commission fee (仲介手数料 Chūkai tesūryō): 3% + ¥60,000 + 10% tax (for properties above ¥4,000,000);
  • Fire insurance (maximum 5 years) (火災保険 Kasai hoken): ¥20,000 ~ ¥600,000 (depends on value and coverage type);
  • Property tax (first year) (固定資産税・都市計画税 Kotei shisanzei・Toshi keikakuzei): ~1.4% of the government-assessed value.

Costs may vary depending on the region, property type, and financial institution.
Consumption tax (消費税 Shōhizei): 10% may apply to some services.

(Bonus) Consumption Tax

Consumption Tax (消費税 Shōhizei): 10% applies to some property purchase-related expenses, but is not charged on the bank financing itself.

Where is Consumption Tax (消費税 Shōhizei) applied?

  • Real estate agency commission fee (仲介手数料 Chūkai tesūryō): The brokerage fee (3% + ¥60,000) includes an additional 10% Consumption Tax (消費税 Shōhizei);
  • Fire insurance (火災保険 Kasai hoken): The insurance premium may include Consumption Tax (消費税 Shōhizei), depending on the insurer;
  • Professional Service Fees (appraisal, inspection, etc.): examples:
    Property appraisal fee (不動産鑑定評価 Fudōsan kantei hyōka)
    Inspection fee (住宅検査 Jūtaku kensa);

Where Consumption Tax (消費税 Shōhizei) is not applied?

  • Taxes (固定資産税 Kotei shisanzei, 登録免許税 Tōroku menkyozei, etc.) → Exempt;
  • Registration fees (登記費用 Tōki hiyō) → No Consumption Tax;
  • Bank loan interest and fees → No Consumption Tax.

8. Home Buying Process

  • Reservation (手付金 Te tsuke kin): A deposit is paid;
  • Purchase Agreement (売買契約 Baibai keiyaku): Signing and partial payment;
  • Registry at the Notary Office (登記申請 Tōki shinsei): Property transfer;
  • Key Handover (鍵引き渡し Kagi hikiwatashi): Official possession.

9. Post-Home Purchase Considerations

  • Maintenance: If you need renovations, contact EcoHouse – specialists in Construction and Renovations;
  • Annual Taxes: Property and urban development;
  • Insurance: Find the best prices for Earthquake and Fire Insurance at EcoHouse.

10. Unmissable Opportunities to Buy a Home in Japan

  • Properties with government subsidies: Some regions offer incentives;
  • Renovated homes below market price: Perfect for buyers seeking affordability without compromising quality;
  • Properties in high rental demand cities: Perfect for investors.

*Every property and location has unique characteristics that influence both price and transaction costs.
Let our experts find the best solution for you!

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Benchmark in after-sales support for foreigners in Japan. Assistance available in Portuguese, English, or Japanese.

If you're a foreigner dreaming of a home in Japan, now is the time to buy!

The Japanese real estate market moves fast – great opportunities won’t last forever.

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We guarantee a smooth and secure property buying experience.
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