How to Buy Real Estate in Japan as a Foreigner

Are you considering buying a house, apartment, or investment property in Japan? Good news—foreigners can legally buy real estate in Japan with almost no restrictions. However, the process involves several steps that are quite different from those in other countries. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand how real estate purchases work in Japan.

1. Can Foreigners Buy Property in Japan?

Yes, foreigners can buy both land and buildings in Japan without needing special permission. You don’t even need to live in Japan or have permanent residency.

✅ Tip: Owning property does not give you a visa or residency status.

2. What Kind of Properties Can You Buy?

You can buy:

• Condominiums (マンション)
• Houses with land (戸建て)
• Land only (土地)
• Commercial properties

Be careful with leasehold land—it means you are renting the land, not owning it.

3. Steps to Buy Real Estate in Japan

Step 1: Choose a Real Estate Agent

Look for an agent experienced with foreign buyers. They will help you find properties and negotiate with the seller.

Step 2: Make an Offer and Sign a Contract

Once you find a property you like, you submit an offer. If accepted, you’ll sign a purchase agreement (売買契約書). At this point, you usually pay a deposit (5–10%).

Step 3: Legal Check and Due Diligence

Your judicial scrivener (司法書士) will check the legal ownership, registration, and taxes related to the property. This is a very important step to avoid future problems.

Step 4: Final Payment and Registration

On the closing day, you pay the remaining amount. The judicial scrivener will register the new ownership with the Legal Affairs Bureau (法務局).

4. What Other Costs Are Involved?

Besides the property price, you may need to pay:

• Agent fees (usually 3% + ¥60,000 + tax)
• Registration and license tax
• Judicial scrivener fees
• Property acquisition tax
• Insurance and maintenance fees

5. Bank Loans

Some Japanese banks offer loans to foreigners, but conditions vary. Many foreign buyers pay in cash or use financing from their home country.

Need Help?

Our judicial scrivener office has extensive experience working with foreign clients. If you have any questions about buying real estate in Japan, feel free to contact us!