The Purchase Roadmap

From your first search to your final settlement.

Jump To: The 5 Steps | Buying Costs | Taxes
01

Sourcing & Vetting

We leverage our network to identify high-potential properties. Found something yourself online? No problem.

We actively vet properties found by clients, checking the fine print and translating listing data so you know exactly what you are looking at.

02

Assessment

We perform a "Deep Dive" remote evaluation using documentation, rent rolls, and local insights.

No physical travel is required. We act as your eyes on the ground, filtering out the lemons before you waste time or money.

03

The Offer

Once you are happy, we submit the formal Purchase Application on your behalf. If accepted, it's "Go Time."

During this critical window, we can organize structural inspections or additional site visits to ensure the asset is solid before we move to contract.

04

Contract & Deposit

We handle the signing logistics. Our representative attends to translate the Contract and 'Important Matters' (Jyusetsu). Alternatively, using a Power of Attorney, we can sign on your behalf—no travel required.

The Deposit (roughly 10%, though flexible) is generally paid on the day of signing.

05

Settlement & Registry

The remaining funds are transferred, and the Judicial Scrivener officially records the title change with the government.

Note: To verify your identity and address for registration, you will need to provide an Affidavit or Statutory Declaration. We guide you through drafting this document.


Typical Costs of Buying

Beyond the purchase price, budget approx. 5-8% for closing costs.

Brokerage Fee

Under 8M JPY: Fixed at 300,000 JPY (+ Tax).
Over 8M JPY: 3% + 60,000 JPY (+ Tax).

Acquisition Tax

3% (Residential) / 4% (Non-Res)
Calculated on the government assessed value, not market price.

Scrivener & Reg.

~50k - 200k JPY for the Scrivener fee, plus ~2% Registration License Tax.


Taxes for Non-Residents

Income Tax

Progressive rates (starting at 5%) on net rental income. Must be filed annually by March 15.

Withholding Tax

20.42% is withheld from gross rent paid to non-residents.

*Note: This typically applies to commercial/corporate tenants. Residential tenants are generally exempt.

Fixed Asset Tax

Annual city tax. Standard rate is 1.4% of the government assessed value (roughly 0.3% for City Planning Tax).