How to Buy an Akiya in Japan in 30 Days (Yes, Really!)

Introduction

Think buying a house in Japan takes months—or even years? Not always. If you're prepared, focused, and have the right team behind you, it's possible to go from browsing to owning a vacant home (akiya) in just 30 days.

Here’s exactly how to make that happen.

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📅 Week 1: Define Your Goals and Get Prepped

✅ Decide What You Want

Start with clarity. Ask yourself:

• Do I want a renovation project or move-in ready?
• City-fringe, rural, or island location?
• Do I need road access, a garden, or nearby train stations?

✅ Prepare Basic Documents

Even if you're buying in cash, you’ll want to have:

• Valid passport
• Proof of funds (bank statement)
• A translation of your name in katakana (used for the title deed)
• Japanese taxpayer ID (MyNumber) if staying long-term

Pro Tip: If you don’t speak Japanese, line up a translator or liaison service (like the one offered by Old Houses Japan).

📅 Week 2: Pick a Property and Reserve It

🔍 Choose a Property Quickly

Use sites like Old Houses Japan or FreeAkiya.com to browse curated listings, or request a custom home search.

Look for:

• Empty homes with a clear seller
• Properties where the municipality is involved (less chance of unclear ownership)
• Listings that mention “即引渡し可能” (ready for immediate transfer)

📞 Contact the Agent or City

Once you choose a property:

• Reach out to the listing agent, akiya bank, or us here at Old Houses Japan
• Ask for basic documents: title deed, land map, photos, and disclosures (some may not be available immediatly)

📌 Reserve the Home

Many properties can be temporarily reserved with a signed letter of intent (買付証明書). This holds your place in line while contracts are prepared.

📅 Week 3: Sign the Sales Contract & Pay

📝 Hire a Liaison or Judicial Scrivener

If you’re overseas or don’t speak Japanese, this step is crucial. They’ll:

• Translate key documents
• Help complete the purchase contract
• Guide you through the property registration process

💴 Pay the Purchase Price

• Most akiya transactions are cash-based
• Wire transfers are standard—have funds ready and confirm currency conversion timing

Don’t forget to budget for:

• Judicial scrivener or liaison fees (~¥100,000–¥150,000)
• Fixed Asset Tax (prorated)
• Registration stamps (~¥10,000–¥30,000)

📅 Week 4: Register and Receive the Title

🏛️ Complete Ownership Transfer

Your scrivener or agent will:

• File the title registration with the Legal Affairs Bureau
• Ensure your name is recorded correctly
• Provide a certificate of registration (登記簿謄本)

Once this is done—you officially own the property.

🏠 Get the Keys

Arrange a time to:

• Receive the keys (in person or by courier)
• Get documents like utility info, house manuals, and local maps

🛠️ What Comes Next?

Once you're the official owner:

• Contact local utility companies to reconnect gas, water, and electricity
• Visit city hall to register your ownership and address for tax records
• Start renovation planning, apply for government grants (if eligible), or prep for seasonal visits

🎯 Can It Really Be Done in 30 Days?

Yes—especially when:

• You’re buying in cash
• The property has no legal issues
• You work with a team like Old Houses Japan who knows how to move fast

🧭 Want Help Doing It?

At Old Houses Japan, we’ve helped dozens of buyers close in a month or less. Whether you need:

• Help navigating language barriers
• Finding move-in ready homes
• Liaison support or legal guidance

We’ve got your back.

🗓️ Start your 30-day journey today.

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