🗣️ What to Ask a Japanese Real Estate Agent (Even if You Don’t Speak Japanese)

So, you've found a charming old home in Japan, and you're ready to reach out to the listing agent. But there's one problem:
You don’t speak Japanese.
And even if you do, you might not know what to ask.

Whether you're buying from abroad or living in Japan with limited language skills, knowing what to ask a real estate agent (不動産屋 / fudōsanya) can save you time, money, and major renovation headaches.

Here’s a simple, actionable guide to the key questions you should ask when inquiring about an akiya—plus tips on how to do it in English or Japanese.

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🧭 Why It’s Important to Ask Questions

Unlike in many Western countries, Japanese real estate agents often expect the buyer to do their own due diligence. Many akiya properties are sold as-is, meaning:

• There’s no inspection contingency
• You assume responsibility for structural, legal, or utility issues
• It’s your job to ask the right questions before you buy

That’s why it’s so important to come prepared, even if you’re relying on Google Translate or a bilingual agent.

🗂️ Top 10 Questions to Ask a Japanese Real Estate Agent

Here are the most important questions to ask when you're interested in an akiya property:

1. Is the property connected to city water and sewer?

Japanese:
この物件は上下水道に接続されていますか？
(Kono bukken wa jōgesuidō ni setsuzoku sareteimasu ka?)

Why it matters: Some rural homes use wells or septic tanks, which may need upgrades.

2. When was the last time the property was lived in?

Japanese:
最後に人が住んでいたのはいつですか？
(Saigo ni hito ga sundeita no wa itsu desu ka?)

Why it matters: Long-term vacancy can lead to mold, pests, or structural rot.

3. Is the property currently registered to an owner?

Japanese:
登記は現在の所有者に登録されていますか？
(Tōki wa genzai no shoyūsha ni tōroku sareteimasu ka?)

Why it matters: If the title isn't clean, transferring ownership may take time or legal work.

4. Are there any unpaid taxes or liens on the property?

Japanese:
固定資産税などの未払いはありますか？
(Kotei shisanzei nado no mibara i wa arimasu ka?)

Why it matters: You don’t want to inherit tax debt.

5. What is the building condition? Are there known damages?

Japanese:
建物の状態はどうですか？既知の損傷はありますか？
(Tatemono no jōtai wa dō desu ka? Kichi no sonshō wa arimasu ka?)

Why it matters: You’ll want to estimate renovation costs realistically.

6. Is road access available? Is the road legally recognized?

Japanese:
この物件には法的な接道がありますか？
(Kono bukken ni wa hōteki na setsudō ga arimasu ka?)

Why it matters: If the home isn’t on a legal road, you may not be able to renovate or rebuild it.

7. What are the zoning regulations and land use rules?

Japanese:
用途地域や建築制限について教えてください。
(Yōto chiiki ya kenchiku seigen ni tsuite oshiete kudasai.)

Why it matters: Determines if you can run a guesthouse, build an extension, or make certain upgrades.

8. Can I visit the property or do a video tour?

Japanese:
内見またはビデオツアーは可能ですか？
(Naiken mata wa bideo tsuā wa kanō desu ka?)

Why it matters: Essential for remote buyers who can’t visit in person.

9. Is the property habitable as-is, or does it need major repair?

Japanese:
この家は現状で住めますか？それとも大規模な修理が必要ですか？
(Kono ie wa genjō de sumemasu ka? Soretomo daikibo na shūri ga hitsuyō desu ka?)

Why it matters: Helps you plan move-in timelines and renovation budgets.

10. Is the seller negotiable on price?

Japanese:
価格交渉は可能ですか？
(Kakaku kōshō wa kanō desu ka?)

Why it matters: Especially with akiya, sellers may be flexible—particularly if the home has been sitting for years.

🧰 Bonus Questions (If You’re Planning to Renovate or Invest)

• Are there renovation subsidies available from the town?
• Is this area zoned for short-term rentals or guesthouses?
• Can you provide floor plans or property maps?
• Are there termites or known pest issues?
• Is there any historical designation (for kominka homes)?

🌐 How to Ask in English (and Get a Response)

Not all agents speak English. Here’s what you can do:

• Use a bilingual friend or interpreter
• Work with Old Houses Japan—we communicate with Japanese agents on your behalf
• Send a message in both English and Japanese using DeepL or ChatGPT
• Be specific and polite; Japanese business etiquette values formality

💬 Sample Inquiry Message (Bilingual)

Subject: Inquiry about Akiya Property

Hello, I am interested in the property located at [address]. Could you please let me know if the house is connected to city water and if road access is available? Thank you very much.

こんにちは、[住所] にある物件に興味があります。上水道に接続されているか、法的な接道があるか教えていただけますか？よろしくお願いいたします。

🚧 Don’t Be Afraid to Ask

Many foreigners feel intimidated reaching out to agents in Japan—but you absolutely have the right to ask questions.
Buying an akiya is a big deal, and the more you know before signing a contract, the better your outcome.

The good news? Many akiya sellers are eager to work with serious foreign buyers, especially those who show respect and do their homework.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re fluent in Japanese or just getting started, asking the right questions can mean the difference between buying a dream home—or inheriting a nightmare.

At Old Houses Japan, we help you:

• Translate listings and legal terms
• Ask questions to agents on your behalf
• Confirm water, sewer, and road access
• Negotiate and close from anywhere in the world

📩 Let us help with your property inquiry »