Introduction

Your home’s been on the market for a while. You've had some views, maybe even a few inquiries—but no serious offers. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. In Japan, especially when selling an akiya or rural property, it’s common for homes to take time to sell.

But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. In fact, now is the perfect time to step back, reassess your strategy, and make smart moves that can help attract the right buyer.

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1. Review Buyer Feedback

Start by asking your real estate agent for all the feedback you’ve received so far.

✔ Are buyers commenting on the condition, layout, or location?
✔ Are they comparing your home unfavorably to others in the area?
✔ Are there recurring concerns you can address?

This insight is gold. It helps you identify small changes that could make a big difference.

2. Reevaluate Your Asking Price

Pricing is often the #1 reason homes don’t sell.

✔ Compare your home with similar recently sold properties (comps)
✔ Consider whether renovation needs or rural location justify a price drop
✔ If you’ve already reduced the price, check if it’s now competitive enough

Even a small adjustment—like lowering the price by 5%—can reignite buyer interest.

3. Refresh Your Listing

Your online presence might need a makeover.

✔ Update listing photos—use brighter, cleaner, or seasonal images
✔ Rework the description—highlight benefits like views, garden space, or potential for Airbnb
✔ Add details about nearby attractions, public transit, or renovation grants

Make your property stand out to fresh sets of eyes.

4. Consider Minor Improvements or Repairs

Sometimes a little investment goes a long way.

✔ Fix any obvious cosmetic issues—peeling paint, broken screens, overgrown garden
✔ Clean the interior and exterior thoroughly
✔ Stage the home with furniture or simple decor to help buyers visualize its potential

You don’t need a full renovation—just show the home at its best.

5. Reassess Your Target Buyer

Is your current marketing reaching the right people?

✔ Akiya may appeal to foreign buyers, digital nomads, or creative entrepreneurs
✔ Rural homes may interest retirees or city dwellers looking for a second home
✔ Traditional properties may attract history buffs or renovation enthusiasts

Platforms like Old Houses Japan specialize in reaching these niche buyer groups.

6. Expand Your Marketing Channels

More exposure = more chances of finding the right buyer.

✔ List your property on multiple Japanese and international portals
✔ Promote it on social media and in local community groups
✔ Ask your agent about featuring your listing in newsletters or special campaigns

7. Explore Alternatives: Rent, Lease, or Donate

If selling isn’t working now, consider:

✔ Renting it out short-term or long-term to generate income
✔ Leasing it to someone interested in eventual ownership (rent-to-own)
✔ Donating it to a local organization or city program if it’s low-value and hard to sell

These alternatives keep the property active while you explore long-term options.

8. Stay Open-Minded and Flexible

The right offer may not look exactly like you imagined—but it could still meet your goals.

✔ Be open to negotiating on price or terms
✔ Consider incentives like paying closing costs or including furniture
✔ Don’t hesitate to switch agents if you feel unsupported

Final Thoughts: It’s Not Over Yet

If your home hasn’t sold yet, don’t lose hope. With a few smart adjustments and fresh strategies, you can still attract the right buyer.

✔ Analyze feedback, refresh your listing, and revisit your price
✔ Invest in small improvements and marketing tweaks
✔ Stay adaptable—and stay in motion

At Old Houses Japan, we help sellers get unstuck and explore new ways to sell traditional, rural, and vacant homes. Need help rethinking your strategy? Book a call with our team today.