2026

Kobe Property Tax: Proposed Vacancy Tax for Condominiums Kobe City is considering a new Kobe Property Tax for condominium units that have no regular occupants. Often called a “vacancy tax,” the proposal aims to bring more homes in central Kobe into active use. The city has not yet approved the tax. It has also not decided the starting date, tax rate, or calculation method. However, the proposal...

​When trying to rent an apartment in Japan, landlords or property management companies often set a condition requiring applicants to be "capable of daily conversation." However, "daily conversation" is not clearly defined by any specific level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). In reality, landlords and management companies are usually not experts in language proficiency assessment, so...

In recent years, the word "akiya" (vacant house) has gained widespread international recognition. Social media and video platforms are flooded with catchy headlines like "Buy a house in Japan for next to nothing," "Make a fortune with a DIY renovation," or "Live a slow life in a traditional house." While interest in vacant property investment is surging both in Japan and abroad, the actual market is far...

The Pitfall of "Agricultural Land": What You Need to Know When Looking for Rural Property Many people dream of buying a cheap, old house in the countryside to use as a vacation home or a base for their second chapter in life. Indeed, there are surprisingly affordable properties available in regional Japan. However, when considering a property with a large plot of land, there is one crucial thing to...

Prepare before renting an apartment Many people search for a room share apartment in Japan to reduce housing costs. Moving in with a friend sounds like a practical idea. However, renting in Japan carries significant responsibilities. These expenses can shape your daily life for years. While many students and young renters want to split the rent, the process remains difficult. Finding a landlord who...

Buying a house in Japan is a big decision. Most people start by renting an apartment when they first move here. However, many eventually decide to settle for the long term. At that point, you must ask: is it better to rent or is buying a house in Japan the better choice? Understanding the True Cost of Your Purchase The first concern for most buyers is the budget. When you search for a property, you...

When renting an apartment in Japan, you will quickly hear the term guarantor company (保証会社 / hoshō gaisha). In the past, you needed a personal "Joint Guarantor." This was usually a Japanese family member. Today, professional companies have replaced that system. This change makes renting faster and more secure for everyone. What is a Guarantor Company? Think of the guarantor company as a...