Searching for Real Estate in Japan
The Unique Landscape of Japanese Real Estate Listings
When searching for real estate in Japan, it’s important to understand that the process differs significantly from that in Canada or the USA. Unlike North America, Japan does not have a single, unified website with all property listings. Instead, various search engines and platforms host different listings, meaning the results you find can vary depending on the search engine you use. These websites will be in Japanese, so be sure to use the translation function in your web browser.
Popular Japanese Real Estate Search Engines
To maximize your chances of finding the perfect property, it's essential to use multiple search engines. Here are some of the most popular ones:
SUUMO: One of the largest real estate search engines in Japan, offering a wide range of property listings.
HOME'S: Another major platform providing comprehensive property listings across Japan.
athome: Offers extensive listings, including both rental and purchase options.
Yahoo! Real Estate: A well-known search engine with a variety of listings.
Rakuten Real Estate: Provides numerous property listings along with useful real estate market insights.
Exclusive Listings and Smart Property Japan
In addition to public search engines, many listings are only accessible through real estate agents. At Smart Property Japan, our team has access to these exclusive listings, ensuring you don’t miss out on any opportunities.
Unconventional Search Methods: Akiya Banks
A unique aspect of the Japanese real estate market is the availability of akiya banks—databases of abandoned or vacant homes, often in rural areas. These listings are typically not found on major real estate search engines. There are national websites, and also local websites. Make sure to know the risks of buying an akiya! Here are some national akiya search engines to explore:
http://www.inakanet.jp/cgi-bin/database/search/search_home.html
https://xn--68j5ex92h47uc7m12d2o2a.com/properties/
https://www.slowlife1.com/bukken/list/
https://www.homes.co.jp/akiyabank/
https://www.tanbakousan.com/category/700/
https://www.tanbakousan.com/category/prmod/
https://zero.estate/category/zero/
https://www.inaka-gurashi.co.jp/tatemono
Local Real Estate Offices
Local real estate offices often have listings that may not be found on major search engines. These companies sometimes have their own websites with unique property listings. Visiting or contacting local real estate offices can uncover additional options.
Conclusion
Searching for real estate in Japan requires a multi-faceted approach due to the fragmented nature of property listings. Utilizing various search engines, working with a knowledgeable team like Smart Property Japan, exploring akiya banks, and engaging with local real estate offices can significantly enhance your chances of finding the ideal property. Happy house hunting!
