Kokowa is an online real estate marketplace and information hub that helps users buy, sell, rent, and find homes in Japan. It offers a wide range of real estate-related services, including property listings, home value estimates, and neighborhood data.

What services does Kokowa offer?

• Property Listings: Users can search for homes for sale, rental properties, and foreclosures.
• Rental Listings: Listings for apartments, houses, and condos available for rent.
• Agent Finder: A tool to help users find real estate agents.
• Mortgage Information: Tools and calculators for mortgage rates, affordability, and refinancing.
• Home Improvement: Resources and contacts for home improvement and maintenance services.

How does Kokowa work?

Kokowa aggregates real estate listings from Multiple Listing Services (MLS), real estate brokerages, and public records. Users can search these listings using various filters, such as price, location, number of bedrooms, and property type. 

Can I buy a house in Bali as a non-resident?

Yes, you can. Unlike many other countries, Japan has no legal restrictions on foreigners buying property. You can even purchase a house while visiting on a tourist visa.

Are there any restrictions on the type of property I can buy?

Generally, there are no restrictions. Foreigners have almost the same rights as Japanese citizens when it comes to purchasing property or land. However, a proposed bill may regulate buying land near Japan Self Defence Force or US military bases.

Do I need a specific type of visa to buy property in Japan?

No, there are no specific visa requirements for buying property. You can purchase property even if you are on a tourist visa or from outside the country, though buying remotely is not recommended due to the complexities involved.

Are there additional taxes or fees for foreign buyers?

No, there are no extra taxes or requirements for foreigners. The taxes and fees are the same as those for Japanese citizens.

How does the cost of buying a house in Japan compare to other countries?

Buying a house in Japan can be significantly cheaper than in countries like Australia, Canada, or the US. Japan’s aging population, urbanization, and preference for new homes have made it more affordable.

Is it true that there are cheap or even free houses available in Japan?

Yes, you may have heard about cheap or even free akiyas (abandoned houses) in Japan. These are often found in rural areas and can be an affordable option for those willing to invest in renovations.

What should I be aware of before buying property in Japan?

It is crucial to do thorough research due to potential challenges such as language barriers and unique real estate pitfalls in Japan. Ensure you understand the buying process and seek professional advice if needed.

Are there incentives for foreigners to buy property in Japan?

Yes, there are government housing incentive schemes designed to encourage investment and migration, particularly to rural areas. These incentives can make buying property more attractive for foreigners.

How many foreigners live in Japan, and how common is it for them to buy property?

As of 2019, there were approximately 2.93 million expats living in Japan, making up about 2.3% of the population. The number of foreign residents purchasing real estate is increasing, thanks in part to government incentives.

Where can I find more information about buying property in Japan?

For further reading, check out articles and guides on buying property in Japan. These resources can provide detailed information and personal experiences from other foreigners who have bought homes in Japan.

Yes. All houses posted here are ‘freehold’ properties, meaning the land is included in the sale. While there are ‘leasehold’ properties in Japan, which require renting the land, these are generally not featured on my Instagram or newsletter.

Step 1: Access Seller Information

All seller contact information for the houses posted on Instagram, as well as many more properties, is available in my weekly email newsletter.

Step 2: Arrange a Viewing

• If you are fluent in Japanese (above JLPT level N2), contact the agent directly to arrange a viewing.
• If you are not fluent in Japanese, you will need a translator or intermediary. Email me for an introduction to a trusted intermediary.

Step 3: Navigate the Buying Process

• Directly with an agent: Follow challenging steps detailed in an article (link provided upon request).
• With an intermediary/English-speaking agent: They will guide you through the process, including necessary documents and arranging a building inspector.

*Intermediaries usually charge between 5-10% of the house price but are worth the cost to avoid mistakes and headaches.

No, most properties are in fact sold online though Whats app, what a time we live in!
If you are on Bali it’s great to see the location. 

You will only need to be present during 
you can use an intermediary to act as your power of attorney. However, it’s highly recommended to visit the property in person before making an offer to get a true feel of the house and neighborhood.

The process typically takes about 2-4 weeks if all documents are in order and no issues arise. Delays can occur if there are document issues. Stay tuned for more details on required documents.

For non-residents, obtaining a mortgage from a Japanese bank is challenging, especially for older, low-cost properties. Most purchases are either made with cash or financed through your home country.

For more details on mortgage requirements and the buying process, please see this article: