Purchasing or selling real estate in Japan is often one of the largest financial decisions you will ever make. Whether you are buying your first home, investing in Japanese property, or selling real estate, understanding both the legal and practical aspects of the transaction is essential.

At JLO, we provide practical legal advice throughout the entire transaction. We work alongside experienced real estate professionals to help our clients complete transactions safely, efficiently, and with confidence.

Most real estate transactions in Japan follow these stages:
・Property search and due diligence
・Purchase offer or commencement of sales activities
・Explanation of Important Matters (Important Matters Explanation)
・Execution of the Sale and Purchase Agreement
・Settlement, payment, and transfer of ownership
Each stage involves legal rights, contractual obligations, and practical issues that should be carefully reviewed before moving forward.

Licensed real estate agents assist buyers and sellers by:
・Introducing and marketing properties
・Supporting negotiations
・Coordinating the transaction process
・Providing the legally required Explanation of Important Matters
Although real estate agents play an essential role, they serve as intermediaries rather than independent legal advisers. Obtaining advice from your own lawyer can help protect your interests, particularly where significant assets or complex issues are involved.

Brokerage commissions are regulated by Japanese law. In most cases, the maximum brokerage fee is approximately 3% of the purchase price plus JPY 60,000, plus applicable consumption tax.

Property registration is generally handled by a Judicial Scrivener (Shiho Shoshi). Typical procedures include:
・Registration of ownership transfer
・Registration of mortgages
・Management of Registration Identification Information
Accurate registration is essential for protecting ownership rights and ensuring a secure transaction.

Real estate transactions may involve:
・Real Estate Acquisition Tax
・Registration and License Tax
・Fixed Asset Tax
・Capital Gains Tax (when selling)
Understanding the tax implications in advance can help avoid unexpected costs and support effective financial planning.

Japan's real estate system is unique, and many procedures and documents are available only in Japanese. JLO regularly assists international clients by providing clear legal advice in English and coordinating with all parties involved.
・Reviewing contracts in English
・Explaining Japanese legal procedures
・Communicating with real estate agents, judicial scriveners, lenders, and tax professionals
・Supporting overseas buyers and sellers

Attorney Daisuke Takeuchi (Joseph) leads JLO's real estate practice and works closely with trusted real estate agencies, Judicial Scriveners, and Certified Public Tax Accountants to provide seamless, one-stop support.

Even if you have already chosen a real estate agent, we can independently review contracts, identify legal risks, and provide objective advice focused solely on protecting your interests.

Our goal is simple: to help you complete your real estate transaction in Japan safely, efficiently, and with peace of mind.

Unfortunately, some businesses take advantage of clients who are unfamiliar with the Japanese real estate market. We encourage you to seek independent legal advice whenever you are unsure about the terms of a transaction.