Free Houses in Japan: Hidden Costs, Drawbacks, and Online Search Tips Explained

You've heard that there are free houses in Japan. Japan is filled with many akiya homes; homes that have been vacant for a long time. And now, many akiya homes are being given away for free by cities and individuals. But, are free houses in Japan really free? In this video, I delve into the world of free houses available in Japan.

First, We'll explore the ins and outs of finding a free house in Japan online. Is there a hidden gem waiting to be claimed?
01:24

Next, I shine a light on the drawbacks of free houses in Japan. While the prospect of a free home may sound enticing, it's essential to be aware of the potential challenges and limitations that come with it. I discuss common issues and considerations to help you make an informed decision.
06:45

Finally, I uncover the hidden costs associated with obtaining a free house in Japan. From renovation expenses to property taxes, we break down the financial implications.
12:53

Whether you're intrigued by the idea of free housing or considering it as a viable option, this video provides invaluable insights to guide you through the process.

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe!

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If you enjoy my content... then you'll know I love coffee! Coffee donations welcomed!
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for helping me film some of the footage in the video. If you need a great film maker in Osaka, be sure to check him out! You can also contact him at @cynemathis
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[nippolitica]

Been trying to fight this myth for years. Got a livable house for $43K, no restrictions, including agent and closing costs, on public transport, near a beach. Free houses in Japan are unending money pits. The only way they are free is in the way they free you of your time and yen.

[kqppa]

Here in my little town in Sicily, Italy, the municipality is giving away (with a symbolical cost of 1€) old houses in the historic center of the town.
The procedure is almost the same as the one shown in the video, you have to spend about €40, 000 to renovate them, but from what I know it is not necessary to have Italian citizenship or live there for a pre-established period of time. This initiative is having great success, a lot of foreigners, especially Americans, are buying them.

[Elonquin]

The information interjected with the comedy is so clean and sharp. The comedy helped hammer home the pitfalls. Without it, this would have been a slog to go through for many. Great job on the scripting.

[bearwolffish]

Honestly, still sounds like a great deal if can remotely guarantee costs fall within $60k for renovations over that 3 years.
As a foreigner would be only right to involve self in some community activity to improve language skills and understanding of the culture.
I would be wary of any legal loophole that allowed repossession if put a foot a wrong with something.

[wiikends]

Didn't know this existed in Japan. The end result is similar to Italy where you spend lots to still live with very few people although I'm not sure full requirements for buying

[colinswainson]

I always enjoy your videos, thanks for this one as it’s something that needs to be told to the world and those wanting a free house .

[junkogreene]

Another great video, thanks, with humor and the important data! Some people do like the challenge of fixing the really derelict homes. There's the question of community integration and support, as in is there more support for a person who joins this scheme rather than a person who buys a home independently? People in the countryside are so welcoming and knowledgeable, I find.

[TheBaldr]

In the US the gift tax only applied to the Giftee, not the recipient.

[arthellstrobles]

I would consider it, I know a bit of low voltage, pluming, demo, roofing and all of that stuff cause my dad rented out houses. He taught us how to fix walls, add walls, septic tanks, light fixtures, adding new breaker for power from the houses he had. To me this looks fun, but will take years to bring it back to life. I tried concrete work, but that is no joke, I'll leave that to the professionals. All one needs is finances, a vision, reliable handy men, knowledge, and a code book😂 (I kid, there is more to it) but being a vet with disability and money saved up, he'll yea this looks great. And in the middle of nowhere means space for a big garrage, and a farm.
I lived over there in 2001, so picking the language back up wouldn't be a problem, it was one of the first countries I've been to outside of USA. The only thing is, with all of my skills, I wouldn't even look at this place unless I had $50, 000 to $60, 000 of play which is still F$#@!^& cheap to end up with a great house. That's the price of a slightly used moble.

[YouNeverKnowWhoIsWatching]

as much as I don't like these rules as a foreigner who would love to buy a Japanese home to live in, I imagine many communities here in the States would benefit from such rules and protect buyers and neigbhorhoods from house flippers who put cheap materials into condemned houses in order to make a profit when they resell them. I especially like the part about forcing people to be involved in the community. At least for a limited time, like maybe the first 2 years of purchasing. That would actually facilitate community bonds and civil responsibility.

[chaugg]

Well made video, dude .
Love it, subscribed and liked.
Thank you ❤

[TheShibanaire]

I've been dying just to go visit Japan 🇯🇵 a free house im welling to live out there for ever

[CodingAbroad]

Thanks for the great video. I just have a few questions:
1) Are most houses made of wood?
2) Is Okinawa a sought after location?
3) Lots of people are saying they’re going to turn them into rental properties, but with the Japanese population declining, how feesible do you think that is?

[Biiiiird]

Thank you for the video. Just my opinion but I had to speed it up cuz it's a very slow paced video ! Hope this doens't rub you the wrong way

[phoenixx]

My understanding was a larger part of why these houses are vacant is also the property tax which is so high, (like land rates) the family of the owner does not wish to pay it - as incomes can be quite poor per hours worked in Japan. But the gift tax is a new point i have never heard before. Very Interesting.

[TheOpp]

My thought is if you have extra money and like construction, it’d be a pretty fun project to get one of these houses and just fix it up yourself

[AlfordLau]

Thanks for explaining in simply terms.

[vbcbsrnkk]

11:00 my first though when hearing that

[cjd]

This sounds the same as, "land contract" houses here in the US. You get the house itself for "free" or "cheap" but you have to make improvements to the house and/or property.

[eimdeima]

Houses in the countyside in the middle of nowhere sound absolutely perfect in all honesty...😅