Japan Real Estate
This podcast covers Japan's real estate market fundamentals with a focus on investment. It offers guides, tips, tricks, and interviews with industry experts. The show is a one-stop resource for audio content about one of the world's most exciting property markets.
エピソード
Borrowing to Buy as a Business Owner - PLUS - JRE Summit Speakers Presentation Topics Full List!
In this JREP session, we discuss AI & Tech in Japan's real-estate sector, review lending criteria & the evaluation process for business owners applying for mortgages, AND - announce the full list of speakers and topics for the up and coming autumn session of the Japan Real Estate Summit, to be held at the Tokyo International Forum and streamed online on 17-18 October, 2026!
How to Buy & Run a Hospitality Property in the Japanese Countryside - Part 1
The first half of our interview with Naomi Kai & Hayato Goto, co-authors of "The Rural Japan Hosting Blueprint", a book which lays down the foundations for a scalable, profitable hospitality property portfolio in the inaka - what to buy, how to manage it efficiently, how to automate procedures, handle guest complaints, and much, much more.
AkiyaMart No More! Go Mokomoko!
We catch up with Joey & Take, co-founders of "AkiyaMart", on their recent re-branding to "Mokomoko", what's new on the platform, what's in the works - and also about visas, market trends, bars and - colonoscopies(???)
How to Invest in Japanese Real Estate Properties - Part 2
In this second, "mother of all deep-dives" interview, on the @japanexpertinsights podcast, we talk about...well, everything you should be aware of. Seriously. Do not miss this one!
What's Hokkaido's Property Market Like?
We speak to Kendall Bharath, a real estate agent and construction project manager based in Asahikawa, Hokkaido - what's the local market like, how do foreigners and Japanese differ in mentality, both at work and when shopping for homes, what should people consider and avoid when purchasing, and much, much more.
How to Rent Out My Holiday Home in Japan when Not in Use?
We speak to two potential buyers, both in the market for a holiday home that they can rent out on AirBnb or similar channels when they're away. What would be the best property for them to purchase? What what should they consider when renting it out?
What is "Minpaku"?
Our Japan Real Estate Experts Panel (JREP) gets together to discuss the origins of the term "minpaku" (private lodging/ vacation rentals), the definition and use of the word "akiya", and the current interest rates landscape.
How to Invest in Japan Real Estate Property
In this deep-dive interview on the Japan Expert Insights podcast, we break down the differences between real estate investment in Japan and in other markets, discuss asset classes, dos and dont's, the business environment, common practices, and what buyers should be aware of before pulling the trigger on their first deal.
Buy a Holiday Home in Tokyo, or an Investment Condo in Fukuoka?
Two back to back conversations with first-time buyers - one looking for a single family holiday home in or around Tokyo - the other for an investment condo in Fukuoka. We break down costs, listings research, due diligence, purchase procedures and post-settlement management options.
Snapshot of Kyoto & Osaka's Short Term Stay Property Market
We speak to Chai Kanda, founder & CEO of "Shiki Properties", on the topic of Kyoto & Kansai's hospitality properties market, boutique hotels, & winter resorts - what's happening in the market, what are people buying, and what SHOULDN'T they invest in?
Resort in Chiba, Near Beach & Golf Course
We speak to a very motivated seller, just about to put his complex on the market, in up-market, picturesque, Chiba prefecture, near world-famous surfing beach Ichinomiya - check out the goods!
Tokyo VS Kawasaki VS Yokohama - Where Should I Buy?
In this conversation with a foreigner-friendly, bi-lingual realtor based in Tokyo, we analyze Japan's property market from a foreign buyer's perspective, discuss women in the real estate industry in Japan, and do a deep dive on the various areas in and around Tokyo - which are the best to purchase in?
New Regulations for Japan's Short Term Stay Property Market
We got together with JREP members Tracey and Emil for a conversation on current trends and developments, including new regulations and compliance requirements, for Japan's short term stay property operators - how to avoid getting into trouble with the local ward office, who are some of the new guest profiles you should be catering to, and much, much more.
AMAZING Nagano Onsen Resort
In this very special episode, we get together with Matt Ketchum from @AkiyazJapan for a look at a very unique property, available for purchase, which will provide the right buyer with a truly unique opportunity - what can be done with such a magnificent property? Who is it right for? What could they do with it? Join us as we explore all options & lay out the path to make this dream become a real
How to Move to & Start a Real Estate Business in Japan
A conversation with an entrepreneurial young Canadian guy, who's looking to relocate to Japan and start a hospitality management business in the Japanese country side. He has many questions...
JRE Summit Reviews & survey responses
The JREP crew got together to review your feedback of the JRE summit, which took place in April, in Tokyo and online. What did you like, what didn't you like, and what's going to change in the next events?
How to (NOT?) Buy a Japanese Holiday Home
We speak to a first time buyer, in the market for a super cheap holiday home - and then to an old "Japan hand" who's bought here for the very first time - and has a cautionary tale to share!
Everyone loves free stuff... and cats!
Shu Matsuo Post & Brett Lee's presentation at the Japan Real Estate Summit, Spring 2026
The autumn session will take place on 17-18th October, 2026 - subscribe & watch this space for the official announcement, early-bird discounted tickets registration, and list of speakers for the next event!
Buy Smart: The Fundamentals of Choosing the Right Home in Tokyo
Emil Gorgees' presentation at the Japan Real Estate Summit, Spring 2026
The autumn session will take place on 17-18th October, 2026 - subscribe & watch this space for the official announcement, early-bird discounted tickets registration, and list of speakers for the next event!
2026 Update - Non-Residents Can Now Finance Condo Units
Alicia Qin Wang's presentation at the Japan Real Estate Summit, Spring 2026
The autumn session will take place on 17-18th October, 2026 - subscribe & watch this space for the official announcement, early-bird discounted tickets registration, and list of speakers for the next event!
Avoid Tax Unknown Unknowns in Japan
Ben Tanaka's presentation at the Japan Real Estate Summit, Spring 2026
The autumn session will take place on 17-18th October, 2026 - subscribe & watch this space for the official announcement, early-bird discounted tickets registration, and list of speakers for the next event!
Japan Real Estate Property AI Analyzer Demo
Ziv Nakajima-Magen demonstrates a new AI powered property analyzer system.
The autumn session of the JRE summit will take place on 17-18th October, 2026 - subscribe & watch this space for the official announcement, early-bird discounted tickets registration, and list of speakers for the next event!
Deal Dynamics
Cultural expectations and operational realities shape cross-border property transactions in Japan. Through real-world scenarios - including documentation, payment, logistics, and investment timelines - this session reveals where friction occurs and how aligning expectations helps deals close smoothly.
The autumn session will take place on 17-18th October, 2026 - subscribe & watch this space for t
Due Diligence or Disaster
What Every Minpaku Investor Must Understand Before Buying in Japan.
The autumn session will take place on 17-18th October, 2026 - subscribe & watch this space for the official announcement, early-bird discounted tickets registration, and list of speakers for the next event!
Japan Real Estate Experts Panel 2 - JRE Summit, Spring 2026
All summit speakers joined two open Q&A sessions - last summit day session here.
The autumn session will take place on 17-18th October, 2026 - subscribe & watch this space for the official announcement, early-bird discounted tickets registration, and list of speakers for the next event!
Japan Real Estate Experts Panel 1 - JRE Summit, Spring 2026
All summit speakers joined two open Q&A sessions - first summit day session here.
The autumn session will take place on 17-18th October, 2026 - subscribe & watch this space for the official announcement, early-bird discounted tickets registration, and list of speakers for the next event!
Creating Value
How to make something out of (close to) nothing, with strategic property acquisition & management, and away from familiar, routine distribution models.
The autumn session will take place on 17-18th October, 2026 - subscribe & watch this space for the official announcement, early-bird discounted tickets registration, and list of speakers for the next event!
Beyond Investment & Incorporation – the Yen Loans Offer
Mark & Wyatt break down "Yen Loans" financing product for non-resident buyers – finance your holiday home, AirBnb property, or leverage your existing portfolio for any project, real-estate related or otherwise.
The autumn session will take place on 17-18th October, 2026 - subscribe & watch this space for the official announcement, early-bird discounted tickets registration, and list of speakers f
Beyond Short Term Stays: Scaling into 10–20 Room Boutique Hotels
As the STR market matures, the next frontier is the 10–20 room boutique hotel—blending guesthouse intimacy with professional hotel features. This session provides a "boots on the ground" guide to navigating this transition, drawing on active knockdown-rebuild and remodeling projects in Kyoto.
The autumn session will take place on 17-18th October, 2026 - subscribe & watch this space for the offici
How to Plan for a Successful Renovation in Japan?
The dos and don'ts of renovations in Japan. Blanka shares the 2026 Japanese playbook to help you ensure your projects are done on time and budget.
The autumn session will take place on 17-18th October, 2026 - subscribe & watch this space for the official announcement, early-bird discounted tickets registration, and list of speakers for the next event!
How to Buy a Holiday Condo in Japan?
We speak to an Hawaiian couple who are about to buy a holiday condo in one of Japan's major cities - here's what they need to know.
Multi-Unit Investment strategy & Hybrid Hokkaido Holiday Homes
Two back to back conversations - one with a Canadian investor interested in multi-unit building investments, and one with a couple looking for a holiday home in Hokkaido that they can also rent out for short-term stays. We review the best strategies they should be following.
First time Investors - Buying a Holiday Home in Hokkaido
Two back to back conversations with first time buyers in Japan - one wanting to invest in a tier 1 or 2 city - the others looking for a holiday condo in snowy Hokkaido - here's what they should be thinking about!
Family, holiday & hybrid homes in Japan
We speak to three buyers, each in the market for different reasons - the first is looking for a modern family home - the second for a holiday home/ Akiya - and the third at a potential hybrid/ short term stay rental property.
They each have different budgets, different considerations, and different locations in mind - what should their approach to this first purchase consider?
Running a Profitable Investment Real Estate Portfolio in Japan
Two back to back conversations - one with a Japan based, experienced investor, and one with a first-time, non-resident would-be investor - what lessons could the former teach the latter?
LAUNCHED!!! The Japan Real Estate Property Investment AI Analysis Tool
Thrilled to announce our brand new, AI/ Ziv powered JRE Investment Analysis tool!!!
Buy Holiday Home or Invest in Japan?
We speak to an old "Japan Hand" who isn't sure if she wants to buy a holiday home - or an investment property. Which path should she take? What should she be thinking about?
Living In & Running an AirBnb in Japan
We speak with two buyers, one planning to purchase a new/ish Tokyo duplex, the other an old house on a remote island, who are both planning to live at the property and rent it out to short term stay guests via minpaku/ AirBnb.
What are the similarities and differences between both of these cases? What special considerations should they keep in mind? How would they each finance the purchase, and
Land Banking in Japan?
Two back to back conversations with two buyers - one in the market for a Fukuoka city holiday condo, the other for "bottom of the barrel" cheap land parcels for the purpose of land banking - does that even work in Japan???
Australian YouTuber Wants to Buy an Akiya
What should he be thinking about? What should he watch out for?
Also - two more bonus calls on the topic of Japan real estate property investments - don't go away after the first call!
Life & Business in Japan
Ziv sits down with Jeremy Laughlin of "Momentum Worldwide Movers" for a deep dive chat about all things related to life, business, and real-estate in Japan.
How to Buy & Run a Tokyo Holiday Home Rental
We speak to a Singapore family who are looking for a Tokyo holiday home that they can rent out profitably when not in use. What is the right way to approach such a purchase, what would management look like, and how can we help them?
How to Run the Numbers on My Holiday Home Purchase in Japan
Three(!) back to back conversations with first time buyers, looking to purchase and remotely manage their holiday homes in Japan - what would the numbers look like, and what are the risks?
What to Look Out for when Buying Cheap Akiya?
We speak with two first time buyers, in the market for cheap, vacant homes in Japan - what are the most important things they should be aware and cautious of during the purchase process?
New Speakers - Japan Real Estate Summit, April 2026!
In this first episode of the year, we get together with the JREP crew to talk mortgage rates in Japan, check out a renovation project - and announce the latest new speakers for the up and coming spring session of the Japan Real Estate Summit, 18-19 April, in Tokyo and online.
(Bonus second call - this buyer just landed in Japan and wants to view properties THIS WEEK - can we help them?)
How Can Non-Residents of Japan Get Financing for a Holiday Home or AirBnb Property?
We sit down with Mark Drabkin, founder of "Yen Loans" - a Tokyo-based start-up focused on providing real estate financing to foreigners in Japanese Yen - INCLUDING for holiday homes, short term stay properties and even non-real estate businesses - and all this without them having to setup a Japanese corporate structure, deal with Japanese banks and their pesky compliance requirements - and get it
What are Japan's Tenancy Laws, and What Should Investors be Aware of?
Two back to back conversations with first time buyers in Japan - the first looking to build an investment property portfolio and wondering what his rights as a landlord are - and the second looking for super-cheap akiya (abandoned/ vacant homes) in the countryside and wondering how one goes about acquiring and managing those.
Buying, Renovating & Running a Wellness Retreat in the Japanese Countryside
We speak to three young entrepreneurs and co-founders who have purchased an akiya in the Japanese countryside, renovated and turned it into a health & wellbeing retreat, and are doing it all THE RIGHT WAY (also, exclusive discount to our subscribers and viewers - get yours in the link below!)
How to Buy a Holiday Home in Japan
Two back to back conversations with clients purchasing their first property in Japan - how does it all work, how much would it cost, and how can it be rented out when not in use? Also, on the second call (starting at 48:20) - some live deal analysis and review!
How to Buy a Holiday Home in Osaka & Rent it Out when Not in Use?
We speak to an Australian couple, in the market for a holiday home in Osaka, which they're also planning to rent out on AirBnb or by the month. We break down the processes, time frames and costs involved, discuss insurance, foreign exchange transfers, and much more.
What Should I Buy as My First Japanese Investment Property?
We speak to a savvy, experienced US based investor, in the market for his first Japanese real estate property investment (and also for a holiday home) - what could his budget get him, what kind of properties should he focus on, and where in the country should he be buying?
Cheap Ski Resort Condos, Demolition & Construction - Oh My!
Two back to back conversations with potential clients - one looking for super cheap condos in Yuzawa, and the other looking to demolish an old house and build a new one - what should they be thinking about and preparing for?
Does a Hybrid Investment/ Family Home Strategy Work in Japan?
Conversation with potential client, in the market for an Osaka investment property - that will be eventually converted into a family home. Does this strategy work, and if so, how exactly? (Also - surprise interview at the end!)
Izu Family Homes, Onsen Retreats & Multi-Family Investments
Two back to back conversations with first time buyers, in the market for family homes, holiday homes & investment properties. How does it all work, how much does it all costs, and what should their first steps be?
Analysing YOUR Feedback from the JRE Summit, Autumn 2025
The JREP crew got together to review your surveys and feedback from the recent autumn session of the Japan real estate summit, 2025 - AND to give away some prizes!
Also - dates announced for the next summit, 18-19 April, 2026 - see you all there!
Experts Q&A Panel
Live Q&A experts panel at the JRE Summit, autumn 2025.
The 2025 'Buying in Japan' Field Report
Shu Matsuo Post & Brett Lee's presentation at the JRE Summit, autumn 2025.
Reviving Japan’s Akiya through Design
Anton Wormann's presentation at the JRE Summit, autumn 2025.
Basic Tax Rules for Property Investment via GK/KK
Daigo Sato's presentation at the JRE Summit, autumn 2025.
Imminent Business Manager Visa Changes
Nick Woolsey's presentation at the JRE Summit, autumn 2025.
Psychology of the Guest Experience
Rose Tipka's presentation at the JRE Summit, autumn 2025.
Sustainability & Smart Renovations
Blaka Kobayashi's presentation at the JRE Summit, autumn 2025.
Pre-Purchase Inspections: Hidden Risks in Japan’s Traditional Homes
Ziv Nakajima-Magen's presentation at the JRE Summit, autumn 2025.
Smart Micro-Investments in Hokkaido: How to Buy, Renovate & Operate
Jacob Rashidi's & "Hokkaido Hobby Homes"' presentation at the JRE Summit, autumn 2025.
Financing Your Japan Investment: Loan Access & Market Updates 2025–26
Alicia Qin Wang's presentation at the JRE Summit, autumn 2025.
From Search to Settlement: Real Stories of Buying Homes in Japan
Emil Gorgees' presentation at the JRE Summit, autumn 2025.
Maximizing Profitability in Short-Term Rentals: Property Traits That Matter
Chai Kanda's presentation at the JRE Summit, autumn 2025.
W/ Shu Matsuo Post - Investing in Multi-Family (apartment buildings) in Japan
Short interview with Shu Matsuo Post from Akiya Hub, on the differences between Akiya/ Single Family Homes & Apartment Buildings / Multi-Family Properties - AND - an exciting, special announcement for those among you who are interested in these investments!
Buying a Holiday Home in Japan for Less than $100K
Two back to back conversations with new clients - both of them looking for a holiday home in Japan under 100,000 USD - what can they get, where can they get it, and what should they be watching out for?
How to Move to, Buy/ Rent Real Estate & do Business in Japan
We talk life, business, culture, real-estate, money & the future - tune into the conversation!
Announcement - JRE SUMMIT TICKETS NOW LIVE!!!
TICKETS NOW LIVE!!! GRAB YOURS BELOW!!!
Investing & Buying a Holiday Home in Japan - Tokyo VS Countryside (Inaka)
Two back to back conversations with potential clients, both looking for investment properties - in two very different places.
Can I Buy an Akiya, Turn it into a AirBnb and Get a Visa?
Two back to back conversations with buyers who are seeking to purchase a second hand property, get a short term stay license, and leverage their investment into residency using a business manager visa. Is their plan feasible? Also - how acceptable are tattoos in Japan, and how would those influence potential business proceedings?
Buying an Investment/ Holiday Property in Fukuoka, Japan
We speak to an Australian couple who are interested in purchasing a holiday/ retirement home, but would like to rent it out for 6-8 years before they start using it themselves. Is this a good plan? What should they be aware of? What other options are available to them?
YES, Non-Residents CAN Get Investment Loans!
Emil Gorgees & Ziv Nakajima-Magen, of the JREP crew, speak to Alicia Qin Wang, who's firm, Axolotl Capital, specializes in investment loans for residents and non-residents purchasing investment properties in Japan. How does it work, who can apply, what are the terms, conditions, borrowers and property profiles?
Diamonds in the Rough
Shu Matsuo Post's breakout room session at the Japan Real Estate Summit, spring 2025 (PLUS, bonus summit commentary and an introduction to Brett Lee's main room presentation).
JRE Summit - Experts Q&A Panel - Day 2
Our speakers take the stage together for the final, most comprehensive Q&A session of the summit.
Incorporation as a Gateway to Residency
"Kansai Ben" - Kyoto's Real Estate Property Market
Chai Kanda's main room presentation at the Japan Real Estate Summit, spring 2025.
The Role of Digital Infrastructure in Revitalizing Vacant Properties
Matt Ketchum's main room presentation at the JRE Summit, spring 2025
