Buying a Home as a Non-Japanese: Key Japanese Terms Explained (No Jargon)
When you start house hunting in Japan, you will hear certain words repeatedly. This guide translates the most common terms you will see in listings, documents, and discussions with a seller, broker, or lawyer—so you can ask the right questions and understand what you are agreeing to.
Core terms you will encounter early
- Viewings
- A viewing. You are visiting the property to check layout, light, condition, and noise. Bring a checklist and confirm what is included (appliances, fixtures, parking).
- Important Matters Explanation Document (jūyō jikō setsumeisho)
- A key statement provided before a contract. It summarizes important matters affecting the property and transaction, such as constraints, rights, and disclosures. Don’t treat this as “just paperwork.” Ask for plain-language explanations.
- Contract (keiyaku)
- The contract itself. In Japan, timing and procedures are strict. Confirm the exact schedule for deposit, signing, and completion so there are no surprises.
- Hand payment (te-tsuke-kin)
- A deposit paid when you commit. Understand what happens if conditions change, and how the deposit is treated if you proceed or withdraw. This is one of the terms where clarification protects you.
- Registration (tōki)
- Registration in the real property registry. Ownership and certain rights are reflected through registration records. Your lawyer or professional can help you verify what will be transferred and what should be checked before closing.
- Fixed Asset Tax (kotei shisan zei)
- Fixed asset tax. It is typically an annual local tax related to property. It affects your ongoing budget, so request recent assessments and payment timing during your planning.
Contract documents: what to ask for
Even if you plan to use a specialist, you should know what to request. Look for the disclosures tied to the property’s legal and practical status, and confirm who is responsible for each item before you sign.
- Important Matters Explanation Document (jūyō jikō setsumeisho) — confirm the sections that apply to your case and ask for examples that match your property.
- Sales and Purchase Agreement (bai-baikeiyaku-sho) — the purchase agreement. Review clauses about delivery, condition, penalties, and whether anything must be corrected before completion.
- Diagram (zumen) — diagrams/plans. Ask whether dimensions and boundaries match what you physically observe while viewing.
- Management Regulations (kanri-kiyaku) — building/community rules for condominiums. If your home is in an association, the rules may affect pets, renovations, and daily use.
A practical question checklist (use in meetings)
Timeline
When is the deposit due, when is signing, and when is ownership transfer?
Costs
What ongoing taxes and fees apply after you move in?
Disclosures
Which statements in the disclosure document matter most for your decision?
Condition
Are there repairs, maintenance items, or restrictions that must be addressed first?
If any term is unclear, ask for it in writing and request a translation-style explanation. Good guidance reduces the risk of misunderstanding contract timing and responsibilities.
Tip: If you want the next step in plain language, you can review the end-to-end process and documents before you sign. See #article-content for the terms above.