When we hear the term akiya (空き家), often translated as “abandoned house,” we imagine a building left vacant, sold at a ridiculously low price, or even given away for free. While such cases do exist, the general perception of akiya is misleading. In reality, when an akiya is listed for sale with a price, it is typically considered a second-hand property (chuko jutaku, 中古住宅). Understanding this distinction is essential for anyone interested in investing in Akiya in Japan. This distinction is especially important for both domestic and international buyers exploring the Japanese real estate market.

An akiya refers to any vacant house, regardless of its condition or ownership status. According to the Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, approximately 8.5 million housing units were classified as akiya in 2018. This number is expected to increase. These properties are generally divided into two categories:

Real estate listings, especially on akiya banks, list homes priced from a few hundred thousand to several million yen. Once a house has a sale price, it is no longer technically an abandoned house, but rather a second-hand property (chuko jutaku).

This is a key distinction, as these homes follow the same procedures as any other pre-owned property in Japan: normal transactions, inspections, and legal transfer of ownership. The term akiya is sometimes used as a marketing ploy, giving the impression of finding a unique opportunity when they actually function like older properties. Buyers should exercise the same vigilance as with any other pre-owned home.

Several factors explain these low prices:

If you are considering purchasing an akiya, here are some essential precautions:

The idea that akiyas are free or abandoned houses is often an oversimplification. A priced akiya is, first and foremost, a second-hand property and should be treated as such. While the market offers opportunities, it is crucial to understand Japanese real estate practices, property depreciation, and local regulations. Rather than chasing the myth of abandoned houses, it is best to approach the purchase of an akiya as a traditional real estate investment, with careful analysis and proper preparation.