Purchasing a Property in Japan #2 - A Personal

Once you have identified a piece of land that is not associated with a specific house maker or have multiple land options where house makers are committed to a land, you can request a quotation from each house maker. This step is crucial for determining if the budget aligns with your requirements. It's important to note that some house makers may be more expensive than others, each with its own strengths and selling points. In my case, I prioritised functionalities and technologies over price or material when selecting a house maker, aiming for a long-term ownership. House makers may offer budget-friendly, prepackaged, or custom design options, each with varying costs.

When discussing your budget with house makers, it's essential to communicate your requirements clearly. Some may inform you upfront if your budget doesn't align with your requests. Keep in mind that prices typically increase as you finalise more details. For example, kitchen units can be quite expensive, and allocating funds accordingly is essential. In my case, investing in high-quality toilets was a priority for my household. 

Installing solar panels is often necessary these days, but costs vary depending on the size of the system and the house maker's pricing. I requested estimates from each house maker to determine the impact on our electricity bill. 

Floor heaters are also common in Japan, but expenses vary based on size and house maker. After consulting with several house makers, I discovered that water pipe systems heated with gas were the most efficient, as electric panel heaters tend to dry out rooms.

When selecting a house maker, it's crucial to consider maintenance and running costs. Certain materials, such as exterior walls, require periodic maintenance, which can impact long-term expenses. Additionally, factors like roof maintenance and gutter cleaning must be considered, as these tasks often require scaffolding and additional costs.

During the initial quotation process, house makers assess land conditions to determine the most suitable underground facilitation methods, which can impact overall house costs.

Preparing Your Wish List…

When creating your wish list, consider the size and layout of each room (LDK), the number and size of bedrooms, and any additional rooms you may need, such as an office or guest room. Utility rooms for daily housework and parking space requirements should also be specified. If you own bicycles, ensure there's adequate storage space. Providing details about your desired garden features will help house makers estimate its size for the quotation.

Each house's land has a building coverage ratio, typically around 40% in my area (south Ibaraki), and a floor-area ratio of approximately 80%. However, these ratios may vary depending on local council regulations, which also dictate factors like house height and fence height.

Once you receive quotations from house makers, carefully review what is included. While some may provide estimates for items like kitchens, wallpapers, and toilets, ensure you understand which specific materials and features are included. Keep in mind that model houses often showcase top materials or expensive options, so manage your expectations accordingly.

If you have specific ideas for kitchen units, consider showing images to house makers and inquire if they can accommodate your preferences. Some house makers may offer flexibility depending on your budget.

As you receive quotations and narrow down your options, you're one step closer to the exciting phase of personalisation! Remember that each selection you make will impact your budget, so maintaining a buffer is essential for making informed decisions during the personalisation process.

The process involves several steps that also root you deeper in Japan, enriching your experience of living in Japan.