Buying a House in Japan

21 years ago, Cathy and Ron Stockermans were inspired to take their family on an adventure abroad.. After Cathy was offered a job at a high school in Shizuoka, they, and their three sons, took the leap of faith that changed their lives. 21 years later, they sit down with Take and, one of their sons, Joey, to discuss that decision, how it shaped their lives, and how it led Joey to where he is today. From adjusting to a new culture, to inspiring Joey to stay in Japan for university, to Ron and Cathy's subsequent 15 year world journey; it all started with that decision to seek adventure. Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/akiyamart] and YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@AkiyaMa]! Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. Hosts are Take Kurosawa and Joey Stockermans. The AkiyaMart Production Team is Carlos G., Devin S., and Lukas F. Chapters: 00:00 Milk Mixup in Japan 00:52 Meet Joey's Parents 03:51 Why We Moved Abroad 08:19 Family Decision and Planning 10:02 Arriving in Numazu 13:52 First Morning Food Hunt 16:46 Trash Rules Culture Shock 18:30 Adapting to Work and School 22:14 Safety and School Questions 23:20 IB vs American Schools 24:32 English Immersion Japanese School 26:12 Cleaning Duties and Discipline 28:15 Rules Beyond Campus 28:54 Family Life and Daily Routines 30:51 Fitting In Japanese Society 33:09 Costs Banking and Living 35:14 Oldest Son Ben's Adventure 37:16 Language Growth and Friends 39:46 Leaving Japan Next Chapter 42:05 Advice and Final Wrap

On this first Dear Diary episode of 2026, Take and Joey get together to reminisce about their days studying abroad together in Tokyo and to talk about just how far the two have come since then. The guys give us a rundown of what happens at AkiyaMart and introduce us to two new products that the team hopes will remove some headaches from the purchase process and even make akiya buying just a bit more accessible. Questions? email podcast@akiya-mart.com. Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/akiyamart] and YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@AkiyaMa]! Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. Hosts are Take Kurosawa and Joey Stockermans. The AkiyaMart Production Team is Carlos G., Devin S., and Lukas F. Chapters: 00:40 Welcome Back: Dear Diary 2026 01:30 Who We Are: AkiyaMart Origin Story 08:09 How the Filthy Dorm Prepared Us for Akiyas 09:43 What We Do at AkiyaMart 10:29 AkiyaMart Direct: Our Paid Buying Program 12:14 Introducing AkiyaMart Care: Post-Purchase Utilities, Taxes, and Contractors 15:39 Mail Digitization + Pricing Breakdown: What AkiyaMart Care Costs 18:48 Introducing AkiyaMart Viewing: $250 Virtual Tours Starting in Tokyo 25:00 Why Viewings Are Hard in Japan: No Lockboxes, Seller Agents, and Low Commissions 27:51 2026 Plans: Visa Progress, Sakura Tree Dreams, and Closing Thanks 29:35 Outro: Ratings, Links, and Where to Find Us

This week Joey and Take meet up in Tokyo with Danny Wilson, a comedian and host of Tokyo Super Great Time Tokyo Podcast. Danny shares his journey of growing up in the U.S. and moving to Japan to reconnect with his roots. He discusses his career in Japanese comedy, his experiences in a prestigious Japanese comedy school, and the challenges and joys of being a bilingual comedian. The conversation touches on cultural differences, his aspirations, and the dynamics of the Japanese comedy scene.  Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 00:58 Meet Danny Wilson 06:14 Comedy in Japan vs. America 09:17 Learning Japanese Slang 15:51 Exploring Japanese Real Estate Opportunities 24:27 Life in Japan vs. the US 29:32 Advice for Aspiring Comedians and Japan Enthusiasts 31:53 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up

This week,Joey and Take visit Anton Wormann, who you may know as Anton in Japan. Anton is a renowned real estate mogul, interior designer,  and author in Tokyo. Anton shares his transformative journey from being a world-traveling model to becoming a successful property renovator in Japan. He discusses his initial cultural impressions, the challenges and triumphs of renovating old Japanese homes, and his passion for creative design. The conversation also delves into the intricacies of Japanese real estate, including the cultural nuances, bureaucracy, and his strategy for identifying undervalued properties. Additionally, Anton gives insights into his future ambitions and  provides advice for anyone looking to embark on a similar journey. Follow Anton on: YouTube: @ANTONINJAPAN Instagram: @anton.injapan www.antoninjapan.com [http://www.antoninjapan.com/] www.japandihouses.com [http://www.japandihouses.com/] www.akiyamasterclass.com [http://www.akiyamasterclass.com/] Check out Anton's book Free Houses in Japan: The True Story of How I Make Money DIY Renovating Abandoned Homes [https://www.amazon.com/Free-Houses-Japan-Renovating-Abandoned-ebook/dp/B0CJBK6H3P/] Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 00:36 Welcome to the Podcast 00:54 Meeting Anton 05:12 Anton's Journey to Japan 07:50 First Property Purchase 10:05 Renovation Challenges and Successes 15:48 Creating Content in Japan 21:25 Cultural Differences in Content Creation 28:25 Building a Business in Japan 35:43 The Reality of Japanese Housing Design 40:18 Investing in Japanese Real Estate 44:54 Addressing Japan's Population Decline 48:29 Final Thoughts and Advice

This week Joey and Take are joined at Tama Base Camp by AMD Agent Hide. Hide shares his thoughts on the state of buying an akiya, as well as his opinions on what is coming next in the space. The team talks about potential rules around foreigners buying property. and opening businesses in Japan while also giving insights on both how and why these rules may be adopted buy the Japanese government. They also touch on a potential surf house purchase that is currently out of budget, but how the guys might work with the seller to agree upon a compromise solution. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 01:03 Guest Introduction and Background 03:10 Current Real Estate Climate in Japan 06:31 Government Policies and Market Impact 15:44 Minpaku Business Insights 26:17 Exploring a Surf House in Kaifu 33:13 Rent-to-Own Possibilities 39:31 Final Thoughts and Future Prospects

Take is flying solo this week, chatting with a new guest, Devin Silvernail, an AkiyaMart Direct client  currently going through the process and our podcast editor. Devin, originally from Seattle but living in France, shares his journey starting from falling for the lush surroundings of the Shimanami Kaido bike route to taking a chance on Kanazawa's more classic and subtle charm. He also talks about the series of taking chances that has led him from Seattle to France and how a childhood love for Japan is now manifesting in the search for an akiya. Devin details the purchase process, including negotiations,  inspections, and financial logistics. The episode emphasizes the importance of studying abroad, taking chances, and how diverse cultural experiences shape life decisions. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 00:48 Welcome to the Podcast 03:03 From Policy Development to Podcast Editing 03:28 The Unexpected Move to France 05:06 The Impact of Studying Abroad 08:02 The Spark to Buy a House in Japan 12:27 The Search for a Home in Japan 15:26 Why Kanazawa? 18:43 Discovering the Perfect Property 20:21 Plans for the Property 23:51 Offer and Negotiation Process 27:45 Final Steps and Financial Tips 33:46 Conclusion and Next Steps

This week, Take and Joey sit down with AkiyaMart Direct Agent Aya Yamaguchi. Aya joins the team at Tama Base Camp to share her insights on the complexities of purchasing properties in Japan atouches on her personal experiences working with over 600 foregin. buyers in Japan. Aya shares her straightforward approach to  advising clients and offers valuable tips for those looking to buy a house in Japan. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 00:45 Welcome to the Podcast 00:59 Meet Ayana Yamaguchi 05:06 Challenges in Real Estate Transactions 09:01 Older Homes vs. Newer Homes 15:51 Yakuza Clauses in Real Estate 19:08 Guarantor Companies in Japan 21:55 Popular Areas for Foreign Buyers 27:26 Challenges and Future of Japanese Real Estate 31:55 Conclusion and Contact Information

This week, Joey and Take are joined again by Ryan Kubozono, the rep for AkiyaMart in Japan, for another installment in the coin laundry saga. Despite initial optimism and extensive planning, the deal just didn't work out. After months of waiting due to complications with the landlord , they finally heard back and the answer wasn't ideal. The team reflects on the challenges faced, lessons learned, and their strategy moving forward, including the importance of  building relationships with intermediaries and possibly exploring other unmanned business opportunities.   Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 00:47 Introduction to the Podcast 05:49 The Failed Deal 14:58 The Landlord's Rejection 19:02 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward 28:10 Considering Other Business Ventures 35:31 Building Relationships for Off-Market Deals 39:27 Learning from Setbacks 44:31 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Happy New Year from Tama Base Camp! This week, Take and Joey discuss the decision to focus on having a more suburban Tokyo retreat vs a more lively, but maybe more draining, HQ in central Tokyo. They highlight the benefits of Tama, including the space, tranquility, and amenities, along with the importance of having a reliable property  manager. They also reveal current plans for the future of Tama Base Camp and where their focus is shifting in Japan overall. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 01:46 Welcome to the Podcast 02:25 Exploring Tama Base Camp 06:02 Unlocking Local Amenities 12:25 Future Plans for Tama Base Camp 22:28 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Welcome to the last episode of 2025! This week, Joey and Take reflect on their predictions from one year ago and share their hopes for 2026. Turns out some things worked out as predicted  but not exactly in the way they thought and other things didn't materialize. However, the team had a great year overall. Their portfolio is starting to take shape. AkiyaMart is growing. The journey continues.  Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 01:51 Welcome to Our First Video Podcast 03:49 Property Highlights and Success Stories 08:20 The Nagasaki Flip: A Success Story 12:14 Otaru Property and Future Plans 16:33 Coin Laundry Business Venture 24:59 Market Dynamics and Foreign Interest 29:26 Government Policies and Their Impact 35:05 Hot Property Areas in 2025 39:47 Personal Real Estate Ventures 43:48 Wrapping Up 2025 and Looking Ahead

After 3 weeks, several ferries, and a lot driving all over Japan, from Niigata to southern Shikoku, Take and Joey sit down to recap their journey. This time, they're coming to you from the parking lot at Kochi Airport, mere minutes before Take was set to fly back to California. They recap all that has gone down in these three weeks, from the prospect of setting up tiny homes, to visiting the coin laundry in Tama, to the prospects of areas like Kochi and Kaifu. They also touch on some recent news and talk about their hopes for an upcoming trip back to Japan early next year. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. Wanna get in touch? Drop us a line at podcast@akiya-mart.com. 01:01 Podcast Welcome 13:36 Surfing in Japan: Is It Worth It? 15:15 Tiny Homes vs. Renovating AKI: Pros and Cons 19:59 Bear Attacks in Japan: A Growing Concern 22:49 Travel Tips and Favorite Moments 26:01 Upcoming Trips and Future Plans 28:17 Conclusion and Contact Information

This week, friend of the show and AkiyaMart Direct Consultant Erik drops by  to discuss his upcoming relocation to Niigata! The group covers Erik's process and the challenges of moving to Japan. Plus, he touches on the prospects of managing three houses in Japan, including his recently purchased $69 akiya. Come for the conversation, stay to hear practical advice for folks considering a similar move. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 01:20 Podcast Introduction and Guest Introductions 05:06 Exploring the New Neighborhood 12:36 Visa Application Challenges 17:39 Shipping a Classic Car to Japan 21:07 Joey's Car Adventures in Hawaii 27:48 Visa Process and Moving Preparations 30:49 Advice for Moving to Japan 32:25 Comparing Housing Options in Japan 35:46 Final Thoughts and Farewells

Take and Joey are coming to you this week from Tosashimizu in Shikoku, where they visited perhaps the most unique akiya they've ever seen: An American-Japanese hybrid style house surrounded by dense jungle with beach access.  They discuss the house's features, including Japanese tea ceremony rooms and an American kitchen imported from San Diego. The property also includes a three-car garage made from a shipping container, koi ponds, stone benches, and even a pizza oven. Most intriguing though is the home's trans-Pacific backstory. This home has been on an adventure and there's more to come for whoever purchases this property. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 00:39 Welcome to the Podcast 00:56 Exploring Kochi Prefecture 03:58 Discovering the Abandoned House 05:00 First Impressions of the House 08:12 Unique Features and Challenges 14:11 Condition and Renovation Needs 16:46 Assessing the Condition of the House 17:09 American vs. Japanese Building Standards 18:31 Renovation Plans and Costs 19:42 Exploring the Outdoor Area 27:04 Discovering the Private Beach 29:03 Final Thoughts and Recommendations 34:23 Conclusion and Contact Information

This week, Take and Joey are coming to you from Shikoku after hopping a ferry from Tokyo down to Tokushima. This time around, they cover all the recent news in Japan, from bears to the new Prime Minister. Joey shares his newfound habit of reading The Japan Times for the latest updates. They also give a detailed account of their visit to a  well-designed surf house and the unique charm and challenges of Shikoku's smaller towns.  Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 00:31 Welcome to Shikoku 04:04 Japanese News Highlights 07:56 Business Manager Visa Changes 10:45 Political Shifts in Japan 14:43 Impact of Yen Fluctuations 17:02 Trip Impressions and Ferry Experience 21:37 Exploring Kaifu and Surfing Challenges 30:40 Reflections on Shikoku and Future Plans 33:18 Wrapping Up and Call to Action

This week, Take is flying solo but he's in good company! Jon, an early AMD client, shares his story of going from akiya-curious to successfully purchasing a vacation home for his family in Kitakaruizawa. Jon details his experience and collaboration with the team from start to finish, including overcoming initial doubts, navigating the Japanese real estate process, surviving his first encounter with snow, and setting up the property as an Airbnb.  Speaking of which, you too can stay in Jon's forest retreat the next time you visit Japan [https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/1448932831315702091]! Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 01:35 The Journey to Buying a House in Japan 04:38 The Search for the Perfect Property 06:43 Choosing the Right Location 09:36 The Buying Process and Challenges 14:33 Finalizing the Purchase 19:19 First Impressions of the New Home 21:37 Exploring Rural Beauty 22:10 Arriving at the Villa 24:01 Challenges with the Cold 26:32 Insulation and Heating Solutions 29:19 Family Adventures and Future Plans 31:45 Setting Up the Airbnb 35:19 Airbnb Success and Reflections 37:16 Advice for Future Buyers 38:53 Conclusion and Gratitude

On this episode, recorded live from their home in Myoko, Take and Joey reflect on the past year in the life of the property. They discuss the challenges, half-chances, and eventual new life for this property in Myoko. If you caught last week's episode about Ikigai Collective, this week they dive a bit deeper into their plans to collaborate on the transformation of this property. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com. 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 00:48 Impressions of the Property 01:48 Background and Purchase Details 07:10 Challenges and Initial Plans 11:11 New Partnership and Future Plans 15:16 Final Thoughts and Next Steps 18:52 Conclusion and Call to Action

This week, we're joined by Mitch, the founder of Ikigai Collective, a company specializing in building luxury tiny homes. Mitch shares his journey of moving to Japan, his passion for building, and how he integrates the concept of 'Ikigai'—a Japanese philosophy meaning 'purpose for being'—into his business. Additionally, Mitch talks about his engagement with the local community, including the building of a community skate park. The episode offers a comprehensive look at the nuances of  constructing tiny homes in Japan, the importance of community engagement, and the rewarding experiences that come with pursuing one's passion. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com]. 01:07 Meet Mitch from Ikigai Collective 02:11 Building Tiny Homes in Japan 06:50 Living and Working in Nozawa Onsen 12:07 Tiny Homes as a Business 16:37 Technical Aspects of Tiny Homes 23:22 Tiny House Industry in Japan 27:10 A to Z Service for Tiny Homes 32:19 Community Involvement and Skate Park 37:08 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Coming to you from Tama Base Camp, Joey and Take welcome special guest Ryan, the representative director of AkiyaMart in Japan, to talk about what's going on with the laundromat purchase in Tama. They delve into details about the financial aspects, potential improvements, and unique challenges of the Japanese real estate and business market.  Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 00:46 Ryan's Background and Role 02:57 Navigating Business in Japan 05:14 M&A Process and Challenges 09:29 Facility and Operational Concerns 11:29 Future Plans and Improvements 14:08 Identifying the Target Customer 19:19 Financial Analysis and Lease Details 21:12 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Ken and Lan join Take and Joey to share their fascinating story of purchasing a unique house in Osaka, originally an udon shop. They dive into the challenges and emotional rollercoaster of the buying process, including the initial excitement, unexpected delays, and final resolution. The episode sheds light on the practical aspects of house hunting, the importance of patience, and the tools and resources they utilized, including AkiyaMart. Ken and Lan also discuss potential future plans for the property, hinting at a coffee shop, coin laundry, and more. From navigating real estate norms in Japan to dealing with personal setbacks, this episode is a comprehensive guide to buying property in Japan filled with insights and real-life experiences. Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://akiya-mart.com/]. 01:36 Meet Ken and Lan: Background and Professions 02:28 Ken's Experience in Osaka 04:54 Childhood Influences and Love for Japan 06:37 Ken's Passion for Cars and MMA 09:41 Choosing Osaka: Influences and Accessibility 12:27 The Property Purchase Process 26:34 Virtual Viewings and Sweaty Summers 28:08 Challenges in the Competitive Osaka Market 31:04 The Udon Shop Property Saga 33:18 The Missing Owner Mystery 38:15 A Glimmer of Hope and Finalizing the Purchase 43:01 First Impressions and Future Plans

Erik is back to share his recent success in acquiring a $69 house near Niigata [https://www.akiya-mart.com/listing/177567065?currency=usd&is-metric=false], making it his third property in the area. The hosts dive into the details of the purchase, including the challenges of double commission fees and the overall costs associated with putting the house in his name. Erik and the team discuss potential renovations, the perks of the location, and future plans for the property. They also touch on topics like the local fish market, kite surfing, and potential issues such as tsunami risks and neighboring abandoned properties. Towards the end, the conversation shifts to other real estate ventures, including a possible surf house in Shikoku and the ongoing adventures in snowboarding and kite surfing.   Buying a House in Japan is a production of AkiyaMart. Find your Japan dream home at akiya-mart.com [https://www.akiya-mart.com/]. 02:52 Understanding the $69 House Deal 03:55 Double Commission Fees Explained 06:19 Breakdown of Additional Costs 09:02 Property Details and Future Plans 11:59 Renovation and Legal Considerations 25:00 Estimating Renovation Costs 25:34 Discussing Property Condition 26:40 Siding and Structural Concerns 28:37 Tear Down Properties 29:03 Potential of the Miko Spot 30:40 Sauna Business Ideas 32:11 Mobile and Off-Grid Living 34:07 Snowboarding and Surfing Adventures 39:23 Exploring New Property Opportunities 43:28 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans