The Importance of Buying a Used Detached House
As the real estate market evolves, the availability of used detached houses has grown, offering buyers a broader range of options.
One of the key advantages of purchasing a used house is its affordability compared to new builds.
For those with limited budgets, a used property allows for lower upfront costs, freeing up funds for necessary renovations or other investments.
Additionally, used homes are often located in well-established neighbourhoods, offering a sense of community and access to existing infrastructure.
Types and Characteristics of Used Detached Houses
In Japan, wooden houses make up a significant portion of used properties.
Wooden structures are highly sought after due to their natural insulation and flexibility.
However, when buying a used wooden house, it is crucial to understand the impact of the building’s age.
Houses built after 1981, 2000, and 2009 comply with updated seismic standards, providing better safety.
Additionally, defect insurance became more common in houses built after these years,
which is an important consideration when evaluating a property’s long-term reliability.
However, properties with “type-approved” （型式認定）
building status can present difficulties when it comes to renovations,
as strict regulations may limit what can be changed or upgraded.
Characteristics of Used Detached Houses to Avoid
While some used houses present excellent opportunities, others come with significant risks.
Complex building shapes or unnecessary additions, such as large roof balconies,
often lead to higher maintenance costs and potential structural issues.
Exterior walls or roofs made of materials prone to deterioration should also be avoided,
as they can require costly repairs. Hidden damage, such as deteriorated water supply and drainage pipes,
or termite infestations, are also common problems in older homes.
These issues may not be visible during a casual viewing, making it essential to carry out a detailed inspection.
The Importance of Land in Real Estate
When buying a used house, the land itself is just as critical as the building.
Weak foundations or poorly located properties can significantly affect the value and livability of the home.
It is also essential to check for neighbouring vacant homes or problematic neighbours, as these factors can impact the property’s appeal.
Retaining walls and underground garages pose additional risks, so buyers should proceed cautiously if these features are present.
Furthermore, understanding the difference between private and public roads is crucial, as access issues can arise if the property is located on a private road.
Important Points for Property Viewing
Viewing a property once may not reveal the full picture.
The environment can change drastically depending on the time of day.
A peaceful neighborhood during the day may become noisy or unsafe at night. Similarly,
the atmosphere can differ between weekdays and weekends.
Taking the time to view the property at various times and on different days will give a more accurate sense of what living there might be like.
Key Considerations When Buying a Used Detached House
Before purchasing, it is vital to evaluate the building’s condition and identify any necessary renovations.
Buyers should also consider the future potential of the region, factoring in elements such as development plans and community growth.
Properly setting a budget and managing the purchase schedule is crucial to avoid financial strain during the process.
It’s important to note that real estate agents are not typically architects and may lack in-depth knowledge about building structures.
Therefore, it’s wise for buyers to educate themselves to recognize and avoid potential risks.
The Importance of Consulting Experts
Engaging professionals, such as builders or home inspectors, to conduct a detailed examination of the property is a smart move.
These experts can identify hidden defects that a typical buyer may miss, such as structural weaknesses or areas in need of urgent repair.
Their input can prevent costly mistakes and ensure that you are making an informed decision.
This is particularly important when considering significant investments like home renovations.
Increasing Value Through Renovation
For many buyers, the goal of purchasing a used detached house is to renovate and improve its value.
Renovations can focus on enhancing energy efficiency, modernizing the design, or addressing structural improvements.
Prioritizing renovation costs and focusing on the most critical areas will ensure that the investment adds value
to the property without overspending on unnecessary upgrades.
Conclusion
There are numerous factors to consider when purchasing a used detached house.
From hidden deterioration to land assessment, making a careful and informed decision is essential.
By consulting experts, thoroughly evaluating the property, and considering future renovation opportunities,
buyers can secure a home that fits their budget while offering long-term value and satisfaction.
Success in buying a used home comes down to careful planning, thorough research, and, ultimately,
making decisions with the future in mind.
Toshihiko Yamamoto – Founder and Lead Broker, Yamamoto Property Advisory
Toshihiko Yamamoto is the founder and principal broker of Yamamoto Property Advisory,
a distinguished real estate brokerage in Tokyo that specializes in luxury residential and investment properties for an international clientele.
His firm caters to discerning investors seeking premier properties for personal use and income-generating whole buildings for investment purposes.
A licensed real estate broker in Japan, Mr. Yamamoto holds an MBA from Bond University in Australia
and a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation from the CCIM Institute in the United States.
His extensive international experience, having lived abroad in Australia and the United Kingdom, equips him
with a nuanced understanding of global real estate trends and the unique needs of foreign investors.
With over two decades of experience in international business, Mr. Yamamoto has successfully conducted business with clients from more than 20 countries.
As a seasoned property investor himself, he provides informed guidance to his clients as they navigate the intricacies
of the Japanese real estate market to secure optimal investments.
Discover more in his book, “The Savvy Foreign Investor’s Guide to Japanese Properties: How to Expertly Buy, Manage,
and Sell Real Estate in Japan,” available on Amazon, iBooks, and Google Play.
Connect with us through social media on Instagram, WhatsApp, and LINE for further information and expert assistance.
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