Opportunities in Japanese Golf Course Investment: Criteria and Considerations for Sellers
Introduction
Japanese golf courses are increasingly attracting attention from foreign asset management firms as unique and valuable investment opportunities.
With the cultural appeal and scenic landscapes of Japan, golf courses near Tokyo and Osaka present a particular interest.
Below, we outline the essential criteria sought by foreign buyers (non-Japanese buyer) interested in acquiring a golf course in these key areas.
1. Key Criteria for Golf Courses in Tokyo and Osaka
Ideal golf courses should be located within an 80-minute drive from Tokyo or Osaka city centers, ensuring convenient access for members and guests.
Buyers are prepared to invest approximately 100 million yen per hole(about U$70,000per hole), though pricing may vary depending
on the course’s condition and amenities.
2. Profitability Perspective
Profitability is not the primary focus for these foreign buyers, as many Japanese golf courses operate at a loss.
Instead, the emphasis is on long-term asset value and the distinct appeal of golf properties in Japan.
This approach suits investors who can maintain ongoing operations without depending on immediate profit returns.
3. Requirements for Operational Courses
A critical requirement for interested buyers is that the course is already operational.
This ensures continuity in management and allows for a seamless transition for both staff and clientele.
Buyers also intend to retain existing management contracts, preserving established operational agreements and member relationships.
4. Ideal Course Size and Facility Considerations
An 18-hole course is the standard preference among buyers, aligning with full-scale golf operations.
While additional facilities like on-site accommodations are desirable, they are not mandatory.
Properties without accommodations are still attractive, with buyers open to considering future development options.
5. Flexibility in Land Ownership or Leasehold
For land tenure, foreign buyers are open to either full ownership or leasehold agreements, depending on the terms.
While land ownership remains preferred, flexibility with leasehold properties expands the range of potential options,
allowing buyers to consider a variety of investment scenarios.
6. Cash Purchase – No Bank Financing Required
Notably, the buyer has secured all necessary funding for this acquisition, intending to purchase the property outright in cash.
This arrangement eliminates the need for bank financing, ensuring a straightforward transaction process with minimal delay.
Conclusion
Our firm is acting as the buying agent on behalf of a foreign asset management company actively seeking
investment opportunities in Japan’s golf course market.
If you are a seller or a brokerage with a golf course that meets the above criteria,
we invite you to get in touch.
This is an excellent opportunity to connect with a highly motivated and well-resourced international buyer prepared for a timely acquisition.
For inquiries, please contact us directly to discuss the next steps.
We look forward to exploring how we can assist you in bringing your property to an international market.
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.
About the book
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