Is buying property in Japan a good investment?

Properties in Japan generally have a history of depreciating in value, so homes in Japan often aren't seen as great investments. Where you buy is also a factor, as prices are much higher in metropolitan areas than rural locations, while you'll need to consider your own financial situation before deciding whether to buy.

What are the best websites to find properties in Japan?

Suumo, homes.co.jp, athome.co.jp and realestate.yahoo.co.jp are some of the more popular options for finding properties in Japan.

Why are houses in Japan so cheap?

One key factor is a matter of supply and demand, as some areas of Japan have an oversupply of housing options and not enough people. Redevelopment is also common in Japan, so traditionally Japanese houses have been seen to have a short lifespan - this is a result of factors such as cheap but low-quality housing built post World War II, changing construction codes and minimal restrictions on development. Houses in many areas of Japan tend to depreciate over time, so foreigners are often surprised to find that real estate prices are low.

Can you live in Japan if you buy a house?

No. Simply buying a house in Japan does not entitle you to citizenship or a residency visa. You'll need to speak to an immigration expert to find out how to get an appropriate visa.