Episodios
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Take and Joey first launched AkiyaMart in early 2023. Now with over a year of experience under their belt, they discuss their top 8 priorities for the year, including website improvements, native listings, and growing the team!
00:00 Introduction
00:41 Japanâs *second* best onsen.
05:20 Scaling AkiyaMart
06:35 Improving AkiyaMart Direct
09:29 A new service: AkiyaStay
10:37 Learning to sell Japanese homes
12:09 Website improvements
15:48 Listings for Japanese sellers
18:26 2025âs real estate strategy
21:02 Legitimizing a business in both the US and Japan
22:36 Bonus: How the Japanese say ânoâ
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In this episode, Take and Joey reflect on their journeys around southern Japan, including Nagasaki, Kagoshima, and Yakushima. Between nearly missing a ferry ride and getting accosted in a seaside onsen, they also saw some of the most stunning landscapes in the country and secured their fifth akiya purchase. With a greater understanding of the state of Japan outside the major cities, they give their thoughts on the opportunityâor lack thereofâin the countryside.
00:00 Introduction
01:29 An empty hotel on Yakushima island
02:32 Buying a 5th Akiya + Our plans for the property
07:33 Thoughts on Nagasaki⊠and Champon
09:38 Nearly missing a ferry ride
13:01 Yakushima - The inspiration for âPrincess Mononokeâ
13:58 An awkward onsen experience
16:56 Protective locals, difficult banks, and other struggles to buy as a foreigner
19:03 Can foreigners revitalize abandoned businesses?
20:29 Akiya Mondai (âThe Akiya Problemâ) - Causes and local opinions
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¿Faltan episodios?
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As a high schooler, Shu Matsuo left Japan for the United States with no desire to return. Today, Shu and his business partner Brett Lee are âall inâ on Japan. In this episode, Shu and Brett share their personal and professional reasons for leaving the US, their newly-launched AkiyaHub service, critical tips for first-time buyers, and most importantly, who should (and shouldnât) buy a Japanese home.
00:00 Introduction + Shu & Brettâs newly-launched AkiyaHub
05:32 ROI difference in US vs. Japanese real estate
08:51 Going âall inâ on Japan
14:37 Cost of living comparisons (US vs. Japan)
15:43 The right kind of person to buy a Japanese home
22:29 How much should I expect to spend on a home?
22:31 Dream homes
24:58 Tips for first timers
28:37 Current Japanese real estate market trends
31:29 Should I wait for things to get cheaper?
32:58 Respecting local sensibilities
33:54 Lessons to learn in addressing the Akiya problem
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In this episode of the Buying a House in Japan podcast, the hosts welcome their friend Fumi, who has been crucial in managing their Beppu hot spring rental project. They discuss the various challenges they've faced, primarily focusing on their contractor, referred to as Sato-san, who has been unreliable and problematic. Fumi shares her experiences and the difficulties encountered in coordinating with Sato-san, including his numerous excuses and financial troubles. The hosts and Fumi also contemplate the future of the project, considering a new contractor, Mizobe-san, for the next phase of renovations. The episode ends with reflections on the lessons learned and the next steps forward.
00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
00:21 Meet Fumi: Our Beppu Project Partner
00:59 Fumi's Background and Connection to Beppu
02:43 The Sato San Saga Begins
04:00 First Impressions of Sato San
07:24 Red Flags and Concerns
09:15 Sato San's Disappearing Act
13:18 The Final Straw: Sato San's Vanishing Act
20:49 The Mysterious Message
21:07 Speculations and Suspicions
21:45 Evaluating Sato San's Work
22:31 Project Phase One Complete
22:44 The Rise and Fall of Sato San
23:44 Planning for Phase Two
25:27 Introducing Misobe San
27:58 Deciding on Renovations
37:03 Reflecting on Lessons Learned
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In this episode of the Buying a House in Japan podcast, hosts Joey and Take celebrate their move into their new Jisoji Lux Chill Lounge. They discuss the impact of inflation in Japan, sharing personal experiences of rising prices at their favorite local restaurants. They also dive into various modes of transportation in the country, comparing the benefits and challenges of ferries, driving, Shinkansen, and flights. The duo touches on their ongoing real estate ventures, including the challenges of renovating and renting out multiple properties, and introduce an exciting Bitcoin transaction plan for a property in Nagasaki. They aim to make the real estate process smoother and more accessible for foreigners.
00:00 Introduction and New Recording Space
02:26 Inflation in Japan: Personal Experiences
12:05 Exploring Transportation in Japan
18:02 Switching Gears: Renovation Stress and Mortgage Pressure
19:40 The Reality of Property Investments
21:21 Challenges in Renovating and Renting Properties
22:30 Exploring New Business Opportunities
29:50 The Nagasaki Bitcoin Property Experiment
35:24 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Plans
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In this episode of the 'Buying a House in Japan' podcast, hosts discuss their recent activities and ongoing efforts to complete their home in Beppu with their elusive contractor, 'Sato san.' They recount their experiences since arriving in Japan, including tackling DIY home improvements, organizing furniture deliveries, and handling multiple construction setbacks. They also touch on upcoming episodes featuring interviews with notable figures like Shu Matsuo and an ambitious project to facilitate Bitcoin real estate transactions in Japan. Despite the trials, the hosts remain optimistic and driven to see their projects through.
00:00 Mysterious Disappearances and Podcast Introduction
00:34 First Days in Japan: Ramen and House Setup
01:21 House Improvements and Challenges
03:31 Busy Days: Meetings and Collaborations
05:14 Akiya Mart Direct: Streamlining Real Estate
07:25 Sato San: The Unpredictable Contractor
13:27 Unexpected Encounters and Generosity
13:49 Doubts and Disappearances
14:40 Financial Struggles and Project Delays
15:26 Quality of Work and Final Requests
16:09 Predictions and Preparations
17:14 The Saga of Sato San
19:14 Future Plans and Reflections
23:50 Bitcoin Transactions in Japan
26:34 Final Thoughts and Farewell
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Navigating Property Purchases and Utilities in Japan with Mailmate
Link to MailMate: https://mailmate.jp/In this episode of the 'Buying a House in Japan' podcast, host Take welcomes John Cross, the founder of Mailmate, to discuss essential services for foreigners purchasing property in Japan. They delve into the importance of having local support to avoid missteps in areas such as setting up utilities and handling tax representations. John explains how Mailmate provides a virtual mailbox service that facilitates receiving and paying bills online, simplifies the setup of utilities, and offers additional services like tax representation and local coordination. Emphasizing the cultural nuances and challenges, the discussion highlights the 'Akiya Mate' package collaboration between Mailmate and Akiya Mart, designed to streamline these processes for foreign property owners in Japan.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:43 Meet John Cross: Founder of Mailmate
01:20 John's Journey in Japan
02:15 What is Mailmate?
03:27 Navigating Japanese Bureaucracy
07:10 Tax Representation in Japan
09:27 Challenges of Opening a Bank Account
13:06 Setting Up Utilities in Japan
18:46 Supporting Insurance Premium Payments
19:00 Handling Management Fees and Local Bank Transfers
19:17 Limitations on Payments for Owners Abroad
20:44 Setting Up Utilities and Internet Services
22:22 Mailmate's Can-Do Attitude
24:18 Rapid Fire: Can Do or Can't Do
27:28 Mailmate's Expertise and Services
30:00 Akiya Mate Package Collaboration
31:32 Onboarding Process and KYC Requirements
33:18 Why Choose Mailmate?
34:15 Contact Information and Closing Remarks
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Dean shares his experiences buying a house in Japan, highlighting the affordability compared to the U.S., the process of finding and purchasing the property, and the renovations needed. He also discusses navigating cultural differences, the importance of community respect, and future plans for his new home. Dean's journey includes working with AkiyaMart agents, handling money transfers, and preparing the house for his arrival. His advice includes the importance of organization, embracing local customs, and thorough research for potential buyers.
More about Dean:
YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@DoinStuff4LifeGEEZAH - https://open.spotify.com/artist/5RXGnzIEj76ITQnrtshSwm?si=9Jv2Ya_FRVijQTN7goK_rg
Luna Flare (all AI Kpop band) - https://open.spotify.com/artist/6QjJf3mLuca8U715sxeHvX?si=MPPaGd8HQ1uxqyoQC0w4aw
Goliath - (AI Death Metal band) - https://open.spotify.com/artist/03FmZa0ifsR9T18sv9XgW8?si=ynP6eockQfWcQsWTyc2gOg
Retronation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/retronation2019Retronation IG - https://www.instagram.com/retronation_games/
00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks
00:53 Meet the Guest: Dean's Background
02:09 Life in LA and Fire Evacuation Experience
03:36 Fascination with Japan
05:44 The Journey to Buying a House in Japan
08:24 Finding the Perfect Property
13:02 Challenges and Finalizing the Purchase
24:30 Finding the Perfect Interior Designer
24:45 Navigating the New Neighborhood
25:38 First Impressions of the New Home
26:23 Settling In and Setting Up
30:44 Plans for the Future
33:18 Building Community Relations
38:55 Cost of Living and Financial Insights
40:21 Advice for Prospective Buyers
42:43 Looking Ahead: Future Plans
44:23 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
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The podcast discusses AI's role in starting modern businesses, emphasizing the importance of personal branding and long-form content for customer trust. The hosts welcome back Joey, who recovered from a flu, and explore topics like Trump's impact on American immigration trends to Japan, tariffs, rising interest in Japanese real estate, and upcoming off-market deals, including a samurai compound. The conversation also touches on challenges and opportunities in Japanese tech, AI integration in development, and leveraging AI to enhance user experience. The episode wraps up with plans for an upcoming trip to Japan and a potential Bitcoin property sale.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Discussion
00:57 Welcoming Joey Back
02:12 Impact of Trump's Election on Real Estate
03:46 Analyzing Website Traffic and User Data
07:46 Visa and Immigration Considerations
08:59 Trump's Tariffs and Economic Implications
15:47 Exploring Samurai Property Deal
20:28 Challenges and Opportunities in Japanese Tech
24:11 The Unusual Coffee Incident
24:44 Transitioning to AI in Business
25:14 AI's Impact on Coding and Productivity
27:21 Challenges and Cautions with AI
28:27 Memories and Reflections
29:00 AI in Product Development
33:22 Improving Descriptions with AI
39:35 Translation Issues and Solutions
42:38 Upcoming Plans and Crypto Ventures
43:43 Final Thoughts and Farewell
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Joey and Take welcome guests Rob and Naomi, who share their journey of buying a house in Okayama, Japan. As third-generation Japanese Americans, they discuss their quest to reconnect with estranged family members and their reasons for choosing Okayama. The couple recounts their experience with the property search, the smooth buying process, and working with agents Ron and Hida. They also talk about neighborhood impressions, future plans, and challenges like finding relatives and learning to navigate local logistics.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:43 Rob and Naomi's Family Background
03:48 Journey to Reconnect with Family
06:58 The Decision to Buy a House in Japan
10:54 Property Search and Purchase Process
16:28 Contract Negotiations and Owner's Conditions
17:36 Neighborhood Impressions and First Encounters
19:10 Exploring the New Home
19:58 Cost and Budget Considerations
20:37 Adjusting to Life in Japan
21:40 Navigating Car Ownership in Japan
25:24 Future Plans and Family Involvement
28:03 Advice for Aspiring Akiya Buyers
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In this episode of the 'Buying a House in Japan' podcast, Joey and Take discuss their experiences with renovating multiple properties in Japan. They highlight the pros and cons of using individual contractors versus larger companies and stress the importance of having a local fixer to manage projects. The hosts reflect on their various renovation projects, focusing on properties in Beppu, Tokyo, Kitakyushu, Myoko, and Nagasaki, sharing lessons learned and practical tips for successfully navigating home renovations in Japan.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup
00:59 Renovation Experiences and Challenges
02:32 Contractor Comparisons and Lessons Learned
06:59 Tokyo Property and Finding Local Help
17:13 Painting and Contractor Quotes
20:30 Roof Painting Considerations
20:59 Challenges with Home Inspections and Renovations
21:25 Dealing with Extreme Summer Heat
22:05 Insulation and Contractor Issues
27:46 Exploring Budget Specialist Contractors
30:00 Kitakyushu Long Term Rental Update
30:14 Exciting Miyoko Snow Cabin Project
34:29 Nagasaki Property Acquisition
36:43 Final Tips and Upcoming Japan Trip
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In the inaugural episode of 2025, Kurt Bell, aka @softypapa, shares his journey of retiring and buying a house in Japan. The discussion covers his transition back to Japan, overcoming the challenges of moving pets, and ultimately securing a home in Shizuoka Prefecture, thanks to AkiyaMart. Kurt also delves into the importance of due diligence in both retiring and purchasing property in Japan. He highlights his extensive research and practical considerations, offering invaluable insights for those looking to follow a similar path.
00:00 Introduction to Buying a House in Japan
00:26 Meet Kurt Bell: A Journey to Japan
01:15 Kurt's Background and Family Story
02:40 The Decision to Move Back to Japan
04:29 Challenges and Considerations in Buying Property
09:29 The Dream of Owning a Traditional Japanese House
11:32 The Reality Check: House Inspections and Costs
17:12 The Final Decision: Choosing the Right Home
22:22 The Process of Moving Pets to Japan
28:22 Challenges of Moving to Japan
28:46 Choosing the Right Pet Shipper
29:54 The Emotional Journey of Pet Relocation
30:27 House Hunting in Japan
33:12 Finding the Perfect Home
41:10 Navigating Financial and Legal Aspects
47:05 Final Thoughts and Advice
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In this post-Christmas episode, the hosts discuss cultural Christmas differences, recent property updates, including challenges with their Kitakyushu and Tokyo suburban rentals. They share insights on long-term rental management, cost-effective renovations, and landscaping efforts. Updates on their Myoko snow cabin and predictions for 2025 round out the episode, reflecting on their growth and future plans.
00:00 Introduction and Christmas in Japan
01:17 Throwing a Party in Tokyo
01:55 Updates on Kyushu Property
05:40 Challenges with Long-Term Rentals
14:07 Exploring Off-Market Deals
16:19 Tokyo Suburban Midterm Rental
18:04 Garden Rock Dilemma
19:19 Introducing Josh the Gardener
19:51 Finding a Property Manager
23:16 Tokyo Suburban Midterm Rental
24:12 Insulation Challenges
26:49 Snow Cabin Update
30:56 Reflecting on 2024
31:52 Looking Ahead to 2025
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In this episode of the 'Buying a House in Japan' podcast, hosts Take and Joey welcome back Erik B, who shares his recent experiences of purchasing and visiting a house in Niigata, Japan. The discussion covers the logistics of transferring money, setting up utilities, dealing with local banking issues, and receiving help from friendly neighbors. Erik also touches on the challenges of obtaining local services, renovating the house, and the peculiarities of the Japanese real estate and car buying process, all while highlighting the warmth and support of the local community.
00:00 Introduction and Butterfly Pee
00:29 Welcoming Erik B
01:09 Recap of Previous Episode
01:53 Challenges with Money Transfers
03:30 First Impressions of the House
03:44 Settling into the New Home
08:21 Meeting the Neighbors
11:41 Exploring the Neighborhood
13:57 House Renovation Plans
24:07 Challenges and Hurdles
26:14 Cleaning and Renovating the House
27:01 Beth's Experience in Japan
29:23 Dealing with Leftover Items
31:52 Plans for the Property
33:22 Car Buying Process in Japan
34:34 Setting Up Utilities and Internet
45:36 Final Thoughts and Advice
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In this episode, Joey and Take recap their journey of buying and managing five properties in Japan over the past year, including their Beppu Hot Springs short term rental, Tokyo Suburb midterm rental, Kitakyushu long term rental, and Myoko Snow Cabin. They also share insights into the challenges and learning experiences such as dealing with contractors, the importance of insulation, and their innovative approach to property investment. Finally, they discuss their plans for the newest acquisition in Nagasaki and express gratitude to their listeners.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:58 Property Recap: Beppu Hot Springs Short Term Rental
07:33 Property Recap: Tokyo Suburb Midterm Rental
16:38 Property Recap: KitaKyushu Long Term Rental
19:26 Investor Mindset in Japanese Property Renovation
19:44 Learning from Keaton's Approach
21:02 Negotiation Strategies for Property Deals
22:41 Kitakyushu Long-Term Rental Insights
23:26 Introducing the Miyoko Snow Cabin
24:16 Securing the Myoko Property
25:30 Exploring the Unique Aspects of Miyoko
27:13 Future Plans for Miyoko Snow Cabin
29:34 Nagasaki Beach House Opportunity
34:43 Reflecting on Property Investments
36:28 Closing Remarks and Future Prospects
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Japan Remotely Website: https://japanremotely.com/
In this episode, Joey and Take return from their podcast break and introduce Nick from Japan Remotely. The discussion focuses on the simplest ways to move to Japan, emphasizing student visas, the JET program, and digital nomad visas. Nick shares his journey to Japan and provides insights into the startup and business manager visas. He explains the steps needed to start a business in Japan, emphasizing the importance of having a solid business plan and capital. Nick also offers practical advice for those planning to move to Japan and start a business in the next year.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back
00:50 Special Guest: Nick from Japan Remotely
03:32 Nick's Journey to Japan
06:25 Understanding Japan Remotely Services
06:51 Visa Options: Startup vs Business Manager
09:07 Entry-Level Jobs and the JET Program
21:41 Digital Nomad Visa and Housing Market
27:16 Does the Digital Nomad Visa Help with Other Visas?
27:46 Crafting a Compelling Visa Narrative
30:44 Buying Property in Japan: Visa Implications
32:02 Challenges and Strategies for Long-Term Visas
34:37 Understanding Business Manager and Startup Visas
38:08 Capital Requirements and Business Plans
43:26 Startup Visa vs. Business Manager Visa
51:11 Final Advice for Prospective Japan Residents
54:11 Contact Information and Closing Remarks
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Buying a Home in Japan: A Success Story with Justin Wong
House bought: https://www.akiya-mart.com/listing/27492270?currency=usd&is-metric=false
In this episode of the 'Buying a House in Japan Podcast,' host Take interviews Justin, an early Akiyamart direct customer. Justin shares his experience of purchasing a house in Nara for $30K, highlighting the challenges and surprises of navigating the Japanese property market as a foreigner. They discuss Justin's motivations, the process, and tips for others considering a similar investment. Despite some hurdles, such as a high earthquake-proofing estimate, Justin's story is an inspiring example of finding an affordable home in Japan.
00:00 Exploring a Haunted House
00:20 Introduction to the Podcast
00:35 Meet Justin Wong
00:49 Justin's Journey to Japan
01:20 The Japanese Housing Market
01:44 Finding AkiyaMart
05:21 Justin's House in Nara
09:55 The Buying Process
13:27 Home Inspection Insights
15:41 Finalizing the Purchase
18:38 First Impressions of the New Home
19:02 Flying from Tokyo to Osaka: A Cost Comparison
19:41 First Impressions of the New House
20:08 Challenges of Moving In
20:55 Exploring the Neighborhood
21:53 Adjusting to the New Home
26:45 Money Transfer Process for Buying Property in Japan
28:24 Future Plans for the House
28:31 Earthquake Proofing Dilemma
33:08 Advice for Prospective Akiya Buyers
37:24 Taking the Leap: Buying a House Unseen
38:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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In this episode, the hosts wrap up their 10-day content creation spree across Japan and share 10 key insights from their experiences. They discuss their intensive schedule, including meetings with agents, checking out properties, and attending conferences. Key insights include observations about Japan's beauty, opportunities for foreigners, the abundance of empty houses, economic challenges, falling behind technologically, swindling experiences, the convoluted rental market, and opportunities in smaller cities like Beppu. The episode concludes with their reflections and gratitude for the journey.
00:00 Introduction and Trip Recap
01:03 Journey Through Japan: Highlights and Challenges
03:15 10 Insights from Our Japan Experience
03:43 Insight 1: Japan's Beauty and Infrastructure
04:42 Insight 2: Opportunities in Japan
06:29 Insight 3: The Akiya Problem
08:20 Insight 4: Economic Realities in Japan
10:18 Insight 5: Technological Stagnation
12:51 Insight 6: Real Estate Knowledge Gap
15:14 Insight 7: Tokyo Swindlers
18:08 Insight 8: Rental Market Opportunities
20:15 Insight 9: Prefabricated Homes
22:26 Insight 10: Trusting Your Gut in Investments
24:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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In this episode of the 'Buying a House in Japan' podcast, hosts Joey and Take recount their experiences over the past 10 days, highlighting the ongoing renovation of their first Akiya in Beppu, dubbed Jisoji Lux. They discuss the ups and downs of refurbishment, including their interactions with their contractor, Sato san. From initial high hopes to the unexpected challengesâsuch as communication issues, construction delays, and Sato's personal problems including legal troublesâJoey and Take share insights and lessons learned about managing renovation projects remotely. They reflect on the quality and potential of 1970s Japanese homes, the importance of setting realistic expectations, and consider different strategies for future renovations.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:37 Our First Akiya: Jisoji Lux
01:41 Favorite Features of the House
03:36 Challenges and Renovation Insights
06:36 The Custom Shower Dilemma
13:35 Reflections on Japanese Homes
18:54 Contractor Drama Unfolds
28:41 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts
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Join Mika, Jesse, and their dog Pancake in this episode of the "Buying a House in Japan" podcast as they share their journey from Canada to Japanâs countryside. From converting a traditional Japanese house into a cozy, rustic home, to adjusting to rural life and learning blacksmithing, they open up about the joys and challenges of their new life. Perfect for dreamers, doers, and those curious about alternative lifestyles, this episode is a deep dive into what it takes to build a community and a dream in a foreign land.
Find our guests here:
YouTubeWebsite
Instagram
00:00 Introduction and Special Guests
02:09 Journey to Japan: From Teaching to Blacksmithing
05:50 Living in the Japanese Countryside
11:20 Challenges and Community Integration
22:29 Breaking Barriers in Community Involvement
26:47 Gardening as a Community Icebreaker
28:47 Challenges of Rural Living
32:29 The Search for a Permanent Home
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