B

biru-management -ビルマネジメント（BM）

It refers to the specialized service of managing and operating buildings or commercial facilities. This includes maintaining the building, inspecting and repairing equipment, cleaning, managing security, and handling tenant issues. BM plays an important role in preserving the value of the property and ensuring efficient operation. It also involves managing lease agreements, collecting rent, and suggesting improvements to the facility. Through BM, the safety and comfort of the building are enhanced, leading to long-term stable operations.

bokachiiki -防火地域

「防火地域」 are designated to prevent the spread of fire. In these areas, buildings must use highly fire-resistant materials and structures. Strict fire safety standards apply to both new constructions and renovations, aiming to minimize fire risks. 「準防火地域」, have less strict rules but still require some fire safety measures, like using fire-resistant materials and following specific regulations, to keep the area safer.

C

chiban -地番

A land number, “地番”, is a unique code used to identify specific pieces of land. It’s listed in the land registry and helps confirm ownership and rights. Each land parcel, called “a piece” (一筆), has its own land number, but only registered land will have one.

chijoken -地上権

This refers to the right to own and use buildings or other structures on land owned by a third party. This right is known as “物権”. Having this rights means you generally do not need the landlord’s approval to use or manage the land.

chimoku -地目

“地目” refers to the intended use of the land, which is divided into 23 categories based on its condition and purpose. Each land has a specific category, which is recorded in the title section of the land registration document, typically noted after the location and plot number.

chukaitesuryo -仲介手数料

This refers to the fee paid to the real estate or broker that helps you through the process of finding a property and finalizing a deal. Whether it is for renting or buying, the real estate company supports the client by searching for properties and facilitating the agreement between the client and the landlord.

In the case of sales
2 million yen or less Sale amount x 5% x Consumption tax
2~4 million yen Sale amount x 4% + 20,000 yen x Consumption tax
Over 4 million yen Sale amount x 3% 60,000 yen x Consumption tax

In the case of rentals
For rental agreements, the brokerage fee is determined based on the rent amount. Typically, real estate agencies specify the fee as a percentage of the rent, such as “〇% of the rent,” meaning the fee will vary with the rent amount.

F

fudosanshutokuzei -不動産取得税

When you acquire property like land or buildings in Japan, a tax is charged by the local prefecture. This applies when you purchase, exchange, receive, or build new property. The tax amount is usually based on the value of the property, which is calculated using the fixed asset valuation. For residential properties, there may be some reductions. After the property is obtained, the local government will send a notice with the tax amount. Typically, the tax is paid in full, but in some cases, it can be paid in installments.

H

hatazaochi -旗竿地

“旗竿地” refers to a piece of land with a narrow frontage facing the road and a wider area of land set back from the street. On a map, it resembles a flag on a land, which is how it got its name.

hojinzei -法人税

In Japan, companies and organizations are required to pay corporate tax on their income. In real estate transactions, corporations are also required to pay corporate tax when buying or selling properties. The tax is calculated based on the company’s earnings, so the more profit a business makes, the more tax it has to pay. This tax is paid to the national government and is an important part of the financial responsibilities for companies in Japan. Additionally, it may change with tax reforms.

hyomenrimawari (growth) / jisshitsurimawari (net/NOI) -表面利回り（グロス）と 実質利回り（ネット・NOI）

Gross yield measures the rental income of a property as a percentage of its price over a year, giving an idea of the investment return. Net yield, on the other hand, accounts for additional costs like purchase expenses and annual maintenance fees, providing a more accurate assessment of the investment’s profitability.

I

inshizei -印紙税

This tax applies to specific documents, such as real estate purchase agreements or rental contracts. The amount of tax depends on the value written in the contract, and you pay it by attaching a stamp to the document. In real estate transactions, this tax amount varies based on the contract details, making it an important part of the process.

itentoki -移転登記

This refers to the process of recording the transfer of a right (such as ownership or mortgage) from one person to another. The reasons for transfer includes buying, gifting, or inheriting. This type of registration applies to all rights that can be officially recorded.

J

jitsuin, ginkoin, mitomein -実印、銀行印、認印

「実印」 is a formal seal used on legal documents and requires government registration. It is typically used for real estate transactions or important contracts. 「銀行印」 is used for transactions with banks and must be registered with the bank. It is used for activities such as withdrawing money or transferring funds. 「認印」 is used for general documents or daily use and does not require registration. It is used for less formal documents like contracts or application forms. Each seal serves a distinct purpose, and it is important to use the appropriate seal for each situation.

jo -帖・畳

“畳” and “帖” are both quantifiers used to measure room size. One “帖” equals about 1.62 square meters. In the past, since most rooms were traditional Japanese-style, room size was typically described by the number of tatami mats, or “畳”. However, as Western-style rooms and flooring became more common, “畳” continued to be used for Japanese-style rooms, while “帖” was used for Western-style rooms. This change reflects the evolution of room design over time.

jukyohyoji -住居表示

According to the address system laws in Japan, this is a address different from chi-ban and it is easier to understand. Each city or town decides on the address format, which includes the neighborhood name, block number, and house number for buildings.

jusetsu -重説

“重說” is short for “重要事項説明”, means an explanation of imprtant matters. In real estate transactions, according to Article 35 of the Real Estate Brokerage Act, agents are required to prepare and explain a document called the “Important Matters Explanation” to the buyer or renter before signing the contract. This includes details about property registration, building restrictions, water and drainage systems, and whether the property is in a hazard zone.

K

kanrijutaku -管理受託

It means that property owners hire a professional management company or manager to handle the property instead of doing it themselves. This lets experts take care of things like maintaining the property, managing rentals, and dealing with tenants. It usually includes tasks such as regular property checks, repairs, collecting rent, and responding to tenant questions. Property owners pay a fee to the management company and it helps keep things running smoothly.

kenchikukijunho -建築基準法

This is a law established to ensure buildings in Japan are constructed safely. It outlines standards for building structures, earthquake resistance, fire safety, ventilation, and lighting to ensure buildings provide a safe and comfortable space for people. For example, it includes rules about building height, distance from property boundaries, and evacuation routes to ensure urban planning and resident safety. When constructing or renovating a building, it must follow with the design and construction guidelines set by this law.

kenpeiritsu -建蔽率

This refers to the propotion between footprint of the building and the land area it sits on. The area of the building as seen from above is called the “building area (horizontal projected area).” For instance, if a two-story house has different areas on the first and second floors, the larger area will be considered the building area.

kensazumisho -検査済証

Under Japan’s Building Standards Act, newly constructed or renovated buildings must undergo inspections to ensure they meet legal standards. After construction is completed, a designated inspector or authority conducts an on-site inspection and issues a certificate based on the results. This certificate proves that the building meets the standards of the Building Standards Act and is safe. It is extremely important in real estate transactions. If a building doesn’t have this certificate, it could affect the property’s value and impact loans or insurance.

kobomenseki -公簿面積

The area listed in land registries is known as the “公簿面積”. This differs from the “実測面積”, which is obtained through physical measurement. In real estate transactions, there are two main methods: “公簿売買”, which the price is based on the recorded area without considering actual measurements, and “実測売買”, which the price is based on the actual measured area.

Land

kobomenseki

koteishisanzei -固定資産税

Every January 1st, people who own land, buildings, or depreciable assets must pay a tax based on the value of these assets. The tax is paid to the municipality where the assets are located.

kozu -公図

“公図” shows details like the shape of the land, divisions, land numbers, roads, and waterways. By using this map, you can easily see the borders and how they relate to neighboring properties. The map is managed by the Legal Affairs Bureau, and anyone can obtain a copy by paying a fee.

M

maisoku -マイソク

This is a common advertising media in the real estate industry. It typically includes basic information about the property, floor plans, and contract details.

maisoku

master lease -マスターリース

It refers to a rental arrangement where a party leases an entire property and then subleases it to other individuals or businesses. For example, a property management company might lease an entire building from the owner and then rent out individual floors or units to different tenants. This arrangement allows the property owner to receive a stable rental income, while the management company handles all tenant agreements and property management. 「マスターリース」model aims to provide efficient management and steady income.

mobeyukamenseki -延床面積

The sum of the floor areas of all its levels, which indicates the size of the living space and is also known as the building area. This measurement is used as a standard for building permits, registrations, sales, and demolitions.

N

nando -納戸

Originally, a “納戶” referred to a space for storing clothes and other items inside the house. In real estate ads, it often describes rooms without windows or with very small windows. According to Building Standards Act, residential rooms must have windows that are at least one-seventh of the room’s floor area in size (Building Standards Act Articles 28, Section 1). Recently, the term “Service Room” has also become common. There is not a clear difference between “Service room” and “納戶”—it is mainly a matter of style. In Japanese-style homes, it is usually called a “納戶”, while in Western-style homes, it is referred to as a “Service Room.” On floor plans, “S” means “Service Room”, and “N” means “納戶”.

O

owner change -オーナーチェンジ

This refers to when the owner of a rental property sells the property with tenants still living in it. This approach is convenient for buyers because they don’t have to find tenants themselves, and they can start earning income right after the purchase.

P

property management -プロパティマネジメント（PM）

It involves the specialized tasks of operating and managing real estate. This includes tasks like signing contracts with tenants, collecting rent, and managing or improving facilities. The goal is to maximize the property’s value and ensure stable income. This approach provides owners with consistent rental income and helps increase the property’s value.

R

ryote -両手

In property transactions or rental agreements, it is common to charge a fee to both parties involved—this is known as “full commission.” On the other hand, “half commission” means the fee is only charged to one side, such as just the buyer or the tenant, while the other party does not pay any fees.

S

sarachi -更地

“更地” refers to a land without any buildings and free from rights like leasehold or mortgage. It is typically land where you can build a home without restrictions. However, farmland that has not been cultivated or forest without trees is not considered “更地”.

senyomenseki / senyumenseki -専用面積/専有面積

“專有面積” refers to the floor space within a unit that the residents can freely use. On the other hand, “專用面積” includes not only the living space but also areas like balconies that have exclusive usage rights. As a result, “專用面積” is typically larger than the “專有面積”.

shakuchiken -借地権

This refers to the right to lease land for the purpose of owning a building. This right is specifically for owning a building, so if the land is used for purposes like a storage yard or an open parking lot, his kind of land lease right is not applicable. The rights are categorized into two types: “地上権” and “土地租賃権”.

shuzentsumitatekin -修繕積立金

「修繕積立金」 is a long-term reserve set aside to cover the costs of maintaining and repairing buildings, like apartments or condominiums. It ensures there are funds available when large-scale repairs or maintenance due to aging are needed. Each owner contributes a fixed monthly amount to this fund, and the amount can vary depending on the property and management association. This fund is essential for maintaining the long-term value and safety of the building.

sublease -サブリース

This is a kind of rental management method where a property owner leases their property to a subleasing company, which then rents it out to tenants. With this arrangement, the subleasing company usually offers rent and payment default guarantees, allowing the property owner to avoid the hassle of managing the property and still earn a relatively stable income.

T

takuchitatemonotorihikigyoho -宅地建物取引業法

This is a law that regulates the business of real estate transactions, enacted in 1952. It primarily focuses on a system that requires real estate agents to be licensed, the real estate transaction agent system, and the business guarantee fund system. Additionally, it ensures that there are clear guidelines for what is prohibited and what must be followed in real estate transactions. The goal is to maintain fairness in real estate dealings and promote the healthy development of the industry.

teikishakuyakeiyaku -定期借家契約

It is one where the rental period is set in advance and the contract does not automatically renew when the period ends. Unlike regular rental agreements, once the term is over, it doesn’t automatically continue. If you want to extend the lease, a new contract must be signed. Landlords can manage their property more flexibly according to future plans, and tenants can meet their short-term housing needs.

tetsukekin -手付金

“手付金” is the money paid when signing a purchase contract, intended to stabilize the legal relationship and secure the contract. Paying “手付金” helps ensure the commitment between both the buyer and the seller. Although the maximum “手付金” is typically set at 20% of the sale price, the usual range is between 5% and 10% of the total sale price.

tochikyokaizu -土地境界図

「土地境界図」 shows the borders of a specific piece of land. This map is used to clearly define the boundaries between the landowner’s property and neighboring properties. Knowing the exact borders is essential when selling land, dividing it, or planning a building project. Usually, a surveyor makes this map after measuring the land, helping to prevent future disputes. This map is an important document in real estate transactions and land development.

tochitaishakuken -土地貸借権

This is a right related to the use of someone else’s land, classified as a contractual right. Unlike “物権”, a contractual right can only be used between the parties involved in the agreement, and the right holder cannot freely transfer or manage it without the other party’s approvment.

torihikitaiyo -取引態様

It is a term used to describe the role and position of agents or representatives in real estate transactions. It clarifies the role of the agent in property sales or rental agreements. For example, agents might act as representatives for the seller or buyer, or they might handle the brokerage of the transaction. Understanding transaction status helps to better grasp the contract details and responsibilities. Agents are required to explain the transaction status to ensure transparency for their clients.

torokumenkyozei -登録免許税

When buying property or setting up a mortgage, a tax is charged during the property registration process. This tax is paid to make sure your ownership or mortgage rights are legally protected. The amount depends on the property’s value and type, and it’s usually based on the assessed value used for property taxes. In some cases, such as applying for a mortgage tax deduction, there may be tax reduction measures.

Taxes

torokumenkyozei

toshikeikakuzei -都市計画税

In areas designated for urban development, people who own land or buildings are required to pay 「都市計画税」. This tax is used to fund public infrastructure like roads and parks and support the organized growth of cities. It applies to land and buildings that are subject to property tax, and the amount is determined based on their assessed value. The tax rate varies by municipality, but it is generally set at 0.3% or lower of the assessed value. 「都市計画税」 plays an important role in funding local infrastructure improvements.

toshisaikaihatsuho -都市再開発法

This is a law aimed at promoting urban redevelopment in Japan. It focuses on improving old buildings and infrastructure, making better use of land, and enhancing urban functions. The law sets guidelines to ensure that redevelopment projects proceed smoothly. These projects often include the construction of commercial facilities, housing, and office buildings, with the goal of revitalizing areas and improving living conditions. The law also encourages collaboration between landowners, developers, and local authorities to ensure efficient project implementation. It plays a key role in supporting the sustainable development of cities.

tosikeikakuho -都市計画法

This law in Japan aims to support the healthy growth of cities and organize how land is used. It helps plan urban development in an orderly way, improving living conditions and providing public facilities. The law makes rules for what land can be used for, how tall buildings can be, and how properties can be used, preventing uncontrolled development and keeping cities pleasant. In real estate transactions, the property’s zoning designation and building conditions are determined based on this law.

Y

yosekiritsu -容積率

This refers to the propotion of a building’s total floor area to the size of the land it sits on. The total floor area is the sum of the floor space across all levels of the building. For instance, in a three-story house, the total floor area is the combined space of the first, second, and third floors.