First, choose a reliable real estate professional. It is important to select someone you can trust, taking into account factors such as their background, track record, and personal character.

Clearly communicate your preferences so that you can be guided in selecting a property from the many available listings. It is also important to fully understand the nature of any documents before you sign them.

When purchasing a property, you will need to account for closing costs in addition to your down payment. Common expenses include home inspection fees, appraisal fees, escrow fees, recording fees, title insurance premiums, notary fees, and loan-related costs.

The buyer’s agent commission is determined through negotiation and will be explicitly stated in a written agreement between the buyer and the real estate agency. While it is possible to request that the seller cover a portion or all of the commission, the seller is not obligated to do so. Depending on the terms of the agreement, the buyer may be responsible for any portion not covered by the seller or the seller’s agency.

Excluding the down payment, total closing costs typically range from approximately 2% to 5% of the purchase price. However, this amount varies based on the property, loan terms, location, and negotiated terms. If the buyer is responsible for any agent commission, it is important to include that amount when planning your budget. Additionally, prepaid expenses and prorations—such as prorated property taxes, HOA fees, homeowners insurance premiums, and prepaid loan interest—will be settled at closing.

At INDIGO, we provide clear, upfront estimates and explanations of all prospective costs so you can proceed with your purchase with complete confidence and peace of mind.

In the United States, property tax rates vary by state. In California, a rough benchmark is approximately 1.25% of the purchase price.

In Los Angeles, properties that are 50 or 60 years old are commonly traded, and the market for existing homes is highly active. In areas like Hollywood, even apartment buildings over 100 years old remain in active use and can sometimes command high prices.

Properties that are consistently well-maintained—kept in a beautiful and sound condition—tend to retain their value, and in some markets, may even see their value increase.

The same holds true for neighborhoods: older, more mature communities often enjoy better safety and manage to retain their status as upscale residential areas for a long time. This is a significant departure from the situation in Japan, where a property’s value does not necessarily decline simply because it is "old."

Yes, that is possible. Please note that for certain documents required for real estate registration, you may need to sign them in the presence of a notary public—for example, at a notary office in Japan.

For other documentation, the process can be handled via email, electronic signature, telephone, or postal mail. Regarding the purchase costs, you may also remit funds from Japan to the escrow account.

Generally, it takes about 30 to 45 days. In cases of cash purchases, the transaction may be completed in a shorter timeframe.

Certainly, that is fine. The key is to choose a reliable real estate company or agent who is well-versed in both Japanese and English, as well as in business practices in both Japan and the United States.

At INDIGO, we offer a support system that includes both English-proficient Japanese agents and highly qualified American staff. We are also available to assist you with property management following your purchase.

Yes, that is possible. If you would like more information about loans for foreign nationals, please feel free to contact us at any time; INDIGO can introduce you to lenders who offer such options.