Case Study
Securing a Customizable New-Build Home in Yokohama — Fully Managed Remotely for a Seattle-Based Couple
From overseas negotiations to adding an additional shower room, I transformed a standard new-build purchase into a tailored second home — completed entirely online.
Overview
Based in Seattle, Washington, this couple contacted me during a short visit to Japan, expressing their desire to purchase a second home in Yokohama. Shortly after our initial meeting, they returned to the United States, which meant that the entire purchasing process — from property search to closing — needed to be handled remotely.
They were specifically looking for a newly built detached house within walking distance of a station. In addition, they hoped to modify the layout to better suit their lifestyle, including the addition of a second shower room — something not typically found in standard Japanese single-family homes.
Challenges
Purchasing a newly built detached home in Japan can be complex for overseas buyers, especially when the transaction must be completed entirely remotely.
Key challenges included:
- Managing the entire process from abroad
- Identifying a station-close property that allowed layout flexibility
- Negotiating structural modifications, including the addition of a second shower room
- Coordinating closely with the seller and builder prior to construction
In Japan, most detached houses are typically designed with a single bathroom and shower area. Adding a second shower requires early-stage negotiation and approval before construction begins. Timing was critical.
Solutions
I identified a pre-construction, station-accessible new-build property in Yokohama that matched their desired layout and budget. Because the property was still in the planning phase, I was able to:
- Negotiate directly with the seller and builder to add an additional shower room
- Secure approval for the layout modification prior to construction
- Provide design consultation, allowing the clients to select interior color schemes and finishes
- Coordinate all documentation and procedures remotely
After closing, an affiliated management company, Axios, began supporting the property by handling utilities, tax management, and second-home maintenance coordination — ensuring peace of mind while the owners remain overseas.
Results
The couple successfully secured a brand-new detached home in Yokohama within walking distance of the station — customized to their needs before construction was completed.
Despite living in Seattle throughout the entire process, they were able to move forward with confidence thanks to clear communication and consistent updates at every stage.
Their second home is now tailored to their lifestyle, professionally managed, and ready for their visits to Japan — without the stress typically associated with cross-border real estate transactions.
Message from client
From the very beginning, Akane-san made what could have been an overwhelming process feel completely manageable. As foreigners navigating the Japanese real estate market for the first time, we had many questions, and Akane-san had answers for all of them. Her knowledge of the purchasing process is exceptional. She walked us through every step clearly and patiently.
What really sets Akane-san apart is how well she listens. She took the time to understand exactly what we were looking for and only brought listings to our attention that genuinely matched our needs. We never felt like we were being shown properties just to fill a schedule. Every option she presented was thoughtful and well-considered.
Akane-san was always quick to respond, proactive about keeping us updated, and never left us wondering what was happening next. And beyond her professionalism, she is simply a joy to work with. She is warm, friendly, and genuinely invested in helping to find the right home.
IREA KK as a whole is a great choice for any foreign buyer looking to purchase property in Japan. The entire team clearly understands the unique challenges that come with buying as a non-Japanese resident and they go out of their way to make the experience smooth and stress-free.
I can’t recommend Akane-san and IREA KK highly enough. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, communicative, and genuinely caring agent in the Yokohama area, look no further.
Contact Akane
Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, our team is ready to assist you. Contact us to get started on your real estate journey and discover how we can be your trusted partner in the property market.
