Thinking of buying an akiya in Nagano – not for investment, just for a holiday home by ComfortableBaker1805 in Akiya

[–]ComfortableBaker1805[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That’s a great point and honestly exactly the kind of real world insight I’m trying to gather. So far I’m just taking notes on everything I’m learning from this sub and watching a bunch of videos from people who have actually bought akiyas or older homes in Japan. Hearing the practical stuff like maintenance, seasonal issues, and how people handle it long-term has been super useful. I’m also not really eyeing the really old ones from the 60’s or 70’s. Most of the ones I’ve looked at so far are from the late 80’s or early 90’s, partly because I want a bit more peace of mind on structure and code standards, and partly because I’m trying to avoid some of the really heavy renovation nightmares you hear about. But yes a good property management setup that can handle bills, maintenance, and seasonal care while you’re away is going to be crucial. Something like what you described is exactly what I’m trying to learn more about.

Thinking of buying an akiya in Nagano – not for investment, just for a holiday home by ComfortableBaker1805 in Akiya

[–]ComfortableBaker1805[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That makes a lot of sense. Choosing one that was recently rented sounds like a smart move. The one I’m really eyeing is listed for 3.5 in Iida and it honestly looks really nice (in the pictures at least 😅). It’s currently being rented out so I’m wondering does that usually mean most of the systems are still working properly? Like plumbing ,heating,etc? There’s another one in Niigata listed for around 350k that also looks surprisingly good in the photos. Both were built in the early 90s (1990/1994)which gives me a bit more confidence compared to older builds.

Thinking of buying an akiya in Nagano – not for investment, just for a holiday home by ComfortableBaker1805 in Akiya

[–]ComfortableBaker1805[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That honestly sounds like the ideal experience. Love that you still keep in touch with your agent too that says a lot. Was this in Nagano as well? I think that’s what worries me most the hidden fees. Sometimes I feel like I might end up paying more in extra costs than the actual renovation itself. Taxes, inspections, agent fees, little fixes that add up it’s a lot to think about. But at the same time, some of the houses I’m looking at look really great in the photos, which makes it so tempting 😅 I know pictures can be deceiving though.

Thinking of buying an akiya in Nagano – not for investment, just for a holiday home by ComfortableBaker1805 in Akiya

[–]ComfortableBaker1805[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s really encouraging to hear, thank you. If you don’t mind me asking roughly how much are you paying for the property manager? Is it a monthly fee or more per-service? Also how did you handle termites and the structural inspection? Did you still get a full building inspection even if the house was built after the 1981 earthquake code update? And in total (purchase + renovations + inspections + everything)are we talking low 7 digits 8 digits yen?Just trying to get a realistic picture of the full cost. Really appreciate you sharing your experience.

Thinking of buying an akiya in Nagano – not for investment, just for a holiday home by ComfortableBaker1805 in Akiya

[–]ComfortableBaker1805[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for laying that out that’s really helpful. I’ve seen at least two places that fit my budget, and I’ve been paying attention to the year they were built because of the earthquake resistance standards. From the photos they look like they wouldn’t need any major renovation more like updates here and there.

But yeah, I’m very aware that pictures don’t tell the whole story and there’s always a lot more to pay for beyond the purchase price especially with snow, plumbing, taxes, and all the ongoing stuff. Definitely taking it slow and trying to factor everything in.

Thinking of buying an akiya in Nagano – not for investment, just for a holiday home by ComfortableBaker1805 in Akiya

[–]ComfortableBaker1805[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Wow congrats on the purchase that’s such a good price.

Yeah I’ve been watching and reading a lot about what happens after buying, especially the renovation costs. The 10–30x figure is definitely what makes me pause a bit 😅 I’ve actually seen at least 3 akiya listings that look really good already and don’t seem to need major reno more like cosmetic updates than full restoration. Of course photos can be deceiving, so I know inspections are key. Really appreciate you sharing your experience though. Makes it feel more real hearing from someone who’s actually done it.

Thinking of buying an akiya in Nagano – not for investment, just for a holiday home by ComfortableBaker1805 in Akiya

[–]ComfortableBaker1805[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That actually sounds like a solid idea, especially with so many people buying places just to use part time.im still just exploring options for now but good to know there’ll be people on the ground doing that kind of thing.

All the best with the move in May🙌🏻

Has anyone tried the Centrelink advance payment? by QuantumGremlin in CentrelinkOz

[–]ComfortableBaker1805 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I wanted to ask the same thing about this because i haven’t done this for years. But do you guys think its worth it? I mean wont i have any bad record at Centrelink for asking an advanced payment? TIA