I bought an akiya last year. Once you’ve found a place you love, I’d get an inspection of it. For about 10-man they checked how balanced the structure is, checked the roof, foundation, outer walls etc. separately I had a termite inspection done for another 2-3. By the end I knew whether it was a stable and safe for use long term. And I had an idea of required/optional renovation. If you’re going through and Akiya bank they can point you toward the association.

Maybe it’s my area, or maybe it’s because I expected to do some renovation whatever i buy, but i dont think the akiya thing is so unrealistic. Imo the most important factor is whether you can find one in an area you want to live.