Question 1
Can foreigners buy property in Japan?
Yes, they can. Any foreign national can easily purchase property in Japan.

Question 2
Is the property in Niseko free hold title?
Yes, most of the property is free hold title. All the property in Hirafu, Hanazono and Higashiyama is free hold title. In the rare case that a property is not free hold title it is well documented.

Question 3
Which building firm in Niseko has the highest standards and do any have awards for their quality, designs and/or ingenuity?
NisekoRDC has the highest quality we believe, as we have buildings that have stood the test of time 10-20 years old that clients can see and tour through!!! Our president has won prestigious awards that back our design and cutting edge methods.

Question 4
Which building company has the cheapest price per square metre in Niseko?
Niseko Resort Design & Construction.
Value for money, we have the most competitive pricing, because we have been building since the 80's we have experience here in Hokkaido and a history to prove it, and we will still be here building even if the current market is not because we live here. We construct buildings to last a lifetime and then we are here to maintain them for that lifetime.

Question 5
Which building company has the longest warranty/ guarantee for construction in Niseko?
NisekoRDC guarantees its buildings/ construction and workmanship for 10 years... no questions asked and have done so since the mid 80's right here in Hokkaido.

Question 6
Which building companies use architects to design their buildings in Niseko?
All do, though the president of NisekoRDC is an award winning Architect who works directly and in person with every client to make sure they are satisfied and happy with our work on every project we then build the project and can also manage them all under one roof.

Question 7
Are there any additional expenses over and above the cost of construction?
In addition to the cost of construction there are additional costs one should be aware of. These are primarily water connection and property registration.

Question 8
What type of taxes do I have to be concerned with?
Regarding construction a 5% Japanese Sales Tax is applicable to all sales.

Question 9(a)
What is the time frame from construction commencement to completion?
Generally speaking most larger type construction can be completed between the months of May to November. Smaller projects, small chalets, kit cottages, etc can be completed faster 3-4 months.

Question 9(b)
Do I have any input on the design of the house?
We pride ourselves on letting you design your house. At NisekoRDC you have all the input.

Question 10
Do you provide furniture?
We provide complete furniture and window fashion packages. Our products meet or exceed all Japanese safety regulations. Once again we are the most realistically priced in the area so shop around. We have packages for all budgets.

Question 11
What has been the local reaction to the boom in foreign investment?
At government and private levels, foreign investment in the Niseko area has been favourably received. Kutchan major Ito-san and Niseko major Osaka-san are both actively involved with assisting and promoting foreign investment in the region. At a time when Japanese tourist numbers in Hokkaido are declining and the general economy is depressed, the local Hirafu community has received the sudden increase in Western guests with open arms.

Question 12
Is it possible for foreigners to obtain financing through a Japanese bank?
In general, it is extremely difficult for foreigners to obtain financing through a Japanese bank. At a minimum, permanent residency status and collateral (in Japan) is needed for your application to be considered.