The average price of a brand new apartment in Tokyo’s 23 wards was approximately 908,000 Yen/sqm at the end of 2014, up 19.7% from early 2012. Meanwhile, the average rent of an apartment had only increased by 5.4% over the same period.
Home loan tax deductions, historically low interest rates and an anticipation of continued price growth have helped to boost the property market on the sale side. Renters, however, have had far fewer incentives. In 2014, real wages shrunk 2.5% from the previous year. Unless incomes start to rise, it is difficult to forecast sustainable growth in residential rents.
There have been a small number of exceptions, including the most prime locations in central Tokyo as well as the bayside area in Tokyo Bay. Rents in Toyosu, an area which is near the future Athlete’s Village for the 2020 Summer Olympics, are showing signs of upward movement. The rental market in central Tokyo, which caters to high-wealth tenants and expats, is also more likely to see an increase in rents.
This content is available to paid subscribers only.
Sharing information on Japan’s real estate market has been a long passion dating back 14 years. However, gathering and preparing this content takes hours and hours each week. By joining our monthly subscription service, you can access over 3,200 articles dating back 14 years. Best of all, you’ll be supporting us in our endeavor to continue to provide investors with on-the-ground, expert information.
To join our paid subscription service and access over 3,200 news articles on Japan's real estate market, please register here.
Already a paid member? Log-in using your details below.