The polyhedron house

Also known as the "Reflection of Mineral" house.

The home-owners' brief for this unique home in Nakano-ku, Tokyo, was a simple, yet functional design that maximized the total living space.Read more

by Zoe Ward

New apartments in 2012

The following is a selection of brand new apartments in central Tokyo that will be completed and/or for sale in 2012. The majority are small, compact type residences, and only a few buildings have apartments over 100 sqm (1076 sqft) in size. The two developments of note in 2012 are Ark Hills Sengokuyama Residence and Park Court Roppongi Hilltop.Read more

by Zoe Ward

Real estate brokerage fees in Japan

When renting or buying a property in Japan you may have to pay brokerage fees, or agent fees, to your real estate agent. The brokerage fees are defined under the Real Estate Transaction Business Law. Under this law, real estate agents cannot charge fees in excess of those specified.Read more

by Zoe Ward

Shinjuku's latest luxury rental tower is home to Japan's first infinity rooftop pool

The brand new Park Habio Shinjuku Eastside Tower is the first rental building in Japan to have a rooftop infinity swimming pool for residents [As pointed out by a reader, Atago Green Hills Forest Tower (2001) has a rooftop pool on the 42nd floor]. Located on the 32nd floor, the infinity pool will have a commanding view of the Shinjuku skyline. There is also a bar lounge and rooftop terrace which can be used for residents to hold catered private parties. Other facilities include an indoor golf range, fully-equipped gym and karaoke room.Read more

by Zoe Ward

Prince Hotel Gamagori sold

Kuretakeso, a hotel and wedding hall developer based in Hamamatsu City, announced that they will be acquiring the Prince Hotel Gamagori from the Prince Hotel chain. The hotel will be handed over on March 30, 2012, and the name will be changed to Gamagori Classic Hotel. The hotel will be revamped as a resort hotel and will also be used for wedding ceremonies. The total investment, including renovations to the rooms, is estimated at 1 billion Yen.Read more

by Zoe Ward

Fixed asset tax deductions extended 2 years

The Government's Select Committee on the Taxation System has decided to extend the fixed asset tax reduction that applies to brand new homes and apartments. The reduced tax benefit will be extended an additional two years. Under this new plan, the annual fixed asset tax on a brand new apartment or home will be halved for the first five years since construction. The tax applies to all new residences, including those purchased to be rented out as an investment.Read more

by Zoe Ward

Supply of new apartments to increase by 17.6% in 2012

According to the Real Estate Economic Institute, the number of new apartments to hit the market in greater Tokyo next year is forecast to reach 53,000 units. This is an increase of 17.6% from 2011.

This is due to an increase in construction projects as well as the postponement of apartment sales following the March 11 Tohoku disaster.Read more

by Zoe Ward