Be wary of apartments advertised by celebs
One real estate expert is suggesting that buyers be cautious of buying into new developments that use actors, musicians and sports stars to advertise their apartments.
According to journalist Atsushi Sakaki, if a condominium is in a good location and priced in line with the market then it shouldn't need a fancy marketing campaign to appeal to buyers.
A glitzy and flash marketing campaign may sometimes be used to draw attention away from some of the drawbacks of the development. Eg. it may be in a less desirable area, priced too high or too large in scale to achieve strong sales. Read more
81-year old building in Ginza saved from demolition
A historic brick building fronting Ginza's Showa Dori Avenue has been saved from demolition after the new owner had a change of heart and scrapped his redevelopment plans in favour of restoring the 81 year old building.Read more
Tokyo's apartment market boosted by Asian buyers
Buyers from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and China can't get enough of Tokyo's real estate offerings as the weaker Yen makes the capital city a relatively cheaper option when compared with other international capitals.
Many buyers are purchasing an investment that will provide rental income.
A broker near Ikebukuro Station in Toshima-ku said they have noticed an increase in the number of buyers from other Asian countries, particularly Singapore and Hong Kong. The buyers have been keen purchasers in a recently completed high-rise condominium just a few minutes from Ikebukuro Station. Read more