FAQ

1. Why invest in Japan?
The real estate market in Japan has recently displayed an upwards trend as the country recovers from the economic distress and deflation of the last decade. The Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is engaged in a “Visit Japan” campaign to attract tourists to the area, bringing increased business. Internationally, Japan is becoming increasingly renowned for the quality of its snow, which is a major attraction for foreign visitors. The proximity of the Japanese ski resorts to Sapporo make them a very accessible holiday destination.

2. Can foreigners buy real estate in Japan?
Yes, they can. Any foreign national can purchase real estate in Japan.

3. Why invest in Rusutsu and not Niseko?
Rusutsu is only 1.5 hours from Sapporo Airport by bus, whereas Niseko is a 2.5 hour journey. Whilst Rusutsu is gaining in popularity it is able to offer excellent value real estate, and does not have as stringent building restrictions as Niseko which allows for greater freedom in architectural design. Rusutsu is a true year-round resort offering entertainment for the entire family in summer as well as amazing powder snow in winter. These reasons combined with an uncrowded and unspoilt environment make it the ideal investment option.

4. What facilities are available at Rusutsu?
Rusutsu is a year round resort. In winter, Rusutsu offers a three mountain ski resort with 37 runs, and 19 high speed gondolas and hooded lifts. Night skiing is offered every night and the snow season extends from late November until April. In summer, there is a 72 hole golf course with night golf available, tennis courts, horse riding, scenic train tours, swimming pools, water slides and an amusement park with 8 roller coasters. The impressive Rusutsu Resort hotel offers a variety of restaurants and boutique shops. Kutchan is a major town located 30 minutes from Rusutsu which has all basic necessities such as banks, a post office, a variety of stores, restaurants, shops and medical facilities.

5. What is the growth potential in Rusutsu?
The Hokkaido region has witnessed one of the biggest expansions in Japanese real estate over the past four years.  During the winter of 2005-2006, over 470,000 people visited the area. This was almost a 10% increase over the previous year. Of the total, almost 100,000 were foreigners, a 63% rise over 2005. In addition to Australians, more and more visitors are coming from Taiwan, Hong Kong and Singapore. This increase in popularity means that land and accommodation prices are likely to continue to grow rapidly over the coming years.

6. Is the land for sale free hold title?
Yes, all the land for sale is free hold title.

7. Does the land have any local council zoning/building restrictions?
All land currently for sale is zoned fields. This classification allows the following development:
Building footprint: 48% of the total area
Coverage Ratio: 300%
Building Heights: 13 metres (maximum)

8. What is the exact location and size of the land parcels for sale?
Land parcels available in Stage 2 of Shinsetsu Estate are approximately 330 square metres in size and are located approximately 550 metres from the nearest ski lift. Larger sections may be available upon request.

9. What services does the solicitor in Japan provide?
In Japan the solicitor represents both parties to the contract and carries out the following duties:
1) Checks the contents of the Important Matters and Contract
2) Is responsible for title registration in the buyer’s name
3) Confirms that any existing debts have been erased from the property
4) Provides the title deed