The Hidden Struggles of Property Inheritance in Rural Japan
As the trend of relocating to rural areas continues to rise, a recent survey conducted by
Nexwill Inc., which specializes in repurchasing and reselling problematic properties, has unveiled concerning statistics regarding inheritances among rural residents. Almost
60% of those who have inherited homes or land from family members express anxiety and struggles in managing those assets. Meanwhile, a staggering
80% admit to having no sources to consult regarding inheritance matters.
Survey Overview
Conducted between November 29 and December 1, 2025, the survey targeted
500 individuals living in rural areas, shedding light on a growing issue that affects families significantly. The findings indicated that about
20% of these individuals moved back to their hometowns due to inheriting property or moving in with relatives. While they are attracted to rural living due to reduced living costs, they also face issues like limited transportation.
Key Findings
- - Cohabitation: A fifth of respondents mentioned they moved in with parents or relatives as part of their relocation.
- - Living Costs: The most important factor for choosing to live in rural areas was the lower cost of living (housing and daily expenses).
- - Transportation Issues: Over 60% of respondents voiced concerns about the inconvenience of transportation, reflecting a significant hurdle for those living in rural settings.
- - Management Woes: Among those who inherited property, 60% reported feeling uneasy about managing inherited homes and land.
The Unspoken Worries of Inheritance
The survey revealed that the primary concern for many inheritors revolves around managing and maintaining the property. Tasks such as handling property taxes, repairs, and cleaning were frequently mentioned worries. Interestingly, when asked whether they have consultation sources for these issues, about
80% responded negatively, indicating a lack of support in the process of dealing with inherited property.
This data raises a critical question about how rural residents can navigate the complexities of inheritance without proper guidance or resources. Faced with challenges like managing multiple inheritors in shared properties, properties unable to be rebuilt due to zoning laws, and unregistered estates lost over generations, the inhabitants are left without adequate solutions.
Infrastructure Issues and the Call for Support
Nexwill aims to alleviate these issues by offering
purchase services for difficult-to-manage properties, helping create a sustainable housing environment. Their approach involves consolidating rights and repurposing properties to enhance market fluidity. This not only provides a lifeline to those struggling with inheritance but also fosters a more stable community.
Services Offered
1. Wakegai: Property Purchase Service
This initiative provides purchase options for vacant or problematic properties, assisting owners who are overwhelmed by management responsibilities.
Visit Wakegai.
2. URI-KAI: C2C Platform for Property Exchange
This platform connects sellers and buyers of problematic properties, bridging the gap for those looking to buy or sell.
Visit URI-KAI.
Nexwill not only addresses real estate complexities but also promotes community sustainability through innovative solutions tailored for rural inhabitants grappling with their inherited assets. As the dynamics of rural living evolve, it remains imperative to provide effective infrastructures and resources to support these communities in need.
For a comprehensive overview of the survey and findings, interested parties can refer to Nexwill's website, and further engagement with their services is encouraged for those looking for solutions to these pressing challenges.