#Japan #Tokyo #At Home #Akiya Bank #Relocation Guide

At Home Enhances Akiya Bank with New Content

At Home Inc., based in Ota City, Tokyo, has recently announced the introduction of two new resources on their Akiya Bank platform. These resources, designed for both vacant homeowners and relocation seekers, aim to address the increasing complexities surrounding vacant house ownership and transitions to new living environments.

Overview of New Guides

The first newly launched resource is a guide specifically for vacant homeowners, providing essential information on how to effectively utilize their empty properties. This guide prompts homeowners to proactively manage and leverage their properties rather than leaving them idle.

The second guide caters to those contemplating relocation, equipping them with valuable insights and considerations necessary before making a move. The guide also sheds light on the emerging lifestyle of dual residency, where individuals maintain homes in both urban and rural areas, making it easier for potential movers to envision their new lifestyle options.

In addition to empowering homeowners and relocation seekers, these guides are anticipated to relieve local government employees' workloads by facilitating more efficient inquiries related to vacant properties and relocation from residents.

Going forward, At Home pledges to contribute to resolving issues connected to the operation of municipal vacant property banks and enhancing the flow of vacant property information.

Context: Legislative Changes and Challenges

The release of these guides comes in response to the recent amendment of the Special Measures Law for the Promotion of Measures Against Vacant Houses enacted in December 2023. The revisions place stronger expectations on homeowners regarding the proper management of their vacant properties, emphasizing the need for compliance with new regulations.

A national survey conducted by At Home among 1,573 municipalities revealed that local authorities are grappling with various challenges. These include inquiries about the sale, management, and demolition of vacant properties, as well as concerns over the implications of being designated as poorly managed vacant properties, which can lead to the loss of tax benefits.

To address these concerns, At Home has created this new content, aiming to reduce the administrative burden on municipal employees when addressing inquiries from homeowners and relocation seekers.

Homeowner Guide Details

The guide aimed at vacant homeowners presents step-by-step assistance and valuable information on addressing issues related to managing, preventing, and utilizing vacant properties. It discusses the recent legal changes, including new criteria for poorly managed vacant properties and risks involved, guiding homeowners through various actions they can take, like property repurposing or demolition.

By presenting a variety of practical options, this guide encourages homeowners to actively engage in managing and utilizing their vacant properties instead of neglecting them. You can explore the homeowner's guide here.

Relocation Seeker Guide Details

The guide designed for those considering relocation offers actionable steps divided into “Six Steps to Relocation.” This step-wise approach encourages potential movers to take concrete actions toward their new lives. Furthermore, the guide features a special section dedicated to dual residency, providing foundational knowledge, support systems, FAQs, and testimonials from individuals who have experienced dual living.

By presenting a wealth of information, this guide enables users to visualize a life of dual residency. Discover the relocation seeker guide here and the dual residency guide here.

About At Home Akiya Bank

Since its launch in October 2017 as part of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's model project for the National Vacant House and Lot Bank system, At Home's Akiya Bank has concentrated on collecting and searching for vacant property nationwide.

The platform features property searches by themes and provides content that helps consumers learn about regional attractions and initiatives related to moving and settling in. As of April 2025, over 850 municipalities are participating in this initiative.

At Home remains committed to offering useful information to consumers interested in utilizing vacant homes and lots. For more information, visit the Akiya Bank website here.