#Japan #Tokyo #Used Condominiums #real estate safety #buyer satisfaction

Exploring Safety and Satisfaction in the Used Condominium Market

In a recent survey conducted by MEMOCO, a Tokyo-based company, in collaboration with Sumunara, insight into the importance of safety in choosing used condominiums has come to light. The survey, which involved feedback from 113 male and female participants who have purchased used condominiums, revealed key trends in safety concerns and satisfaction levels associated with their homes.

Survey Overview

The study was conducted between January 29, 2025, and September 30, 2025, utilizing an internet-based survey method. The respondents comprised 67 men and 46 women, with a demographic age distribution as follows: 14% in their 20s, 25% in their 30s, 39% in their 40s, 17% in their 50s, and 5% aged 60 and above.

How Safety Information was Gathered

When asked how they obtained information about the safety of their potential neighborhoods, the results revealed that approximately 39% of respondents conducted their own research. Meanwhile, 20% obtained information from real estate agents, and 17% relied on online resources and customer reviews. Interestingly, about 14% of participants either did not investigate or received no information, which suggests that some chose to verify safety by visiting the area multiple times. Roughly 10% utilized crime maps and traffic accident data, indicating a meticulous approach to property selection among a minority.

The tendency to find their own information underscores a strong interest in safety, as participants felt that relying solely on real estate professionals was insufficient. Furthermore, the responses indicated a proactive attitude toward understanding the safety landscape before making a purchase decision.

Satisfaction Levels Regarding Neighborhood Safety

The study found a remarkably high level of satisfaction among respondents regarding safety in their neighborhoods. About 46% expressed complete satisfaction, while 42% reported being somewhat satisfied. This means that a total of 88% felt positively about their area's safety, and notably, none reported dissatisfaction. Such a high level of approval showcases the effectiveness of thorough information collection.

Comments from satisfied buyers highlighted positive aspects such as proximity to police stations and an overall perception of safety, with phrases like “the environment is calm” and “I have confidence in my living conditions” frequently appearing.

In contrast, the 12% who expressed dissatisfaction cited specific concerns, including instances of burglaries and unsettling shifts in neighborhood demographics. While these comments reflect legitimate safety worries, they also suggest that discerning potential buyers may struggle to obtain a complete picture of an area’s safety prior to moving in.

Concerns After Purchase

When asked about any anxieties they experienced post-purchase, almost 49% stated they felt absolutely no concerns, while an additional 37% reported minimal worries. Collectively, this indicates that around 86% of buyers found little to no discrepancy between their pre-purchase information and actual living conditions.

Comments from those feeling secure often included remarks about safe living experiences like “no issues in safety” or evidence of an active community presence. Specific factors that contributed to feelings of security included well-lit streets and proximity to public transport, which offer peace of mind both day and night.

However, some participants identified particular concerns. Reports of child-related safety incidents, increases in foreign resident populations, and occurrences of noise from motorbikes were amongst the prevalent worries. Especially among families, such issues underscored the ongoing need for vigilance in their neighborhoods.

Key Insights from the Survey

The study revealed several important characteristics of used condominium buyers. A striking aspect was the proactive approach to information gathering, with approximately 40% of respondents conducting independent research beyond the information provided by real estate agents. This indicates a deep-seated desire to ensure that final purchasing decisions were thoroughly informed and considered.

Moreover, many participants highlighted the importance of physically visiting potential neighborhoods multiple times as a method of verification. This method of cross-referencing data with personal observations emphasizes a commitment to ensuring the safety and overall quality of living environments.

Conclusion

Through this survey, it has become evident that safety remains a pivotal factor for those looking to purchase used condominiums. The inclination to thoroughly research and assess safety information indicates a vigilant buyer demographic that can positively affect overall satisfaction rates. As approximately 90% of participants reported feeling secure in their neighborhoods, the results showcase the success of diligent property selection boosted by a thorough consideration of safety.

As a recommendation, prospective buyers should remain vigilant in utilizing various sources of information and prioritize visiting potential neighborhoods. Safety continues to be a significant element affecting living satisfaction, and informed decision-making is crucial for avoiding future regrets.