#Japan #Tokyo #KAIKURU #Daisuke Shimazu #On-Site Buying

Understanding On-Site Buying and Preventing Issues

As we step into March, the season of moving and new beginnings is upon us. This time often triggers a surge in people looking to clear out unwanted items. While the convenience of on-site buying services has gained traction, it has also led to increased concerns about deceptive practices. Reports indicate spikes in searches for terms like "on-site buying dangers" and "trouble with on-site buying," reflecting the worries of many.

Insights from Industry Expert Daisuke Shimazu

Daisuke Shimazu from Kaikuru, a company with approximately 42,000 annual visits, shares critical insights into identifying unscrupulous providers and the conditions that lead to unexpectedly high valuations.

Busy Times: Expect Delays in March to Golden Week

According to Shimazu, this period leading up to Golden Week typically witnesses a significant influx of requests, far exceeding the usual visit counts. He explains, "With the changes in environment due to new living situations and rising costs, there's a noticeable increase in demand. Currently, appointments can take up to three weeks to secure."

Ensuring Safety: The Essential Check List

To combat this rising risk, Shimazu provides a checklist to help individuals identify reputable companies:

1. Existence of a Website: Ensure that the company has a recognizable online presence.
2. Google Maps Registration: Check if the business is listed with accurate location data.
3. Quality of Reviews: Look for specific and abundant testimonials.
4. Initial Interaction: Be wary of companies insisting on home assessments for evaluations.
5. Identification: Verify that the staff can present legal business credentials as required by law.
6. Sales Approach: If met with eager questions about valuables like gold, exercise caution.
7. Documentation: Ensure that formal agreements and estimates are provided in writing.
8. Transparent Explanations: A trustworthy evaluator should explain the reasoning behind their assessments.
9. Respectful Handling: Observe how they treat belongings; carelessly tossing items is a red flag.
10. Behavior During Estimates: Take note of any change in disposition if you express that you are merely getting estimates.

Surprising Values in Vintage Items

An interesting trend that Shimazu points out is the increasing value in what might initially seem like junk. For example, old fan models from the Showa era—specifically the ones made by National with blue blades—have garnered notable interest as decorative items. Even non-functioning ones can fetch between ¥3,000 to ¥5,000, and rare models might exceed ¥100,000 in valuation.

The Growing Issue of Digital Inheritance

Another emerging concern is the rise in inquiries regarding "digital inheritance". Families struggle to access important data on deceased relatives' smartphones or computers due to lack of passwords. Shimazu emphasizes the importance of setting up reliable contact protocols, such as Apple’s “Legacy Contact” settings, to ensure data can be transferred seamlessly.

Why Choose Kaikuru?

Kaikuru strives to address the issues and needs within this challenging market. Their robust operational policies have enabled them to successfully manage over 42,000 visits annually. Their strengths include:

• - Comprehensive Assessment: They accept items that may not be welcome elsewhere, thanks to substantial overseas networks.
• - No Pressure Sales: They prioritize a non-coercive approach, beginning assessments at the door.
• - Total Transparency: They adhere strictly to legal requirements, ensuring clarity in all transactions.

Shimazu wraps up with encouragement for individuals to educate themselves and approach these services with knowledge, aiming to foster a culture where the convenience of on-site buying is appreciated rather than dreaded.

About Daisuke Shimazu

Daisuke Shimazu is the CSO of RC Co., Ltd., playing a pivotal role in the establishment and expansion of the Kaikuru chain, which aims to set up 150 branches by 2025. His insights into recent trends and the intricacies of estate clearing are frequently shared across platforms like Mynavi News.

About Kaikuru

Kaikuru is a national chain specializing in on-site purchasing services. They are committed to high-value resale of various products, from electronics to personal items, and promote a culture of reuse through quality customer experiences.

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