#Japan #Tokyo #MEMOCO #Used Apartments #cost performance

Insights from the Recent Study on Used Apartment Purchases

In March 2025, MEMOCO, based in Shibuya, Tokyo, collaborated with the article production company Sumunara to conduct a survey focusing on the decision-making process of purchasing used apartments. The survey presented insights from 124 respondents who have purchased used apartments, revealing the factors that influence their decisions.

Study Overview

The survey, which spanned from March 8 to September 2, 2025, utilized internet-based methods with 124 respondents—68 men and 56 women. The age distribution was as follows:

• - 20s: 14%
• - 30s: 27%
• - 40s: 37%
• - 50s: 19%
• - 60s and above: 3%

The Reality of Apartment Viewings

The survey examined the number of properties viewed by potential buyers prior to making a purchase. The results showed:

• - 1 to 3 properties: 31%
• - 4 to 6 properties: 47%
• - 7 to 9 properties: 10%
• - 10 or more properties: 12%

Nearly half of the participants viewed between 4 to 6 properties, indicating this range as the most common practice. Interestingly, around 30% of buyers made their decisions after viewing only 1 to 3 properties, suggesting a more efficient selection process among this group.

Those who viewed 4 to 6 properties struck a balance between having sufficient options for comparison and managing the timing of their decision. Only 12% viewed more than 10 properties, indicating that most buyers prefer a streamlined process with fewer selections.

Quick Decision-Makers

Participants who decided after viewing 1 to 3 apartments likely had clear criteria and prior research. In a competitive market, especially for popular listings, quick decision-making is essential, reflecting an emerging trend where buyers are prepared to act swiftly to secure desirable properties.

Key Considerations During Viewings

The survey further analyzed which aspects buyers prioritized during their viewings, and the findings were:

• - Cost performance (location and price balance): 36%
• - Cost performance (property and price balance): 23%
• - Property cleanliness: 17%
• - Price and budget balance: 15%
• - Property management: 3%
• - Number of rooms: 3%
• - Size and scale of the building: 2%
• - Floor area: 1%

A significant 59% of respondents emphasized cost performance, signifying a trend toward seeking a balance between price and property attributes rather than solely opting for cheaper options. This reflects an increasing desire for purchases that offer fair value.

Rationale Behind Cost Performance Focus

The prioritization of the location and price balance highlights the critical role of transportation convenience and surrounding environment in purchasing decisions. This practical reasoning underscores considerations regarding future asset value retention and liquidity at resale.

Interest in Property Condition

With 17% of buyers valuing property cleanliness, there is a clear demand to avoid additional renovation costs post-purchase, which can be substantial with used apartments. Emphasizing initial quality helps mitigate potential expenses after acquisition.

Final Decision Factors

The survey also revealed that the ultimate deciding factors were similar to those prioritized during viewings:

• - Cost performance (location and price): 31%
• - Price and budget balance: 23%
• - Cost performance (property and price): 17%
• - Property cleanliness: 15%

Ultimately, cost performance and budget alignment emerged as decisive factors, with there being considerable consistency in buyers' evaluation criteria throughout the purchasing process.

Concluding Thoughts

This research demonstrates that for many, buying a used apartment is significant and often involves weighing numerous factors, especially cost performance and budget. With nearly half of the participants viewing 4 to 6 properties, it shows a commitment to making informed decisions efficiently. Furthermore, location and price balance is crucial, affecting both future asset value and living convenience.

For those considering buying a used apartment, reflecting on these survey results can provide guidance in outlining personal priorities. An effective assessment of cost performance, particularly concerning location and price, will likely lead to successful purchases.