Property Purchase Contract (売買契約 / Baibai Keiyaku) – What It Means in Japan

The Property Purchase Contract, known in Japanese as 売買契約 (Baibai Keiyaku), is a legally binding agreement between the buyer and the seller of a property in Japan. It outlines the terms and conditions of the sale and is usually signed after a successful preliminary loan screening (事前審査) and property selection.

Deposit (手付金 / Tetsukekin)

  • Usually 5%–10% of the purchase price

  • Paid at the time of signing the contract

  • Refundable only if loan clause (ローン特約) is included and loan is denied

Important Considerations

  1. Language: Most contracts are in Japanese. Some agents provide bilingual versions or translations.

  2. Legally Binding: Once signed, backing out without a valid reason (e.g., loan rejection) could mean losing the deposit.

  3. Intermediary Role: A licensed real estate agent (宅建業者 / Takken Gyōsha) usually mediates the process and explains the contract details.

  4. Stamp Duty (収入印紙): A revenue stamp is required on the contract — the amount depends on the property price.

Documents You’ll Need

  • Passport and residence card

  • Proof of income

  • Personal seal (印鑑) or signature

  • Loan pre-approval confirmation

  • Down payment (If non-permanent)

Note: All conditions, processes, and requirements mentioned above are tentative and may vary depending on each client's individual circumstances — including but not limited to visa type, residency status, employment, income level, and credit history.