Frequently Asked Questions
About Axios and Our Services
What kinds of real estate services does Axios provide?
Axios offers comprehensive property services in Japan—including tenant recruitment, lease contract preparation, ongoing property management, vacant property care, and support for property sales. Services are available for condominium units and entire buildings.
What regions of Japan do you provide services in?
We primarily manage properties in the Tokyo and Kanagawa areas. We may consider other areas depending on factors such as building size and age, so please feel free to consult with us for specific details.
- Tokyo Wards: Minato, Shinagawa, Chuo, Shibuya, Itabashi, Nakano, Meguro, Taito, Ota, Chiyoda, Toshima, Shinjuku
- Greater Tokyo: Hachioji, Abiko, Setagaya, Kasai, Tachikawa
- Other Regions: Kyoto, Utsunomiya, Matsuyama, Kita-Kyushyu, Sapporo, Kofu, Osaka, and Gifu
How many properties do you manage?
We manage about 3,000 properties across Japan.
Do you offer services in English?
Yes. We provide support in both English and Japanese. Contracts, explanations, and regular communication can be conducted in English to assist international property owners.
What are your strengths compared to other management companies?
Our key strengths include:
- Property Management & Value Optimization: We focus not just on management, but on maximizing revenue and asset value.
- Foreign Investor Support: Over 90% of our clients are foreign investors, so we are highly experienced in English communication and cross-border needs.
- Luxury & Central Tokyo Expertise: We specialize in high-value areas such as Minato Ward and central Tokyo.
Why do you focus on foreign clients and not also on Japanese locals?
Axios Management's strategy is to put its English-speaking skills and international background expertise to the service of foreign investors in Japan. Quality support for these investors is still very sporadic in Japan, whereas many established agencies already support Japanese investors. This focused approach allows us to provide specialized, high-quality assistance where it is needed most.
Tenant Recruitment & Leasing
What tenant recruitment services do you offer?
We advertise vacancies, conduct tenant screening, and select suitable applicants. We register properties on major real estate websites and use a 24-hour web system to prevent missed opportunities for viewings.
How long does it typically take to find a new tenant?
For properties within Tokyo's 23 wards, we typically find a new tenant within 1 to 2 months.
Do you prepare lease agreements on my behalf?
Yes. Lease agreement preparation is a paid service. The fee is equivalent to one month’s rent plus tax.
Can you handle tenant guarantor coordination?
Yes. We screen tenants and coordinate with guarantor companies as part of our leasing services. Tenants are required to join a guarantor company, which helps guarantee rent and restoration costs.
Ongoing Property Management
What are the management fees?
Management fees are outlined below for general reference only and may change based on the property, scope and occupancy, so please confirm the latest details with us.
- Condominium Units: The standard fee is 5% of monthly rent plus tax.
- Entire Buildings: For buildings with 6+ units, the fee is typically 3% of revenue plus tax (adjusted to 5% during full occupancy to incentivize performance).
What does property management include?
Our routine management includes rent collection, tenant communication, handling repair requests, and ensuring compliance with lease terms.
How are repairs handled?
Axios Management typically handles repairs for managed properties depending on urgency and scale.
- Minor repairs: Managed as they arise.
- Major repairs: We provide estimates in advance and proceed only after your approval.
- Emergency support: Response services are available for managed properties.
Do you handle building maintenance (e.g., fire inspections, cleaning)?
Yes, we arrange regular cleaning, fire inspections (required twice a year), water tank inspections, and elevator maintenance.
Tax & Financial Support for Non-Residents
Can Axios help non-Japanese residents with tax filings?
We can assist with aspects of the property process, including coordinating with your Tax Agent (納税管理人) as needed and advising on withholding tax requirements.
What is a Tax Agent (納税管理人)?
A Tax Agent is a representative who handles tax payments and notifications for non-residents. Axios can act as your Tax Agent or coordinate one for you. The standard fee for this service is ¥20,000 + tax per person per year.
How does withholding tax apply to non-residents selling property?
If a non-resident sells real estate in Japan to a corporation (or if the property is a major income property over ¥100 million), the buyer must withhold 10.21% of the purchase price as tax. This amount is paid to the tax office, but any overpayment can be refunded when you file a tax return the following year.
Can you transfer rental income overseas?
Yes, we support overseas remittances.
- Domestic transfers: Monthly (15th or end of month depending on property type).
- Overseas transfers: Typically processed quarterly (March, June, September, December) to minimize fees.
Vacant Property & Second Home Services
What services are included for vacant properties?
We provide monthly property checks, ventilation/water flow checks, mail collection, and utility payment coordination.
How much does vacant management cost?
The standard fee is ¥60,000 + tax per month. Utility costs are billed separately at actual cost.
Can Axios manage second homes or vacation properties?
Yes. We can manage them as vacant homes (with cleaning and checks) or operate them as rental properties when not in use, depending on your goals.
Rent Distribution & Payments
How often is rental income remitted?
Remittance is based on property type and location, as outlined below.
- Whole building properties in Tokyo, Saitama, Chiba, and Kanagawa: Monthly (15th of each month)
- Condominium units: Quarterly (March, June, September, December)
Can you transfer rental income overseas?
Yes. We support overseas remittances. Bank transfer fees will apply.
Insurance & Sales
What kind of insurance do I need?
Property owners should enroll in Fire Insurance (covering fire, natural disasters, lightning, water leaks, etc.). Earthquake insurance is optional but recommended if the building is older or required by your lender.
Can Axios help sell my property?
Yes. We assist with sales of both currently managed and non-managed properties—for condominium units and entire buildings. For apartment buildings, we can advise on filling vacancies to increase the yield and selling price.
Additional Support
Do you handle short-term or monthly rentals?
Yes, depending on local regulations and the property type.
Can you assist with inheritance or estate-related property matters?
Consultations are available. Service scope depends on the complexity of the situation.
Do you list and work in collaboration with local real estate agents?
Yes. Close collaboration and constant interactions with local agencies, referred to as co-agents, are an essential component of Axios Management's strategy for filling vacancies.
What are your strategies and processes to fill vacancies?
Axios Management’s vacancies-filling strategy relies on three key, integrated points to ensure timely occupancy:
- A coherent pricing policy.
- An extensive use of all available analysis tools (databases, etc.).
- Close collaboration and constant interactions with local agencies (co-agents).
Next Steps
Axios Management’s core mission is to bridge the support gap for international investors, offering specific expertise and detailed management across key Japanese property regions. We prioritize clear strategy and transparent processes—from unit count management to vacancy filling—to protect and maximize your investment.
To discuss your portfolio and begin your investment journey with confidence, contact our English-speaking team today.
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