Initial Inquiry:
March
Osborne received an inquiry from a client in Hong Kong who wanted to purchase a summer villa in Karuizawa, with plans to eventually live there full-time. Their budget for the overall project was up to US$16 million, and they were looking to build a new house on land they purchased.
The initial meetings took place online, during which the client had numerous questions about the laws concerning foreign land ownership in Japan. Osborne answered many of these inquiries and arranged further Zoom calls with local experts to address all the client’s concerns. Osborne provided facilitation and translation services for these meetings, followed by written summaries.
April
The client visited Karuizawa for the first time to view 8 properties. Osborne introduced them to the most suitable real estate company and personally drove them around for a property viewing. The clients were particularly impressed by one property but decided to return the next month to view more options.
May
The client returned to view 5 additional properties in the US$2.5 million to US$8 million range. They fell in love with a property listed for US$3.5 million in a charming summer home area. Osborne assisted the client in making an offer through the recommended real estate agent, providing local insights, negotiation tips, and translation services. Their offer was accepted, and the closing took place 2 months later.
June
Osborne introduced the client to an exceptional local architect. The initial meeting was held in Karuizawa, with subsequent meetings conducted online from Hong Kong. The design process for the US$4 million house took about 4 months in total. Throughout the process, Osborne provided translation, design advice, and facilitation services.
October (One Year Later)
Due to Karuizawa’s ban on construction during the summer months, aimed at minimizing noise and traffic for summer villa owners, construction began in October 2023 and was completed the following October 2024. Osborne was also asked to assist with interior design, art purchases, and the sourcing of unique furniture pieces. The clients have since moved into their new home and have been enjoying life in Karuizawa.
Total Process: 1 Year and 7 Months – While this project took longer than usual due to the size and complexity of the house, which required extensive design time, the process for existing homes can be as short as 2 months.
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389-0111 Kitasaku-gun, Karuizawa-machi, Nagakura 3945, Nagano