From College Friends to Homeowners: How a Group Bought an Abandoned Japanese House for Under $20,000

A Collective Vision for an ‘Akiya’

For most young graduates, the prospect of purchasing real estate feels like a distant milestone. However, for 23-year-old Hilary Tang and her group of college friends, the dream became a reality in the rural landscapes of Hiroshima, Japan. The group, primarily composed of alumni from Minerva University, successfully purchased an akiya—a term for abandoned or vacant homes—for a total investment that has remained well under their $20,000 budget.

The project began when a friend proposed the idea of purchasing a property, noting that while many are aware of the ‘one-euro house’ schemes in Europe, few realize that Japan offers a similar opportunity to acquire vacant homes. After initial interest from a different social circle fell through, the group coalesced in June, finalized the purchase in late July, and received the keys by August 6.

Strategic Selection and Location

The group, which eventually grew to eight members, was intentional about their criteria. They sought a location that offered proximity to nature, international accessibility, favorable weather, and a lower risk profile regarding natural disasters like earthquakes. Hiroshima emerged as the ideal candidate, offering a balance between rural tranquility and the infrastructure needed for a group with members spanning different continents.

The property itself is substantial, spanning approximately 315 square meters of interior space with an additional 500 square meters of land. The layout includes nine traditional tatami-floored rooms and two Western-style rooms. While the house was initially listed for 3 million yen, the group successfully negotiated the price down to 1.8 million yen (approximately $11,371). Including agent fees and other closing costs, the total acquisition price came to roughly 2.3 million yen.

Renovation and Community Effort

Because the timeline was compressed, the group purchased the property without an in-person viewing, relying instead on a video tour provided by their agent. Upon arrival, they discovered the home was in better condition than anticipated. The previous owner, who passed away five years prior, had been known by neighbors for his diligent maintenance, which spared the new owners from major structural repairs.

Rather than a complete overhaul, the group focused on cosmetic and functional upgrades. As of early October, they had spent only about $1,262 on renovations, which included painting, repairing lights and curtains, and installing essential safety and climate control features like fire alarms and air conditioning. The latter was a necessity, as the group noted that traditional wooden houses in the region struggle with insulation during extreme summer heat and winter cold.

The renovation process became a communal experience, with friends and even family members contributing their unique skills. From painting bathroom murals to curating items left behind by the previous owner, the project fostered a sense of collaboration that went beyond simple home improvement.

A Sanctuary, Not Just an Investment

The group views the Hiroshima property primarily as a shared escape—a place to retreat when life becomes overwhelming. They have maintained a consistent schedule, gathering at the house once a month to enjoy the space and each other’s company. While they are considering listing the property on platforms like Airbnb to help offset annual maintenance and running costs, they remain firm that the house is a sanctuary for their group rather than a traditional financial investment.

By pooling their resources and labor, these young homeowners have successfully secured a place to call their own, turning an abandoned relic into a vibrant hub for connection and rest.

Source: businessinsider.com