Real-estate acquisition tax

Timing and valuation

Real-estate acquisition tax (不動産取得税) is a prefectural tax assessed after you acquire property, not at closing — so it arrives as a separate bill some time after you buy, and you should reserve cash for it. It is based on the assessed value of the property (a value set for tax purposes), not the price you paid. Because it comes later, it is easy to forget when budgeting, so include it in your "later tax cash" alongside closing cash.

Residential relief and prefectural variation

Residential relief can materially reduce the tax for qualifying homes — for Tokyo, residential real-estate acquisition tax is generally calculated at 3% after applicable valuation deductions and land relief, while nonresidential property uses a different rate. Filing and relief procedures vary by prefecture, so confirm the rules where the property is located and whether you must file to claim the relief. The reliefs are conditional, so check that your property and use qualify before assuming the reduced figure.

Key points to carry away: A prefectural tax assessed after acquisition, based on the assessed value; Residential relief can materially reduce it; For Tokyo residential property it is generally 3% after valuation deductions and land relief; Rates and filing procedures vary by prefecture. Use the linked guides and calculators for the full decision, and confirm anything material with the lender, a licensed broker, a judicial scrivener, or a tax accountant before you act.