Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost me to stay at my own property?
RPM doesn't charge you to stay at your own property. It's your investment for you to enjoy while you're on holidays. Usually, however, you will need our cleaning, linen and snow clearing services, which will of course be charged to your account.
- How long can I stay at my own property?
You can stay at your property for as long as you like. RPM has no restrictions on the amount of time you use your property for. We hope you'll take some time to enjoy what Niseko has to offer in both summer and winter.
- What charges do I have to pay over the summer?
Just the regular management fees. If your property isn’t rented out over summer then, you only have to pay ¥10,000 per month. If your property is let to guests over summer then the standard 10% management commission rate applies + booking commission.
- Do I have to pay taxes in Japan?
Yes you do. Approximately three months after purchasing the property, you will need to pay acquisition tax to the Hokkaido Government. Every year you will need to pay fixed asset tax to the Kutchan Town Council. You are also responsible for paying income tax and consumption tax. RPM can assist you through this process.
- Do I need any special paperwork or licenses to rent out my property to others?
Yes you do. If rental is for less than three weeks at a time, you will need to have an inn keeper's license. The fire department will inspect your property and possibly recommend changes you need to make for safety purposes. If all goes well, you will be issued your license and you can begin to rent out your investment to others. RPM can help arrange the inn keeper's license for you.
- Is it difficult to acquire an inn keeper's license?
That depends on the age of your building and if it has had an inn keeper's license before. If your property is relatively new, it should have been constructed so as to meet the requirments. If it's old, and particularly if it has not had an inn keeper's license in the past, it can be a difficult (and sometimes costly) process.
- Who assumes the costs for utilities during short term rental?
All costs for utilities, snow clearing, linen and cleaning are covered by the owner.
- As an owner, what are the greatest costs I will have to assume?
Snow clearing is usually the most expensive. This depends on the pitch of your roof, where the windows are, if you need parking and other matters. Cleaning costs are usually the second largest, as guests expect regular cleans throughout their stay. Utilities and taxes are also not insignificant. Of course, much of the expenses come in winter when you have rental income to offset them.
- I don't have a property yet, but I'm interested in investing. Where should I go for help?
Our sister company, L.J Hooker Niseko, can help you with land or building purchases. If you already have land but need to build, our sister company Niseko Resort Design & Construction can walk you through that process too. Both of these companies are situated above Downtown Cafe at the traffic lights in the central village. They're always happy to hear from you.
- How do I proceed if I wish to discuss property management?
Please click on the link below to contact us. Alternatively, drop into our office above Downtown Cafe at the traffic lights in central Hirafu and ask for a consultation. We would be very happy to answer your questions.
If you have a question that you don't see here then please contact us and we will do our best to answer it for you.