[KAKU0] Renovation of Vacant Houses and Used Properties in Kokubunji City, Tokyo | Costs, Subsidies, and Case Studies

For those considering renovations of used properties and vacant houses in Kokubunji City

I bought a used property, but I’m not sure if the renovation estimate I received is reasonable

This is my first full renovation, and I’m worried about making mistakes

I want to make the most of subsidies and grants

For these concerns, Kakeru Koumuten Co., Ltd., which has numerous achievements in Kokubunji City, will clearly explain the key points for a successful renovation.

Get at least 3 estimates!

01Reasons for the Increase in Renovations of Used Properties and Vacant Houses in Kokubunji City

Kokubunji City in Tokyo is known for its historical and natural beauty, featuring the Kokubunji Cliff Line (Hake) greenery and spring water, and the O-taka Path. It has a calm residential area that is popular for its livability.

Single-family homes developed during the Showa era are now entering a generation change period, reaching 40 to 50 years old. This is why the option of “buying a used single-family home and renovating (renovation) it to suit your lifestyle” is expanding in Kokubunji City.

02Reasons for Renovating Vacant Houses and Used Properties

In recent years, the Japanese housing market has expanded options not only for new builds but also for renovating used properties. There is growing interest in living in renovated or refurbished used homes. Here, we explain the typical reasons for renovating vacant houses and used properties.

Reason 1 To Live Comfortably as Your Own Home

The most common reason for purchasing and renovating a used property is “to live comfortably.” Older homes often have issues with the roof, exterior walls, and plumbing, making them difficult to live in as they are. By renovating and improving the facilities and interior, you can create a comfortable living environment. Additionally, by changing the layout and refreshing the interior, you can finish a home that suits your family’s lifestyle while keeping costs lower than new construction.

Reason 2 To Increase Asset Value for Sale

More people are purchasing and renovating used properties with the goal of selling them. Used homes are often valued low as they are, but renovations can enhance their appearance and performance, increasing their value as properties.

Reason 3 To Utilize as Investment or Business

For purchases made for investment or business purposes, renovations are essential. By transforming into stylish rentals or share houses, you can differentiate from other properties, and depending on the location and planning, you can expect improved profitability. Initial costs can be lower than new construction, and depending on the use and conditions, there may also be subsidies or tax incentives, leading to an increase in those utilizing vacant houses for business.

03Precautions When Renovating Vacant Houses and Used Properties

Point 1 Choose a Reliable Construction Company

First and foremost, it is essential to select a contractor you can trust to handle your renovation with peace of mind. For used properties, since there were previous occupants, the internal structure and condition are often not clear until you actually see them. Choose a contractor who can carry out the work thoroughly according to your wishes, the structure of your home, and the surrounding environment, and who also provides aftercare following the construction.

Point 2 Always Check the Deterioration of the Building

For used properties and vacant houses, it is crucial to check which parts are deteriorating and to what extent in advance. Since previous occupants lived there, internal damage is often not apparent without investigation. Be sure to understand any hidden deterioration through a current condition survey before starting construction.

Point 3 Review Earthquake Resistance and Insulation Performance

Particularly important in the renovation of used and vacant houses is the review of earthquake resistance and insulation. The earthquake resistance standards were significantly revised in 1981, and homes built before that may not meet current standards. Furthermore, in 2000, regulations regarding joints and foundations were strengthened, making older buildings more likely to lack earthquake resistance. Check the condition of the building before starting construction and be sure to check earthquake resistance and insulation.

Point 4 Check Subsidy Programs and Renovation Tax Deductions

To keep construction costs down, it is important to check for subsidies and renovation tax deductions. Subsidies are provided by the national and local governments, and part of the costs for earthquake retrofitting, energy-saving construction, and barrier-free renovations may be supported. Tax deductions include the “housing loan tax deduction” when using a housing loan, and there are systems that allow for partial deductions of costs for certain works even with personal funds. These can sometimes be used in combination, so it is essential to check in advance and plan to utilize them strategically as a key to successful renovation (for the latest information, see this subsidy section).

04 Cost Estimates for Renovating Vacant Houses and Used Properties

The renovation costs for used properties and vacant houses vary significantly depending on the extent of damage and the scope of work. First, please understand the approximate market rates by area to serve as a guideline for your financial planning (the table below provides general estimates for single-family homes. The interior is based on a room of about 6 tatami mats, and the exterior is based on the indicated scope of work. Actual estimates will be provided after a site survey).

1. Roof and Exterior Walls

2. Interior (Interior Finishing)

3. Water-related Equipment

4. Equipment and Infrastructure

5. Waterproofing and Earthquake Resistance

6. Exterior Works

*The above are general estimates. Costs may vary depending on the presence of scaffolding, the condition, grade, and area of the building. Waterproofing of rooftops and updates to plumbing and wiring for the entire house may exceed the above estimates depending on area and method. Please confirm the exact costs through a free on-site survey and estimate.

Please check the construction menu and price list for more details!

05[Latest 2026] Subsidies and Grants Available in Kokubunji City

*The following information is as of September 2, 2026. The content, duration, and budget of the systems change annually, and many will end once the budget limit is reached. Be sure to check the latest information at the official contact points for each system before contracting or starting work. Kakeru Koumuten can assist with confirming systems and providing necessary documents, but the application process and applicants may vary by system.

National Program: Housing Energy Saving 2026 Campaign

The government is implementing multiple subsidy projects targeting energy-saving renovations under the “Housing Energy Saving 2026 Campaign.” Construction for insulation, windows, and water heaters may be eligible for these subsidies.

Tokyo Metropolitan Program

Kokubunji City Program

06Customer Voices

Exterior Renovation Case Study in Kokubunji City

07How to Choose a Renovation Contractor for Used Properties and Vacant Houses in Kokubunji City

There are many renovation companies that serve Kokubunji City, and it can be confusing to decide which one to choose. When requesting renovations, be sure to check the following five points.

1. Experience in Renovation Work

Many renovation contractors publish their work achievements on their websites. If a contractor provides detailed explanations of the process with photos, it makes it easier to visualize the outcome after the request, providing peace of mind. If you have concerns, choose a contractor with ample experience.

Google and review sites can also be helpful. It is important to check the content of low ratings, the company’s responses, and the timing of the posts. While Google reviews are particularly useful, do not make your decision based solely on reviews; consider the overall picture including work achievements, estimates, and warranty details.

2. Check for Warranties and Aftercare Services

When choosing a contractor, be sure to check for warranties. If repairs are needed within the warranty period, they may be done for free. The duration varies by contractor and paint type, but typically ranges from 1 to 10 years (emergency repairs and partial repairs are often not covered). Some contractors also offer aftercare services in addition to warranties, so be sure to check for those as well.

Kakeru Koumuten Co., Ltd. provides a warranty for all exterior renovations and sealing work. We also conduct aftercare maintenance and send out annual notification DM, allowing for annual inspections.
Click here for more details on Kakeru Koumuten’s warranty and aftercare maintenance

3. Obtain estimates from multiple contractors (at least 3 companies)

When requesting renovations, be sure to obtain estimates from multiple contractors. Even for the same scope of work, warranties, after-sales service, and prices can vary significantly. Having multiple estimates makes price negotiations easier.

When comparing estimates, it is important to look at not just the costs but also the “items in the estimate,” “check the undercoat materials, sealing materials, and paint for ancillary parts,” and “confirm the process” in detail. Lowering the rank of ancillary parts or skipping steps can reduce costs, so it is essential to not judge solely by price.
Learn more about points to compare estimates

4. Confirm whether the company performs renovations in-house

At Kakeru Koumuten, we conduct detailed hearings and investigations regarding the existing “condition,” “location,” “base materials,” “desired durability,” and “design” to propose the optimal plan. While there is nothing inherently wrong with a system where partner companies perform the work, it is important to confirm whether the contracting company understands the scope of work and clearly defines the responsibilities for quality control and warranty. If the work is done in-house, it is easier to coordinate with the site, allowing for quicker responses in case of any issues.

5. Check if they offer color simulations and perspective drawings

Choosing colors and visualizing the image after construction can be challenging for both exterior and interior work. Having simulations can reduce the risk of mistakes like “it turned out differently than I imagined.” Since it is difficult to redo once the work is done, it is advisable to choose a company that can provide flexible simulations.

08Reasons why Kakeru Koumuten is chosen for renovations of used houses in Kokubunji City

One reason is that Kakeru Koumuten Co., Ltd. serves Kokubunji City,
and our unique approach to “renovating vacant houses and used properties”
has received high praise from many customers.

1. Equipment Specialized for In-House Renovations

At Kakeru Koumuten, we have organized warehouses and material storage to provide high-quality renovations at low cost. We have five bases in Kanagawa and Tokyo, including Aoba-ku, Yokohama and Machida City, Tokyo.

In-House Scaffolding Materials

We can construct the temporary scaffolding necessary for exterior renovations using our own scaffolding materials and in-house scaffolding team. This leads to cost savings on scaffolding work since we do not outsource. We own scaffolding materials for approximately 50 houses.

Storage of Materials in Our Large Warehouse

We store roofing materials and paints. By placing large orders at once, we can procure materials at a lower cost, and since we always have stock available, we can respond quickly in emergencies. We also have a variety of tools ready for different types of construction, including compressors and cleaning machines.

In-house waste separation

In exterior renovations, various types of waste such as paint, wood, and metal are generated. Our company is committed to separating and recycling waste, striving for proper disposal and cost reduction.

Exterior renovation dedicated showroom

In the showroom, you can not only have meetings but also check the actual paint colors and a wide range of catalogs. You can also confirm heat insulation properties using color simulations and heat-resistant paint testing equipment. The showroom is a 3-minute walk from Eda Station in Aoba-ku, Yokohama, and is accessible from Tokyo as well.

2. Complete in-house construction

A major strength of Kakeru Koumuten Co., Ltd. is our in-house construction system for exterior renovations. By maintaining a consistent system from inquiry to project completion, we manage costs and quality effectively. A single representative handles everything from estimation to project completion, ensuring smooth communication without changes in personnel for sales and construction management. We handle everything in-house, from temporary scaffolding installation to exterior wall painting and roof renovations, while establishing a construction system tailored to the specifics of interior and equipment work. We are confident in our plans and costs, so we welcome competitive estimates.

3. Various Permits and Skilled Workers

We have obtained permits for the construction industry and for the collection and transportation of industrial waste. We also have nationally certified sheet metal workers and painting specialists on staff, ensuring confidence in our construction techniques. We are capable of handling large-scale painting projects for factories and apartment complexes.

4. Warranty and Aftercare

Exterior wall painting and joint sealing work come with a warranty. Aftercare is available annually, and we send out reminder DM notifications each year. If you have concerns about the warranty, please click the image above for more information.

5. Flexible and Prompt Response

We are equipped to handle various exterior troubles and situations. If you cannot access the roof due to height, we can respond with a drone. We also use a thermal imaging camera for leak investigations. We respond according to our customers’ wishes and can also provide emergency measures for sudden leaks.

6. Human Resource Development

We create various models to enhance skills and conduct practical training. Since the construction methods and materials used for exterior renovations differ based on existing materials and shapes, we regularly implement technical improvement education to ensure that each staff member can respond to various sites.
Click here for company information

7. Flexible simulations for both exterior and interior renovations!

Kakeru Koumuten Co., Ltd. is dedicated to helping our customers choose colors and designs for their important building renovations, both exterior and interior, to ensure their satisfaction.

7-1. Exterior Renovation Simulation

We offer color simulations for exterior wall painting, as well as simulations for metal siding and roof overlays. We can create simulations from actual photos of your building and propose several color patterns based on our recommendations. We also accommodate “test painting” and “sample board arrangements” to confirm actual color tones.

7-2. Interior Renovation Simulation

We also support simulations and perspective drawings for interior renovations. Based on your preferred style, such as modern, we can suggest recommended simulations. We create realistic perspectives from actual floor plans.

8. We also handle solar panel and storage battery installation!

As part of renovations for used properties, more customers are introducing solar power systems, which have substantial subsidies available. Kakeru Koumuten Co., Ltd. also handles solar equipment installation and can propose solar panels tailored to the shape of your roof. We can also accept requests for estimates and power generation simulations only.

空き家を放置すると、劣化や損傷が進行し、最終的には修繕費用が高額になる可能性があります。また、周辺環境にも悪影響を及ぼし、治安の悪化や資産価値の低下を招くことがあります。定期的な点検やメンテナンスを行うことで、これらのリスクを軽減することができます。