I travel to Japan about once a month and, for several years, I almost always stayed in Ebisu. When hotel rates began reaching ¥50,000–¥60,000 per night, I found myself asking a straightforward question: if I visit this often, would it make more sense to own a place in Tokyo?

Buying was not my original plan. I initially looked for a rental in Ebisu, but suitable properties in the locations I wanted were scarce. As a foreign resident, I also faced repeated difficulties with rental screening.

After several months of searching, my adviser suggested that we consider purchasing instead. Given how often I was in Japan, the idea made practical and financial sense. That change in direction eventually led me to my current second home in Ebisu.

The location was the first thing that won me over. Ebisu Garden Place is approximately a two-minute walk from the apartment, and Ebisu Station is also within easy walking distance. Shibuya, Daikanyama and Hiro-o are all close by, so it is an exceptionally convenient base in central Tokyo.

The building itself is older, but the apartment had been completely renovated. The kitchen, bathroom and separate washroom were all newly finished. At approximately 49 square metres, the corner unit also offered excellent natural light and ventilation. Best of all, I could see Ebisu Garden Place directly from the windows.

Of course, I was not the only buyer interested in the property. Three prospective purchasers were already ahead of me, which made me the fourth bidder.

Rather than simply encouraging me to submit the highest offer, the team remained in close contact with the seller and clearly communicated why Ebisu mattered to me and how serious I was about making the apartment my home in Tokyo. They also highlighted that I was able to purchase in cash and proceed quickly with the contract.

Despite the competition, my offer was ultimately accepted.

The support did not end at closing. The team helped arrange the purchase, delivery and installation of furniture and appliances, including air conditioning, a refrigerator, a bed and a dining table. They also assisted with setting up electricity, water, gas and internet service.

When I accidentally ordered a refrigerator and washing machine whose doors opened in the wrong direction for the apartment layout, they even helped coordinate the exchanges.

To me, this property is less an investment than a genuine second home in Tokyo—a place where I can settle in comfortably whenever I visit Japan.

I no longer need to book a hotel or go through the check-in process. I can arrive in the neighbourhood I love and go directly home. That convenience has been the most rewarding part of the purchase.

This experience taught me that purchasing property overseas is not only about finding the right listing. What matters just as much is having someone who can bring the transaction to completion and help manage all the practical details that follow.

Now, whenever I return to Japan, I am not returning to a hotel. I am returning to my own home in Ebisu.