The "Effective Area" Trap: Why Cheap Land Can Be Expensive
- Dwell Japan

- Jan 20
- 1 min read
Finding a great deal on land is the first step toward your dream home. However, many buyers are shocked to discover that the "advertised area" and the "buildable area" are not the same. This is primarily due to Setback (Setback/道路後退) regulations.
In many older residential areas in Japan, roads are narrower than the required 4 meters. To ensure safety and access, the law requires you to set your building back from the center of the road. This "setback" portion cannot be built upon. If you aren't careful, your actual usable land—the Effective Area—could be 10% smaller than you expected.
At Dwell Japan, we believe professional support means more than just finding land; it’s about Risk Management. We investigate the soil, the zoning, and the "effective area" before you commit your hard-earned savings. Our goal is to ensure that the land you buy is truly capable of supporting the home you’ve envisioned.
Don't let a "bargain" price compromise your architectural vision.
Dwell Japan – Professional Support for the International Community. contact@dwelljapan.co.jp




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