Japanese investor earns Rs 7.7 crore by revitalising 200 run-down houses 

Hayato Kawamura, a 38-year-old from Osaka, Japan, has gained widespread attention for his unique approach to real estate investment.

Over the years, he has transformed 200 desolate houses into profitable rental properties,

A lifelong passion for real estate 

According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Kawamura’s fascination with houses began in childhood.

As a boy, he would gaze at the diverse architecture of Osaka from a mountaintop observation deck.

This passion deepened during his student years, as he regularly visited properties—even making it a part of his dates with his girlfriend.

After graduating, Kawamura joined a property rental company, but he soon became disillusioned.

Witnessing his boss’s demotion due to a conflict with senior management made him realize the risks of corporate employment.

“Promotions were not about ability, but whether your superior liked you,” he told SCMP.

Determined to achieve financial independence, he began saving money to pursue his dream of becoming a landlord.

The start of an investment journey 

At 23, Kawamura purchased his first property—a flat at an auction for ¥1.7 million (Rs 9.3 lakh). Renting it out for ¥340,000 (Rs 1.87 lakh) annually, he sold it six years later for ¥4.3 million (Rs 23.7 lakh).

Encouraged by this success, he began targeting neglected houses in remote areas, many priced below ¥1 million (Rs 5.5 lakh).

Turning liabilities into assets 

Kawamura recognized potential in the most unlikely properties, including those with leaking roofs or even dead stray animals. By investing minimally in renovations, he quickly turned these houses into rental opportunities.

In 2018, he left his corporate job to establish his real estate firm, Merryhome. Using a combination of savings, loans, and rental profits, Kawamura expanded his portfolio to 200 properties.

A long-term vision 

Kawamura emphasizes that real estate is not a quick-money scheme but a long-term investment strategy.

“I never expected to get rich overnight. Real estate investment requires patience and careful attention,” he told SCMP.

Inspiration for many 

Kawamura’s journey has sparked admiration on social media. Many users praised his innovative approach. “Although he is young, his solid investments show he is likely to achieve great results in the future,” one user remarked.

Another noted, “His success is hard to replicate. Unique insights, financial discipline, and the right connections make all the difference.”

A new standard in real estate 

Kawamura’s story is a testament to how unconventional thinking, dedication, and a willingness to take risks can turn overlooked opportunities into life-changing success.

As he continues to inspire budding investors, Kawamura remains a prime example of how passion and persistence can pave the way to financial freedom.