"大島てる" is one of the information sources that professionals involved in real estate investment and rental management should always review. This service, which publishes information on stigmatized properties (psychologically impacted properties) free of charge, plays an important role in assessing a property's asset value and managing tenants.
What Is "大島てる"? Its Role in the Real Estate Industry
"大島てる" is an information service that publishes details of stigmatized properties (psychologically impacted properties) on a map, and the representative of the operating company is also named "大島てる" (legal name: Oshima Manabu). The service was launched in 2005 and was initially limited to the Tokyo area, but it now lists stigmatized properties across Japan and overseas.
What Services Does "大島てる" Provide?
A Free Database of Stigmatized Properties
All listed information can be viewed free of charge. Property addresses, room numbers, and causes of death (such as homicide, suicide, and fire) are published, and the service has grown into a major information platform with 600,000 to 800,000 page views per day. More investors are also using it for due diligence before acquiring properties.
A User-Submission Model for Gathering Information
Since 2011, the service has adopted a user-submission system, with volunteers across Japan providing information. The operator maintains a review process under which information lacking credibility is corrected or removed.
Overseas Coverage and International Attention
It also includes information on stigmatized properties in cities around the world, including New York, Paris, and Beijing, making it a highly valuable reference source for cross-border real estate investors as well.
Why Real Estate Investors Should Check "大島てる"
Psychologically impacted properties may trigger a duty to disclose when selling or leasing. By checking "大島てる" before acquiring a property, investors can avoid the following risks.
- Lower rent or sale prices due to post-acquisition disclosure obligations
- Vacancy risk caused by longer leasing periods when recruiting tenants
- Future disputes related to psychological stigma
What Does the Policy of "Disclose Everything and Leave the Rest to Users" Mean?
"大島てる" follows a policy of "disclose everything and leave the rest to users." There have been cases in which real estate companies sued the service for alleged business interference, but "大島てる" prevailed in civil litigation, and the legitimacy of its information disclosure was recognized. This also aligns with the broader direction of the real estate market, which places greater importance on information transparency.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Should properties listed on "大島てる" be avoided for purchase or lease?
A. Not necessarily. Psychologically impacted properties are often priced lower, and some investors view them as high-yield opportunities. However, the leasing strategy needs careful consideration.
Q. How accurate is the information on "大島てる"?
A. The service relies on user submissions, but the operator has a review system in place, and inaccurate information is corrected or removed. Still, because it is not an official source, important decisions should be supported by additional investigation.
Q. How long does the disclosure obligation for stigmatized properties continue?
A. Under guidelines from Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, in rental transactions the disclosure obligation is generally considered to apply for about three years after the incident. In sale transactions, there is no fixed period, and each case is assessed individually.
Q. Are properties safe if they are not listed on "大島てる"?
A. Even if a property is not listed, that does not guarantee it is free from stigma. It is important to also review the material disclosures and confirm directly with the seller.
