observatornews.ro/extern/tara-cu-9-mil-de-locuinte

In Japan, vacant houses known as akiya are often sold for symbolic prices or given away for free, but they come with hidden costs. Many of these properties require significant renovations and maintenance due to years of neglect. The decline in population in rural areas has led to an increase in empty homes, as younger generations move to cities. Local authorities may offer financial assistance for renovations, but conditions often apply, such as requiring buyers to live in the property. As of 2023, over nine million homes in Japan are unoccupied, representing 13.8% of the housing stock, with many not available for sale or rent.