Millennial Snags $15,000 Beachside Gem: 11-Room Japanese Farm Revamp!

Are you dreaming of a beach retreat that blends traditional charm with modern Scandi aesthetics? Look no further than a promising new project located just outside Tokyo, Japan.

Meet Anton Wormann, a 31-year-old Swede who made the move to Japan in 2018 after a stint in New York. He recently snagged an abandoned farmhouse in Kujukuri, Chiba Prefecture, for a mere $15,000—right by the beach.

On his TikTok account @antoninjapan, Wormann shared a tour of the untouched property, which has generated 2 million views since its September 1 debut.

The expansive farmhouse features 11 rooms, including six bedrooms, five living rooms, a kitchen, and a spacious garden—all just 150 meters from the beach. Wormann envisions it as a potential vacation retreat or Airbnb once renovations are complete.

This story resonates with a trend in home renovation, especially in the U.S., where spending rose sharply in recent years. A recent survey revealed that the median renovation cost climbed from $15,000 in 2020 to $24,000 in 2023.

As U.S. housing costs soar, many are feeling the squeeze. A report from Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies points out that soaring prices have sidelined countless potential buyers, particularly in the Northeastern and Midwestern markets.

Where Japanese Tradition Meets Scandi Style

With a background in fashion and media, Wormann is now diving into real estate and DIY renovations of neglected homes. “This farmhouse stood out for its incredible location and its potential for transformation,” he said.

The renovation process is just beginning, and Wormann has big plans to blend Japanese and Scandinavian styles while retaining the property’s rustic allure. His viral video gives viewers a glimpse of the property wrapped in greenery, showcasing its charm.

Inside, the farmhouse is cluttered with remnants from its past, from old cleaning supplies to forgotten toys. “The potential here is phenomenal,” he exclaims, showcasing various quirky items including vintage Suntory whiskey and numerous kimonos.

Wormann humorously pointed out the less pleasant aspects of the place, describing the smell of nine years of neglect in the kitchen, filled with murky water in buckets. “We can’t begin renovations until we sift through these hidden treasures,” he noted.

He’s been diligently acquiring and renovating similar homes at a rate of about one a year since relocating to Japan. Many of these houses became available due to Japan’s declining population and a cultural preference for new builds, which contributes to a surplus of abandoned properties.

“In Japan, homes depreciate over time, effectively making older houses more about the land than the structure itself,” he explained. With his eye for potential, Wormann is transforming forgotten spaces into appealing rentals.