Anyone here gotten a Minpaku license recently? Thinking of buying an apartment

Hey guys,

I live in Japan and I’m thinking about buying an apartment in Ota-ku (Tokyo) with the idea of getting a Minpaku license. I know there are different systems (like the regular Minpaku law, the special zone one in Ota, and even ryokan/hotel licenses), but I’m still pretty new to all this.

I was wondering if anyone here has actually gone through the process in the last couple of years and could share what it was like.
• How long did it take to get approved?
• Is it even possible to do it with just one apartment (not a whole building)?
• What requirements should I watch out for before buying? (zoning, building rules, management association stuff, etc.)
• Did you handle the paperwork yourself or hire a gyoseishoshi (行政書士) to do it?
• Any tips or mistakes to avoid?

I just want to know if it’s realistic before I go ahead with the purchase, since I’ve heard not every apartment can actually be used for Minpaku even if the district allows it.

Thanks a lot for any advice or personal experiences!