In a bold leap toward modernising real estate transactions, Japan’s Open House Group has announced it will accept XRP, Solana (SOL), and Dogecoin (DOGE) for property purchases.
The move, effective immediately, positions the Tokyo Stock Exchange-listed giant among the first major real estate firms globally to integrate these cryptocurrencies. This expansion follows the company’s January 2025 decision to adopt Bitcoin and Ethereum, signalling a growing embrace of digital assets in traditional sectors.
Why is Open House Betting on Crypto?
Open House cites surging global demand for crypto-friendly payment options as the driving force behind its decision. With regulatory frameworks solidifying worldwide, the firm sees cryptocurrencies as vital to streamlining cross-border transactions and attracting international investors. “This expansion offers clients unparalleled flexibility while adhering to their local regulations,” a company spokesperson stated.
The shift also aligns with Japan’s progressive stance on digital innovation. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba recently emphasised crypto’s role in national growth, while the Cabinet’s updated Payment Services Act now provides clearer guidelines for stablecoins and exchanges. For Open House, crypto isn’t just a trend; it’s a strategic pillar for scaling its ¥1 trillion ($6.7 billion) annual operations.
A Five-Year Crypto Vision Takes Shape
Open House’s crypto journey began quietly in 2022 with blockchain feasibility studies. By 2023, it funded research into Bitcoin’s Lightning Network to enhance transaction speeds. However, the real breakthrough came under Yokiko Nishimura, head of the firm’s crypto division, who championed partnerships with local financial institutions since 2015.
“We’ve always prioritised practical applications over speculation,” Nishimura remarked. This ethos led to January 2025’s Bitcoin and Ethereum rollout, which laid the groundwork for this week’s expansion. Today, clients can seamlessly use five cryptocurrencies across Open House’s services, from property acquisitions to post-purchase management.
Government Backing Meets Corporate Innovation
Japan’s regulatory clarity has been pivotal. The Payment Services Act, revised in 2024, not only legitimised crypto but also encouraged businesses to explore its potential. Open House’s decision dovetails with these policies, positioning it as a bridge between traditional real estate and Web3 innovation.
Meanwhile, former Ripple executive Emi Yoshikawa applauded the move on social media, noting XRP’s utility in reducing cross-border payment friction. Open House further strengthened its global reach by launching a Chinese website, allowing international clients to transact in crypto with ease.
How Crypto Payments Work for Homebuyers
Purchasing a property with XRP, SOL, or DOGE mirrors traditional methods. Clients select their preferred cryptocurrency at checkout, triggering a real-time conversion via partnered platforms to ensure price stability. Transactions are processed within minutes, a stark contrast to conventional bank delays.
The option applies to all offerings, like luxury condos, residential homes, and commercial properties. Crucially, Open House mandates compliance with local tax laws, urging clients to consult financial advisors before transacting. “We’re building convenience, not complexity,” the firm assured.
Redefining Real Estate’s Future
Open House’s crypto pivot reflects a broader industry shift. By treating digital assets as transactional tools rather than speculative bets, the firm aims to revolutionise how high-value deals are executed. Micropayments for services like design consultations or maintenance could follow, further embedding crypto into everyday operations.
Competitors are watching closely. As global crypto adoption climbs, Open House’s success may inspire similar moves worldwide. For now, the company remains focused on refining its platform, with plans to explore tokenised assets and blockchain-based property records.
A New Era for Property Investment
Open House’s crypto integration marks a milestone for Japan’s real estate sector and the global market. By prioritising flexibility and innovation, the firm not only future-proofs its business but also challenges industry norms. As boundaries between finance and technology blur, one thing is clear: the keys to your next home might just be digital.
Written By Fazal Ul Vahab C H
