A Real Estate Approach That Goes Beyond 'Just Selling': Advancing Regional Community Support Through Real Estate Brokerage in the Hibarigaoka Area (News Release)

Cosmos Initia Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; President: Ryotaro Takachi), a member of the Daiwa House Group, is promoting initiatives to support regional communities, starting with real estate brokerage, in the Hibarigaoka housing complex area of Nishitokyo City, Tokyo. Aiming for the long-term realization of our mission, 'Next GOOD: For our customers. For society. Providing value one step ahead with ideas one step ahead,' and sustainable corporate growth, we have established materiality regarding sustainability, positioning 'creating urban environments where the next generation of youth and children can grow healthily' as a key pillar. Based on this philosophy, the 'Next Generation Challenge' launched in fiscal 2023 allocates approximately 2% of net income as an investment budget to implement various initiatives that contribute to the healthy growth of the next generation.

This release provides an update on the progress of the 'Real Estate Brokerage x Regional Community Support' initiative being advanced in the Hibarigaoka area as part of these efforts.

Platform site for sharing regional community initiatives and area appeal: 'Hibarigaoka connect'
https://www.cigr.co.jp/pj/reno/hibarigaoka-connect/

■ Background and Overview

This initiative has been promoted in stages since fiscal 2023 as a project aligned with our corporate stance of 'not just selling and walking away' and 'not leaving the operation and continuity of regional communities solely to the residents' under the 'Next Generation Challenge.'

In the Hibarigaoka housing complex area, the regional community has taken the lead in area management and fostering connections among residents even after development. However, as years have passed since the initial sales, the turnover of residents has increased, making the sustainability and leadership of the regional community a challenge.

Given this situation, we aim to build a mechanism where regional value and relationships are passed on even during the moving process by remaining involved with the community through real estate brokerage.

■ Mechanism and Features Linking Real Estate Brokerage with Community Support

In the target area, the 'Hibarigaoka Housing Complex Regeneration Project' was carried out through a public-private partnership (PPP) between real estate developers (including our company) and the Urban Renaissance Agency (UR). This was the first project in Japan to adopt a business partner-based PPP method, serving as a pioneering example of area management in suburban housing complex regeneration.

We view the history of the community and the transition of area management to resident-led activities as a unique and vital asset. In collaboration with the general incorporated association 'Machiniwa Hibarigaoka' and our sustainability partner HITOTOWA Inc., we launched the platform site 'Hibarigaoka connect.'

This initiative utilizes 'Hibarigaoka connect' during the brokerage process to provide those considering moving with not only property information but also insights into local life and human connections, helping them visualize their future life. A major feature is that by having our company, which has been involved in the area since the initial redevelopment and sales, handle the brokerage, we can accurately convey the background and latest information of the community. Furthermore, to address the challenge of funding for sustainable area management, we have established a system where a portion of the brokerage fees is reinvested into regional community activities, creating an environment where these activities can continue despite resident turnover.

■ Key Initiatives to Date

In fiscal 2024, we concluded an agreement with Machiniwa Hibarigaoka and launched the 'Hibarigaoka connect' site, fully launching efforts to visualize and promote relationships with the regional community. Activities include:

● Housing Consultation Cafe: A regular space to discuss housing concerns.
● green drinks: Networking and discussion events themed on local life and town development.
● Participation in local events: Engaging with residents through booth exhibitions.

■ Future Outlook

We will continue to support regional communities through real estate brokerage, ensuring that local relationships and values are passed on during the moving process. By valuing collaboration with local organizations and creating touchpoints with residents and prospective movers, we aim to foster understanding and participation in the community, contributing to an environment where community activities can thrive. We will continue to explore the ideal form of real estate business that walks alongside the community, aiming for sustainable town development.