Difference Design Inc. (Headquarters: Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka; CEO: Masafumi Sugi), a company specializing in renovation, has systematized its "0-yen renovation" service under the official name "Zero Lab" and commenced full-scale operations as of December 15, 2025. This press release is part of the "April Dream" initiative, sharing a vision for a better future.
### The Mechanism of "Zero Lab" Zero Lab is a framework where our company revitalizes unused vacant houses through strategic upfront investment in renovation. Costs are recovered from the sales profit, allowing owners to renovate and sell their properties without any initial financial burden. This model is a "triple-win" solution that also benefits the local community by maintaining public safety and landscape aesthetics.
### Social Context: The 2025 Turning Point for Vacant House Risks The number of vacant houses in Japan has reached approximately 9 million, with a record-high vacancy rate of 13.8%. In Osaka City, the rate is 17.1%, significantly higher than the national average. Furthermore, the "2030 Problem" looms as the baby boomer generation enters their 80s, leading to a surge in inherited properties. Estimates suggest that without intervention, vacant houses could reach 21.5 million by 2033.
### Legal Changes: "Leaving Houses Empty" is Now a Risk Legislative changes in 2023 have introduced a new category for "poorly managed vacant houses." If local governments designate a property as such due to poor maintenance, the 1/6th fixed asset tax reduction privilege is revoked. This can result in property taxes increasing up to six times. Zero Lab provides a practical solution to avoid this tax burden while simultaneously increasing asset value.
### Case Studies
#### Case 1: Mountainous Family Home Sold for 19.8 Million Yen - **Location:** Inagawa, Hyogo Prefecture - **Details:** 30-year-old, 4LDK detached house - **Original Valuation:** Approx. 8 million yen - **Result:** After Zero Lab renovation, the property attracted remote workers from Osaka and sold for 19.8 million yen. The owner’s profit increased by approximately 2 million yen with zero upfront cost.
#### Case 2: 46-Year-Old Apartment Sold for 22.8 Million Yen - **Location:** Asahi-ku, Osaka City - **Details:** 46-year-old condo, converted from 2LDK to 3LDK - **Original Valuation:** Approx. 12 million yen - **Result:** Sold within 3 months of renovation. The owner's take-home profit increased by approximately 2.7 million yen compared to a direct buyout offer.
### Representative Profile & Comment **Masafumi Sugi, CEO of Difference Design Inc.** With experience in over 350 renovation projects, Sugi is a certified Mortgage Advisor and Interior Coordinator. He emphasizes that Zero Lab is not just about financial relief but also emotional care. "Many users express relief that their memories are being passed on to a new generation, erasing the guilt of leaving the house neglected."
### About Difference Design Inc. Established in November 2021, the company focuses on creating flexible living spaces through used property acquisition and high-design renovation. - URL: https://differencedesign.co.jp/
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: News