A US Army Veteran and His Wife Transform an Abandoned $35,000 House into Their Forever Home in Japan
Lawrence Covian, a 53-year-old US Army veteran, made a life-changing decision with his wife by relocating to Japan in 2017. They purchased an abandoned house, known locally as an akiya, in the serene Japanese countryside for just $35,000. Despite the challenges ahead, they have no plans to leave their newfound home.
A US Army veteran, Lawrence Covian, and his wife made a life-changing decision in 2017 to move from the United States to Japan. They purchased an abandoned house, known as an akiya, for $35,000 and have since invested their time and resources to transform it into their forever home. This article details their journey, from the initial purchase to their plans for the future.
The Big Move
In 2017, Lawrence Covian, a 53-year-old US Army veteran, and his wife decided to relocate to Japan. The couple was drawn to the rural Japanese lifestyle and the opportunities it presented. They purchased an abandoned house, referred to locally as an akiya, for $35,000. Their decision to move was driven by a desire for a quieter life and the financial feasibility of buying an abandoned property.
Challenges of Remodeling
Purchasing the house was just the beginning of their journey. The property, having been abandoned, required substantial remodeling to make it habitable. The couple faced numerous challenges, from structural repairs to modernizing the amenities. Despite the hurdles, Lawrence and his wife were determined to breathe new life into the old house.
Creating a Forever Home
With a clear vision in mind, Lawrence and his wife began the transformation process. They invested time, effort, and resources into restoring the akiya. The couple focused on preserving the traditional Japanese architecture while incorporating modern comforts. The end result is a unique blend of old and new that truly represents their personal style and commitment.
Embracing the Community
Beyond the physical transformation of the house, Lawrence and his wife have integrated into their local community. They have found joy in connecting with their neighbors and participating in regional events. This sense of belonging has further solidified their decision to stay in Japan indefinitely.
Plans for the Future
Looking ahead, Lawrence and his wife have no intention of leaving their newly established home. They plan to continue improving the property and exploring the beauty of the Japanese countryside. Their story demonstrates how adopting simple lifestyle changes can lead to profound transformations, as highlighted in the journey of another remarkable transformation.
Further Reading
For more inspiring stories of transformation, you may want to read about how three simple lifestyle changes led to a 150-pound weight loss in 18 months. You can find this incredible story here.
Additionally, discover our favorite lifestyle and wellness finds from August to help enrich your daily life by clicking here.
In 2017, Lawrence Covian, a 53-year-old US Army veteran, and his wife embarked on a bold adventure. Leaving behind their life in America, they relocated to Japan and purchased an abandoned house, or “akiya”, in the Japanese countryside. The purchase, amounting to $35,000, signaled the beginning of a dramatic transformation that turned this neglected property into their dream home.
Buying an abandoned house might initially seem daunting, especially considering the extensive remodeling work required to make it habitable again. However, Lawrence and his wife were undeterred. They saw potential where others saw disrepair. Their experience, patience, and unwavering commitment became the cornerstone of this transformative project.
The decision to settle in Japan, especially in a rural area, allowed the couple to embrace a unique lifestyle that blends modern comfort with traditional Japanese aesthetics. Step by step, the akiya was revived. Comprehensive renovations ensured basic amenities were up to standard, while careful attention to details retained the house’s original charm.
The couple’s story is more than just a tale of home renovation; it’s a testament to their resilience and ability to adapt. They’ve embraced their new community, participating in local traditions and slowly integrating into the slower-paced rural life of Japan. This move also highlights the broader phenomenon of abandoned homes in Japan, presenting a sustainable option for housing and a path for cultural integration.
Lawrence and his wife have no plans to leave their newfound haven. Their journey from acquiring an akiya to transforming it into their forever home stands as an inspirational narrative. It underscores the beauty of new beginnings and the infinite possibilities that arise from taking bold, unconventional steps.
