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For many individuals renting a home in Japan, the high cost of initial fees can come as a surprise. Leasing agreements often require payments totaling several times the monthly rent. This can be a particularly steep barrier for foreign nationals or those embarking on...

For many people renting a home in Japan, the sheer cost of initial move-in expenses—on top of the rent itself—can come as a surprise. Common fees such as security deposits, key money, brokerage fees, guarantor fees, and fire insurance often total several months' worth...

Is It Possible to Negotiate the Brokerage Fee? In Japan, when renting a property, tenants are typically required to pay a brokerage fee to the real estate agency assisting with the search and contract process. This fee is most commonly set at “one month’s rent plus...

When renting a property in Japan, tenants are often required to pay a “shikikin” (security deposit). This deposit, typically equivalent to one to two months' rent, serves as a safeguard to cover potential repair costs when vacating the property. However, many tenants...

From utilities and mobile bills to subscriptions and transportation, nearly every daily expense can now be paid by credit card. So it’s natural to wonder: Wouldn’t it be convenient if rent could be paid the same way? The short answer is: Yes—credit card rent payments...

Have You Ever Thought, “I’d Rent This Place—If Only the Rent Were Slightly Lower”? In Japan’s rental market, rent is not always a fixed, non-negotiable figure. In fact, depending on the timing and circumstances, it’s often possible to negotiate a reduction—sometimes...

Japan’s rental market, it is standard practice for real estate agencies and guarantor companies to request proof of income. This documentation helps confirm whether a prospective tenant can reliably meet monthly rent obligations. However, many individuals may find it...

When searching for rental properties in Japan, you’ll often come across listings that mention rent structured as “¥XXX,000 + common area charges” or “management fees included.” Some properties even list both fees separately—leaving many tenants wondering, “What’s the...

“If I’m going to live somewhere, it might as well be a pristine, brand-new home.”This is a common sentiment shared by many prospective tenants. In Japan’s rental market, newly built and recently constructed properties consistently attract strong demand—so much so that...

When browsing property listings, terms like “30-year-old” or “40-year-old” buildings often trigger concerns such as, “Will it feel outdated?” or “Are the facilities too old?” In Japan, property platforms tend to emphasize newer buildings, reinforcing the notion that...

“Panoramic high-floor views,” “concierge-serviced common areas,” and “sleek architectural design”—tower residences undeniably offer an array of attractive features. Especially in urban centers, they are celebrated for their vistas, convenience, and upscale amenities,...

As you explore housing options in Japan, you may increasingly come across share houses—especially in urban areas. These properties have become a popular choice for those seeking affordable, community-based living, particularly among foreign nationals and individuals...

Discovering a rental listing that’s ¥10,000–¥20,000 below market average can feel like a lucky break. However, it’s important to remember that there’s always a reason behind lower rent. While some properties may indeed be hidden gems, others may carry undisclosed...

While rental housing often brings to mind apartments or condominiums, an increasing number of people are opting for detached house rentals—especially families with children, those sensitive to neighbor noise, or individuals wanting the freedom to keep pets. One of the...

When browsing rental listings, terms like “RC (Reinforced Concrete),” “Wood Frame,” and “Steel Frame (S-Structure)” frequently appear in the property details. While these may seem like technical jargon, they actually have profound implications for a residence’s...