MAGAZINE

“I want a quiet home.” “I’m sensitive to noise from neighbors.”Noise-related concerns consistently rank among the most common regrets after moving into a new residence. Despite assumptions such as “It’s reinforced concrete, so it must be quiet,” or “Corner units are...

"The rent is affordable, and it’s conveniently close to the station. Yet… the room feels oddly dark." When searching for a rental property, factors such as layout, amenities, and building age often take center stage. However, one crucial aspect that is surprisingly...

When people think of upper-floor residences in a condominium, they often imagine sweeping views, peaceful surroundings, and superior ventilation. Indeed, real estate listings frequently highlight “upper floors” as a premium feature, evoking a sense of exclusivity and...

“Auto-Lock Means Safety and Security” — Or Does It? Many individuals, especially single women and families, choose properties with auto-lock systems under the assumption that they offer superior safety. Indeed, security features that prevent unauthorized entry are a...

In Japan’s hot summers and chilly winters, an air conditioner is an essential amenity for comfortable living. In rental properties, having an air-conditioned unit has become a standard expectation. However, it’s not uncommon for unexpected issues to arise during...

In multi-unit residences, interactions with neighbors—both beside and above or below—are an inevitable part of daily life. Minor misunderstandings can occasionally escalate into disputes over noise, waste disposal, bicycle parking, smoking, pet ownership, and other...

Relocating to a new residence marks the beginning of an exciting chapter. From finalizing the lease to coordinating moving services and utility setups, there’s a great deal to organize. Yet one crucial task is often overlooked: address change notifications. Failing to...

In Japan, residential lease agreements typically span two years, and many tenants renew their contracts multiple times to remain in the same home over the long term. However, it can be deeply unsettling to suddenly receive a notice stating: “Your lease will not be...

One unavoidable aspect of vacating a rental property is the final inspection, commonly referred to as the move-out walkthrough, conducted by the property manager or landlord. This critical step determines the extent of restoration required, confirms cleaning...

“I was charged an excessive repair fee at move-out.”“I was held responsible for damage that was there before I moved in.” Such disputes over restoration costs are not uncommon in the rental market. In most cases, the root cause is a lack of thorough documentation at...

“Could improper trash disposal really lead to eviction?”Surprisingly, the answer is yes—and it’s more common than one might think. Violating waste disposal rules can escalate into serious disputes, particularly in communities that prioritize cleanliness, order, and...

“I want to elevate the look of my home.”“I need more storage—can I add shelving?”“I’d love to personalize the space to suit my style.” These desires have led to a growing interest in DIY (self-renovation) even among tenants in high-end rental properties. However, when...

“I’m sure I had it in my pocket…”“Maybe I left it somewhere…”“My bag is missing—and so are my keys…” For residents of rental properties, losing a key is an all-too-common scenario. While it can be stressful, the most important thing is to stay calm and follow the...

Embarking on a new life in Japan begins with finding the right place to call home. Yet, for many international residents, Japan’s rental process can feel daunting. Language barriers, cultural nuances, and unfamiliar contract practices often present unique challenges....

Securing a home is one of the first major steps when starting life in Japan. For foreign residents, however, navigating the Japanese rental process can be challenging, especially due to the volume of required documents—most of which are in Japanese. Questions like...