MAGAZINE

When renting a property in Japan, the first hurdle many foreign residents encounter is the tenant screening process. While factors such as financial stability and character are essential, the type of visa—or residency status—you hold often plays a significant role in...

Thinking of renting a home in Japan and assuming all you need is the monthly rent? In reality, securing a property requires a significant initial payment at the time of contract, along with ongoing monthly costs beyond just rent. Without a clear understanding of these...

In Japan, most rental properties require either a joint guarantor or the use of a rent guarantor company as part of the leasing process. For many foreign residents—those without acquaintances in Japan, whose families live overseas, or who have just begun working and...

When renting a property in Japan, you may assume that having a personal guarantor is absolutely necessary. In reality, however, most modern leases now rely on a rent guarantor company—a system that has become the standard and serves as a valuable safeguard. This...

“I can’t read the entire contract in Japanese...”“What if I don’t fully understand the key explanations?” For many foreign nationals seeking to rent a home in Japan, the language barrier can make the leasing process feel daunting. However, Japan is becoming...

Are You Choosing a Property Based Solely on Rent or Layout? While budget and square footage are certainly important, the most critical factor is whether the property matches your personal lifestyle. Two people may need very different layouts and locations—even with...

When searching for a home, many people instinctively focus on the age of the building.Properties built within the last five years—so-called “newer constructions”—often appear more attractive thanks to their modern design and clean finishes. But the reality is: “new”...

Being able to live with a beloved pet is a major appeal of pet-friendly properties. However, just because a listing says “pets allowed” doesn’t mean you have full freedom in what you can keep.In reality, many such properties come with specific restrictions—such as...

Phrases like “Wi-Fi included” or “unlimited internet access” in property listings may seem appealing at first glance, suggesting a way to save on monthly utility costs. However, many tenants later discover the reality: “Yes, it’s free—but the connection is too slow to...

“Just 3 Minutes from the Station”—Is It Really Convenient? What to Watch for When Evaluating Station-Proximate Properties Phrases like “5-minute walk from the station” or “prime location, 3 minutes to the station” are often highlighted in property listings. It’s easy...

No matter how ideal the location or layout of a property may be, your overall satisfaction and peace of mind after moving in largely depend on how the property is managed.Whether it’s an emergency such as a water leak or a broken lock, a malfunctioning appliance, or...

“I want to rent an apartment for ¥80,000 a month—so why am I being asked to pay ¥400,000 up front?” In Japan, renting a property typically involves more than just the monthly rent. Initial move-in costs can often amount to four to six times the rent, making it...

When reviewing a residential lease agreement, you’ll often find a section near the end outlining “Prohibited Activities”. These clauses may contain surprisingly detailed restrictions—some of which may seem overly specific or minor at first glance. As a result, many...

“The restoration costs were far higher than expected.”“None of my security deposit was returned.”“I was charged a penalty for terminating the lease early.”Such move-out disputes are often the result of overlooking the “special clauses” written into the lease...

In Japan, residential leases typically follow a two-year contract cycle, at the end of which a formal renewal process is required. At this point, many tenants encounter the concept of a renewal fee—a uniquely Japanese custom that often raises questions such as:“Why is...