Have you ever faced any challenges finding an apartment after moving to Tokyo? Generally, as a foreigner, renting an apartment in Japan can be very demanding at times and it can be due to unfamiliarity with Japanese real estate agents' business practices or unclear contract conditions. Here are a few things to know before renting an apartment or house in Japan:

1. Understanding the Rental Market

One of the main things to understand about the renting system in Tokyo is that it is a long process and there are certain important Japanese terms you need to understand while looking for an apartment such as:

"Shikikin"

• is a "security deposit" applied toward any potential future apartment damage. Typically, this cost is equivalent to 1~2 months of your rent, however, it can be refundable depending on the damage you have made, while the repairing cost will be automatically deducted from the initial cost.

"Reikin"

• is also commonly known as “key money”. You pay this money to the landlord as an “appreciation gift” for letting you rent their property. The cost usually corresponds to the amount of several months of your rent and is non-refundable.

"Koshin-ryou"

• is a “renewal fee” and is applied to those who want to extend their stay in the same apartment.

2. Set a Budget

The cost of rent may vary depending on the location, size, and type of the apartment. Particularly, in central Tokyo like (Minato-ku, Shibuya-ku, Chiyoda-ku, and Shinjuku-ku) the average cost of rent starts from (70k ~ 200k yen), however in suburban areas like (Nerima or Setagaya) apartments can be found at a reasonable rent price.

If you are moving in for the first time, then it is important to understand that, besides the cost of monthly rent, there are other requirements to be fulfilled. Such requirements are mentioned in the above paragraph and may result in an increase in the overall budget.

3. Online Apartment Hunting & Utilizing Real Estate Agencies

In Tokyo, a lot of real estate companies specialize in assisting foreigners in English with contract interpretation, apartment hunting, and application procedure navigation. Real estate agencies such as Hikari home Inc., minimini, JKK housing, and Tokyo Apartment Inc. are some of the best options. These companies are also trustworthy, know the Japanese market well, and can help meet your needs and desires by providing clear, descriptive information.

Furthermore, the online application procedures of the following companies are simple and easy to understand, but in case of encountering any difficulties with filling out forms, the person may contact the agency by phone or visit the agency’s office for help. Most real estate companies in Japan are foreign-friendly and have at least a few English-speaking staff members, so you don’t have to get worried about a language barrier. Utilizing their services may help you find the perfect apartment with all the necessary requirements.

4. Prepare the Necessary Documents

These are the following documents you are required to have before renting an apartment in Japan:

• Passport
• Residence card
• Japanese Bank Account
• Bank Statement (proof of income)
• Japanese Phone Number
• Domestic Emergency Contact
• Guarantor (It can be a guarantor company or a Japanese visa holder)
• Eligibility Certification or Employment Agreement Letter (For STUDENT)
• Student ID and Enrollment Proof (If you’re a STUDENT)

5. Viewing Apartments

After selecting an apartment and completing the documentation process you may schedule a time with the agency for an apartment visit to check if it’s newly renovated or may have any damage. Also, it may give you a clear view of the neighborhood and surroundings.

6. Understanding the Lease Agreement

In Japan, lease arrangements can be very complicated. Make sure that you are aware of all the terms and conditions, which include: Lease time-period Fees for renewal Maintainance costs Guidelines and Policies

In case of an unclear contract, I recommend you take a colleague or someone you know with you who can understand both Japanese and English!

7. Initial Cost

Here are a few things to know!

Along with a security deposit, key money, and renewal fee, you are required to pay the first month of rent in advance, the agency fee, and the guarantor cost (if using the services of a guarantor company).

8. Moving In

After completing all the required procedures such as documentation and initial payments, you can finally move in. Make sure utilities, like gas, electricity, water, and internet are connected. If needed, your agency can help you set up those resources.

It takes careful planning, preparation, and research to rent an apartment in Tokyo. Having a clear understanding of all the procedures and requirements may help you to find a comfortable home for yourself. Make sure to pay attention to all the details!