1 Set criteria for desired property and searching
Decide on the conditions (location, budget, etc.) of the property you wish to rent and search online. Or, inquire directly with an agent you feel you can trust before deciding on terms. If you have a specific city in which you would like to live, you may want to visit the real estate agencies there in person, but they may only be able to help you in Japanese.
There are many properties in Japan that foreigners cannot rent. If the owner wishes to rent to Japanese only, or if you cannot communicate in Japanese, you may be denied entry. There are also some properties that cannot be rented depending on visa status or work status. Therefore, it is recommended that when you wish to view a property, you need to ask if the property you wish to rent is available for your situation as well.
2 Viewing
Once you have decided on the property you would like to view, request a viewing from the agent or the real estate company that owns the property. Incidentally, many real estate agencies in Japan are closed on Wednesdays.
We recommend that you walk around the property and take a look at the surrounding environment, including the distance from the station, when viewing the property.
3 Application & Screening
When you find a property you want to move into, apply for it. In most cases, a residence card, proof of enrollment at a company or school, and proof of income are required as necessary documents when applying. These documents are required by the management company, guarantee company, and owner for screening.
In addition, it is recommended that you open a bank account, create a stamp, and register your address before applying, so that the contract will go smoothly, preferably before the viewing.
4 Contract & Payment
Once the screening process is complete, the contract start date and contract date are determined. The real estate company will send you an invoice, which you will pay and sign the contract.
5 Moving
You will receive the key on the day the contract starts. We recommend that you make arrangements for movers, electricity, gas, water, and internet well in advance.
Filling out the room checklist and key pickup form will complete your move.
If you have any questions or/and if you would like to have more details, feel free to contact us by contact form.
