A Step-by-Step Guide to Finding and Renting Houses and Apartments in Japan　

Contact the real estate agency → preview (take a look at the room you are interested in)

→ apply (request to sign a contract for the room you want to live in) → sign the contract → receive the key to the room

・If you find a property you are interested in, contact a real estate agent.

・You will go for a room inspection (i.e. see the room you are interested in in person) with a real estate agent.

・If you want to rent the room, you can apply for it by submitting an application.

・If the you pass the screening conducted by the room management company or the owner of the room, you can sign a lease. Please submit the necessary documents at the time of the contract.

・Before you sign the lease, an agent at the company that manages the property with explain the content of the contract.

・Sign the lease and pay the necessary money.

・Receive the house keys and move in.

Visiting a property

The procedure for visiting a property

When you go to see the property you are interested in in person, you can make an appointment with the real estate agency in advance, and a representative will show you the property. There is no charge for going to see the property you are thinking of renting. Although you may be able to sign a lease without actually going to see the property, going to see the property in person will help you decide if it is the one you really want to live in. There are also an increasing number of real estate agencies that offer online viewing.

What should I wear when I go to view a property?

It is possible that the landlord of the property may be present when  you view the property. Although casual clothing is fine, it is a good idea to look clean and presentable.

When you enter the property, you will most likely take off your shoes. When you take your shoes off, it’s best to avoid going barefoot.

What to look for when viewing a property

Some common questions are: Is there an air conditioner? Is there room for a refrigerator or washing machine? What is the surrounding environment? What is the height of the ceiling?

Please ask the agent regarding any questions or concerns  you have about the property, and if the agent is unsure, they can confirm with the owner of the property.

Applying for the property

What is an application process?

If you like the property you have viewed and want to sign a lease agreement, you can apply for it. Applying for a lease does not mean that you have signed a lease. This is the right time to negotiate and discuss the specifics of renting a property. However, in the case of popular properties, if there are too many things you wish to negotiate, other prospective tenants may be given priority. When reviewing your application, the property management company and landlord will evaluate things like whether or not you can afford the rent.

<In the case that more than one person applies, how are applications ranked? >

If there are multiple applications for the same property, priorities may be determined on a first-come, first-served basis. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of being able to move in, so if you find a place you like, you should apply early. If you prepare all the necessary documents in advance, it will be easier to apply quickly.

Can I cancel the application?

Yes, you can cancel your application. However, after the lease is signed, it cannot be cancelled for free. If you decide to cancel at the application stage, tell the real estate agency as soon as possible. Although you can cancel at the application stage, it is common to explain to the landlord and the real estate agency the reason for the cancellation and to apologize. If you paid an application fee or other fee at the time of the application, those should be returned in the event of cancellation. Although application fees are less common these days, it is recommended to have a “deposit receipt” issued in advance if you want to leave the application fee with the real estate company.

Explanation of important matters

What is the “explanation of important matters”(jyuyoujikou-setumei)?

A qualified real estate agent is required by law to go over the contract in detail before you sign it. To avoid problems after you move in or when you move out, make sure you are satisfied with the explanation of important matters before you sign the lease. For example, confirming the rules regarding costs, special conditions, renewals, facilities, security deposits, and moving out here will prevent problems later on. Depending on the real estate agency, you may be able to receive the explanation remotely through a video call using a PC or smartphone.

The Lease

After the review and explanation of important matters are successfully completed, it’s time to sign the contract. Once you have reviewed and agreed to the contents of thelease, you will sign it. As long as you have prepared the necessary documents and fees in advance, you will be able to proceed smoothly through this process.

Receiving the Key

Once you receive the keys to the property, you can move in!