#house
1. Popular Listing Sites for Foreigners
Standard Japanese sites (like Suumo or Homes) are great for variety, but they often require high Japanese proficiency. For a smoother experience, start with these foreigner-friendly platforms:
- GaijinPot Apartments: One of the largest English-language real estate portals. They specifically list “foreigner-friendly” properties where landlords are pre-vetted to accept non-Japanese residents.
- Village House: Affordable, renovated apartments across Japan. They often have low move-in costs (no key money or deposit) and provide support in multiple languages.
- Real Estate Japan: Offers a wide range of listings from various agencies, filterable by “No Key Money” or “No Guarantor Required.”
- Social Residences / Share Houses (Oakhouse, Sakura House): Excellent for short-to-medium stays. They are fully furnished, include utilities, and provide an instant community.
2. Understanding the Initial Costs
Moving into a traditional Japanese apartment can be expensive. Be prepared for the following upfront costs, which can total 4–6 months of rent:
- Deposit (Shikikin): Usually 1–2 months’ rent. Used for repairs when you move out; the remainder is returned.
- Key Money (Reikin): A non-refundable “gratitude” payment to the landlord. (Look for “Zero Reikin” to save money).
- Agency Fee (Chukai Tesuryo): Typically 1 month’s rent + tax.
- Guarantor Company Fee (保証会社): Since most foreigners don’t have a Japanese relative to act as a guarantor, you pay a company (usually 50%–100% of one month’s rent) to vouch for you.
- Fire Insurance: Mandatory, usually around 15,000–20,000 JPY for two years.
3. The Step-by-Step Process
- Define Your Criteria: Decide on your budget, commute time, and proximity to stations. (Note: Distance is usually measured in walking minutes; “10 mins” is a standard sweet spot).
- Contact an Agency: Reach out to English-speaking agents via the sites mentioned above.
- Room Viewing (Uchiken): Visit the property. Check for sunlight (South-facing is best), insulation, and the type of stove (Gas vs. IH).
- Application (Moushikomi): You will need your Residence Card, Passport, and Proof of Employment (or a school acceptance letter).
- Screening (Shinsa): The landlord and guarantor company will review your application. This takes about 3–7 days.
- Contract & Move-in: Once approved, you sign the contract and pay the initial fees.
4. Key Terminology to Know
| Term | Japanese | Meaning |
| 1K / 1LDK | – | 1 Room + Kitchen / 1 Room + Living, Dining, Kitchen |
| Washitsu | 和室 | Japanese-style room with Tatami mats |
| Manshon | マンション | Concrete apartment building (usually higher quality) |
| Apaato | アパート | Two-story wooden or light-steel building (cheaper) |
| Toho | 徒歩 | Walking distance from the station |
5. Pro-Tips for Success
- Prepare your phone number: Many agencies won’t process an application without a Japanese phone number.
- Check the “hidden” fees: Ask if there is a mandatory “Lock Exchange Fee” or “Disinfection Fee” during move-in.
- Use UR Housing: Independent of private landlords, UR (Urban Renaissance) apartments require no key money, no agency fees, and no guarantor. They are highly popular among foreigners.
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