Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I know if the apartment is available for foreigners?

  All the listings on our website are checked for foreigner-friendly policies, so you can be confident that the apartments we show you are available to foreign tenants. If there are any specific requirements, such as visa status or a guarantor, it will be clearly noted in the listing.

• Do I need to speak Japanese to rent an apartment in Japan?

  No worries if you don't speak Japanese! While speaking some Japanese can be helpful, we specialize in helping foreigners navigate the rental process. Many landlords work with agencies like ours that offer bilingual services to make things easier for you. We'll guide you through everything!

• What documents do I need to rent an apartment in Japan?

  The main documents you'll need are your passport, residence card (Zairyu card), and proof of income such as salary slips or a work contract. Some landlords may also ask for a Japanese emergency contact, but we can help you through the entire process, ensuring you're prepared.

• What is a guarantor, and do I need one?

  Yes, most landlords will require a guarantor. If you don't have someone to act as one, don't worry! We can arrange a guarantor company for you, which is very common for foreign tenants. The guarantor company charges a small fee, and they'll cover you in case of missed rent.

• What is "key money" (礼金, reikin), and is it refundable?

  Great question! Key money is a traditional payment to the landlord, kind of like a "thank you" for renting the property. It's usually equal to one or two months' rent and is non-refundable. However, we can also help you find apartments that don't require key money if that's your preference.

• How do I pay rent?

  Rent is generally paid via bank transfer from your Japanese account, and it's due on the same day every month. We'll help you get everything set up to avoid any stress over payments.

• What should I do if I want to break the lease early?

  If you need to break the lease, you'll typically need to give 1-2 months' notice. Some contracts may have penalties for early termination, but we'll review the lease together to avoid surprises.

• Are apartments furnished?

  Most apartments in Japan are unfurnished, meaning you'll need to bring your own furniture. However, we also offer serviced apartments and guesthouses that come fully furnished, so just let us know your preference, and we'll find something that fits your needs!

• Is it possible to have pets?

  Finding a pet-friendly apartment can be a bit challenging, but they do exist! Pet-friendly apartments are clearly marked, and there may be an extra deposit or rent fee. If you have a furry friend, just let us know, and we'll narrow down the options for you.

• What should I do if I have maintenance issues in my apartment?

  For any maintenance issues, we're just a phone call away! Landlords are responsible for major repairs, and we'll coordinate everything on your behalf. For smaller fixes, we can advise you on how to handle them.

• Are utilities included in the rent?

  In most cases, utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and internet are not included in the rent. You'll need to set up and pay for these separately, but don't worry—we'll guide you through the process and help you get everything connected after you move in.

• How do I set up utilities in my apartment?

  Setting up utilities is simple. We can help you contact the local provider (such as TEPCO in the Tokyo area) either online or over the phone. You'll need to provide some basic information, like your address and move-in date. Once it's set up, you'll be billed monthly based on your usage.

• How much do utilities typically cost per month?

  Utility costs vary depending on your usage, the season, and the size of your apartment. Here's a general estimate for a single person living in a small apartment: • Electricity: ¥5,000-¥10,000 per month • Gas: ¥3,000-¥7,000 per month • Water: ¥2,000-¥4,000 every 2 months • Internet: ¥3,500-¥6,000 per month

• How do I pay for utilities like electricity and gas?

  Utility bills are generally paid once a month. You can choose to pay by: • Automatic bank withdrawal (most convenient) • Convenience store payment • Online payment

• What types of gas are used in apartments, and how do I set it up?

  There are two types of gas in Japan: city gas (cheaper and more common in urban areas) and propane gas (often used in rural areas). Gas is typically used for heating water and cooking. We can assist you in setting up your gas service, which will usually require a brief visit from a technician to activate your gas lines.