Relife Real estate Agent

19/09/2024

Key Money and Security Deposit in Japan: A Detailed Overview - part 2

Security Deposit (敷金)
What is a Security Deposit?
The security deposit is a refundable fee paid to cover potential damages or unpaid rent during your tenancy. It acts as a form of insurance for the landlord against any issues that may arise.

Typical Amount:
Security deposits usually range from one to three months' rent. For instance, if your rent is ¥100,000, you might pay a security deposit of between ¥100,000 and ¥300,000.

Refund Process:
Upon vacating the property, the landlord will conduct an inspection. The security deposit can be refunded in full, partially, or not at all, depending on the condition of the property. Deductions may occur for:

Damage Beyond Normal Wear and Tear: Any significant damage, such as broken fixtures or extensive stains, may lead to deductions.
Cleaning Fees: Some landlords may charge for professional cleaning, which can be deducted from the deposit.
Unpaid Rent: If you owe any rent at the time of vacating, it may also be deducted from the security deposit.

Documentation:
It’s advisable to document the property’s condition upon moving in (e.g., take photos of any pre-existing damage) to avoid disputes when moving out.

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19/09/2024

Key Money and Security Deposit in Japan: A Detailed Overview - Part 1

When renting a property in Japan, understanding key money (礼金, reikin) and the security deposit (敷金, shikikin) is essential, as these terms can significantly impact your initial expenses. Here’s a closer look at both.

Key Money (礼金)
What is Key Money?
Key money is a non-refundable fee paid to the landlord as a gesture of goodwill. Traditionally, it is seen as a thank-you for allowing you to rent the property. This practice is more common in certain areas and types of rentals.

Typical Amount:
Key money typically ranges from one month’s rent to two months’ rent, depending on the property and its location. For example, if your monthly rent is ¥100,000, you might pay an additional ¥100,000 to ¥200,000 as key money.

Purpose:
While key money is not a legal requirement, many landlords in Japan expect it. Unlike the security deposit, it is not refundable, so it’s important to consider this expense when budgeting for your move.

Negotiability:
In some cases, you may be able to negotiate the amount of key money, particularly in more competitive rental markets. However, this is less common, and landlords may not be open to negotiation in high-demand areas.

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17/09/2024

How to Rent an Apartment in Japan: A Step-by-Step Guide　PART 2

4. The Application Process
After submitting your documents, the real estate agent will pass them on to the landlord for review. The landlord may request additional information or clarification, especially if there are language barriers. Once the landlord is satisfied, you will receive a formal offer to rent the apartment.

5. Understanding the Costs
Before moving in, there are several upfront costs to be aware of:
・Security Deposit (敷金, shikikin): Usually one to two months’ rent. This is refundable, minus any cleaning or repair costs when you move out.
・Key Money (礼金, reikin): A non-refundable payment to the landlord, typically one to two months’ rent.
・Agent Fee (仲介手数料, chuukai tesuuryou): This fee is paid to the real estate agent and is usually around one month’s rent.
・First Month’s Rent: Often paid upfront before moving in.
Insurance: Renters are generally required to purchase fire insurance, which can cost between ¥10,000 and ¥20,000 per year.

6. Signing the Lease
Once you agree to the terms and make the payments, you’ll sign the lease agreement. The lease will be in Japanese, so if you don’t read Japanese, it’s advisable to have a bilingual friend or professional review it. The lease period is typically for two years, with the option to renew, though there is usually a renewal fee (koushinryou, 更新料), which could be one month’s rent.

7. Move-In and Final Preparations
After signing the lease, you’ll receive the keys and can move into your new home. It’s important to:
・Inspect the Apartment: Document any pre-existing damage with photos to avoid disputes when you move out.
・Set Up Utilities: Contact utility companies to set up electricity, water, and gas. RELIFE can usually assist with this.

8. Living in the Apartment
During your stay, it’s crucial to follow the building’s rules, including waste disposal practices, noise levels, and use of shared facilities. Japanese apartments often have strict regulations, and failure to comply can result in fines or even eviction.

9. Moving Out
When you decide to move out, you typically need to give at least one month’s notice. The landlord or agent will conduct an inspection to determine if any repairs are needed, which will be deducted from your security deposit.

*Depending on the real estate company, these documents and processes might vary. Please confirm with your real estate agent.

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17/09/2024

How to Rent an Apartment in Japan: A Step-by-Step Guide - PART 1

Renting an apartment in Japan can be a challenging experience for foreigners, especially if you're unfamiliar with the process. This guide will walk you through each step, from finding a property to signing the lease, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for your new home in Japan.

1. Understanding the Rental Market in Japan
Before starting your search, it’s important to understand how the rental market in Japan operates. Japanese landlords are generally cautious, often requiring multiple forms of documentation and security deposits. Unlike in many Western countries, the process involves various fees such as key money (礼金, reikin) and agent fees. Additionally, some landlords may have reservations about renting to foreigners, particularly if they do not speak Japanese.

2. Start Your Apartment Search
To begin your search, you can use online platforms like Suumo, Homes, or GaijinPot, which are popular for both Japanese and foreign renters. You can also visit a local real estate agency (fudousan 不動産) in the area where you want to live. Agencies often have a better selection of properties than what's available online, and they can guide you through the process. In RELIFE International Leasing Department, we will help you to find your desired housing.
Key Factors to Consider:
・Location: Proximity to public transportation, grocery stores, and your workplace or school.
・Rent: Typically, rent in major cities like Tokyo can range from ¥50,000 to ¥200,000 per month, depending on location and apartment size.
・Amenities: Consider the building’s amenities such as security, parking, or facilities like gyms and laundry rooms.

3. Preparing the Required Documentation
Once you find a property you're interested in, you'll need to prepare several documents. These typically include:
・Passport: Your identification.
・Resident Card (在留カード, zairyuu kaado): If you’re already living in Japan, this will show your visa status and residence details.
Employment Certificate or Proof of Income: This is to show that you can afford the rent. Students may need a guarantor (more on this later).
・Guarantor Information: In many cases, a guarantor (hoshonin, 保証人) is required. This person or company guarantees your ability to pay rent. Some landlords accept guarantor companies if you cannot find an individual to act as one.

*Depending on the real estate company, these documents and processes might vary. Please confirm with your real estate agent.

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17/09/2024

🌟 Exciting News! 🌟
The RELIFE International Leasing Department is back and better than ever! 🏢✨ Whether you’re looking for your dream home or the perfect office space in Tokyo, we’ve got you covered.
Specializing in Chinese and English services, we’re here to make your real estate journey smooth and successful. 🏠🌏
Contact us today and let’s find your perfect place together! 📞💼
Phone: 03-5213-4098
Email: [email protected]

29/08/2021

Foreigner friendly apartment in Mitaka!!
15 mins from Mitaka sta.
17 mins from Musashi-sakai sta.

1st floor, 25㎡
Rent: ￥54,000
Management fee: ￥2,000
Key money: ￥54,000
Deposit: ￥54,000
Agency fee: ￥54,000
Status: Vacant, Ready for viewing

Please feel free to message us!!

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25/08/2021

Foreigner friendly apartment in Meidaime!!
4 mins to the nearest station!
10 mins to Shinjuku sta.
3 mins to Shimotakaido sta.

Luxury apartment near the station. It's on 8F and has good view!!!
🆓Free Internet!!🆓

Rent: ￥178,000
Management fee: ￥10,000
Key money: ￥0
Deposit: ￥0
1LDK, 35.95㎡, 8th floor!!

Please contact us for more information! We would love to take you on a viewing!!


#アパート #賃貸 #外国人 #シェアハウス #国際 #東京 #関東 #引越し #おもてなし #売買 #リノベ #四ツ谷 #早稲田 #飯田橋 #荻窪 #豪徳寺 #浅草 #浅草橋 #駒込 #国立 #上野 #恵比寿 #千代田 #東京シェアハウス #湘南

22/08/2021

Wonderful guest house in Warabi!! Good access to major stations!!
✅10 mins from Warabi sta.
✅25 mins to Ikebukuro sta.
✅35 mins to Takadanobaba sta.

Rent:
Private room: ￥47,000～ (include utility & Internet )
Dormitory: ￥26,000～(include utility & Internet )

💖 J&F HOUSE WARABI is one of the biggest international share house in Japan. Residents and apartment managers are very friendly and they will help you with any trouble in the house. Our share houses provide you an opportunity of cultural exchange through interaction between the residents.💖

Please feel free to message us!!


#アパート #賃貸 #外国人 #シェアハウス #国際 #東京 #関東 #引越し #おもてなし #売買 #リノベ #四ツ谷 #早稲田 #飯田橋 #荻窪 #豪徳寺 #浅草 #浅草橋 #駒込 #国立 #上野 #恵比寿 #千代田 #東京シェアハウス #湘南