The Process of Renting an Apartment in Japan

The Apartment Rental Process in Japan (From Search to Move-In)

Below is a step-by-step explanation, starting from how we help you search for apartments, all the way to moving in.

All properties we introduce are foreigner-friendly, and we guide you through every step.

Step 1: Apartment Search & Property Selection

Before submitting any application, we first help you find suitable apartments based on your situation.

During this stage, we will ask about:

• Your budget

• Preferred area and access

• Desired move-in timing

• Visa type (student, working, or other)

• Whether you prefer low upfront costs, newer buildings, or specific conditions

  
  

Based on this information, we:

• Search properties that accept foreign tenants

• Avoid listings with unnecessary or unusually high upfront costs

• Explain clearly which conditions are negotiable and which are not

• Share photos, videos, and detailed explanations

  
  

You can compare options at your own pace, and no application is submitted until you clearly confirm the apartment you want to proceed with.

Step 2: Submitting the Application

Once you decide on a specific apartment, we will submit the rental application on your behalf.

At this stage:

• Your personal information and documents are required

• This is not yet the final contract

• The purpose is to begin the screening process

Once your application is submitted, the apartment is reserved for you during the screening process.

Since the properties we introduce have already been confirmed to accept foreign tenants, there is no need to apply for multiple apartments at the same time.

Step 3: Screening & Approval Process

After the application is submitted, your information will be reviewed by:

• The guarantor company

• The property management company

• The property owner

  
  

Even though all apartments we introduce are foreigner-friendly, this screening process is mandatory for all tenants in Japan, including Japanese residents.

About the guarantor company:

• The guarantor company is selected by the property owner

• You do not need to apply separately

• The guarantor company may contact you for a short confirmation call, usually in English

The call is simple and typically confirms your identity, your occupation or student status, and your expected length of stay in Japan.

Step 4: Confirming Your Move-In Date

Once your application is approved, you can confirm your final move-in date.

The move-in date affects:

• The rent start date

• The final calculation of initial costs

At this point, you can still make your final decision.

Step 6: Contract Signing & Initial Payment

After the move-in date is confirmed:

• The management company issues the final initial cost breakdown

• The official lease contract will be prepared.

  
  

• You will sign the lease contract, and the initial costs will be paid according to the agreed method and schedule. We will guide you through this step to make sure everything is completed smoothly.

After the contract is finalised, we will coordinate the key handover and confirm your move-in details.

Step 7: Utilities Setup & Key Handover

Before your move-in, we will help arrange the setup of essential utilities, including:

• Electricity, Water, Gas

We will arrange the key handover so you can move into the apartment without any issues!