<\/p>\n
Finding a place to live in Tokyo can be overwhelming\u2014especially if you’re new to Japan and don\u2019t speak Japanese fluently. Thankfully, real estate agencies play a crucial role in helping both locals and foreigners navigate the complex rental landscape.<\/p>\n
This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to use real estate agencies in Tokyo<\/strong>, including what to expect, how to choose the right agency, documents you’ll need, and how to avoid common mistakes.<\/p>\n In Japan, most apartments are not listed publicly online like in some Western countries. Instead, listings are controlled by real estate agencies (\u4e0d\u52d5\u7523\u5c4b, fud\u014dsanya)<\/strong>, who act as intermediaries between tenants and landlords.<\/p>\n Access to a wide range of listings (many are exclusive to agencies)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Help with paperwork and lease contracts<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Translation or English-speaking support (in some cases)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Local area advice and neighborhood recommendations<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Coordination with landlords and guarantor companies<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n There are several types of agencies you\u2019ll encounter in Tokyo:<\/p>\n Examples: Mini Mini, Apaman, Century 21<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Pros: Extensive listings, multiple branches<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Cons: Often Japanese-only, less personal support<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Examples: Tokyo Rent, Japan Home Search, RealEstate.co.jp, Plaza Homes<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Pros: English-speaking staff, familiar with visa\/residency issues<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Cons: Sometimes higher-priced listings, limited availability<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Often run by locals with deep knowledge of the area<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Best for finding unique or affordable apartments<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Japanese language only, in most cases<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Start your search about 4\u20136 weeks before your desired move-in date<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Too early: Listings change quickly, and units may be gone within days.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Too late: Some application and approval processes can take 1\u20132 weeks.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n \ufe0f Tip: Try to view multiple properties on the same day to make faster decisions.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n English-language website or bilingual staff<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Clear communication via email or phone<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Knowledge of expat documentation requirements<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Reasonable fees and transparent pricing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Willingness to help with aftercare (utilities, registration, etc.)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Can you help foreigners without a Japanese guarantor?<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Are there listings where key money is not required?<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Is this apartment available to non-Japanese tenants?<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Tip: Read online reviews or ask other expats for referrals.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Contact the agency via website, phone, or in-person visit.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Provide details like:<\/p>\n Budget<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Preferred area\/station<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Size\/type (e.g. 1K, 1LDK)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Pet ownership (if applicable)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Move-in date<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n You\u2019ll usually view 2\u20135 units in one trip with the agent.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Bring ID and a notebook to take notes or photos.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Some apartments are vacant, others may be occupied.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Submit an application for the unit you like.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Provide passport, residence card, and income details.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Some landlords ask for proof of employment or tax records.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The landlord and guarantor company review your application.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n This process takes 2\u20135 business days.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Foreigners may face more scrutiny if there’s no local guarantor.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Review the lease (often in Japanese only\u2014ask for English summary).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Sign in person or online.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Pay initial fees (see below).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Receive keys after payment.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Set up utilities (water, gas, electricity).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Register your new address at your local ward office.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Passport<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Residence card (\u5728\u7559\u30ab\u30fc\u30c9)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Proof of income (payslip or contract)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Certificate of employment (\u96c7\u7528\u8a3c\u660e\u66f8)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Emergency contact in Japan (sometimes)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Visa with appropriate length<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Pet owners may also need to provide breed, size, and vaccination details.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n A guarantor (\u4fdd\u8a3c\u4eba)<\/strong> is someone who will cover your rent if you cannot pay. Most landlords require one.<\/p>\n If you don\u2019t have a Japanese guarantor:<\/p>\n Use a guarantor company (\u4fdd\u8a3c\u4f1a\u793e)<\/strong> instead.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Cost is 30%\u2013100% of monthly rent.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Some companies require a Japanese-speaking emergency contact.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n \u2757 Not all properties accept foreigners without a guarantor company. Choose your agency wisely.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Wait too long to apply\u2014units go fast<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Assume the agent speaks English<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Sign a lease without reading the fine print<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Lie about pets or roommates<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Set a realistic budget (including fees)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Ask about move-out policies<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Take photos of the apartment before move-in<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Confirm registration eligibility (\u4f4f\u6c11\u7968)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n For stays under 3 months, standard agencies usually don\u2019t help.<\/p>\n Instead, use:<\/p>\n Monthly Apartment Tokyo<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Sakura House<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Oakhouse<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Airbnb (only if Minpaku-licensed)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n These offer:<\/p>\n Fully furnished units<\/p>\n<\/li>\n No key money<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Flexible contracts<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Technically yes\u2014but very rare.<\/p>\n Landlords almost always work exclusively through agents<\/strong>. You may be able to:<\/p>\n Rent from a friend<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Use company housing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Sublet from a departing expat (with permission)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n In general, using an agency is the safest and most reliable path<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Yes, and they\u2019re becoming more common\u2014especially in expat-heavy areas like Minato, Shibuya, and Setagaya.<\/p>\n Popular bilingual agencies:<\/p>\n RealEstate.co.jp<\/p>\n<\/li>\n JapanHomeSearch.com<\/p>\n<\/li>\n TokyoRent.jp<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Ken Corporation (luxury market)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Plaza Homes<\/p>\n<\/li>\n GaijinPot Housing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Ask upfront if full English support is provided for:<\/p>\n Viewings<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Contract explanations<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Aftercare services<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Using a real estate agency in Tokyo is the key to successfully finding housing as a foreigner. With the right support, you can avoid costly mistakes, understand your rights, and secure a comfortable home that fits your lifestyle and visa status.<\/p>\n Take your time, ask questions, and don\u2019t be afraid to walk away from a listing that doesn\u2019t feel right.<\/p>\n How to Rent an Apartment in Tokyo as a Foreigner<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Short-Term vs Long-Term Rentals in Tokyo<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Furnished Apartments in Tokyo: What to Expect<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Pet-Friendly Housing in Tokyo<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Understanding Rental Contracts in Japan<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Yes, in most cases. Landlords in Japan typically do not deal directly with tenants, so using a real estate agency is the standard way to find a rental property.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Yes. Many agencies such as RealEstate.co.jp, Tokyo Rent, and Plaza Homes offer bilingual support, making the process easier for foreigners.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n It\u2019s best to contact agents 4\u20136 weeks before your desired move-in date. Listings change quickly, so starting too early may not be effective.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n You will typically need your passport, residence card, proof of income or employment, and possibly an emergency contact in Japan.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Yes, many properties accept a guarantor company instead. This is common for foreigners and involves a fee of around 30\u2013100% of one month\u2019s rent.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Expect to pay a deposit, key money, agency fee (typically one month\u2019s rent), fire insurance, and possibly a guarantor fee and lock exchange fee.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n The entire process\u2014from viewing to move-in\u2014can take 1 to 3 weeks, depending on screening, paperwork, and availability.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Some agencies offer virtual tours or remote support, but many landlords prefer in-person viewings. It’s recommended to be in Japan for apartment hunting if possible.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Some foreigner-friendly agencies provide support for setting up gas, water, electricity, and registering your address with the local ward office. Others may refer you to external services.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Yes. Some listings do not require key money (\u793c\u91d1). Ask the agency to search specifically for \u201cno key money\u201d (\u793c\u91d1\u306a\u3057) properties.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n In some cases, yes\u2014especially for older properties or longer-term leases. However, rent negotiation is less common in Japan compared to other countries.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Most standard agencies focus on long-term leases (1\u20132 years). For short-term stays, use platforms like Monthly Apartment Tokyo or Oakhouse.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":8324,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[66],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8323","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tokyo-relocation-guide"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n
\n1. Why Use a Real Estate Agency in Tokyo?<\/h2>\n
Benefits of Using an Agency:<\/h3>\n
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\n2. Types of Real Estate Agencies<\/h2>\n
Large National Chains<\/h3>\n
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Foreigner-Friendly Agencies<\/h3>\n
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\ufe0f Local Neighborhood Agencies<\/h3>\n
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\n3. When to Start Contacting Agents<\/h2>\n
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\n4. How to Choose the Right Agency<\/h2>\n
\u2705 What to Look For:<\/h3>\n
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Questions to Ask:<\/h3>\n
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\n5. The Apartment Search Process Step-by-Step<\/h2>\n
Step 1: Inquiry<\/h3>\n
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Step 2: Viewing Properties (\u5185\u898b, naiken)<\/h3>\n
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Step 3: Application (\u7533\u8fbc, moushikomi)<\/h3>\n
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Step 4: Screening (\u5be9\u67fb, shinsa)<\/h3>\n
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Step 5: Contract Signing (\u5951\u7d04, keiyaku)<\/h3>\n
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Step 6: Move-In & Utilities<\/h3>\n
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\n6. Common Fees Charged by Agencies<\/h2>\n
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\n \nFee Type<\/th>\n Amount<\/th>\n Notes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n Deposit (\u6577\u91d1)<\/td>\n 1\u20132 months\u2019 rent<\/td>\n Refundable (minus cleaning\/damages)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Key Money (\u793c\u91d1)<\/td>\n 0\u20132 months\u2019 rent<\/td>\n Non-refundable gift to landlord<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Agency Fee (\u4ef2\u4ecb\u624b\u6570\u6599)<\/td>\n 1 month\u2019s rent + 10% tax<\/td>\n Paid to the real estate agency<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Guarantor Fee<\/td>\n 30\u2013100% of one month\u2019s rent<\/td>\n Paid to guarantor company<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Fire Insurance<\/td>\n \u00a510,000\u2013\u00a525,000<\/td>\n Required in most leases<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Lock Exchange<\/td>\n \u00a510,000\u2013\u00a520,000<\/td>\n Optional but common<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\n7. Required Documents for Foreigners<\/h2>\n
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\n8. What is a Guarantor and Do I Need One?<\/h2>\n
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\n9. Avoiding Common Mistakes<\/h2>\n
\u274c Don\u2019t:<\/h3>\n
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\u2705 Do:<\/h3>\n
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\n10. Using an Agency for Short-Term Rentals<\/h2>\n
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\n11. Can I Rent Without an Agency?<\/h2>\n
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\n12. Are There English-Speaking Agents in Tokyo?<\/h2>\n
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\nFinal Thoughts<\/h2>\n
\n Suggested Next Articles<\/h3>\n
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\nFrequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n
Do I need a real estate agent to rent an apartment in Tokyo?<\/h3>\n
Are there English-speaking real estate agents in Tokyo?<\/h3>\n
How far in advance should I contact a real estate agency?<\/h3>\n
What documents do I need to apply for an apartment?<\/h3>\n
Can I rent an apartment without a Japanese guarantor?<\/h3>\n
What fees should I expect when using a real estate agency?<\/h3>\n
How long does the rental process take?<\/h3>\n
Can I view apartments before arriving in Japan?<\/h3>\n
Do agencies help with setting up utilities and address registration?<\/h3>\n
Are there any no key money apartments available?<\/h3>\n
Can I negotiate rent or fees with the agent?<\/h3>\n
Can I rent short-term through a real estate agency?<\/h3>\n