{"id":8336,"date":"2025-07-24T17:02:36","date_gmt":"2025-07-24T09:02:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/3d-universal.com\/en\/?p=8336"},"modified":"2025-07-24T17:02:36","modified_gmt":"2025-07-24T09:02:36","slug":"housing-scams-to-watch-out-for-in-tokyo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/3d-universal.com\/en\/blogs\/housing-scams-to-watch-out-for-in-tokyo.html","title":{"rendered":"Housing Scams to Watch Out For in Tokyo"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><!--more--><\/p>\n<h1 data-start=\"133\" data-end=\"174\">Housing Scams to Watch Out For in Tokyo<\/h1>\n<p data-start=\"176\" data-end=\"559\">Tokyo is widely known for its safety and order\u2014but like any big city, it&#8217;s not immune to scams. The housing market, in particular, can be a minefield for foreigners unfamiliar with local customs, regulations, or language. Whether you&#8217;re a student, expat, or entrepreneur relocating to Tokyo, being informed about common housing scams can save you money, time, and emotional distress.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"561\" data-end=\"687\">This comprehensive guide will help you identify red flags, protect your finances, and find trustworthy accommodation in Tokyo.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"689\" data-end=\"692\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"694\" data-end=\"734\">\ufe0f Why Housing Scams Happen in Tokyo<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"736\" data-end=\"823\">Despite Japan&#8217;s reputation for low crime, housing scams persist due to several reasons:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"825\" data-end=\"1086\">\n<li data-start=\"825\" data-end=\"878\">\n<p data-start=\"827\" data-end=\"878\"><strong data-start=\"827\" data-end=\"848\">Language barriers<\/strong> make foreigners easy targets.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"879\" data-end=\"947\">\n<p data-start=\"881\" data-end=\"947\"><strong data-start=\"881\" data-end=\"896\">High demand<\/strong> for short-term rentals creates a sense of urgency.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"948\" data-end=\"1027\">\n<p data-start=\"950\" data-end=\"1027\"><strong data-start=\"950\" data-end=\"973\">Trust-based culture<\/strong> means scams are harder to detect until it&#8217;s too late.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1028\" data-end=\"1086\">\n<p data-start=\"1030\" data-end=\"1086\"><strong data-start=\"1030\" data-end=\"1057\">Cash-based transactions<\/strong> reduce digital traceability.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr data-start=\"1088\" data-end=\"1091\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"1093\" data-end=\"1140\"> Common Housing Scams Targeting Foreigners<\/h2>\n<h3 data-start=\"1142\" data-end=\"1184\">1.  Fake Listings with Stolen Photos<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1186\" data-end=\"1358\">Some scammers copy photos from legitimate listings and repost them with altered contact details. They promise a &#8220;great deal&#8221; to lure victims, then request upfront deposits.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1360\" data-end=\"1374\"><strong data-start=\"1360\" data-end=\"1374\">Red flags:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1375\" data-end=\"1483\">\n<li data-start=\"1375\" data-end=\"1402\">\n<p data-start=\"1377\" data-end=\"1402\">Price too good to be true<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1403\" data-end=\"1435\">\n<p data-start=\"1405\" data-end=\"1435\">Agent refuses physical viewing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1436\" data-end=\"1483\">\n<p data-start=\"1438\" data-end=\"1483\">Only communicates via email or messaging apps<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<blockquote data-start=\"1485\" data-end=\"1568\">\n<p data-start=\"1487\" data-end=\"1568\"> <strong data-start=\"1490\" data-end=\"1498\">Tip:<\/strong> Reverse image search apartment photos on Google to detect duplicates.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<hr data-start=\"1570\" data-end=\"1573\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"1575\" data-end=\"1602\">2.  \u201cGhost\u201d Landlords<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1604\" data-end=\"1772\">In this scam, the landlord doesn&#8217;t exist, or the person claiming to be the landlord has no legal right to rent the property. After collecting a deposit, they disappear.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1774\" data-end=\"1791\"><strong data-start=\"1774\" data-end=\"1791\">How it works:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1792\" data-end=\"1939\">\n<li data-start=\"1792\" data-end=\"1856\">\n<p data-start=\"1794\" data-end=\"1856\">The scammer shows the property using a duplicate key or photos<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1857\" data-end=\"1908\">\n<p data-start=\"1859\" data-end=\"1908\">They rush you into paying the deposit immediately<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1909\" data-end=\"1939\">\n<p data-start=\"1911\" data-end=\"1939\">No contract is ever provided<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr data-start=\"1941\" data-end=\"1944\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"1946\" data-end=\"1969\">3.  Deposit Traps<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1971\" data-end=\"2108\">In Japan, renters typically pay <strong data-start=\"2003\" data-end=\"2016\">key money<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"2018\" data-end=\"2038\">security deposit<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"2044\" data-end=\"2059\">agency fees<\/strong>\u2014but scammers inflate or fabricate these charges.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2110\" data-end=\"2122\"><strong data-start=\"2110\" data-end=\"2122\">Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2123\" data-end=\"2256\">\n<li data-start=\"2123\" data-end=\"2194\">\n<p data-start=\"2125\" data-end=\"2194\">A \u00a5150,000\/month unit may come with a fake \u201ccleaning fee\u201d of \u00a5300,000<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2195\" data-end=\"2256\">\n<p data-start=\"2197\" data-end=\"2256\">The \u201cdeposit\u201d is non-refundable and not stated in the lease<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<blockquote data-start=\"2258\" data-end=\"2403\">\n<p data-start=\"2260\" data-end=\"2403\"> Always request a detailed breakdown of upfront costs. Legitimate agents provide a document called &#8220;\u91cd\u8981\u4e8b\u9805\u8aac\u660e\u66f8 (Important Matters Explanation).&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<hr data-start=\"2405\" data-end=\"2408\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"2410\" data-end=\"2459\">4. \ufe0f Phishing Through Fake Rental Platforms<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2461\" data-end=\"2645\">Scammers create entire fake websites resembling real estate platforms (like SUUMO or Homes.co.jp). They collect your personal and financial data under the guise of a lease application.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2647\" data-end=\"2661\"><strong data-start=\"2647\" data-end=\"2661\">Red flags:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2662\" data-end=\"2824\">\n<li data-start=\"2662\" data-end=\"2735\">\n<p data-start=\"2664\" data-end=\"2735\">Website URL looks suspicious (e.g. suumo-japan.net instead of suumo.jp)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2736\" data-end=\"2771\">\n<p data-start=\"2738\" data-end=\"2771\">Poor Japanese\/English translation<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2772\" data-end=\"2824\">\n<p data-start=\"2774\" data-end=\"2824\">Payment page requests credit card without contract<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr data-start=\"2826\" data-end=\"2829\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"2831\" data-end=\"2871\">5.  \u201cPay Before You Arrive\u201d Scheme<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2873\" data-end=\"3029\">Foreigners often fall for this when trying to secure housing before moving to Japan. The scammer uses urgency to pressure you into paying a reservation fee.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"3031\" data-end=\"3050\"><strong data-start=\"3031\" data-end=\"3050\">How it unfolds:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3051\" data-end=\"3183\">\n<li data-start=\"3051\" data-end=\"3099\">\n<p data-start=\"3053\" data-end=\"3099\">They claim there\u2019s \u201canother interested tenant\u201d<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3100\" data-end=\"3148\">\n<p data-start=\"3102\" data-end=\"3148\">You\u2019re asked to transfer money internationally<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3149\" data-end=\"3183\">\n<p data-start=\"3151\" data-end=\"3183\">No one meets you when you arrive<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<blockquote data-start=\"3185\" data-end=\"3284\">\n<p data-start=\"3187\" data-end=\"3284\"> Never pay rent or deposit for a place you haven\u2019t seen or confirmed through a trusted channel.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<hr data-start=\"3286\" data-end=\"3289\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"3291\" data-end=\"3317\">6. \ufe0f Bait and Switch<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3319\" data-end=\"3479\">Some shady agents show you a great apartment, but say it was &#8220;just rented out&#8221; when you apply. Then they push you toward more expensive or poor-quality options.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"3481\" data-end=\"3501\"><strong data-start=\"3481\" data-end=\"3501\">Tactics include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3502\" data-end=\"3603\">\n<li data-start=\"3502\" data-end=\"3530\">\n<p data-start=\"3504\" data-end=\"3530\">Listing fake units as bait<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3531\" data-end=\"3565\">\n<p data-start=\"3533\" data-end=\"3565\">Charging a \u201cviewing fee\u201d upfront<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3566\" data-end=\"3603\">\n<p data-start=\"3568\" data-end=\"3603\">Refusing to refund if you walk away<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr data-start=\"3605\" data-end=\"3608\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"3610\" data-end=\"3645\">7.  Delayed Key Delivery Scam<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3647\" data-end=\"3810\">This scam targets foreigners who prepay rent and arrive in Japan only to be told their keys aren\u2019t ready. Delays continue indefinitely as the scammer avoids calls.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"3812\" data-end=\"3830\"><strong data-start=\"3812\" data-end=\"3830\">Warning signs:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3831\" data-end=\"3917\">\n<li data-start=\"3831\" data-end=\"3864\">\n<p data-start=\"3833\" data-end=\"3864\">Agent goes silent after payment<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3865\" data-end=\"3885\">\n<p data-start=\"3867\" data-end=\"3885\">Vague move-in date<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3886\" data-end=\"3917\">\n<p data-start=\"3888\" data-end=\"3917\">No physical contract provided<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr data-start=\"3919\" data-end=\"3922\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"3924\" data-end=\"3955\"> Real Stories from Victims<\/h2>\n<blockquote data-start=\"3957\" data-end=\"4129\">\n<p data-start=\"3959\" data-end=\"4129\"><strong data-start=\"3959\" data-end=\"3970\">Case 1:<\/strong><br \/>\n<em data-start=\"3973\" data-end=\"4110\">\u201cI transferred \u00a5200,000 for a \u2018Tokyo Tower View\u2019 unit listed online. When I arrived, the address didn\u2019t exist. The contact blocked me.\u201d<\/em> \u2014 Sophia, UK expat<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<blockquote data-start=\"4131\" data-end=\"4308\">\n<p data-start=\"4133\" data-end=\"4308\"><strong data-start=\"4133\" data-end=\"4144\">Case 2:<\/strong><br \/>\n<em data-start=\"4147\" data-end=\"4285\">\u201cMy agent kept delaying key delivery, saying it was a \u2018cleaning issue.\u2019 I waited in a hotel for a week before realizing I\u2019d been duped.\u201d<\/em> \u2014 Mark, US tech worker<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<hr data-start=\"4310\" data-end=\"4313\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"4315\" data-end=\"4356\"> How to Avoid Housing Scams in Tokyo<\/h2>\n<h3 data-start=\"4358\" data-end=\"4385\">\u2705 Use Trusted Platforms<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4386\" data-end=\"4421\">Stick to reliable websites such as:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"4423\" data-end=\"4555\">\n<li data-start=\"4423\" data-end=\"4441\">\n<p data-start=\"4425\" data-end=\"4441\">Suumo (suumo.jp)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4442\" data-end=\"4463\">\n<p data-start=\"4444\" data-end=\"4463\">Homes (homes.co.jp)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4464\" data-end=\"4500\">\n<p data-start=\"4466\" data-end=\"4500\">Realestate.co.jp (English support)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4501\" data-end=\"4520\">\n<p data-start=\"4503\" data-end=\"4520\">Tokyo Room Finder<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4521\" data-end=\"4555\">\n<p data-start=\"4523\" data-end=\"4555\">Village House (low-cost options)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-start=\"4557\" data-end=\"4590\">\u2705 Work with Registered Agents<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4592\" data-end=\"4733\">Ensure the agency has a license number from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (\u56fd\u571f\u4ea4\u901a\u7701). Reputable agents will also:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"4735\" data-end=\"4867\">\n<li data-start=\"4735\" data-end=\"4764\">\n<p data-start=\"4737\" data-end=\"4764\">Show the property in person<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4765\" data-end=\"4798\">\n<p data-start=\"4767\" data-end=\"4798\">Provide a legally binding lease<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4799\" data-end=\"4867\">\n<p data-start=\"4801\" data-end=\"4867\">Issue a \u201c\u91cd\u8981\u4e8b\u9805\u8aac\u660e\u66f8 (Important Information Statement)\u201d before signing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr data-start=\"4869\" data-end=\"4872\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"4874\" data-end=\"4899\">\u2705 Visit Before Paying<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4901\" data-end=\"4937\">Never pay rent or deposit until you:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"4939\" data-end=\"5019\">\n<li data-start=\"4939\" data-end=\"4958\">\n<p data-start=\"4941\" data-end=\"4958\">See the apartment<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4959\" data-end=\"4985\">\n<p data-start=\"4961\" data-end=\"4985\">Confirm its availability<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4986\" data-end=\"5019\">\n<p data-start=\"4988\" data-end=\"5019\">Receive the contract in writing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"5021\" data-end=\"5103\">If you\u2019re overseas, have a trusted friend or relocation service inspect the place.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"5105\" data-end=\"5108\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"5110\" data-end=\"5153\">\u2705 Beware of \u201cToo Good to Be True\u201d Deals<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"5155\" data-end=\"5171\">If a listing is:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"5173\" data-end=\"5291\">\n<li data-start=\"5173\" data-end=\"5205\">\n<p data-start=\"5175\" data-end=\"5205\">40% cheaper than similar units<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5206\" data-end=\"5244\">\n<p data-start=\"5208\" data-end=\"5244\">Has stunning interiors with no flaws<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5245\" data-end=\"5291\">\n<p data-start=\"5247\" data-end=\"5291\">Promises \u201cno key money, no deposit, no fees\u201d<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"5293\" data-end=\"5313\">\u2026it\u2019s likely a scam.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"5315\" data-end=\"5318\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"5320\" data-end=\"5341\">\u2705 Verify Identity<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"5343\" data-end=\"5358\">Always ask for:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"5360\" data-end=\"5442\">\n<li data-start=\"5360\" data-end=\"5387\">\n<p data-start=\"5362\" data-end=\"5387\">The agent\u2019s business card<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5388\" data-end=\"5410\">\n<p data-start=\"5390\" data-end=\"5410\">Their license number<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5411\" data-end=\"5442\">\n<p data-start=\"5413\" data-end=\"5442\">Japanese ID (passport or \u514d\u8a31\u8a3c)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"5444\" data-end=\"5563\">You can also search the company on the <strong data-start=\"5483\" data-end=\"5552\">National Land and Building Transaction Business Operator Database<\/strong> (\u4e0d\u52d5\u7523\u696d\u8005\u691c\u7d22).<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"5565\" data-end=\"5568\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"5570\" data-end=\"5608\">\u2705 Use a Japanese Guarantor Company<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"5610\" data-end=\"5737\">These companies (\u4fdd\u8a3c\u4f1a\u793e) act as a legal buffer, ensuring legitimacy. Landlords often require one, especially for foreign tenants.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"5739\" data-end=\"5760\">Popular ones include:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"5762\" data-end=\"5813\">\n<li data-start=\"5762\" data-end=\"5791\">\n<p data-start=\"5764\" data-end=\"5791\">Global Trust Networks (GTN)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5792\" data-end=\"5806\">\n<p data-start=\"5794\" data-end=\"5806\">Nihon Safety<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5807\" data-end=\"5813\">\n<p data-start=\"5809\" data-end=\"5813\">Casa<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr data-start=\"5815\" data-end=\"5818\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"5820\" data-end=\"5859\"> What to Do If You\u2019ve Been Scammed<\/h2>\n<h3 data-start=\"5861\" data-end=\"5884\">1. Report to Police<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"5885\" data-end=\"5982\">File a report with the nearest <strong data-start=\"5916\" data-end=\"5938\">Koban (police box)<\/strong> or at a major station like Shinjuku. Bring:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"5984\" data-end=\"6058\">\n<li data-start=\"5984\" data-end=\"6007\">\n<p data-start=\"5986\" data-end=\"6007\">Bank transfer details<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6008\" data-end=\"6028\">\n<p data-start=\"6010\" data-end=\"6028\">All correspondence<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6029\" data-end=\"6058\">\n<p data-start=\"6031\" data-end=\"6058\">Passport and residence card<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-start=\"6060\" data-end=\"6086\">2. Contact the Embassy<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"6087\" data-end=\"6141\">Some embassies offer legal advice or translation help.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"6143\" data-end=\"6174\">3. Talk to Consumer Affairs<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"6175\" data-end=\"6268\">The <strong data-start=\"6179\" data-end=\"6231\">Japan National Consumer Affairs Center (\u6d88\u8cbb\u8005\u30bb\u30f3\u30bf\u30fc)<\/strong> can advise on housing-related fraud.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"6270\" data-end=\"6297\">4. Use Legal Assistance<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"6298\" data-end=\"6380\">Non-profit legal services and bar associations offer support to foreign residents.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"6382\" data-end=\"6385\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"6387\" data-end=\"6434\"> Bonus: Tokyo Rental Terms You Should Know<\/h2>\n<div class=\"_tableContainer_80l1q_1\">\n<div class=\"_tableWrapper_80l1q_14 group flex w-fit flex-col-reverse\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<table class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-start=\"6436\" data-end=\"6946\">\n<thead data-start=\"6436\" data-end=\"6500\">\n<tr data-start=\"6436\" data-end=\"6500\">\n<th data-start=\"6436\" data-end=\"6461\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Japanese Term<\/th>\n<th data-start=\"6461\" data-end=\"6500\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Meaning<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody data-start=\"6567\" data-end=\"6946\">\n<tr data-start=\"6567\" data-end=\"6630\">\n<td data-start=\"6567\" data-end=\"6590\" data-col-size=\"sm\">\u8cc3\u8cb8 (chintai)<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"6590\" data-end=\"6630\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Rental \/ Lease<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"6631\" data-end=\"6694\">\n<td data-start=\"6631\" data-end=\"6654\" data-col-size=\"sm\">\u6577\u91d1 (shikikin)<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"6654\" data-end=\"6694\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Security deposit<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"6695\" data-end=\"6758\">\n<td data-start=\"6695\" data-end=\"6718\" data-col-size=\"sm\">\u793c\u91d1 (reikin)<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"6718\" data-end=\"6758\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Key money (non-refundable)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"6759\" data-end=\"6820\">\n<td data-start=\"6759\" data-end=\"6780\" data-col-size=\"sm\">\u4ef2\u4ecb\u624b\u6570\u6599 (chuukai)<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"6780\" data-end=\"6820\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Agent\u2019s fee (usually 1 month rent)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"6821\" data-end=\"6884\">\n<td data-start=\"6821\" data-end=\"6844\" data-col-size=\"sm\">\u7ba1\u7406\u8cbb (kanri-hi)<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"6844\" data-end=\"6884\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Maintenance fee<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"6885\" data-end=\"6946\">\n<td data-start=\"6885\" data-end=\"6906\" data-col-size=\"sm\">\u9000\u53bb\u8cbb\u7528 (taikyo-hiyo)<\/td>\n<td data-start=\"6906\" data-end=\"6946\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Move-out cleaning\/repair fee<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<div class=\"sticky end-(--thread-content-margin) h-0 self-end select-none\">\n<div class=\"absolute end-0 flex items-end\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<hr data-start=\"6948\" data-end=\"6951\" \/>\n<h2 data-start=\"6953\" data-end=\"6973\">\u270d\ufe0f Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"6975\" data-end=\"7284\">Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world, but housing scams remain a threat\u2014especially for foreigners unfamiliar with the system. By understanding the most common tricks, working with registered agents, and never sending money before verifying a property, you can safely find your ideal Tokyo apartment.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"7286\" data-end=\"7380\">Stay alert, ask questions, and trust your instincts. When in doubt, step back and seek advice.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"7382\" data-end=\"7385\" \/>\n<section class=\"faq-section\">\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<div class=\"faq-item\">\n<h3>Are housing scams common in Tokyo?<\/h3>\n<p>While Tokyo is generally safe, housing scams do occur, especially targeting foreigners unfamiliar with Japan\u2019s rental system.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"faq-item\">\n<h3>How can I tell if a rental listing is fake?<\/h3>\n<p>Be cautious of listings that are much cheaper than average, have overly polished photos, or don\u2019t allow physical viewings. Reverse image searches and asking for video tours can help detect scams.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"faq-item\">\n<h3>Is it safe to pay a deposit before seeing the apartment?<\/h3>\n<p>No. Never send money before physically inspecting the property or confirming details through a verified agent or platform.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"faq-item\">\n<h3>What should I check before signing a lease?<\/h3>\n<p>Verify the agent\u2019s license, read the lease contract carefully, and confirm any fees (key money, deposit, agent fee) are standard. A legally required document called &#8220;\u91cd\u8981\u4e8b\u9805\u8aac\u660e\u66f8&#8221; must be provided before signing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"faq-item\">\n<h3>What is a \u201cghost landlord\u201d scam?<\/h3>\n<p>This scam involves someone posing as a landlord who collects a deposit and disappears. Often, they have no legal right to rent the property.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"faq-item\">\n<h3>Are short-term renters more vulnerable to scams?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes. Short-term renters often rush to secure housing, making them prime targets for phishing, fake listings, and prepayment traps.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"faq-item\">\n<h3>What platforms are safe for apartment hunting in Tokyo?<\/h3>\n<p>Trusted platforms include Suumo, Homes.co.jp, Realestate.co.jp, and Tokyo Room Finder. Always verify the URL and avoid unofficial third-party sites.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"faq-item\">\n<h3>How can I report a housing scam in Tokyo?<\/h3>\n<p>You can file a report at your local police station or contact the Japan Consumer Affairs Center. Your embassy may also provide legal support or translation assistance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"faq-item\">\n<h3>Is it normal to pay \u201ckey money\u201d in Japan?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes. \u201cReikin\u201d or key money is a traditional non-refundable fee paid to landlords. However, this must be clearly stated in the contract\u2014unofficial requests are a red flag.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"faq-item\">\n<h3>Can a guarantor company help prevent scams?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes. Using a licensed guarantor company (\u4fdd\u8a3c\u4f1a\u793e) ensures legal backing and protects both the tenant and landlord, especially for foreigners without a Japanese co-signer.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"faq-item\">\n<h3>What should I do if I suspect a scam?<\/h3>\n<p>Stop communication immediately, avoid making any payments, take screenshots of all interactions, and consult a trusted agent or legal advisor before proceeding.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":8337,"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-8336","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tokyo-relocation-guide"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v25.6 (Yoast SEO v25.6) - 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