Things to consider
Size: When looking for accommodation you will often see a series of numbers and letters, such as 2LDK. What does it mean? 2 is the number of bedrooms, L means it has a living room.Likewise, D stands for dining room and K represents kitchen. This however, is a bit deceptive. LDK, rather than indicating three separate rooms can often mean one area used as a living room, dining room and kitchen. All you need to know is the more letters, the bigger the place. Other information given will be the room size - on a floor plan it will be the number in the middle of the room. It's measured in tatami mats (jo), with one jo being approximately 180*90cm. If you want some privacy in you apartment bear in mind that bedrooms are usually adjacent, with paper thin walls. Apparently, architects designed apartments around families who wanted to keep tabs on children and not for anyone with amorous flat-mates. Look on the floor plan to see what it's like.
Location: Another important factor is the distance to the nearest station or bus stop. If you don't mind (or are in need of) a daily walk or bike ride, a place away from the station or town centre can really bring down the rent. Something else worth keeping in mind is your apartment's orientation. South facing apartments get a lot of sun and are therefore pricier. Finally, it is worth checking to see what kind of shops, supermarkets and restaurants are in the surrounding area.
Furnishings: A lot of Japanese apartments come unfurnished, so for short term stays it's advisable to find accomodation which includes furniture. If this is the case, it will usually be stated explicitly on any advertisements. If you're planning on staying a while, you may choose to buy your own furniture. Sayonara sales and second-hand shops (known as recycle shops) are an affordable option.
Utilities: Some accommodation includes utilities, some doesn't. The only time you are going to have to set up utilities yourself is when you deal with estate agents. Then, it is necessary to contact the utility company in order to start the service. After that, it's just a question of paying utility bills at a post office, convenience store or bank.
Estate agents
Estate agents provide a wide choice of accommodation, but are sometimes reluctant to rent out to non-Japanese citizens. One or two guarantors and a thorough financial background check is required.
- Pros: Customers get a choice of housing type and location. Agencies can also be cost effective in the long term.
- Cons: There are several fees. These include Reikin, the infamous non-refundable 'key money'. It can be one to three months rent. Shikikin is a security deposit and Kanrihi is a fee paid by all tenants for the up keep of the building. Yachin means rent. Chukai tesuryo is an extra handling fee for the estate agent. It can end up costing about 4-5 months rent in advance, quite a large fee. However, if there are for instance, 3 people to spread the cost it may end up being quite cheap.
If you are planning on staying for a while, want freedom to choose, know Japanese or someone who does and don't mind paying a bit extra, then this might be an option worth considering. It's free to check and if it's out of your price range, you can always look at other choices. Some estate agents include Choei Homes, Elitz, Kyoto Life and Real Homes.
Gaijin houses
Gaijin, or Guest houses, are a cheap way of renting accommodation. They are geared more towards short term stays, but all have monthly rooms available. Tenants usually have a choice of shared or private rooms, with a communal living room and facilities. These often include laundry, internet and shower.
- Pros: They are cheap with no key money or additional fees. Utility bills are usually included. In many cases, they have a good location, often within walking distance of town. Also, it is an easy way to meet people and make new friends.
- Cons: There is a severe lack of privacy. If you value your own space, you won't enjoy Gaijin houses. The buildings aren't always in the best condition and facilities may be limited.
They are a good short-term solution. Many people live in Gaijin houses for the first few months, until they find their feet and move on to other places, picking up contacts and making friends along the way.
Private landlords, foreigner oriented agencies
Private Landlords are a fairly inexpensive and hassle free way of renting. They often ask only for a deposit which is usually returned, particularly if you find someone else to move in after you. Utilities are the only extra expense. The only problem with privately rented apartments is that they can be hard to come by. Generally, places change hands through word of mouth, so it's worth asking around. Advertisements are also placed in KTO, The Kansai Flea Market and Kansai International Community House.
Agencies aimed at foreigners have sprung up recently. These have the benefit of offering a fairly wide choice and do not need expensive, up front payments. Apartments are often fully furnished in accessible locations. Many are situated in and around Osaka. As with Private landlords, check the internet or local publications for listings.
Both foreign housing agencies and private landlords are affordable and are a fairly decent way to rent accommodation. The choice of locations may not be particularly wide but if that's not so important for you, this is something to look into.
Buying property
The last option open to you is to buy a place. Obviously, this is only for people who are seriously considering settling down over here. In Japan, you have to buy both the house and also the land on which it is built. Mortgages are usually sorted out through the bank although there is a special mortgage service, the juutaku kinyuu kouko (it's a public housing company). Rates are usually lower than with banks. Long term visas, a guarantor and a stable job are all essential if you want to buy property. There is also a very thorough check of your financial circumstances.