Housing Problems in Japan
Apartment application rejected? No guarantor? We can help you find solutions.
Last updated: January 16, 2026
Key Takeaways
- Rejection is common for foreigners - don't give up after one or two attempts
- Guarantor companies (保証会社) are alternatives to personal guarantors
- Some real estate agents specialize in helping foreigners
- Having a Japanese speaker help can significantly improve your chances
Common Housing Problems We Help With
Apartment Application Rejected
Your rental application was denied after screening. This is common for foreigners in Japan, but there are solutions.
No Guarantor Available
You don't have a Japanese guarantor and guarantor companies are rejecting you. We know alternatives.
Screening Failed Multiple Times
You've been rejected by multiple properties. There may be specific issues we can help identify and address.
Contract / Lease Issues
Problems with your current lease, cancellation penalties, or disputes with your landlord.
Why Do Foreigners Get Rejected for Apartments?
How Can I Improve My Chances of Getting an Apartment?
Personal Guarantor vs Guarantor Company
| Personal Guarantor (連帯保証人) | Guarantor Company (保証会社) | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | 50-100% of monthly rent |
| Requirements | Japanese citizen/PR, stable income | Credit check, ID, employment proof |
| Liability | Personal liability for guarantor | Company assumes risk |
| Availability | Hard to find if no connections | Widely available |
| Approval rate | Higher if you have one | Varies by company |
Step-by-Step: How to Find an Apartment as a Foreigner
- 1
Gather your documents
Residence card, passport, employment certificate, proof of income, tax documents, and company info.
- 2
Find a foreigner-friendly agent
Look for real estate agents who advertise foreign language support or specialize in helping foreigners.
- 3
Decide on guarantor method
Either find a personal guarantor or identify guarantor companies that accept foreigners.
- 4
Search within your budget
Be realistic about rent (typically 1/3 of income or less) and initial costs (4-6 months' rent upfront).
- 5
Apply and wait
Submit application with all documents. Screening takes 3-7 days typically.
- 6
Handle rejection gracefully
If rejected, ask the agent why and apply to other properties. Don't take it personally.
Frequently Asked Questions About Housing
Key money is a non-refundable 'gift' to the landlord, typically 1-2 months' rent. It's a traditional Japanese practice. Some properties don't require it - look for '礼金なし' (no key money) listings.
Yes, through guarantor companies (保証会社) or by renting UR housing, which doesn't require guarantors. Some share houses also don't require guarantors.
敷金 (shikikin) is a security deposit that's refundable minus damages. 礼金 (reikin) is key money that's non-refundable. Both are typically 1-2 months' rent.
Typically 4-6 months of rent total: first month's rent, security deposit (1-2 months), key money (0-2 months), guarantor company fee (0.5-1 month), and agent fee (1 month).
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