Nagoya

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Comprehensive Guide to Housing Agencies and Realtors in Nagoya, Japan

Nagoya, the capital of Aichi Prefecture, is Japan's fourth-largest city and a hub for business, culture, and education. If you're planning to move to Nagoya, understanding the housing market is crucial. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate housing agencies, realtors, and the rental process in Nagoya, with a focus on the needs of foreigners.

1. Types of Housing Agencies in Nagoya

In Nagoya, there are several types of housing agencies and realtors that cater to different needs:

a. Traditional Japanese Real Estate Agencies

  • These agencies primarily cater to Japanese residents but are increasingly accommodating foreigners.
  • They often require Japanese language proficiency or a Japanese-speaking guarantor.
  • Examples: Century 21, Apamanshop, and Mini Mini.

b. Foreigner-Friendly Real Estate Agencies

  • These agencies specialize in assisting non-Japanese residents and often provide English-speaking staff.
  • They are familiar with the challenges foreigners face, such as lack of a guarantor or limited Japanese language skills.
  • Examples:
    • Real Estate Japan (online platform with listings in Nagoya).
    • Japan Home Search (specializes in expat housing).
    • Leopalace21 (offers furnished apartments with short-term and long-term options).

c. Online Housing Platforms

  • Websites and apps that allow you to browse listings and connect with agents.
  • Examples: Suumo, Homes.co.jp, and GaijinPot Housing.

d. Corporate Housing Services

  • Many companies in Nagoya, especially those in the automotive and manufacturing industries, provide housing assistance for their foreign employees.
  • These services often include fully furnished apartments and help with utilities.

2. Costs of Renting in Nagoya

a. Average Rent Prices

  • 1R/1K (Studio or 1-bedroom apartment): ยฅ40,000โ€“ยฅ70,000/month.
  • 2LDK/3LDK (Family-sized apartments): ยฅ80,000โ€“ยฅ150,000/month.
  • Rent varies by location, size, and age of the building.

b. Initial Costs

Renting in Japan involves significant upfront costs:

  1. Key Money (็คผ้‡‘, Reikin): A non-refundable "thank you" payment to the landlord, typically 1โ€“2 months' rent.
  2. Deposit (ๆ•ท้‡‘, Shikikin): Refundable, usually 1โ€“2 months' rent.
  3. Agency Fee (ไปฒไป‹ๆ‰‹ๆ•ฐๆ–™, Chลซkai Tesลซryล): One month's rent, paid to the realtor.
  4. First Month's Rent: Paid upfront.
  5. Guarantor Fee (ไฟ่จผไผš็คพๅˆฉ็”จๆ–™, Hoshลgaisha Riyลryล): If you donโ€™t have a guarantor, you may need to pay a fee to a guarantor company (around 50โ€“100% of one month's rent).

c. Monthly Costs

  • Utilities (electricity, water, gas): ยฅ10,000โ€“ยฅ20,000/month.
  • Internet: ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ5,000/month.
  • Maintenance Fee (็ฎก็†่ฒป, Kanrihi): ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ10,000/month.

3. Procedures for Finding and Renting Housing

Step 1: Research and Contact Agencies

  • Use online platforms like Suumo, Homes.co.jp, or GaijinPot to browse listings.
  • Contact agencies directly to inquire about properties and schedule viewings.

Step 2: Viewing Properties

  • Realtors will arrange property viewings. Be prepared to visit multiple apartments in one day.
  • Take note of the apartment's condition, proximity to public transport, and nearby amenities.

Step 3: Application Process

  • Submit an application form with your personal details, employment information, and income proof.
  • Provide a copy of your residence card (ๅœจ็•™ใ‚ซใƒผใƒ‰, Zairyลซ Kฤdo) and passport.

Step 4: Guarantor Requirement

  • Most landlords require a guarantor (ไฟ่จผไบบ, Hoshลnin). If you donโ€™t have one, youโ€™ll need to use a guarantor company.

Step 5: Signing the Contract

  • Contracts are typically for 1โ€“2 years and are written in Japanese.
  • Pay the initial costs (key money, deposit, agency fee, etc.) before moving in.

4. Common Requirements for Foreigners

  1. Residence Card (ๅœจ็•™ใ‚ซใƒผใƒ‰, Zairyลซ Kฤdo): Proof of your legal status in Japan.
  2. Passport: Required for identification.
  3. Proof of Income: Recent pay slips or a letter from your employer.
  4. Guarantor: A Japanese national or guarantor company.
  5. Emergency Contact: Often required, even if they are not a guarantor.

5. Popular Neighborhoods in Nagoya

a. Sakae (ๆ „)

  • Central business and entertainment district.
  • Ideal for young professionals and those who enjoy nightlife.
  • Rent: ยฅ60,000โ€“ยฅ120,000/month.

b. Nagoya Station Area (ๅๅคๅฑ‹้ง…ๅ‘จ่พบ)

  • Convenient for commuters and expats working in central Nagoya.
  • Rent: ยฅ70,000โ€“ยฅ150,000/month.

c. Meito Ward (ๅๆฑๅŒบ)

  • Family-friendly area with good schools and parks.
  • Rent: ยฅ50,000โ€“ยฅ100,000/month.

d. Atsuta Ward (็†ฑ็”ฐๅŒบ)

  • Known for its historical sites and quieter residential vibe.
  • Rent: ยฅ50,000โ€“ยฅ90,000/month.

e. Naka Ward (ไธญๅŒบ)

  • Central location with a mix of residential and commercial properties.
  • Rent: ยฅ60,000โ€“ยฅ120,000/month.

6. Tips for Navigating the Local Rental Market

  1. Start Early: Begin your search at least 1โ€“2 months before your intended move-in date.
  2. Use Foreigner-Friendly Agencies: They simplify the process and reduce language barriers.
  3. Be Flexible: Apartments in Japan are often smaller than what you may be used to.
  4. Understand the Lease Terms: Contracts are in Japanese, so ask for a translation or clarification if needed.
  5. Negotiate Key Money: Some landlords may waive or reduce key money, especially for long-term tenants.
  6. Check for Furnished Options: Most apartments in Japan are unfurnished, but agencies like Leopalace21 offer furnished units.
  7. Visit Properties in Person: Photos can be misleading, so always view the property before signing a contract.

7. Cultural Nuances and Local Considerations

  • Shoes Off Policy: Always remove your shoes when entering a property.
  • Tatami Rooms: Traditional Japanese apartments may have tatami mat flooring, which requires special care.
  • Noise Sensitivity: Japanese apartments have thin walls, so be mindful of noise levels.
  • Garbage Sorting: Learn the local rules for separating and disposing of trash, as they are strictly enforced.

8. Recommended Realtors in Nagoya

  1. Mini Mini Nagoya

    • Website: www.minimini.jp
    • Known for affordable options and English-speaking staff.

  2. Leopalace21

  3. Real Estate Japan

  4. Nagoya International Center (NIC)

By understanding the housing market in Nagoya and working with the right agencies, you can find a comfortable and convenient place to live. Good luck with your move!