Sapporo

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Housing Services

Key local services for finding housing, including rental agencies and important utilities setup details.

Sections

1. Types of Housing Available in Sapporo

Sapporo offers a variety of housing options to suit different needs and budgets. Here are the main types:

a. Apartments (アパート or マンション)

  • Apāto (アパート): These are typically smaller, low-rise buildings (1-2 stories) made of wood or lightweight steel. They are more affordable but may lack soundproofing and insulation, which is important in Sapporo’s cold winters.
  • Manshon (マンション): These are more modern, mid- to high-rise buildings made of reinforced concrete. They are better insulated, quieter, and often come with additional amenities like elevators and security systems.

b. Detached Houses (一戸建て, Ikkodate)

  • Detached houses are available for families or those seeking more space. These are more common in suburban areas of Sapporo and are ideal for long-term residents.

c. Share Houses (シェアハウス)

  • Shared housing is popular among students, young professionals, and foreigners. Residents share common areas like kitchens and bathrooms but have private bedrooms. This is a cost-effective and social option.

d. Monthly/Short-Term Rentals (マンスリーマンション)

  • Fully furnished apartments available for short-term stays (1-3 months). These are convenient for newcomers who need temporary housing while searching for a long-term place.

e. Public Housing (公営住宅, Kōei Jūtaku)

  • Subsidized housing provided by the government for low-income residents. These are affordable but have strict eligibility requirements, including income limits and residency status.

2. Costs of Rent and Utilities

Sapporo is known for its relatively low housing costs compared to other Japanese cities. However, prices vary depending on the type, size, and location of the property.

a. Rent

  • Studio/1K (1 room + kitchen): ¥30,000–¥60,000/month
  • 1LDK (1 bedroom + living/dining/kitchen): ¥50,000–¥80,000/month
  • 2LDK or larger (family-sized): ¥70,000–¥120,000/month
  • Share House: ¥20,000–¥50,000/month (depending on location and amenities)

Note: Properties closer to the city center (e.g., near Sapporo Station or Odori Park) are more expensive, while suburban areas like Teine or Atsubetsu are more affordable.

b. Utilities

  • Electricity: ¥5,000–¥10,000/month (higher in winter due to heating)
  • Gas (for heating, cooking, and hot water): ¥5,000–¥15,000/month (higher in winter)
  • Water: ¥2,000–¥4,000/month
  • Internet: ¥3,000–¥5,000/month
  • Total Utilities: ¥15,000–¥30,000/month (depending on season and usage)

Winter Consideration: Sapporo’s winters are harsh, and heating costs (gas or kerosene) can significantly increase utility bills from November to March.

3. Procedures for Securing Housing

Renting a property in Japan involves several steps and unique requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

a. Research and Property Search

  • Use online platforms like SUUMO, Homes.co.jp, or GaijinPot Housing to browse listings.
  • Visit local real estate agencies (不動産屋, Fudōsan-ya) in Sapporo. Many agencies specialize in helping foreigners.

b. Viewing Properties

  • Schedule property viewings with the real estate agent. Be punctual and polite during visits.
  • Check for heating systems (important in Sapporo), insulation, and proximity to public transport.

c. Application Process

  • Submit an application form to the landlord through the real estate agent. You’ll need:
    • A copy of your Residence Card (在留カード, Zairyū Kādo)
    • Proof of income (e.g., employment contract or bank statements)
    • Emergency contact information (preferably a Japanese speaker)

d. Financial Requirements

  • Key Money (礼金, Reikin): A non-refundable "gift" to the landlord, typically 1-2 months’ rent.
  • Deposit (敷金, Shikikin): Refundable security deposit, usually 1-2 months’ rent.
  • Agent Fee (仲介手数料, Chūkai Tesūryō): A one-time fee paid to the real estate agent, typically 1 month’s rent.
  • First Month’s Rent: Paid upfront.
  • Guarantor (保証人, Hoshōnin): Most landlords require a guarantor, who is legally responsible for unpaid rent. If you don’t have one, you can use a guarantor company (保証会社, Hoshō Gaisha) for a fee (around 50-100% of one month’s rent).

e. Signing the Lease

  • Once approved, sign the lease agreement (in Japanese). Ensure you understand the terms, including rules about noise, pets, and subletting.
  • Pay the initial costs (key money, deposit, agent fee, etc.).

4. Financial Considerations

  • Initial Costs: Renting in Japan requires significant upfront costs, often totaling 4-6 months’ rent.
  • Monthly Costs: Budget for rent, utilities, and any additional fees (e.g., parking or maintenance).
  • Guarantor Company Fees: If you use a guarantor company, this is an additional cost.

5. Important Cultural and Local Factors

a. Winter Preparation

  • Sapporo’s winters are long and snowy. Look for properties with efficient heating systems (gas or kerosene heaters are common) and double-glazed windows for insulation.
  • Some apartments include snow removal services for parking areas, which is a valuable feature.

b. Noise and Community Rules

  • Japanese housing tends to have thin walls, so be mindful of noise levels, especially at night.
  • Follow building rules, such as separating garbage into burnable, non-burnable, and recyclable categories.

c. Pet Policies

  • Many apartments in Sapporo do not allow pets. If you have a pet, search specifically for pet-friendly properties (ペット可, Petto Ka).

d. Language Barrier

  • Most lease agreements and real estate agents operate in Japanese. If you’re not fluent, consider hiring a translator or working with agencies that cater to foreigners.

e. Proximity to Public Transport

  • Sapporo has an excellent public transport system, including subways, buses, and trams. Living near a subway station (e.g., on the Namboku, Tozai, or Toho lines) is convenient, especially during winter.

6. Tips for Foreigners

  • Use Foreigner-Friendly Agencies: Some agencies specialize in helping non-Japanese residents, such as Sakura House or GaijinPot Housing.
  • Short-Term Rentals First: Consider staying in a monthly rental or share house while you familiarize yourself with the city and housing market.
  • Understand Lease Terms: Japanese leases are typically for 2 years, with renewal fees (更新料, Kōshinryō) of 1 month’s rent.

7. Useful Resources

  • Real Estate Websites:
  • Local Real Estate Agencies:
    • Look for agencies near Sapporo Station or Odori.
  • Government Housing Support:
    • Sapporo City Hall offers information on public housing and support for low-income residents.

By understanding the housing market and cultural nuances in Sapporo, you’ll be well-prepared to find a comfortable and suitable home. If you have further questions or need assistance with specific steps, feel free to ask!