First, let's talk about guarantors. In Japan, it's common for landlords to require a guarantor as a condition of renting a property. A guarantor is someone who agrees to pay your rent if you are unable to do so. This could be a Japanese friend or colleague, or it could be a guarantor company. Guarantor companies are becoming increasingly popular in Japan, especially among foreigners who may not have a network of friends or colleagues who are willing to act as guarantors. Some examples of guarantor companies include ISMILE BY ITHINKRENT and Aizawa Securities.
Now, you may be wondering why a guarantor is required in the
first place. In Japan, there is a culture of trust and responsibility, and a
guarantor is seen as a way to ensure that tenants are responsible and will pay
their rent on time. Landlords may also require a guarantor because they are
wary of tenants who may suddenly leave the country without paying their rent or
fulfilling their lease obligations.
Another thing to be aware of when renting as a foreigner in
Japan is that landlords are legally allowed to refuse to rent to you based
solely on the fact that you are a foreigner. This is known as "gaijin
tarento," or foreigner discrimination. While this may seem unfair or even
discriminatory, it is legal in Japan. Some landlords may refuse to rent to
foreigners because they are worried about communication issues or cultural
differences, while others may be concerned about a lack of guarantor.
So, what can you do if you're a foreigner looking to rent in
Japan? One option is to work with a foreigner-friendly real estate agent. These
agents are familiar with the unique challenges that foreigners face when
renting in Japan and can help you navigate the process. Some foreigner-friendly
real estate agents include Tokyo Rent, Gaijin Pot and Japan Home Search.
Renting as a foreigner in Japan can be challenging, but it's not
impossible. Understanding the role of guarantors and why they're required, as
well as the legal ability of landlords to refuse to rent to foreigners, can
help you prepare for the process. And working with a foreigner-friendly real
estate agent can make the process much smoother. With a little bit of
preparation and the right support, you can find the perfect home in Japan.
Have you ever faced any challenges or discrimination while renting a place as a foreigner in Japan? What steps did you take to overcome them? Do you have any additional tips or insights to share with our readers on how to successfully navigate the rental process in Japan? We would love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
I am not receiving any payment or compensation, nor am I
affiliated in any way with these companies or any of its associated entities.
https://apartments.gaijinpot.com/en/rent/tokyo
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