Unlike normal apartments which usually come with a two years contract and crazily expensive upfront cost (not furnished). A contract for a monthly apartment starts from as short as one month, with no upfront fee, and the room normally is fully furnished.
It’s even possible for you to make a contract and start to live in the apartment on the same day.
This article is for those who
・Plan to visit Tokyo between one month and one year
・Want to know the details of monthly apartments
What are monthly/serviced apartments in Tokyo?
Although the rent for a monthly apartment is usually more expensive than that for normal apartments, considering the upfront cost, this option would be the best for you if you are planning to stay in Japan for less than one year and you need privacy.
These are the pros and cons for monthly apartments in Tokyo
Pros
・Easy to move in (all Furnished)
・No upfront cost
・Short-term Contract
・Privacy
Cons
・Expensive
The flow of renting a monthly/ serviced apartment in Tokyo
1.Find an apartment
It’s very simple, Just go to one of the websites below and find one you like. These companies are foreign-friendly real estate agents that offer you a variety of options and you can also filter them according to your plans.
Tokyo monthly Navi, GaijinPot Apartment, PLAZA HOMES are popular websites.
Apply and screening
Once you find an ideal apartment available, fill out the application form. Besides your phone number and home address, you will be required to turn in a copy of official documents such as a passport and a driver’s license. The real estate agents might ask you for an emergency contact as well.
Based on the form you submit, the agent will do a called “screening” where they evaluate your application to decide whether you can rent the apartment or not.
Pay
After your application is approved, the last thing you need to do is pay the rent. You can most certainly pay witha credit card, cash, and bank transfer.
If you want to move in as soon as possible, send a picture that proves you have already paid to the real estate companyso they can confirm your payment.
Receive a key
Although the way differs depending on properties, the agent will give you the key to the apartment.
These days, many apartments have installed “Smart Lock” and you will receive the password for the door via E-mail or SMS from the agents. Some apartments still use a normal key.
When you move out
Moving out is very simple as well. Returning the key is pretty much all you have to do. However, I highly recommend you clean the room when you leave to avoid troubles, just in case.
Monthly/Serviced apartment in Tokyo.
The pros for monthly apartments is easy to process, no upfront cost and furniture included while the cons for it is monthly rent is usually more expensive than normal apartments.
The balance between the length of your stay and the financial plan is pretty important. If you prioritize easiness to move-in, share houses can be a good option as well.
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