Rental scams in Japan aren’t as rampant as in some other countries, thanks to relatively strict real estate regulations, but they do happen. Especially if you’re new to Japan, unfamiliar with the language, or house hunting from abroad, you can be more vulnerable. The good news? With a bit of street smarts and some insider knowledge, you can steer clear of the shady stuff.
Here’s a guide on how to avoid rental scams when house hunting in Japan, peppered with hard truths, smart tips, and the occasional existential chuckle.
🏠 1. Understand How Renting in Japan Actually Works
First, let’s break down the standard process:
- You don’t usually rent directly from landlords; you go through a licensed real estate agency (fudōsan).
- Apartments are listed on nationwide databases like SUUMO, Homes.co.jp, or CHINTAI, which licensed agents can access.
- Foreigners often use agencies like GaijinPot Housing, Sakura House, or Leopalace21 which cater to non-Japanese speakers.
So, if someone’s trying to rent you a place directly, without a licensed agent or agency, your internal scam siren should be howling.
🚩 2. Watch Out for These Red Flags
Here’s your scam-spotting cheat sheet:
| Red Flag | Why It’s Sus |
|---|---|
| 🧳 “I’m overseas right now, but send a deposit…” | Classic. If they ask for money before you’ve seen the apartment or signed a lease through a legit agency, it’s probably a scam. |
| 🐕 “No deposit, no key money, no guarantor, no agency fee!” | Sounds amazing? Probably fake. These are standard fees in Japan. Too-good-to-be-true is a real estate red alert. Note: There are some agencies that waive the Key Money and Agency fees, but make sure they’re legitimate companies before making any final deals with them. |
| 📸 Sketchy photos | Low-res images or listings with only one photo often come from copy-pasted scams. Legit listings usually have a dozen angles of every room, and often a floor plan. Note: Some agents post fake ads for you them to create a connection with you. “Catching the bait”, per se. |
| 🚫 No company website or license info | All real agencies are licensed by the local government. They should display their license number clearly on their site or office signboard. |
| 💬 Overeager or pressuring behavior | If someone rushes you to send money or make decisions fast, it’s likely a con. Real agents in Japan are famously unhurried. |
📲 3. Only Use Legit Platforms and Agencies
Stick with:
- SUUMO, Homes.co.jp, CHINTAI (for Japanese-language users)
- GaijinPot Housing, Tokyo Room Finder, Sakura House (for English speakers)
- Real estate agencies with a storefront, license number, and ideally Google reviews.
- Government-run Real estate agencies like UR housing and JKK offer great deals and are relatively foreigner friendly. They have properties that are great for maintaining a steady home life here in Japan.
Pro tip: If the agency name is just initials (e.g., “ABC Real Estate”) and they don’t have a proper website or customer service phone number—keep walking.
🕵️♀️ 4. Don’t Pay Anything Before Signing
In Japan, it’s standard to visit the property first, submit an application, and then, if you’re approved, sign a lease and pay upfront fees (key money, deposit, etc.).
If someone’s asking for money before that order of operations, you should be suspicious.
Even remote rentals (e.g., moving from overseas) should involve a legit process with clear paperwork, an official lease, and communication with a registered agency.
📎 5. Ask for the “Important Matters Explanation” (重要事項説明書)
This is a document Japanese agents are legally required to provide and explain to you before you sign a lease. It includes:
- Property ownership
- Building structure and age
- Any restrictions or defects
- Rental terms, fees, and contract length
If the agent skips this step or can’t produce this doc, walk away.
📷 6. Request a Virtual Tour (or In-Person Viewing)
Even if you’re abroad, most legit agencies will offer a video walkthrough or virtual tour via Zoom, FaceTime, or YouTube. If the agent refuses, gives excuses, or sends only photos—they might not have access to the property. And that’s a giant waving red flag.
🤝 7. Consider Using a Bilingual Guarantor or Agent
If your Japanese is limited, working with an agency that provides bilingual support or partners with a guarantor company (保証会社) can make the process safer and clearer. Many scams exploit language barriers.
Bonus Tip: Check If the Property Really Exists
Use Google Maps to look up the address. Check if the building matches the photos. If it’s an empty lot, a convenience store, or a pachinko parlor… well, you’re being hustled, friend.
🚪 Wrapping It Up
Most people renting in Japan will never encounter a scam. But just like anywhere, if you’re unfamiliar with the terrain, you’re more likely to get tricked. So follow the golden rule: Don’t trust anyone asking for money without proper paperwork, legal procedures, and visible accountability.
And if you’re ever unsure, feel free to shoot me a question or a link to a listing—you’d be surprised how often one eyebrow raised can save you thousands of yen and a logistical nightmare.
Would you like a follow-up guide on how to read a Japanese rental contract, or maybe a walkthrough on housing options if you don’t speak Japanese?
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