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Columns

Helpful information for your apartment search and daily life

All964Contracts & Procedures215Moving In129Daily Life288Area & Environment111Costs & Finances118Safety & Disaster Prevention72
Popular tags#Move-out Restoration#Property Selection#Solo Living#Average Rent#Foreigners#Rental Contracts#Initial Costs#Property Viewing#Rentals#Guarantor Company#Area Selection#Tenant Screening

97–108 of 964

Solving Noise Issues! Soundproofing Solutions and Noise Dispute Resolution Guide for Rental Apartments
Daily Life

Solving Noise Issues! Soundproofing Solutions and Noise Dispute Resolution Guide for Rental Apartments

## The Current State of Noise Issues in Rental Housing and the Importance of Countermeasures Noise problems in rental apartments rank among the top reasons for moving out and are a serious housing environment issue. Sources vary widely, including everyday sounds from neighbors, footsteps from above, and external noise. Once noise becomes bothersome, sleep quality declines and stress levels rise significantly, making knowledge of noise countermeasures and approp

2026-06-07
Security Deposit and Key Money Refund Disputes: Countering Illegal Charges and Using Small Claims Court
Contracts & Procedures

Security Deposit and Key Money Refund Disputes: Countering Illegal Charges and Using Small Claims Court

## Why Security Deposit and Key Money Refund Disputes Are Widespread When tenants move out after ending a rental agreement, disputes over security deposit refunds with landlords and management companies are common. The reason is that the treatment of security deposits and key money is legally complex, and misunderstandings easily arise between tenants and landlords. As a basic point, a security deposit is money that a tenant should receive back when a contract ends, and it has the nature of a "deposited sum." Key money, on the other hand, is gratitude money that belongs to the landlord and is not subject to refunds. However, in practice, some properties are contracted with this distinction left unclear, and many tenants who receive explanations like "key money will not be returned" upon move-out question the legitimacy of such claims.

2026-06-07
Enjoying Balcony Gardening and Home Vegetable Growing in Rental Apartments—Rules and Practical Guide
Daily Life

Enjoying Balcony Gardening and Home Vegetable Growing in Rental Apartments—Rules and Practical Guide

A comprehensive guide covering everything from rule-checking to practical techniques for enjoying gardening and home vegetable growing on rental balconies. Learn how to prevent drainage clogs and restoration-to-original-condition risks while growing seasonal plants and vegetables.

2026-06-07
Energy Efficiency Ratings and Actual Utility Costs—How to Choose Rental Properties Based on ZEH and Insulation Performance
Costs & Finances

Energy Efficiency Ratings and Actual Utility Costs—How to Choose Rental Properties Based on ZEH and Insulation Performance

Understand energy efficiency ratings 1-7 and their impact on utility costs. This article explains ZEH and BELS-certified properties, how to check insulation performance during viewings, and provides guidance on selecting rental properties based on energy efficiency.

2026-06-07
Separate Bathroom & Toilet vs. Three-Point Unit Bath — A Thorough Comparison of Rental Property Bathroom Types and How to Choose Comfortable Living
Daily Life

Separate Bathroom & Toilet vs. Three-Point Unit Bath — A Thorough Comparison of Rental Property Bathroom Types and How to Choose Comfortable Living

A thorough comparison of three-point unit baths and separate bathrooms/toilets from perspectives of rental cost differences, usability, cleanliness, and move-out risks. With examples of rental prices in Sendai, we explain key points for choosing a property that suits your lifestyle.

2026-06-07
How to Choose a Rental House: A Complete Guide—Differences from Condos, Pros, Cons, and Viewing Checklist
Moving In

How to Choose a Rental House: A Complete Guide—Differences from Condos, Pros, Cons, and Viewing Checklist

A comprehensive explanation of rental houses' features, advantages, and disadvantages. Covering rent differences from condos and apartments, yard and parking usage, pet policies, and repair responsibility rules—answering all questions for first-time rental house tenants.

2026-06-06
How Foreigners Can Rent Apartments in Japan: Complete Guide to Visa Status, Guarantees, and Documents
Contracts & Procedures

How Foreigners Can Rent Apartments in Japan: Complete Guide to Visa Status, Guarantees, and Documents

Comprehensive guide to the rental application process for foreign nationals in Japan, covering the screening procedure, required documents, how to choose a guarantor company, and important considerations after moving in. We also share common screening obstacles and strategies to overcome them.

2026-06-06
Osaka Rental Price Guide and Neighborhood Guide for Living Alone [2026 Edition]
Area & Environment

Osaka Rental Price Guide and Neighborhood Guide for Living Alone [2026 Edition]

A thorough comparison of rental prices by ward in Osaka city and surrounding areas. From popular neighborhoods like Umeda, Namba, and Tennoji to hidden gem areas with great value for money, we explain everything you need to know to find the ideal home for living alone.

2026-06-06
Earthquake Safety and Seismic Standards for Rental Apartments: Complete Guide to Seismic Ratings, Property Inspection, and Furniture-Securing Strategies
Safety & Disaster Prevention

Earthquake Safety and Seismic Standards for Rental Apartments: Complete Guide to Seismic Ratings, Property Inspection, and Furniture-Securing Strategies

A comprehensive guide to seismic performance—often overlooked when choosing rental properties in Japan. From understanding the differences between old and new seismic standards and how to read seismic ratings, to identifying pitfalls in new construction, using hazard maps effectively, and implementing practical furniture-securing methods—a complete guide to evaluating properties with safety as your priority.

2026-06-05
Renting for Remote Work & Side Business: How to Choose a Property by Prioritizing Focus, Soundproofing, and Wi-Fi
Moving In

Renting for Remote Work & Side Business: How to Choose a Property by Prioritizing Focus, Soundproofing, and Wi-Fi

As remote work becomes permanent and side businesses spread, rental selection matters more for "home environment" than "commute time." This article explains practical tips for choosing properties with separated bedrooms, soundproofing, quality internet, and SOHO-approved options—essentials for boosting productivity while working from home.

2026-06-05
Large vs. Small Real Estate Companies: A Comparison Guide—Expert Analysis of Rent Negotiation Power, Service Quality, and Dispute Resolution
Contracts & Procedures

Large vs. Small Real Estate Companies: A Comparison Guide—Expert Analysis of Rent Negotiation Power, Service Quality, and Dispute Resolution

A comprehensive comparison of "Should I choose a large or small real estate company?" when searching for rental properties. We explain rent negotiation power, service quality, and dispute resolution across three dimensions, and introduce strategies for selecting an agent that even beginners won't regret.

2026-06-05
Complete Guide to Built-in Furniture and Fixed Storage in Rental Properties—Understanding Fixtures vs. Chattels and Move-Out Considerations
Daily Life

Complete Guide to Built-in Furniture and Fixed Storage in Rental Properties—Understanding Fixtures vs. Chattels and Move-Out Considerations

Learn the advantages and disadvantages of rental properties with built-in furniture and fixed storage, and what to know during your stay and when moving out. We clarify the differences between fixtures and chattels, repair cost responsibility, and essential checks to prevent move-out disputes.

2026-06-04
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Categories

  • Contracts & Procedures215
  • Moving In129
  • Daily Life288
  • Area & Environment111
  • Costs & Finances118
  • Safety & Disaster Prevention72

Popular tags

#Move-out Restoration85#Property Selection70#Solo Living67#Average Rent62#Foreigners60#Rental Contracts59#Initial Costs51#Property Viewing50#Rentals47#Guarantor Company36#Area Selection36#Tenant Screening36#Cost Savings32#Moving31#Property Management31#Move-Out Costs30

Columns

  • 床スラブ厚と上階の足音問題——賃貸で「ドン」という衝撃音が響く構造的な理由と物件選びのポイント

  • 前橋・群馬の賃貸エリアガイド【2026年版】——主要エリア別家賃相場と住みやすさを徹底比較

  • Making the Most of Protruding Beams and Columns in Rental Apartments — Smart Furniture Placement Strategies

  • Mito & Ibaraki Rental Area Guide [2026] — Comprehensive Explanation of Rental Rates and Livability by Major Area

  • Uncovering Property Issues by Asking Previous Tenants About Their Departure—Questions to Ask During Viewings and How to Interpret Answers