How to Find the Right Real-Estate Agency for You in Japan
Looking for a place to rent in Japan is no easy task. Once you get to Japan, you will notice that everything is in Japanese – signs, newspapers, grocery items, menus, and every written piece of paper. It is their language and they expect visitors to adapt not the other way around. There are mini stands that advertise apartments for rent but they’re also written in Japanese. Instead trying to translate everything, you need to find a real estate agency if you want to settle this issue as quickly as possible.
The traditional real estate brokers tend to be less inclined towards foreigners. They are never rude but they don’t go out their way to please. It’s all business, nothing personal. Many don’t speak fluent English so this makes it difficult to deal with them.
One thing you have to realize once you step into Japan is that there are preconceived notions about Caucasians. They base their ideas on what they see in TV and film. Look at the status of US films and TV reality shows, and try to view it from a foreigner’s point of view. You’ll soon understand their apprehensions based on what’s being shown on New Jersey Shore or Desperate Housewives episodes. Of course, that’s being a little extreme but it emphasizes the point that Asian culture is much more conservative.
The kind of real estate agency you need to find is one that has bilingual staff, can relate to landlords effectively, and protect your interests as a visiting foreigner. They won’t be the complete opposite to the traditional brokers but neither will they stay cold and professional. They are welcoming and understand the apprehensions you have about moving to Japan.
Often, foreigners who find the right real estate agency to help them out also find their first Japanese friend. A good real estate agency in Japan that specializes in apartments and houses for foreigners realize that they are the welcoming committee, and they are very good at showcasing the best that Japan has to offer. Where can you find these guys? Look online and double check feedback from other foreigners. You’ll find a common thread soon enough.
Reference:
http://www.kencorp.com/tokyoapartment/index.html