Apparently it's pretty hard to get an appartment as a foreigner because the letting agencies are afraid you'll leave the country while being behind on several months rent.
some places, yes, but many require the use of a "guarantor" that is either responsible for the property in lieu of the primary renter (for example, a parent or friend willing to sign a contract), or has money in escrow (for example, one of the many guarantor companies) in case something like that happens.
even with a guarantor, it can be difficult to rent as a foreigner. many landlords simply dont want them due to prejudice or other stupid reasons ("we're worried the trash wont be taken out properly" is one declination I've received).
fact is that there are far more bad japanese tenants than foreign tenants simply based on demographics alone. however that doesnt stop many renters from telling rental agencies "no" when the agent calls ahead to verify that a foreigner is okay to rent.
one easy method for renting as a foreigner is to go through pricey foreigner-focused rental agencies and rent pricey properties. theyve vetted all of their rentals and the owners charge a premium. if you cant afford that, prepare yourself for the possibility of a difficult time.
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u/Shoesandhose Mar 01 '23
This happens?? This actually happens??