• About fully furnished apartments

What are the steps to move into an apartment with furniture and appliances? Things to be aware of when signing a contract!

Last Modified:2024.08.23

If you are hoping to move into an apartment with furniture and appliances, you may be wondering about the procedure. You may be concerned about the differences between a furnished apartment and a regular rental apartment, and may be hesitant to take the first step. Here is a summary of the basic information you should know to proceed with the contract procedure with peace of mind.

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The pros and cons of fully furnished apartments

Furnished apartments have both advantages and disadvantages. In order to avoid regrets after moving in, it is important to understand both. We will introduce the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Benefits of fully furnished apartments

First, let's talk about the benefits.

Reduce initial costs

With a furnished apartment, you don't have to buy new furniture or appliances for your new home. The more amenities you have, the more you can save on initial costs.

Moving becomes easier

Moving becomes easier because you don't have to carry furniture or appliances. If you choose a property that comes with a set of large furniture and appliances, you may be able to complete the moving work by yourself without having to hire a moving company. This reduces not only the physical burden but also the financial burden.

No cost to dispose of furniture and appliances

When moving out of a rental property, one issue that arises is the disposal of furniture and appliances. If the apartment comes with furniture and appliances, you can just leave them there when you move out. There is no need to worry about any extra disposal fees.

Disadvantages of Furnished Apartments

Next, let's talk about the disadvantages.

Unable to choose furniture and appliances

You cannot choose the equipment that comes with a furnished apartment. The equipment may not have the same functions as the latest models, or you may not like the design or color. In addition, the items you use will generally be second-hand.

High rent

Generally, furnished rental properties have higher rents than normal properties due to their added value. When comparing properties of the same level, you should expect the furnished property to have a monthly rent that is 20-30% higher.

Procedures for moving into a fully furnished apartment

The procedure for moving into a furnished apartment is almost the same as for a regular rental apartment. We will introduce the detailed procedure, so please refer to it.

Property consultation

The first step towards moving into a furnished apartment is to discuss the property.

    ・I would like to be introduced to properties that meet my requirements in my desired area. ・I would like to be introduced to an apartment I found on a property information website.
Both requests can be accommodated, so please consult with a real estate agency first. Specific consultation methods include visiting the agency in person, calling, or emailing. Choose the method that is most convenient for you. The real estate agency will introduce you to apartments with furniture and appliances that meet your requirements based on the content of your consultation. They will also help you view the property and confirm the details until you find a property that satisfies you.

Application

Once you find a property you like, you can apply to move in. Follow the instructions of the real estate agent to create and submit a "tenant screening application form." Once you submit this application form, you can provisionally reserve the property. This will help prevent the property from being snatched by someone else before the screening results are announced.

However, this is only a step to apply for the "tenant screening" and does not mean that you will definitely be able to move in. In some cases, you may be asked to pay an application fee when you submit the tenancy screening application, but in the unlikely event that you do not pass the screening, this will be returned unconditionally.

examination

Based on the information provided in the application form, the landlord or a management company commissioned by the landlord will conduct a tenant screening. Tenant screening is conducted to alleviate the landlord's concerns, such as whether it is okay to rent out the property they own and whether the rent will be paid on time.

The screening criteria differ depending on the property. Normally, the results of the screening will be announced within 2 to 3 days. The results will be communicated to prospective tenants through the real estate company's representative.

Contract

Once you have passed the tenant screening, it is time to sign the contract. After gathering all the necessary documents and paying the initial fees, you will officially sign the rental contract. Before signing the contract, the real estate company representative will explain the important matters to you. After understanding the contents, please sign and stamp the important matters explanation document.

After that, the contract will be concluded by signing and stamping the rental agreement. Before signing the contract, be sure to clear up any points you are unclear about.

Payment and delivery

After submitting the contract, you will pay the initial fee. The breakdown of the contract fee is roughly as follows:

    ・Deposit, key money, advance rent, brokerage fee, fire insurance fee, guarantee fee
The security deposit, key money, and advance rent are money paid to the landlord. The brokerage fee is paid to the real estate company, and the fire insurance fee is paid to the insurance company. The guarantee fee is the fee charged when using a rent guarantee company. In some cases, it is not necessary if you can provide a guarantor, while in other cases, using a rent guarantee company is a condition of signing the contract. Make sure you check how much each costs before making any payments. Once the contract and payment are successfully completed, you will be given the keys. This means that you are ready to move into the property at any time.

Move in

Move at a time that suits you. Make sure your electricity, water, and gas are ready for your move-in date so you can start your new life smoothly.

Important points regarding the contract

When signing a lease for an apartment with furniture and appliances, be sure to pay attention to the following two points.

You cannot remove furniture and appliances without permission.

Tenants cannot remove or dispose of the furniture or appliances provided by the tenant. For example, even if you are not satisfied with the functionality of your appliances and would like to replace them with new products, please refrain from doing so on your own.

Even if you purchase and use new products, you will be required to properly store the original products and return them to their original condition when you move out.

If there are any unnecessary furniture or appliances in the room, we recommend asking the management company or landlord if they can take them away. If you can secure storage space, they may be able to accommodate your request.

Is the owner responsible for repair costs in the event of a breakdown?

One of the points you should check when signing a contract is who will be responsible for repair costs if furniture or home appliances break down.

If the furniture or appliances are considered "accessory equipment," the owner will likely repair or replace them at his or her expense, unless the tenant has done so intentionally or carelessly. If they are not "accessory equipment," be sure to check the appropriate method of action.

Frequently asked questions about fully furnished apartments

Below are some frequently asked questions when booking a fully furnished apartment. Please use them as a reference.

Can I move in on the same day?

Depending on the property, you may be able to move in immediately even if the property already has furniture and appliances. Check with the real estate agent in advance and prepare the necessary documents and initial costs to complete the process smoothly.

Is it true that the screening is strict?

The conditions for passing the screening vary depending on the property. Even if the screening is said to be relatively easy, it does not mean that you will definitely pass. If you have any concerns, please consult with the real estate company staff.

Can I view the property?

There is a good chance that you will be able to view properties that are not currently occupied. Please tell the real estate agent that you would like to view the property. If it is difficult to go to the site, there are also websites that have a system that allows you to view the property online. Please try using them.

What should I do if I want to move out?

The procedure for moving out of a furnished apartment is the same as for a regular rental apartment. Inform your tenant of your intention to move out based on the terms of the contract. In addition to the condition of the room, make sure to prepare all the furnishings and appliances so that you can move out.

summary

We hope you found this article about the procedures and precautions for moving into a furnished apartment. We hope it has helped to ease your pre-contract anxiety. Furnished apartments are very attractive, especially for those looking for short-term accommodation. Please make sure you understand the advantages and disadvantages before proceeding with the contract.