What is a Weekly Mansion?
A weekly apartment is a short-term rental property that comes with furniture and appliances and can be rented on a weekly basis.
Unlike regular rental properties, there is no need for a deposit or key money, and you don't need to go through the hassle of signing a contract, so you can move in with just a suitcase. Recently, due to their convenience and cost-effectiveness, they have been gaining attention as a new option for short-term stays.
Features of Weekly Mansions
Weekly apartments are equipped with furniture, appliances, and daily necessities, so you can move in with just a suitcase. Many properties do not require a deposit or key money, making them popular with short-term residents for business trips or temporary housing. Electricity, gas, and water charges are often included in the rent, and the clear fee structure is another attraction.
Differences from general rental properties and hotels
Compared to regular rentals, weekly apartments have the advantage of being easier to sign contracts with and have lower initial costs. Compared to hotels, they have kitchens and washing machines, so you can live like at home and enjoy a comfortable stay even for long-term stays.
In addition, the price per night is often cheaper than a hotel, making them popular among people who want to keep their travel expenses down during business trips. The balance between the completeness of living facilities and cost performance is what makes them so appealing.
Differences from monthly apartments
The biggest difference with monthly apartments is the flexibility of the contract period. Weekly apartments can be rented on a weekly basis, while monthly apartments usually require a contract period of one month or more.
Additionally, weekly apartments are operated in accordance with the Inns and Hotels Act, and are subject to consumption tax. Weekly apartments are recommended for short-term stays, while monthly apartments are recommended for medium-term stays of one month or more.
How do weekly apartment rates and fees work?
When considering a weekly apartment, the first thing you're probably wondering is, "How much does it cost?" Unlike regular rental properties or hotels, weekly apartments have their own fee structure, and the breakdown of costs varies depending on the property.
In this article, we will explain in detail the average rental fees for weekly apartments, whether there are any initial fees, and how the costs compare to hotels. Use this article as a reference to understand the total cost of a short-term stay and choose a property that is right for you.
Rates and breakdown of usage fees
The price of a weekly apartment varies depending on the area and the grade of the property, but the average price is between 30,000 and 70,000 yen per week.
In addition to rent, the fee often includes utility fees, management fees, and cleaning fees, so you can start living there without any additional contract procedures. Furniture and appliances are provided, so there are no moving expenses. The appeal is that the costs are clear and it is easy to create a budget.
Are there any initial or additional costs?
A weekly apartment has the advantage that the initial costs are much lower than for a regular rental property. Many properties do not require a deposit, key money, or brokerage fee, and in some cases you can move in by just paying one week's rent when you make the reservation.
However, depending on the terms of the contract, you may be required to pay additional cleaning fees, a security deposit, key replacement fees, etc., so it is important to check the conditions with the real estate company in advance.
Is it really cheaper than a hotel? Check out the cost comparison
Weekly apartments are generally less expensive than staying in a hotel for the same period of time.
For example, a business hotel will cost around 7,000 to 10,000 yen per night, whereas a weekly mansion will cost around 4,000 to 7,000 yen per night. You can also cook your own meals, so you can save on eating out. The longer you stay, the more cost-effective it becomes.
Benefits of Weekly Apartments
Weekly apartments are a rental style specialized for short-term stays and are chosen for a wide range of situations, from business use to temporary housing and travel. In this chapter, we will introduce the main benefits of weekly apartments in an easy-to-understand manner.
Comes with furniture and appliances so you can move in right away
The biggest appeal of weekly apartments is that they come equipped with furniture, appliances, and other daily necessities. Beds, refrigerators, washing machines, microwaves, televisions, and more are all fully equipped, eliminating the hassle of moving and buying all the necessary items. The convenience of being able to start living there from day one with minimal luggage makes them perfect for business trips, sudden relocations, and temporary housing.
No expensive initial costs
With a regular rental property, it is not uncommon for initial costs such as a deposit, key money, and brokerage fees to cost hundreds of thousands of yen.
However, many weekly apartments do not require these fees and can be rented for as little as a few tens of thousands of yen. This is a major advantage of being able to start easily and with minimal costs, even if you need to move in immediately due to a sudden business trip or short stay.
Flexible for short stays
Weekly apartments can be rented on a weekly basis, so they can flexibly meet the needs of those who don't need a month or only need it for a few days. There is no long-term contract like with rentals, and the daily fees are not expensive like with hotels.
This is a very convenient housing option for those with uncertain plans or who are planning to stay for a short period of time.
Easy to understand pricing with utility costs included
The price of a weekly apartment often includes utilities and internet fees in addition to the rent, making the total cost clear. Since you don't have to pay monthly utility bills separately, it's easier to plan your budget and you don't have to worry about additional charges.
This will be a great source of peace of mind, especially for those who want to prioritize cost management when traveling for business or living in temporary housing.
Disadvantages and points to note about weekly apartments
Weekly apartments have many advantages, but there are also disadvantages and things to be aware of before using them. There are cases where you may find that the apartment is not what you expected after using it, such as limited information that can be confirmed before signing the contract, restrictions on extending your stay or cancelling mid-contract, and high utility bills. In order to have a comfortable stay, it is important to understand the disadvantages before choosing a property.
Here we will explain in detail the points you should be careful of when using a weekly apartment.
You can't see the property inside/The quality of the rooms varies
In most weekly apartments, you cannot view the apartment before signing the contract. Therefore, you have to judge the apartment based on photos and reviews, and when you actually move in, you may find that the apartment is smaller than you expected or that the facilities are old. Also, even within the same building, the facilities and cleaning conditions may differ from room to room, so it is important to gather information from the real estate agency in advance.
In some cases, it may be difficult to extend your stay or cancel your contract midway
Due to the nature of short-term contracts for weekly apartments, the contract period is often fixed, and you may not be able to cancel or extend your stay as you wish.
Especially in popular areas, there are cases where your request to extend your stay is denied because the next booking has been made. Also, some contracts do not provide refunds even if you cancel midway, so if there is a possibility that your plans may change, it is best to choose a property that offers flexibility.
Utility bills can be expensive
In weekly apartments, water, gas, and electricity are often included in the rent, but sometimes they are set at higher installments. In particular, people who live alone and are trying to save money may feel that it is cheaper to make a contract on their own. This is not a problem if you are using it for a short period of time and are prioritizing convenience, but if you are concerned about cost, you should check this point as well.
How to sign a contract for a weekly apartment and how to use it
The appeal of weekly apartments is that the application process is simpler than for regular rental properties, and you can move in quickly. However, since the contract contents and screening criteria vary depending on the property, it is important to understand the process in advance.
In this chapter, we will explain in detail the steps from application to moving in, the necessary documents and whether there is an examination, and whether you can move in on the same day.
Steps from application to moving in
Applying for a weekly apartment can be done easily online or over the phone. Choose the property you want, check for availability, and then submit your application. Once you have made the payment, the contract is complete, and you can move in after receiving the keys. In most cases, you can move in within a few days to a week, which is an attractive feature of this speedy process, as it can be used for temporary housing or sudden business trips.
Is there an examination? Required documents
Unlike regular rental properties, weekly apartments often do not have strict screening procedures, but you will generally need to show identification. In some cases, you may be asked to provide proof of employment and emergency contact information.
Because the screening process is simple, it is easier to respond immediately, which is a major advantage for people who want to secure housing in the short term.
Is it possible to move in on the same day?
Many weekly apartments are available for same-day occupancy, making them extremely convenient for those who need temporary housing due to a sudden transfer.
However, depending on the availability of the property and the speed at which the contract is processed, you may be able to move in the next day or later, so it is best to inquire early. Checking in advance how to receive the keys and the move-in time will help you start your new life smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
For those who are using a weekly apartment for the first time, there are always worries such as "Can I really rent it?" and "Is it okay for a woman to live alone?" Here, we will introduce some common questions and their answers in an easy-to-understand manner. Resolve any doubts before signing a contract and choose a property with peace of mind.
Can I borrow even if I'm unemployed?
It is possible to rent a weekly apartment even if you are unemployed. However, depending on the property, you may be asked to submit an "emergency contact" or "guarantor."
The screening process is relatively lenient, and in many cases no work information is required, so these properties are often used as temporary housing for short-term stays or while job-hunting. If you have any concerns, be sure to check with the management company in advance.
Is it safe for a woman to live alone?
There are many weekly apartments that women living alone can use safely. Some have automatic locks, a resident manager, and security equipment, and some even have women-only properties. The key is to check reviews and reputations and choose a property with a high level of safety. It's also a good idea to check the surrounding area in advance.
Are there any properties that allow pets?
Some weekly mansions allow pets. However, the number is limited, and even those that do may have restrictions on the type and size of dogs and cats. Properties that allow pets are very popular, so we recommend reserving early. If you are looking for a short-term stay with your pet, you can easily find one by narrowing your search by "pet-friendly" and "weekly mansions."
Can I pay by credit card?
The number of weekly apartments that accept credit card payments is on the rise. Properties that accept credit cards are especially popular because they make it easier to settle expenses when used by a company or on a business trip.
However, not all properties accept credit cards, so be sure to check in advance whether they accept credit cards. This is usually stated on the official website or reservation page.
summary
Weekly mansions are a convenient rental style specialized for short-term stays, and are used in a wide range of situations, such as business trips, temporary housing, and travel. The biggest appeal is that they come with furniture and appliances, the procedures are simple, and the initial costs are low. Since you can stay comfortably for less than a hotel, they are also ideal for those who value cost-performance.
By understanding the differences between monthly apartments and regular rental properties and choosing the property that suits you, you can have a comfortable short-term stay. If you are interested, please refer to the contract procedures and Q&A to make the most of your weekly apartment.
