Real Estate in Yokohama, Japan

"Finding a place to live in Yokohama, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a shared apartment to a private house. Next, you should identify the area in Yokohama where you want to live. Yokohama is a large city with many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Some popular areas include Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yamashita Park. Once you've identified your preferred area, you can start searching for available properties. There are several online real estate portals that list properties for rent in Yokohama, such as Suumo, Homes, and Athome. These websites allow you to filter properties based on location, price, size, and other criteria. You can also visit real estate agencies in Yokohama. These agencies have English-speaking staff who can help you find a suitable property. Some well-known agencies include Ken Corporation, Plaza Homes, and Hikari Home. When you find a property you're interested in, you'll need to contact the landlord or real estate agent to arrange a viewing. If you decide to rent the property, you'll need to sign a lease agreement and pay a deposit. This usually includes a security deposit, key money, and the first month's rent. Finally, before moving in, you'll need to set up utilities such as electricity, gas, and internet. This can usually be done by contacting the relevant companies and arranging for the services to be connected. Remember, renting a property in Japan can be a complex process with many unique aspects, such as the requirement for a guarantor. Therefore, it's a good idea to seek advice from a local or someone who is familiar with the process," said one expat who made the move to Yokohama.