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Guarantor System

Japan's unique housing guarantee system

What is the Guarantor System?

A guarantor is someone who takes responsibility if the tenant cannot fulfill the contract. For foreigners, it's difficult to find a Japanese guarantor, so using a guarantee company is common.

Personal Guarantor

When a Japanese friend or company supervisor becomes the guarantor

Pros
  • No cost involved
  • Builds trust relationships
Cons
  • Hard for foreigners to find
  • Burden on guarantor

Guarantee Company

Getting guaranteed through a professional guarantee company

Pros
  • Available for foreigners
  • Simple procedures
Cons
  • Initial guarantee fee (50-100% of rent)
  • Additional cost at renewal

💰 Cost

When using guarantee company: Initial 50-100% of rent, 10,000-20,000 yen at renewal

💡 Useful Tips

  • •Most real estate agencies require using a guarantee company
  • •Compare costs from multiple guarantee companies
  • •Check if your school or company recommends a guarantee company

📚 Official Sources & References