REAL ESTATE TERMS

01 : Rent

In general rent is paid in advance on a monthly basis. When moving into a new apartment you
are in most cases required to pay for the first and second month.

02 : Deposit - Shikikin

Most apartments in Tokyo require a deposit that may vary from two months rent to as much as
half a years worth of rents. On paper the deposit is refundable, however, in most cases a portion
of the deposit is deducted to pay for restoration of the apartment when you leave the apartment.

03 : Guarantor - Hoshonin

A guarantor is a person who takes responsiblity for paying your rent in case you are unable to.
The guarantor has to be financially stable and currently be living in Japan. For persons who lack
a guarantor, there are companies who can serve as your guarantor for a fee. The fee is usually
equivalent to half a month or one months worth of rents.

04 :Key Money - Reikin

This is sometimes refered to as "Thank you money" and in general equivalent to two months
worth of rent. This money is not refundable.

05 : Agent Fee

The fee paid to the real estate agent for the service of introducing apartments and taking care
of paper work and applying for utility services. One month's rent is the standard commission.

06 : Management Fee

A monthly fee for maintenance of the building, garbage disposal costs etc.