"Key money" is a non-refundable fee charged to the tenant at the time the contract is signed. It is usually equal to about two months' rent.

In Japanese, it is literally called "gratitude fee." This practice originated when Tokyo was in the state of being reconstructed after destruction from the war. Suitable lodging was extremely rare and in exchange for a host's hospitality, tenants would offer a "gratitude fee". The tradition today has taken the form of a common fee.

Our clients often feel unpleasantly surprised about the concept of having to pay a key money fee. Occasionally, non-Japanese clients mistakenly believe that this fee is directed specifically towards them. This misconception has no truth whatsoever; please understand that Japanese and non-Japanese alike must pay this fee.

At our company, we understand that this fee does not exist outside of Tokyo and can be difficult to accept. As realtors, we feel extremely empathetic towards our displeased customers and regret that such an inconvenient policy exists. Unfortunately, it is not in our power to exempt anybody from this fee. The most we can do for a client who insists on not paying this fee, is look for properties on the market with no key money fee. These usually consist of expensive properties or those that are directed towards expats. However, such properties are rare and making this choice will greatly reduce the amount of properties that we can propose to you.

Small pets such as hamsters and fish are allowed just about anywhere, but few allow cats and dogs. When searching for a property that allows pets, you will need to use that as a priority searching condition.