What is renting with zero initial costs?
There are "initial costs" that are incurred when signing a contract for a rental property. When you add up the deposit, key money, brokerage fees, etc., it can amount to several months' rent, which can be a huge burden. In the midst of this, "rental properties with zero initial costs" where you can move in with zero costs are gaining attention. Are there really no costs, and to what extent are they "zero"?
In this chapter, we will explain the basics of zero-value properties in an easy-to-understand manner, while clarifying the mechanisms and points to note.
What are "initial costs" anyway? A breakdown of the costs
The "initial costs" incurred when signing a contract for a rental property refer to the lump sum amount paid before moving in. Generally, these include the deposit, key money, agency fee, advance rent, fire insurance premium, key exchange fee, etc.
For example, if you rent a property with a rent of 60,000 yen, it is not uncommon for the total cost to be around 200,000 to 300,000 yen when you add up all these expenses. In particular, if you pay one month's deposit, one month's key money, and one month's brokerage fee, that alone amounts to three months' rent.
This amount must be paid in one lump sum at the time of signing the contract, which can be a huge burden for people who do not have much savings, such as students or new graduates. For this reason, rental properties with "zero initial costs" have been attracting attention recently.
Why are properties with "zero initial costs" so popular now?
In recent years, rental properties with "zero initial costs" have become increasingly popular. The reason behind this is that rising prices and the cost of moving have led to an increase in people looking to keep costs down as much as possible.
In addition, if you suddenly need to move due to a job change or transfer, you often have limited time and money, making it difficult to prepare a lump sum of initial costs. In such situations, "zero-cost properties" that do not require a deposit, key money, or brokerage fees are a very realistic option.
Furthermore, properties with zero initial costs are also effective for real estate companies as a way to deal with vacancies, and are increasingly being adopted as a strategy to increase occupancy rates. As a result, these properties are becoming more common not only in urban areas, but also in regional cities and student areas.
No deposit, key money, or brokerage fee = really nothing?
When you hear "zero initial costs," it may sound like you won't have to pay any money at all, but in reality, there are some things you should be aware of. For example, even if there is no deposit, key money, or brokerage fee, you may still have to pay separate fees for changing the key, fire insurance, and joining the guarantee company.
There are also cases where "initial costs" are added to the monthly rent, and the cost of restoring the property to its original state when you move out is expensive. Some properties come with furniture and appliances, but in exchange for that, regular cleaning fees and management fees are set high.
In other words, since there is no clear definition of the term "zero initial costs," it is important to carefully check the details and conditions when signing a contract. The key to choosing a rental property without making a mistake is to understand the payment items other than rent and determine whether the property is truly cost-effective.
Who is it suitable for? Examples of using rental properties with zero initial costs
Rental properties with zero upfront costs may be attractive to everyone, but they are especially perfect for people who want to keep costs down. They are often chosen by students and new members of the workforce who find it difficult to prepare a lump sum of money, people whose living environment has changed due to a job change, and people who are forced to move suddenly.
In this chapter, we will explain, with concrete examples, what kind of lifestyle would be suitable for people with "zero initial costs rentals."
A must-see for students, new graduates, job-changers, and others who want to keep costs down
For students and working adults starting a new life, the initial costs involved in signing a rental contract can be a major hurdle.
When you add up the costs of the security deposit, key money, agent fees, and even fire insurance, you may end up needing several months' rent all at once. For this reason, rental properties with zero initial costs are very popular with people who want to keep their expenses to a minimum.
This is a big advantage for students who have limited support from their parents, and young people who have just started working or changed jobs and don't have much savings to spare, as it reduces the burden of starting life. Another reason why zero-rental properties are chosen is that they reduce the cost of moving in and allow you to spend the money on furniture, appliances, and daily necessities.
Cases where we can accommodate sudden moves or short-term contracts
When you suddenly need to move due to a job transfer or family circumstances, many people don't have the time to carefully choose a property, and they don't have the financial means to prepare the initial costs. In such cases, properties with zero initial costs are a very effective option.
Among them, there are some properties where you can complete the entire process from contract to moving online, which can flexibly accommodate moving from rural areas to urban areas or for short-term stays. There are also "flat-rate" rental properties that include all necessary expenses in the rent, making it easy to manage your budget, which is another attractive feature.
The sense of security that comes with no deposit or key money, and points to note
While rental properties without a deposit or key money can greatly reduce the cost burden at the time of signing a contract, some people may be worried about whether they can really feel safe. It is true that properties without a deposit may incur additional restoration costs when you move out. Also, even properties without key money may incur a penalty fee under certain conditions (for example, short-term cancellation).
However, in many zero-cost properties, the contract terms are clearly set, and if you check them carefully in advance, the risk of unexpected costs will be reduced. When you hear "zero initial costs," you may get the impression that it's cheap and bad, but recently there are more and more properties that are well-equipped and safe to live in.
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Main features and conditions of properties with no initial costs
There are many different types and conditions for rental properties with "zero initial costs." Some properties do not require a deposit, key money, or guarantee fee, while others come with furniture and appliances and other services. The types of properties vary widely. Also, the facilities and average rent vary depending on the type of building, such as an apartment or a detached house.
In this chapter, we will explain in detail the common features of properties with zero upfront costs and the payment items you should check when signing a contract.
What are the conditions for no deposit, no key money, no guarantee fee, etc.?
For rental properties with zero initial costs, the most basic conditions include "no deposit" and "no key money."
Just by eliminating these two items, you can reduce the cost of one to two months' rent, significantly reducing your burden.
Furthermore, some properties offer additional conditions such as "free guarantee fee" or "no brokerage fee," making it easier to keep expenses down. Even in properties where the use of a guarantor company is required, there are an increasing number of cases where the landlord will cover the guarantee fee, which is a nice point for tenants.
These conditions are clearly stated on the property information page and in the contract, so it is important to check them carefully before applying.
A trend towards fuller services, including furnished appliances and free Wi-Fi
Properties with no initial costs often come equipped with furniture and appliances so that you can start living there as soon as you move in. Basic amenities such as a refrigerator, washing machine, bed, desk, and air conditioner are all provided, making the start of your new life a smooth one.
Additionally, an increasing number of properties are now offering free Wi-Fi, meaning you don't need to sign an initial contract for the internet or pay any additional fees. Having these services included is attractive as it not only reduces your initial costs, but also your living costs after you move in.
Trends by property type (e.g. detached houses, apartments, etc.)
Rental properties with zero upfront costs are often found in one-room or one-kitchen apartments, but recently they are also being offered in other types of properties such as detached houses and shared houses.
For example, detached houses in the suburbs offer conditions such as "no key money or guarantor required," while apartments in urban areas offer "furnished appliances and free Wi-Fi," and differentiation in terms of services is progressing. Facilities and conditions are designed for different targets, such as for students, single people, and women only, making it easy to choose according to your needs. Initial costs and monthly rents vary depending on the property type, so it is important to compare and consider.
"Additional costs" and "payment items" to check when signing a contract
Even if a property is advertised as having "zero initial costs," there may be cases in which costs are actually incurred when signing the contract. Typical examples include key replacement fees, fire insurance fees, cleaning fees, and administrative fees.
In addition, some properties require you to pay a separate fee for restoring the property to its original condition when you move out, so it is essential to check the details of the contract in advance. Some properties also include a portion of the initial costs in the monthly maintenance fees and management fees, so be sure to check whether your monthly payments are too high.
By not just taking the word "zero" at face value, but instead being mindful of comparing on a total price basis, you will be able to choose a property that satisfies you.
A safe contract and move-in process with no initial costs
Just because there are no initial costs doesn't mean that the contract and move-in procedures are special. However, many people may have concerns, such as "Are there really no additional costs?" and "What if I move out?"
In this chapter, we will clearly explain the process for signing a contract for and moving into a property with no initial costs, as well as points to note about "additional fees" such as key replacement fees and fire insurance, and common financial issues that can arise when canceling a contract or moving out.
Easy-to-understand steps from screening to contract to moving in
Even for a property with no initial costs, the general contract flow is not much different from a regular rental property. First, you view the property and make inquiries, then submit an application and have it screened by a guarantor company and a management company. After passing the screening, you will then exchange contracts, submit the necessary documents, and receive the keys.
Recently, there has been an increase in properties where you can complete everything from application to contract online, making it easier to accommodate people moving from far away or sudden moves. There are also many properties that do not require a guarantor and properties that come with furniture and appliances so you can move in immediately, which is very convenient for people who want to start a new life quickly.
What are the additional costs that are likely to arise, such as "key replacement fees" and "fire insurance"?
Even though it says "zero initial costs," it doesn't mean that there are no costs at all. Two things that are often required separately when signing a contract are the cost of changing the lock and fire insurance. The average cost of changing the lock is around 5,000 to 20,000 yen, and it is mandatory in most properties for security reasons. Fire insurance also needs to be signed up for every 1-2 years, and the insurance premium can cost around 10,000 to 20,000 yen.
In addition, cleaning fees, administrative fees, 24-hour support fees, etc. may be charged separately, so it is a good idea to check the list of payment items before signing the contract. By understanding what other costs will be charged besides rent, you can avoid making the mistake of choosing a "zero-cost property."
Examples of fees and troubles incurred when canceling or moving out
Since there were no initial costs, you may be charged a lump sum when you move out, so be careful. Typical examples are restoration costs and house cleaning fees, and in properties that do not require a deposit, you will often be charged actual costs when you move out. Also, a "penalty" may be incurred if you cancel within a short period of time. In particular, it is not uncommon to be charged a penalty of one month's rent if you cancel within a year.
To avoid such troubles, it is important to carefully check the "settlement conditions when moving out" and "costs to be borne when canceling the contract" before signing the contract. Because it is a zero-yen property, the contract terms you should choose will differ depending on whether you plan to live there for a long time or for a short period of time.
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Useful for finding a property! A guide to finding zero-yen rental properties
There are a few tips to find a rental property with "zero upfront costs."
By knowing how to compare listed properties, how to use real estate websites, and what to consider when choosing an area, you can smoothly find your ideal property.
In this chapter, we will clearly explain practical ways to search, such as helpful tips for choosing a site, points to note for specific areas such as "Tokyo" or "near a station," and how to narrow down your search conditions.
How to use real estate sites and search services and comparison points
When searching for zero-yen rentals, it is important to first use a reliable real estate site or search service. By using a site that allows you to narrow down your search by conditions such as "no deposit or key money" and "zero initial costs," you can search efficiently without being overwhelmed by unnecessary information.
On major portal sites, it is convenient to compare average rent prices, area information, and availability of facilities. In addition, brand sites such as Cross House, which offer features such as "0 yen initial cost + furniture and appliances included," provide detailed information on the contract process and service details, and you can apply directly. Don't make a decision based on the information posted alone, but be sure to check the actual cost breakdown and contract terms when making an inquiry.
Important points to note for each area, such as "Tokyo" and "near the station"
When searching for zero-yen rentals in urban areas such as Tokyo, there are many properties to choose from, but the rent and conditions vary greatly depending on factors such as the distance from the station and the age of the building. While properties that are "close to the station" are convenient, they often have old buildings, small rooms, and simple shared facilities, so you need to be careful.
On the other hand, suburban areas have many properties that are spacious and well-equipped, and the advantage is that rents are relatively low. However, don't forget to check your daily life, such as commuting time and access to the nearest station. Property trends vary depending on the area, so it's important to be clear about what you value before searching.
Conditions to check when searching and how to narrow down your results
When searching, there are other conditions to look out for besides "zero initial costs." For example, whether you can start living here smoothly is a big point, such as "no guarantor required," "immediate occupancy," "free Wi-Fi," "furnished appliances," etc.
Other important things to check include the total monthly rent and management fee, whether there is a renewal fee, and whether there are any contract period restrictions. Some properties have low initial costs but high monthly fees, so choose with the total cost balance in mind. If you use the search criteria effectively, you can easily find a zero-rent property that suits you in a short amount of time.
Cross House offers zero initial costs and comes with furniture and appliances for a comfortable stay.
Among the many zero-yen rental properties, Cross House has all the attractive features, such as "no deposit, key money, or brokerage fee," "furnished with furniture and appliances," and "web contract support." It has many properties in areas popular with students and young workers who want to start living alone, and there are plenty of properties close to stations that are convenient for daily life.
In this chapter, we will introduce the features of Cross House, the financial security, and how easy it is to live in.
Deposit, key money and brokerage fees are all free! Contracts are completed online
A major feature of Cross House is that there is no security deposit, key money, or brokerage fee that are required when signing a rental contract. Since you can move without having to prepare any initial costs, it is very popular with people who are short on funds or who are thinking of suddenly moving.
Furthermore, all contract procedures can be completed online. Even if you live far away, you can apply, be screened, and sign a contract without needing to visit a branch, so even busy people can smoothly prepare to move in. In addition to the zero initial costs, the ease of signing a contract is also one of the reasons for its popularity.
All rooms are furnished with appliances and close to the station to support your new life
All rooms at Cross House are fully furnished with furniture and appliances, so you can start a comfortable life from the day you move in. Beds, desks, refrigerators, washing machines, microwaves, air conditioners, etc. are all provided, so there is no need to buy new items.
In addition, many of the properties are easily accessible, within a 5-10 minute walk from the station. They are available not only in the city center, but also in areas popular with students and young workers, such as along the Chuo Line and Seibu Shinjuku Line. You can start living alone with everything you need, so you can feel at ease even if it's your first time living alone.
Choosing a "safe and low-cost" property that allows you to move in with zero initial costs
Cross House has zero initial costs and the monthly rent is relatively reasonable. They also offer plans that include utilities and Wi-Fi, making it easy to calculate your monthly expenses, so it's recommended for those who aren't good at managing their finances.
In addition, there are many properties that do not require a guarantor, and the screening hurdle is low, which is another attraction. There is a system in place that makes it easy for a wide range of people to use, including students, foreigners, and people working away from home. If you are looking for a property that is not only affordable, but also easy to live in and has a good support system, Cross House is a strong choice.
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Introducing some of Cross House's recommended rental properties!
Here we will introduce three fully furnished rental properties in the Tokyo area that are currently eligible for the "0 Yen Initial Cost Campaign." All of them require no deposit, key money, or brokerage fees, and all contracts are completed online. Prices range from 20,000 to 50,000 yen per month, and there is a wide variety of options, including dormitories, semi-private properties, and women-only properties. We will introduce properties by area that are perfect for those who want to keep initial costs as low as possible and start living in Tokyo immediately.
Sangenjaya area, Tokyo | No initial cost campaign
[ Cross Sangenjaya 2 ] (7 minutes walk from Sangenjaya Station on the Tokyu Denentoshi Line)
- Semi-private share houses with furniture and appliances start from 38,000 yen per month.
- As part of the "0 yen initial fee campaign," the usual 30,000 yen fee will be free, so the initial fee is effectively zero yen (when signing a contract for 3 months or more).
- It is a 4-minute train ride to Shibuya Station and less than 15 minutes to Shinjuku Station, making it an ideal location for an urban single-person lifestyle.
Nakaitabashi area, Tokyo | Cheap rent and virtually no initial costs
[ Cross Nakaitabashi 2 ] (1 minute walk from Nakaitabashi Station on the Tobu Tojo Line)
- Dormitory-style shared houses are very reasonably priced, starting from 24,800 yen per month.
- Eligible for the 0 yen initial fee campaign (30,000 yen waived for contracts of 3 months or more)
- The low rent is attractive, and it is suitable for those who want to keep costs down by renting for a short period of time rather than signing a long-term contract.
Tokyo/Musashi-Koyama area | Good access and zero initial costs
[ Cross Musashikoyama 1 ] (4 minutes walk from Musashikoyama Station on the Tokyu Meguro Line)
- Private rooms in women-only shared houses equipped with furniture and appliances are available from 53,000 yen (tax included) per month.
- We are currently running a campaign where the initial fee of 30,000 yen will be waived for contracts of 3 months or more.
- There are large shopping streets, supermarkets, and restaurants in the surrounding area, making the area extremely convenient for daily life.
- There is also good access to the city center, and the environment is perfect for women to start living alone with peace of mind.
Summary | Tips for moving smartly with zero initial costs
The appeal of zero-yen rental properties is that they do not require a security deposit, key money, or brokerage fee, allowing you to significantly reduce the cost of moving. In particular, many properties come with full amenities, such as furniture and appliances and free Wi-Fi, making them a great choice for students and people living alone to start a new life with peace of mind.
However, you should be careful about payment items that are likely to arise when signing or canceling a contract, such as fire insurance, key replacement costs, and restoration costs when moving out. To determine whether the rental fee is really zero yen, it is important to carefully check not only the property information, but also the contract terms, monthly rent, and management fees.
If you want to find a home that suits you while reducing the financial burden, please take your time to compare and consider using the search methods and checkpoints introduced here as a reference.
