Initial costs vary by property and contract, but the items themselves are broadly common. First, grasp “what costs how much.”
Typical items
- Deposit (敷金) — money held for restoration etc. at move-out
- Key money (礼金) — a one-time payment to the landlord (sometimes zero)
- Advance & prorated rent — next month plus the move-in month prorated
- Fire insurance — generally required
- Guarantor company fee — in place of a personal guarantor
- Key exchange — replacement for security
- Brokerage fee — varies by contract terms
- Others — disinfection, 24h support, etc. (sometimes optional)
Points to check on the estimate
- Optional add-ons: disinfection or “safety support” can be optional. Check whether you need them.
- Proration: your move-in date changes the first month’s rent.
- Deposit settlement terms: confirm how much is applied at move-out.
Ways to lower initial costs
You can choose a property with free rent (a set period rent-free), or aim for early in the month so the move-in proration is small. Lump-sum initial costs can sometimes be paid by credit card or in installments, smoothing the monthly burden. (*Installment fees apply separately.)
Summary
Initial costs are often grasped vaguely as “X months’ rent,” but knowing the breakdown lets you judge whether an estimate is reasonable. At StandUp we provide an estimate in advance and support card and installment payment. Ask us about anything unclear.