It’s been nearly 3 weeks and so far I’m off to a slow start. I was hoping to have my own place and be mostly set up by now, but that hasn’t exactly panned out as expected. Some of the roadblocks I’ve run into have been
- You need a Hanko to conduct business in Japan, especially at banks
- You need a bank account in order to get an apartment
- Regular apartments are only available to people who have a proven income in Japan
- My real estate agent has taken a lot of time getting back to me
It turns out that, finally, this Friday I will be going out and looking at apartments, and hopefully I will be able to sign for on the spot. After I move in I have to get internet and utilities set up, and also have to register my move with a bunch of places as well, so the sooner I can get this taken care of the better. It’s been frustrating waiting to hear back for about a week from this guy, but it seems like it is normal business practice here and I’m just in a hurry.
It’s not all a loss though. For instance, while I can’t easily move into any arbitrary apartment, the ones I’m choosing from have me pay in advance (which kind of sucks, though not paying rent for the rest of the year will let me save up), however it’s also cheaper than most apartments, as it is just the cost of 12 months rent, plus 2 months security deposit. Most apartments have a move-in fee that costs 3 to 4 months worth or rent, on top of the first months rent payment. In this way, I’m saving a bit of money. Plus I don’t need a guarantor.
Another benefit is that I’ve gotten all of my bank stuff settled. If I had moved earlier, I would have had my bank cards mailed to the wrong address, but I’ve got my Cash card and Debit card set up and ready. In addition, I’ve transferred over enough money to get me started and cover the rent payments.
On top of all of this, Issei’s Mom, Hiromi, has been cooking for me all the time (many examples here) and boy do I feel spoiled. Once I move I’m going to have to go on a diet and find a gym because I haven’t been able to hold back on eating everything that’s put in front of me.
Otherwise, besides going out occasionally, I’ve been mostly holed up and waiting for stuff to happen so I can continue getting settled. This has been mostly doing work, studying, watching TV, reading manga, and playing games at home. I expected this limbo period to end any time so I haven’t been really going out a whole lot, but in retrospect I probably could have done a little more.
Anyways, expect more news after Friday about apartments!