Hello! This is willow Inc., a real estate agency specializing in housing for foreigners.
Recently, we had the honor of attending the graduation ceremony of a Japanese language school we have worked with for many years.
At the ceremony, it was truly heartwarming to see a student we had previously helped find an apartment receive the award for excellence, and another student who had worked part-time with us give a speech as the class representative. Seeing them stand there with such confidence filled our hearts with warmth.
We sent a celebratory floral stand to commemorate the occasion!
Watching this moving scene, we were reminded of the major—and sometimes stressful—challenge that many graduates face each year: finding their next home.
That’s why this time, for all international students who have just celebrated (or are about to celebrate) this wonderful new beginning, we’re sharing our experience in this complete guide to successfully finding your post-graduation apartment!
How is Apartment Hunting After Graduation Different from When You’re a Student?
If you think you can just look for a place the same way you did as a student, you might run into unexpected pitfalls. The key points for the tenant screening process change significantly after you graduate.
- Change in Identification: Your “Student ID,” which you’ve used up until now, will no longer be valid. Instead, your new Residence Card, a letter of acceptance from your next school, or a job offer letter from a company will become your crucial identification documents.
- Change in Visa Status: If you are switching from a “Student Visa” to a work visa, such as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services,” landlords and property management companies will want to verify your ability to pay rent steadily in greater detail.
- More Required Documents: In most cases, you will be required to submit a “Letter of Acceptance” if you are continuing your education, or a “Job Offer Letter” and “Employment Contract” if you have secured a job.
How to Approach Your Apartment Search Based on Your Path
The right way and timing to search for an apartment will differ depending on your plans after graduation.
① Continuing to a Japanese University or College
In this case, the most important document is your “Letter of Acceptance.” Once your acceptance is confirmed, you should start your apartment search as soon as possible. March is the peak season for the real estate industry, and good properties get taken quickly. At Willow, we can help you search smoothly with just your acceptance letter, even before you have your new student ID.
② Starting a Job in Japan
If you are starting a job, your “Job Offer Letter” or “Employment Contract” will be a powerful tool to prove your credibility. The size and type of company you will be working for also influence the screening process. From March to April, many new employees are moving, making it difficult to book moving companies. The key to success is to start taking action as soon as you receive your job offer.
Why Willow is Here to Support Your “Next Stage”
Our support doesn’t end when we help you find an apartment as a student.
Among the graduates we mentioned in the introduction, some have already come back to us to find a new home for their next school. Our greatest strength is our ability to be your long-term partner, supporting you as you transition from student to professional, or from one school to the next.
Rest assured, we have many properties where we can proceed smoothly with the screening process even before you graduate, as long as you have your job offer or acceptance letter.
Conclusion: A Great Start in a Great Home.
Graduation is a wonderful milestone in life where all your hard work pays off. Don’t let the stress of finding a home tarnish this important moment.
At willow, we are here to fully support not just your time as a student, but your next chapter as well.
When it comes to finding a place to live after graduation, please feel free to rely on us.
▼ For students still looking for a room, please don’t hesitate to contact us! ▼
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