Many people dream of living stylishly in an old rental apartment, like the ones often seen on social media. Others prefer the comfort and affordability of an older apartment with lower rent, rather than paying a premium for a brand-new property.
In this article, we will introduce the pros and cons of old apartments, share tips for living comfortably, and discuss things to look for in an old rental apartment. If you are thinking of living in an old rental apartment, please use this guide.
Village House offers affordable rental properties starting from just ¥ 20,000 across Japan. If you want to keep your rent low, please visit our website.
Advantages of living in an old rental apartment
You can keep your rent low
Generally, for the same area and floor plan, newer buildings tend to have higher rent, while older ones are more affordable. Therefore, when choosing an apartment, going for an older rental apartment can be a more economical option, allowing you to save on monthly rent.
Also, an older apartment is more likely to have a larger floor plan and more storage space for the same rent as a new property. For example, traditional Japanese-style rooms with closets tend to be more spacious than modern Western-style apartments. This allows you to have more storage space.
The abundance of properties
In Japan’s rental housing market, a large number of properties are old. This is largely due to the rental management system, which recovers construction costs over an extended period, as well as the high cost and complexity of rebuilding. As a result, many older buildings remain in use.
While redevelopment is progressing in urban areas, older properties still make up a larger proportion of the housing stock in rural regions. Therefore, there is a higher chance of finding a home that suits your needs in an old property than in a newly built one.
Some properties have been renovated and look new
These days, many older rental apartments have been renovated to offer comfort comparable to that of new buildings. Renovation involves significant updates to the interior, facilities, and layout to match modern lifestyles, while preserving the original structure and foundation of the building.
It is a fact that landlords want to avoid vacant rooms as much as possible. To attract tenants, many landlords update older properties with new kitchens, bathrooms, and stylish interiors. As a result, some older apartments look and feel almost like new, despite their age.
You can enjoy a retro atmosphere
Living with the retro charm of a Japanese-style room is one of the joys of living in an old rental apartment. Interiors with traditional elements like tatami mats, shoji screens, and natural wood textures create a warm, nostalgic atmosphere that’s uniquely comforting and inviting.
Additionally, styles that blend Japanese and Western styles, such as combining Japanese-style rooms with Scandinavian-style furniture and miscellaneous goods, are also becoming popular. For example, placing a low sofa or kotatsu, or incorporating pleated screens and bamboo blinds, can enhance the charm of a Japanese-style room.
Disadvantages of living in an old rental apartment
May not meet new earthquake resistance standards
Some old wooden apartments built within 21 years (as of 2024) may not meet modern earthquake resistance standards. The “new earthquake resistance standards” were enacted in Japan in June 1981, with further improvements made in June 2000.
Properties built after 2000 are considered to have high earthquake resistance and a low risk of collapse. However, some buildings have been retrofitted to meet earthquake resistance standards from the older regulations. If you are concerned about earthquake resistance, it is recommended to check with the real estate company.
Low soundproofing and insulation
Reinforced concrete (RC) and steel-reinforced concrete (SRC) constructions are known for excellent soundproofing and sound insulation. This, on the other hand, means that old apartments made of wood or reinforced concrete tend to have poor soundproofing, making it easier to hear sounds from neighboring units. This can be especially problematic in households with small children, as footsteps and other sounds tend to echo easily, causing sound-related problems.
Old buildings can also come with poor insulation, so heating and cooling may not function properly. Additional measures, such as installing additional heating equipment, may be required to stay comfortable because the room temperature is unstable.
Old equipment
Some older rental properties haven’t been remodeled or renovated, so the equipment may still be the same as when the property was originally built. In addition, you may find that equipment such as water heaters and air conditioners is outdated and difficult to use. However, do not repair or replace them on your own, even if there are issues.
If you make changes to the equipment listed in the contract without permission, it could result in charges for restoring it to its original condition when you move out. Make sure to consult with the management company or landlord if you have any concerns to prevent such problems.
Troubles that tend to occur in old rental apartments
When living in old rental apartments, be careful of the following common issues.
- Plumbing issues due to old pipes and deterioration of gaskets
- Electrical equipment malfunctions, such as breakers tripping due to insufficient electrical capacity
- Noise due to poor sound insulation in walls and floors
- Mold and moisture problems due to condensation and poor ventilation
- Unpleasant odors from old or poorly maintained drains
Tips and tricks for living comfortably in an old rental apartment
Mold and humidity prevention
One of the most important things to watch out for in old rental apartments is the growth of “mold”. Mold loves moisture and dust, so it is important to clean frequently to prevent mold. Dust and moisture tend to accumulate not only in visible places, but also in hidden places such as behind furniture and in corners. Therefore, it is important to clean carefully.
Also, avoid placing furniture directly against the walls without leaving a gap. Gaps allow air to pass through more easily and make it less likely for moisture to build up. It is recommended to leave a gap large enough for a floor wiper to fit in, as this makes cleaning easier.
Odor control
Old rental apartments may sometimes have a distinctive odor, either from the room itself or from the drainpipes. To control odors, use drain care items. Drains in the kitchen, bathroom, and washroom are prone to odors, so it is recommended to regularly care for them and control odors.
Points to consider when looking for an old rental apartment
Choose reinforced concrete (RC) or steel-reinforced concrete (SRC) constructions
Compared to wood and steel construction, RC and SRC constructions are known for their excellent earthquake resistance, fire resistance, durability, and soundproofing.
While all buildings tend to deteriorate with age, RC and SRC structures remain sturdy and long-lasting, which makes them comfortable and reliable to live in over time.
Check the management status of the building
The overall management and maintenance of a building by the landlord or property management company often has a greater impact on comfort than the building’s age. Even a newer property that is poorly maintained can feel unpleasant, while an older building that’s well cared for can offer a comfortable and satisfying living experience.
Also, make sure to check the cleanliness of the entrance and corridors, as this will give you a sense of the maintenance status of the areas you can’t see.
At Village House, a deposit, key money, processing fee, or renewal fee is not required (※). If you’re looking to save on initial costs, don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.
※Please note that a deposit may be required depending on the specific terms of the contract and the results of the screening process.
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Hello, I’m Machiko Doi, a freelance writer who writes about housing and living in Japan.
I live in an 80-year-old house that I inherited from my grandparents along with my two shelter cats and daughter.
We live a relaxed life while repairing the house.
I like to cook vegetables from the garden and fresh fish caught by my father, and enjoy them with cold beer on a hot day or hot sake on a cold day.