Living in Japan with LH

Family-Friendly

Family Rental Housing Guide| How to Choose the Right Layout and Area

 

When it comes to family-friendly rental properties, layouts and areas can vary widely. What criteria should you use to choose a home where your family can live comfortably without regrets? Here, we introduce how to select a family-friendly rental property.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to Choose a Family-Friendly Rental Property

Every family’s composition and lifestyle are different. When searching for a rental property, select a layout that fits your family’s needs.

 

 

・Layout Based on Family Composition and Life Stage

If you’re renting an apartment or condominium for your family, it’s important to choose a layout suited to your family’s composition and life stage. If you have infants or elderly family members, a layout that allows you to sense their presence no matter where you are provides peace of mind.
 

Especially for families with young children, an ideal layout allows parents to keep an eye on their kids while doing chores in the kitchen or living room.
 

As children grow, the need for study spaces and private rooms increases. If you plan to have more children in the future, choosing a spacious layout with room to grow ensures a comfortable, long-lasting living environment.

 

 

・Size Appropriate for Family Size

Family-friendly rental properties generally have a structure that balances private spaces for each family member with common areas like living rooms where the family can gather. Typically, properties with at least 2LDK (2 bedrooms plus living, dining, kitchen) are suitable. For a family of three wanting extra space, a 3LDK is just right.

 

 

 

・Convenient Surrounding Environment

When choosing a home for your family, pay attention to the neighborhood environment. With young children, visits to the hospital for fever or injuries are common, so properties near medical facilities are recommended.
Having supermarkets, convenience stores, and drugstores nearby makes daily life easier. Living in an area with abundant greenery and spacious parks within walking distance provides ample play space for children.

 

 

 

 

 

Key Points for Choosing a Family-Friendly Area

Families should choose an area with safety and good living conditions in mind.

 

 

・Safe Neighborhood

Safety is the top priority when selecting an area for families with children. It’s reassuring to live in neighborhoods with nearby police stations or community patrols organized by neighborhood associations.
 

Since the atmosphere can change from day to night, check the number of streetlights and foot traffic at night. Well-maintained sidewalks along school routes also ensure children’s safety when walking to school.

 

 

・Child-Friendly Living Environment

For families with elementary school-age or younger children, check if schools, daycare centers, and kindergartens are within walking distance. Childcare support varies by municipality, so review local government websites to understand available services if you want extensive support.
 

Education quality is also an important factor. If you plan to send your child to public schools, living in a highly regarded school district can provide better education. For private school students, convenient transportation access is a key consideration.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Rental Move-In Process

Once you decide to move, start searching for a new place promptly. The general flow for moving into a rental property is as follows:

 

 

① Property Search

Decide on your preferred area and budget, then search for listings online. It’s best to start your search 1–2 months before your planned move date.

 

 

② Selecting a New Home

When you find a property that fits your needs, contact the real estate agent and visit the site to check the conditions. View multiple properties, compare, and choose the best fit.

 

 

③ Contract Procedures

After deciding on a property, submit an application and undergo screening by the landlord. Once approved, attend the important explanation meeting at the real estate office to review contract terms before signing.
 

Initial costs such as brokerage fees, key money, deposit, and advance rent will be required, so prepare these funds in advance.
 

 

④ Preparing to Move

Once your new home is finalized, start moving preparations. Choose a moving company, schedule your move date, and pack your belongings.

 

 

 

 

 

Conclusion

When searching for a family home, the most important thing is that all family members can live safely and comfortably. Popular properties get taken quickly, so once you find a good one, we recommend scheduling a viewing immediately.

 

Our company has extensive experience in the Suginami area, known for its safe environment and excellent education facilities. We fully support family households, including those with children and elderly members, in finding the perfect rental home.

 

 

 

 

 

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