Hey yall, so I’m (M27) moving to Nagoya from California. I found an apartment on gaijinpot that I liked and was contacted by an agency called Konyo Management. I applied to this one and a few other listings via a very nice agent who I believe is Vietnamese. I did some research and saw that this company does in fact have a real office in Tokyo, as well as Okayama and Vietnam even, hence the Vietnamese staff. They specialize in helping foreigners and all which is great. I have been approved for the home, and found out the apartment is directly managed by a company called Robot Home Inc, another actually real company with a location in downtown Nagoya. I am just a bit nervous however, as once I got approved (good news!), they let me know once I receive the contract the policy is to pay the deposit within 7 days. My agent actually tried and persuaded the owner and management company to let me pay in person later this month when I’ll actually be in Japan. However they said no, and I am left in an odd predicament. I have seen a virtual tour (just photo and video so far but am working on scheduling a virtual FaceTime tour)….Do I pay online? Is it normal for foreigners to pay deposit after signing a contract, yet before actually moving to Japan? It just feels different and strange obviously in America I’d just write a check or money order. The documents like invoice for move In fees as well as the contract are SUPER legit looking and official with company stamps, seals etc..so I’m 75% sure it’s okay, I just need some advice. I need to have a place to land once I arrive in Nagoya and I really don’t wanna get scammed. My agent keeps reassuring me it’s fine, but I’m wondering if WISE can protect my payment of 950$. Halp.
by Ecstatic-Garage-2041