#Japan #Tokyo #iELove GROUP #moving decision #housing cost

Survey Insights on Rising Living Costs and Moving Decisions

In a recent survey conducted by ielove GROUP, a digital transformation service provider specialized in the real estate sector, significant shifts in moving behaviors were revealed due to rising living costs. The survey sampled 1,085 respondents, including 141 real estate agents and 944 end-users, to understand how inflationary pressures are influencing their moving decisions.

Background of the Survey

The survey was prompted by growing financial pressures on households due to escalating costs in rent, initial moving expenses, and other housing-related fees. Respondents expressed a heightened concern around these financial factors leading to delays or reconsideration of moving plans.

Key Findings of the Survey

1. Change in Timing and Conditions: Nearly 60% of those considering a move reported that rising costs caused them to alter the timing or conditions of their intended move.
2. Initial Costs as Barriers: An astonishing 53.2% of respondents indicated that rental price settings had been revisited due to financial concerns, underlining the challenge posed by high initial costs.
3. Demand for Support Services: About 70.8% expressed a need for companies to offer support such as rental assistance or discount campaigns to alleviate the financial burden of moving.

Analysis of Respondent Behavior

When asked whether they moved or considered moving in the last year, responses indicated that only 13.1% had already moved, while 18.8% were contemplating a move but had not yet done so. 68.1% stated they had no intention of moving. Among those considering a move, a substantial 61.1% acknowledged that inflation had impacted their decision-making regarding the timing of their move.

The survey also highlights that certain demographics are more likely to postpone relocating: 31.9% of real estate agents noted that families were most affected, while 27.7% indicated that single individuals also faced challenges. Interestingly, the concerns around rising costs predominantly impacted younger families and individuals living alone, who are more susceptible to fluctuations in living expenses.

High Costs as a Deterrent

In scrutinizing what financial aspects were most burdensome when considering moving, initial costs such as rent, security deposits, and agent fees were cited by 42.2% of respondents as the biggest obstacles. Other significant costs included moving expenses at 28.6% and new furniture and appliances at 14.6%. This indicates that the overall burden of housing-related costs is a significant determinant in the decision to move.

Further inquiry into which specific conditions respondents were reassessing revealed that over half (53.2%) were focusing on rental price adjustments, followed closely by location considerations and initial costs (both at 36.2%). This trend indicates a shift in priorities where potential movers are exploring more affordable housing options amidst financial uncertainty.

Preference for Support Services

When asked what types of support would help alleviate their moving burdens in the current economic climate, an overwhelming 70.8% of participants desired rental assistance or promotional discounts. This reflects an urgent demand for financial flexibility as people navigate the increasing costs associated with moving. 47.5% also expressed a strong interest in negotiating terms or securing price reductions, and 31.2% favored installment payment options for initial costs.

Interestingly, these preferences were echoed across respondents who had no plans of moving as well, indicating a widespread appeal for such supportive measures across the board.

Moving Forward

As the findings suggest, the rising costs associated with housing are significantly affecting the landscape of the moving process, leading to shifts in both decision-making and expectations. The insights from ielove GROUP’s survey signal a pressing need for the real estate market to respond to these financial constraints with innovative support strategies. Increased awareness of the costs involved in moving may encourage more proactive measures from both real estate companies and government agencies.

Final Thoughts

Kenichi Niwayama, Executive Director at ielove GROUP, noted that the results of this survey highlight the critical role that housing costs, especially initial expenses, play in the decision-making process regarding moving. As economic pressures continue to mount, both consumers and real estate professionals will need to navigate this challenging landscape. The demand for more flexible and supportive services may ultimately encourage a more dynamic approach to housing in the face of rising costs.

Survey Overview

• - Survey Period: November 28, 2025 - December 15, 2025
• - Conducted By: ielove GROUP
• - Sample Size: 141 real estate agents, 944 end-users
• - Method: Online questionnaire

About ielove GROUP

Founded in 2008, ielove GROUP is dedicated to creating a future where promising housing options are accessible to everyone. Utilizing their platforms such as ielove CLOUD, they serve over 44,000 real estate agencies across Japan, fostering digital transformation in the industry.