#Japan #Tokyo #housing trends #Property Search #iELove GROUP

Insights on Property Searches During the 2026 High-Demand Season

In a recent survey conducted by Ielove Group, a company specializing in digital transformation services for the real estate industry, significant trends were revealed regarding property searches during the high-demand season of 2026. This survey, which gathered responses from 706 individuals, aimed to uncover the realities and challenges faced by users during this busy period, characterized by property shortages, rising rents, and swift lease agreements.

Key Findings from the Survey

1. Most Viewings are 2-3 Properties: A majority of respondents reported that they viewed two to three properties, highlighting a significant challenge of matching desired criteria with available options.
2. Increased Rent During Moves: The median rent increase averages around 12,000 yen, exposing the gap between ideal and realistic living expenses.
3. Satisfaction Levels: Approximately 80% of respondents expressed satisfaction with their property searches, although concerns about high rents and limited information persist.

Trends in Property Searches

Timing and Awareness

Among those who engaged in property searches during the high-demand season (January to March 2026), only 10.8% confirmed they actively sought new housing. Of those who began their searches, 31.6% started more than three months prior, indicating a trend toward earlier preparations due to increasing competition for properties.

Motivations Behind the Moves

The main reasons for starting property searches included contract renewals (25%) and job changes (21.1%), reflecting broader lifestyle changes. Many individuals also reevaluated their living costs in light of a changing job market or academic deadlines.

Priorities During Property Searches

In the quest for an ideal home, users prioritized rental costs (78.9%) and location (71.1%). Other important factors included the surrounding environment (52.6%) and the size of the property (46.1%). Notably, users are considering a holistic approach by factoring in commute times and quality of life.

Viewing Experience

The data indicates that 31.6% of individuals viewed two to three properties before making a decision, with 23.7% viewing four to five. Notably, 9.2% reported not having viewed any properties at all, reflecting the fast-paced nature of the market where properties may be quickly leased.

Challenges Faced

Many participants expressed frustrations with the current market dynamics. A staggering 56.6% reported that finding suitable properties was difficult. Alongside this, 48.7% mentioned high rental prices and the rapid occupancy of appealing properties as major concerns, indicating a trend of persistent dissatisfaction.

Rental Costs Before and After Moves

The survey also highlighted that the median rent before moving was approximately 73,000 yen, while it rose to about 85,000 yen following the move. Additionally, current renters expressed that their ideal rent (56,000 yen) was significantly lower than their existing payment, emphasizing a gap between reality and expectation.

User Satisfaction Levels

Despite the challenges, 34.2% of respondents were very satisfied with their property search, while 50% rated it as somewhat satisfactory. However, those expressing dissatisfaction often cited high rent and limited property options as key reasons. Users also pointed to inadequate property information as a barrier, underscoring the need for better data and transparency in the market.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

Kenichi Niiyama, Executive Director of Ielove Group, stated that the survey results emphasize the necessity for users to start their searches early due to property shortages and rising demand. There is a clear trend towards users considering not just renting costs but also the convenience of the environment around them. Continuous improvement in providing accurate and timely information will remain vital as the market evolves.

About Ielove Group

Ielove Group is committed to transforming the real estate landscape, providing a reliable platform for property seekers while enhancing user experiences. The company offers a SaaS solution widely adopted across Japan, furthering digital innovation in the industry. With a focus on delivering impartial real estate services, Ielove Group seeks to ensure a seamless property selection process for all clients.

For more insights and information, visit Ielove Group's Corporate Site.