#Japan #Tokyo #AtHome #credit card service #SMS payment

AtHome Introduces Enhanced Payment Solutions in Real Estate

AtHome Co., Ltd., based in Ota City, Tokyo, has recently announced significant enhancements to its credit card payment service for rental payments. This service now includes mobile payment options like PayPay and d払い while also introducing an innovative feature that allows the sending of payment URLs via SMS. As the demand for cashless transactions grows, these improvements aim to satisfy both consumers and real estate companies, ultimately fostering increased transactions and promoting cashless initiatives within the real estate industry.

Background of the Innovation

In recent years, cashless payments have surged beyond traditional credit cards, with various smartphone payment options gaining rapid popularity. Notably, PayPay and d払い are favored among younger demographics, particularly those in their teens to thirties. According to a study conducted by GMO Payment Gateway in 2024, around half of the users in this age group frequently utilize multiple smartphone payment options. Specifically, 61.4% of PayPay users and 49.4% of d払い users belong to this demographic. This trend has prompted AtHome to integrate these payment methods into its existing service, recognizing the shifting landscape of payment preferences.

With the newly added SMS capability, real estate companies can conveniently send payment invitations without needing tenants' email addresses, as they can simply use phone numbers. This ensures a seamless transaction process, enhancing the overall experience for both parties involved.

Benefits of the Credit Card Payment Service

Consumer Advantages

1. Convenience: Tenants can make payments without visiting real estate offices or banks.
2. Reduced Cash Dependency: This service eliminates the need to carry large sums of cash.
3. No Transfer Fees: Users are spared any associated transfer charges.
4. Reward Points: Consumers can earn points through their preferred payment platform; PayPay users can collect PayPay points, while d払い users can earn dポイント.

Real Estate Company Benefits

1. Attracting Customers: Promoting the acceptance of credit cards can enhance business appeal and increase customer acquisition.
2. Streamlined Collection Processes: Companies can significantly reduce workloads related to payment collections.
3. Lower Cancellation Rates: Enhanced payment options can lead to decreased transaction cancellations.
4. Heightened Customer Satisfaction: With improved service, companies can expect to see increased transaction volumes and customer loyalty.

Overview of AtHome's Credit Card Payment Service

Launched in March 2015, AtHome has provided a credit card payment service tailored for real estate companies. This service facilitates payments for various expenses associated with rental properties, such as initial costs, monthly rent, and even cleaning fees incurred by property owners. By offering credit card payment options, real estate firms can improve client satisfaction and operational efficiency in managing rent collections.

Accepted Payment Methods

• - Online Payments: Including credit card options (with English support) and smartphone payments (PayPay, d払い).

Applicable Costs

For Tenants:

• - Rent, management fees, brokerage fees, key money, security deposits, parking fees, guarantee fees, initial insurance premiums, short-term rental fees, lease renewal fees, move-in/out related costs.

For Property Owners:

• - Costs for house cleaning services, equipment purchases, and restoration expenses.

For more details about this transformative service, please visit AtHome's Credit Card Payment Service.