KEY MONEY

Still existent in Japan, key money is a non-refundable payment made to a landlord as an inducement to assure a rental. Key money was almost certain following the shortage of accommodation right after 1945 and is more prominent in the more traditional parts of Japan.

In Tokyo, many higher-end properties that are aimed at expatriates have the key money already divided up by the lease term and added onto the rent. A maximum of 2 months rent is standard for key money.