The saga continues...

The apartment-hunting frustration continues. I saw a place that I liked this past Saturday, but when I called back on Monday to submit my application, I was told that someone grabbed it just before I did.

Then, on Tuesday, I then saw another apartment that I really liked (see floor plan below). This time, I was wise enough to tell the real-estate agent (who, on a side note, happens to be a really nice guy) then and there that I wanted the place. He submitted an application on my behalf, and I was the first applicant, so I figured this place was all mine.

But, oh no, now it looks like the landlord (some old Japanese fuddy-duddy) doesn't like to rent to gaijin (see my Jan 11 post for a rant about exactly this issue), and he's making up all sorts of excuses to keep me out. He first said I couldn't move in until March 1st. I said OK. He then said he wouldn't be able to install a new washing machine. I said OK. Now he's saying the rent is going to be 10,000 yen higher than advertised, and I would have to pay 3 months of key money.

All of this, in spite of having a Japanese company willing to vouch for me. I'm definitely a little frustrated right now. I have a meeting with the landlord tomorrow morning. Will keep you posted.

Here is the "floor plan" of the apartment in Moto Azabu that I most likely won't be moving into. Pretty large apartment by Japanese standards, and affordable only because it's in a relatively old building.