【ENG】Is renting still the best option in Japan?

In this episode of Urban Stories, I explore a question many people are starting to reconsider:Is renting still the best option?For years, renting has been seen as the safer and more flexible choice—stable costs, fewer responsibilities, and less risk. As someone working in property management, I also believed that renting was the most practical option.However, the market is changing.With rising rents at lease renewal, increasing housing demand in major cities like Osaka and Tokyo, and the high cost of moving, many renters are finding themselves in a difficult position—pay more, or stay put.In this episode, I break down what’s really happening in Japan’s rental market today, why rent increases are becoming more common, and how these changes are shifting the traditional “rent vs. buy” mindset.I also share my personal perspective—why I used to strongly support renting, and why I ultimately decided to purchase a condominium.This episode is not about choosing one side over the other.It’s about understanding the current reality and making informed decisions based on your own situation.If you’re thinking about renting, buying, or simply want to understand how the housing market is evolving, this episode will give you a clearer perspective.