Have you ever gone to a real estate company to look for a property, only to find that it was closed for the day? Knowing real estate office hours and the best time to visit can make your property search much smoother. In this article, we explain real estate company business hours, recommended visit times, and viewing methods in detail.
What are the business hours of real estate companies?
Whether large or small, real estate companies generally operate from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. In urban areas, some offices stay open until after 7:00 p.m., but they are not the majority. Wednesday is the most common regular closing day.
What time is best to go?
It is best to visit right after opening, or by 11:00 a.m. at the latest. Staff can assist you more carefully, and if you move straight to a viewing, you can inspect the property in daylight. Since each viewing takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, visiting in the morning is essential if you want to see two or three properties.
Is there a recommended day of the week?
Friday is recommended. Weekends and public holidays tend to be crowded, which can shorten the time staff can spend with you, and many real estate companies are closed on Wednesdays. Fridays are relatively less busy, and making an appointment by phone in advance makes the visit even smoother.
Can you view a property at any time?
It is important to understand that property viewings come with several constraints.
A business day does not necessarily mean a viewing is available
During the busy season (February to March), staff are often stretched thin, and for properties where the landlord manages the keys, arrangements may take additional time.
Viewings require advance booking
If you find a property you like, you should apply for a viewing as early as possible and avoid leaving too much time between the application date and the viewing date. This helps reduce the risk of someone else signing first.
What should you do if you cannot visit a real estate company in person?
If you are too busy to visit, the following options are available.
Using online viewings
If you have an internet connection, you can view a property from home. In this system, a real estate staff member guides you through the property using video and audio, and with the spread of "IT重説," important matters explanations can now also be provided online.
Inquiries by email or LINE
You can get in touch without worrying about business hours, and the communication history remains on record, which is also effective for preventing trouble. Keep your request concise, and clearly state your preferred moving date, conditions, and budget.
What should you prepare before visiting?
What matters in a property search is speed. To be ready to sign for a property you like right away, prepare the following in advance.
- Identification: Driver's license or health insurance card
- A copy of proof of income: This can also be submitted later
- Seal: A standard personal seal is sufficient
- Guarantor: Obtain their consent in advance
- Tape measure and compass: For measuring and checking window orientation
What you should decide in advance
- Make a note of the size of the furniture you will bring
- Make a note of your employer information
- Decide on your preferred moving date
- Organize your non-negotiable conditions and the points where you can compromise
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Is it okay to visit a real estate company without an appointment?
A. You can usually be assisted even if you walk in, but making an appointment in advance allows staff to prepare a list of properties for you, making your search more efficient.
Q. Is it okay to decide on a property based on an online viewing?
A. It is a convenient method, but there are factors such as odors and humidity that you can only understand on site. If possible, it is ideal to conduct an in-person viewing before signing a contract.
Q. Can I still get a response if I contact them outside business hours?
A. Depending on the real estate company, after-hours support may be possible. Try asking in advance by email or LINE.
