4. When can I expect to find the “best deals?”

in Japanese culture, it is of paramount importance that everything be "tidied up" before the arrival of the new year. Everything in this case literally means E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G; from the cupboard and windows, to family relationships and business deals.

Therefore, the last week or so of December is probably the most likely time in the course of the year, for a Japanese landlord to offer you an attractive discount.