> nearly zero in Japan, historically
That surprises me actually. I know Japan has a very, let's say, high conscientiousness culture but do they never get into economic problems and are simply unable to pay card bills?
[0] I feel it necessary to say "I am not making this up. It happened at first-rate financial institutions many times within the last 20 years."
I was told in no uncertain terms by my real estate agent "Do not move company until your loan is approved. You're already impacted by the fact you work for a foreign company, and you will probably get declined if you start somewhere new."
The fact that I'd likely be looking at a substantial raise and therefore be in a better position to pay off any mortgage is irrelevant, the bank just cares about stability.
(I'm sure you already understand this, this story is for the benefit of other curious thread-readers)