Should You Write a Letter When Buying a House?

The process of buying a home often involves more than just financial figures, especially in competitive markets. A buyer’s letter, sometimes called a “love letter,” serves as a supplementary communication from a prospective homebuyer to the seller. This letter aims to establish a personal connection, moving beyond the transactional aspects of a real estate offer. It functions as a tool for a buyer to express genuine interest and potentially differentiate their offer in a crowded field.

What is a Buyer’s Letter?

A buyer’s letter is a non-binding, personal note written by a prospective buyer directly to the home seller. This communication is distinct from the formal purchase offer, which outlines the financial terms and contingencies of the sale. The primary goal of such a letter is to humanize the buyer’s offer, creating an emotional appeal that might resonate with the seller. This tactic is particularly prevalent in competitive housing markets where multiple buyers vie for the same property.

By sharing a personal story or explaining their connection to the home, buyers hope to appeal to the seller’s sentiment, encouraging them to consider their offer more favorably. While it is an optional element and not a mandatory part of a real estate transaction, it can provide a non-financial aspect that could influence a seller’s decision. This personal touch can be particularly impactful if the seller has a strong emotional attachment to their property.

Components of an Effective Letter

An effective buyer’s letter begins with a friendly introduction, allowing the seller to gain a sense of who the buyer is without excessive personal details. This initial connection helps present the buyer as more than just a name on a contract.

A key component is expressing genuine admiration for the property. Buyers should highlight specific features that resonated with them, such as unique architectural elements, a beloved garden, or a particular room’s ambiance. Mentioning how the buyer envisions living in the home, perhaps by describing family activities or future plans within its spaces, can create a powerful emotional connection.

The letter’s tone should remain sincere, appreciative, and respectful, avoiding any presumptuous language. It is important to convey respect for the seller’s home and the memories they have created there. While sharing some personal details can be beneficial, the focus should remain on the home and the buyer’s connection to it. Concluding with a polite closing, expressing gratitude for the seller’s consideration, leaves a positive final impression.

Submitting Your Letter and Legal Landscape

A buyer’s letter is typically submitted to the seller’s agent by the buyer’s real estate agent alongside the formal offer. The letter should be fully completed and polished before submission, ensuring it complements the professionalism of the overall offer. The buyer’s agent acts as the intermediary, passing the letter to the seller’s agent, who then decides how and when to present it to their client.

The legal landscape surrounding buyer’s letters, particularly concerning the Fair Housing Act, presents significant considerations. This federal law prohibits discrimination in housing based on protected characteristics such as race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin. Letters that reveal or hint at these characteristics, even unintentionally, can expose sellers and their agents to accusations of discrimination. For instance, mentioning one’s family structure or religious practices could inadvertently lead to a fair housing violation if the seller’s decision is influenced by this information.

Due to these risks, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and many real estate brokerages advise caution or even discourage the use of buyer’s letters. Some states or local jurisdictions have considered or implemented restrictions on these letters to mitigate fair housing concerns, though legal challenges have sometimes overturned such bans. Buyers should consult with their real estate agent regarding local regulations and best practices, as agents are often advised to educate clients about these fair housing implications.