Writing a heartfelt letter to accompany your offer when buying a house is such a sentimental step. Can it really make a difference? Real estate can be a cold industry, driven by numbers and market conditions beyond anyone’s control.
Many real estate agents think it’s an old-fashioned method, definitely quaint and possibly outdated. Others swear by it, and would never recommend sending an offer without it. As Toronto real estate experts, we are firmly in the second camp. We are Team Letter all the way. In this post, we’ll explain a few reasons why.
Real Estate Is a Human Experience
No matter how advanced technology becomes, there will nearly always be an emotional, human element to a real estate transaction. People have different reasons for selling a house. Usually, though, the seller is listing the home they live in, and there are countless memories associated with it.
The current owner may have outgrown the house and it’s time for something larger or closer to their workplace. Or perhaps they are now an empty-nester and are moving to a condo or retirement community.
The longer the owner has lived in the home, the more emotional they are about it. Knowing that they are about to pass on the baton to someone who will also love the home can make saying goodbye more tolerable.
All things being equal, if it’s between you and another buyer who plans to tear it down and convert it into a triplex, chances are, the seller will choose you. That’s the power of placing a face to the buyer. Writing a letter is a simple way to achieve this effect.
Buying a house in Toronto sometimes requires a touch of creativity. The posts below can give you some ideas:
- Beyond the MLS®: Creative Ideas to Find the Right Home
- What Is Fractional Ownership in Toronto?
- What You Need To Know About Buying A House In A Changing Market
Continue the Story, Build the Connection
A home is the setting for the most important story of all, your own. The existing owner may feel that one chapter is coming to an end. By providing a few details about your life, your family, and your dreams, you allow their legacy to continue.
For example: imagine the owner was once an ambitious twenty-something at the start of their career and who eventually raised two children in this exact home. Here you are, starting out with dreams of your own.
Your life doesn’t need to precisely mirror the seller’s to build a connection. What matters is you will continue to show the house the care and attention it deserves.
If you were that seller, whose offer would you accept? The one from the faceless corporation seeking another acquisition? Or a buyer just like you, searching for a community and home you take pride in.
Start Writing, Because Why Not?
With everything to gain and nothing to lose (except a little time and the possible risk of feeling silly), there is only one compelling reason to write a letter with your offer: because why not? It can only help and will never hurt.
The worst that can happen is nothing. If you’re buying from an investor with no emotional connection to the property, then it’s strictly a business decision on their part. In these cases, it is just going to come down to the highest bid.
You don’t necessarily know the seller’s motivation, and their response to your personal note might surprise you. Everyone has a different personality and approach to their next steps.
A homeowner with 30 years’ worth of memories could still manage to put their feelings aside. When the time comes to sell, they’re all about business.
A mom and pop investor with a small portfolio might love the idea of a family moving in and putting down roots. You just never know what is going to have an impact, so you might as well use every possible tool to your advantage.
Wondering where to start your home search? The posts below can help you narrow it down:
- Toronto Versus Everywhere Else: Why We Love It Most
- West End Vs East End: Which One Wins in Toronto?
- These Toronto Neighbourhoods are Perfect for a Fresh Start
The Dos and Don’ts of Writing Your Letter
Letter writing is a bit of a lost art. Almost no one does it, which only makes it more powerful! That said, putting thoughts and feelings to paper can make some people feel exposed and vulnerable. A few helpful hints can help you get the best results.
Do:
- Introduce yourself and provide a few friendly details, like where you’re moving from and why, such as career reasons. However, you don’t need to include anything intimate or overly personal.
- Keep the letter short. The seller likely doesn’t want to read a novel, nor do you have the time to write one when you’re busy searching for a home.
- Include specifics about what you love about this exact house. This lets the seller know your note really is personal and not something generic you sent to everyone.
An effective letter is as much about what not to do as it is about choosing the right words. Here are some mistakes you want to avoid so you make the best impression upon the seller.
Don’t:
- Use AI to write for you. This defeats the purpose of the personal touch. Writing your letter may feel awkward, but that’s what makes it human. Connection is what we’re after, not eloquence.
- Under or over-edit your letter. It should be clear and concise. A certain amount of editing ensures the note will hold the seller’s attention. However, it does not have to be perfect or overly polished.
- Submit a low-ball offer with your letter. Your personal note should be in addition to a strong offer, not a substitute.
Including a sincere, heartfelt note can be a significant advantage, especially when a house is in high demand. As part of your buying strategy, it puts a face to your name and can make the seller feel good about accepting your offer over anyone else’s.
Do you want personalized guidance to find the right home at the best value in Toronto? Connect with us at erica@ericareddy.com or call 416.443.0300, and we can help you create your strategy.
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