We often think of buying a home as a shrewd negotiation between you and some faceless owner or agent, haggling over dollars and cents. And while there is some truth to this trope that Sellers, as well as their Listing Agents, focus a lot on the numbers of a particular deal, every offer has a human element behind it. If you are willing to share a little about yourself, you the Buyer could benefit immensely.
As a Realtor, who has been on both sides of many negotiations, I can assure you, without a doubt, it makes a huge difference. Often Sellers appreciate personalized letters from buyers because it allows them (Sellers) to qualify who you are and why you want to purchase their home, also allowing for a small connection with a potential Buyer. Like most of us, it’s easier to sell to people we know rather than strangers. Especially when the item being sold is as personal as a home. Keep in mind Sellers are people too, for them they’re not just selling some building, its part of the story of who they are, a place they’ve called home, where they’ve accrued a lifetime of memories with family and friends. So, you’ll find it understandable why many Sellers would like to know who they are selling their home to; they enjoy knowing that the new Owners will love and care for the house that brought them many great memories.
And as such, I always encourage my clients to write a personalized letter about themselves and their family to the Seller included with their offer. Whether we are the only offer going in or one of 10 offers, personalized letters could be the final deciding factor for the seller. The letter should include how the house makes the buyer feel and how they can see themselves and their family growing, adding to the story of the home. Take the time to write a personalized letter, add details about the house (i.e. how you can see your kids swimming in the pool, or how you envision spending the holidays with your significant other on the master bedroom patio etc). By adding these details it shows the Seller that their home is your first choice and you didn’t just copy and paste this together. If can put yourself out there a little, the rewards can be great.
Recently, I had a set of Amazing Buyers who’s first choice home was a highly sought after property and knowing the draw of other offers was going to be highly competitive, we made sure to include a personalized letter attached to our offer. Days later, in the acceptance email, the Listing Agent made a point to say that the personal letter from the Buyers to the Sellers was what helped them make their decision to choose our offer over 7 OTHERS, INCLUDING A CASH OFFER! The sellers felt a kinship with my Buyers and chose their offer instead of other stronger offers. Naturally, there are no guarantees the letter will sway them to choose your offer. But if a small token of appreciation for the home you are looking to buy helps move your offer ahead of even one other offer, isn’t it worth it?
Trust your Realtor and make an impact by including a personalized letter with your offer, you won’t regret it.
Happy house hunting!
