Tip #6: Personal Letters — How to Use Them Without Risk | 10 Tips to Win a Bidding War

For years, buyer “love letters” were considered a secret weapon in competitive markets. A heartfelt note about your family, your dreams, and how much you adored the home could sway a seller’s emotions and tip the balance in your favor.

But in today’s market, buyer letters come with real risks. Done wrong, they can violate Fair Housing laws and create liability for both you and the seller. Done right, they can still help you stand out — but only if you follow the right approach.

The Risk with Buyer Letters

When buyers talk about their family, background, or personal circumstances, they may reveal protected characteristics under Fair Housing law — such as race, religion, marital status, or family status. Even if the seller never intended discrimination, the perception that a decision was influenced by personal details can lead to legal problems.

That’s why some states, like Oregon, have tried to ban buyer letters entirely. While Ohio and Florida still allow them, caution is key.

A Safer, Smarter Approach

The best way to use a buyer letter today is to focus on the property, not yourself. Instead of sharing personal details, highlight what you love about the home and why it’s a great fit:

• The home’s architecture, updates, or layout you admire
• How you plan to care for the property for years to come
• The neighborhood, community, or location that excites you
• Specific features like the backyard, sunroom, or kitchen that caught your attention

This approach keeps the letter relevant, persuasive, and legally safe.

Tips for Writing the Right Letter

1. Keep It Professional — Thank the seller for considering your offer and focus on their home.
2. Be Brief — One page or less is ideal. Sellers don’t want a personal essay.
3. Have Your Agent Review — At ROOST, we review letters to make sure they’re appropriate, compliant, and aligned with your offer strategy.

When a Letter Helps Most

Buyer letters can be effective when sellers have an emotional connection to the home. Many want to feel like they’re passing it on to someone who appreciates its history. A thoughtful, property-focused letter can help — as long as the rest of your offer (financing, contingencies, timing) is also strong.

Buyer letters are still in play in Ohio and Florida, but they must be handled with care. Keep the focus on the property, stay professional, and let your agent guide you. Used wisely, they can add a personal touch to a competitive offer — without creating unnecessary risk.

Ready to get started? ROOST is here to make the process simple, personal, and successful—from your first step to final closing. Let’s connect and explore your options! Visit BuyWithROOST.com to request a consultation.