Homebuyers: Writing a Great Offer Letter

by John Casey 10/13/2019

While buying a home in a seller’s market, it pays to stand out from the crowd. One way to do that is with a memorable offer letter that captures the seller’s attention from the start. You must include all the right elements, however, to effectively win them over and earn the chance to buy your dream property. To make the biggest impact, here’s what to include in your offer letter.

The Story of Your Journey

Although you do not have to go into great detail, it is helpful to share information about you and your family in your offer letter. You can simply talk about your journey toward finding the perfect home and how their property fits your vision for the future. Or you can go even further in creating a connection by talking about your:

  • Family dynamics
  • Hobbies
  • Pets
  • Career

Aim to create a connection with the seller by highlighting shared interests that you may have picked up on during the open house.

Your Plans for the Space

When you share your plans for how you will use the home, sellers can start to envision you making the purchase and living there. Consider talking about your family’s various activities, such as baking and sports, and share how different areas of the home would support those endeavors.

Strive to weave in compliments about the home’s current design as you share your plans, helping create a strong connection with the seller. If you are planning on fully renovating the space, leave out those details, as sellers often feel protective of their current home design.

A Heartfelt Appeal

While remaining upbeat, add a heartfelt appeal that speaks to the heart of the seller. Use this moment to give context to your bid, explaining why you offered what you did. Then, politely ask that they consider your offer and help you realize your dreams of owning that property.

Focus on your journey and hopes for the future rather than the challenges you have encountered along the way. Remaining positive helps generate warm feelings that make it more likely your offer will be accepted. For the same reason, close your letter by expressing your appreciation of them taking the time to read and consider your offer. 

Now that you know what your offer letter should include, you can sit down with a pen and paper and write it out. Although it takes more time, skipping the word processing program allows you to keep it as personal as possible. If you have a dedicated real estate agent, they can help you craft the perfect letter and send it out by the deadline. Don't have a real estate agent yet? Feel free to reach out and let's begin your homeownership journey together!

About the Author
Author

John Casey

Hi, I'm John Casey and I'd love to assist you. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I'd be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.