Letter to Seller of Home: How to Write One That Stands Out

Key takeaways:

• A letter to a seller of a home can help your offer stand out in a competitive market.
• Focus on genuine connection and financial readiness, but avoid personal details that raise Fair Housing concerns.
• Use clear, professional wording, and keep your letter short and focused.
  

Buying a home is still competitive, even if not as frenzied as during the pandemic’s peak. A common misconception is that 26% of buyers are facing bidding wars — but according to the National Association of Realtors, that figure actually represents the share of buyers who paid all cash for their homes in late 2023 and early 2024. While bidding wars have cooled, competition remains: recent reports show that around 20% of homes nationwide received multiple offers in mid-2025. One way to stand out in today’s market is by writing a “buyer love letter,” a short note to the seller that explains who you are, why you love the home, and why they can feel confident choosing you. This Redfin real estate guide will walk you through how to write the perfect note to the seller without being too over-the-top.

Why writing a letter to a home seller matters

Even in today’s cooler market, competition is still real. Writing a personal letter to the seller can give your offer an edge by creating connection, showing sincerity, and boosting seller confidence.

• Connection: Sellers often want to know their home will be appreciated.

• Differentiation: In a multiple-offer situation, a letter can humanize your offer.

• Confidence: Expressing financial readiness can reassure sellers.
  

What to include in your letter to the home seller

When crafting your buyer letter, keep it personal yet focused. Including the right details can help sellers connect with you while also showing that you’re a serious and prepared buyer. Here’s what your letter should include to accomplish that: 

• A warm introduction and brief information about who you are.

• Specific details about what you love about the home.

• How do you see yourself living there?

• A short note on your financial preparedness.

• A polite thank-you.
  

What not to include in a letter to a home seller

Realtors sometimes warn against personal letters because of Fair Housing Act concerns. Sharing too much personal information — such as family status or religion — could create bias and potential liability. To stay safe:

• Avoid mentioning protected characteristics (race, religion, marital status, etc.).

• Keep the letter focused on the house and your ability to purchase.

• Don’t compare your offer to others or pressure the seller.
  

Step-by-step guide: How to write a letter to a home seller

1. Start with a greeting (e.g., “Dear [Seller’s Last Name] Family”).

2. Introduce yourself briefly without including personal details that raise fair housing risks.

3. Mention specific features you admire about the home.

4. Express how you envision living there.

5. Highlight your seriousness and financial readiness.

6. End with gratitude and a polite closing.
   

Sample letter to a home seller

Formal option:

Dear [Seller’s Last Name] Family,

Thank you for taking the time to consider my offer on your home. From the moment I visited, I was impressed by the abundance of natural light in the living room and the warmth of the backyard. I can easily imagine creating a lasting home here and truly appreciate the care you’ve put into maintaining it.

Please be assured that I am financially prepared and ready to move forward without delay. I have already secured pre-approval from my lender, which means I can move quickly and confidently through the closing process. My goal is to make this transition as smooth as possible for you.

I am grateful for your consideration and the opportunity to present my offer.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Friendly option:

Dear [Seller’s Last Name] Family,

I truly enjoyed walking through your home—it immediately felt welcoming. The open kitchen and cozy fireplace especially stood out to me, and I can already picture hosting friends and sharing special moments there. I love the idea of creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and lasting memories.

I also want you to know that I’m fully prepared to move forward financially. I’ve secured mortgage pre-approval and am ready to take the next steps quickly, making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you.

Thank you so much for considering my offer.

Best,
[Your Name]

How do you say thank you to a seller of a home?

Keep it simple and professional. A short line such as “Thank you for your time and consideration of my offer” is polite and effective.

FAQs

What is a love letter to the seller of a house?
A love letter to the seller of a house is a personal note from the buyer to the seller that explains why the buyer loves the property and wants to purchase it.

Do seller letters actually work?
Yes, they can. A letter won’t replace a strong financial offer, but it can make you more memorable in a competitive market.

Why do realtors warn against writing personal letters to home sellers?
Because sharing personal details may risk Fair Housing Act violations. It’s best to keep your letter focused on the home and your financial readiness.

How do you write a letter to a home seller?
Keep it short, professional, and focused on the home. Mention what you love about the property, express your readiness, and thank the seller.

Should I send a letter with every offer?
Not always. Some sellers prefer not to receive letters, and some agents discourage them. Ask your real estate agent what’s best for your situation.

Wrapping up: Writing a letter that works

A letter to the seller of a home can give your offer a human touch, but it should always be professional, brief, and focused on the property. By striking the right balance, you can stand out in a competitive market without creating risk.

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