Why Including a Personal Letter with Your Offer Can Make All the Difference

When you're making an offer on a home—especially in a competitive market—you might be wondering whether you should include a personal letter to the seller.

My answer? Absolutely, yes.

A well-crafted letter might seem like a small gesture, but it can have a surprisingly big impact. It’s one of the few ways to emotionally connect with the seller and stand out from other buyers who are only competing on numbers. And in some cases, it’s the reason an offer gets accepted—even when it’s not the highest one.

Why It Works

For many sellers, their home isn’t just a building—it’s a place where memories were made. Birthdays, family dinners, milestones, maybe even raising kids or growing a garden. When it comes time to sell, emotions often run high.

That’s where your letter comes in. A personal letter gives the seller a glimpse into who you are and why you love their home. It humanizes your offer and helps the seller feel more confident (and even comforted) about passing their home on to someone who truly appreciates it.

In a sea of numbers, a genuine letter can make your offer memorable.

6 Tips for Writing a Winning Buyer Letter

If you want to write a letter that makes an impact, here’s how to do it well:

1. Start with a Warm Introduction

Share your name(s) and a little about yourself. Are you a young family? First-time buyer? Moving closer to relatives? Keep it personal and friendly, just like you'd introduce yourself to a new neighbour.

2. Share What You Love About the Home

Be specific. Mention the cozy reading nook, the big backyard, or the natural light in the kitchen. Pointing out these details shows that you’ve really paid attention and helps the seller feel seen and appreciated.

3. Highlight the Emotional Connection

Tell them why their home speaks to you. Maybe it reminds you of your childhood home, or it’s perfect for hosting big family dinners like you’ve always dreamed of. People connect to emotion—so don’t be afraid to share yours.

4. Reassure the Seller

Let them know you’ll take good care of the home. Sellers often worry about whether the next owner will treat the place with the same love and respect. A sentence or two about your future plans can ease those concerns.

5. Keep It Positive and Professional

This isn’t the place to discuss negotiation tactics or market trends. Keep the tone optimistic and respectful—regardless of your offer price.

6. Keep It Concise

A few short paragraphs are all you need. Aim for a letter that’s heartfelt, but easy to read in a couple of minutes. You want the seller to walk away smiling—not skimming.

What a Letter Can (and Can’t) Do

While a letter won’t compensate for a significantly lower offer, it can tip the scales when competing offers are close. I've seen buyers win bidding wars simply because the seller connected with their story. It’s not guaranteed—but in many cases, it absolutely helps.

That said, not every situation calls for a letter. In some cases for instance (investor properties), the emotional component might not matter as much. But if you’re buying a home that’s been lovingly cared for, a personal letter could be the thing that sets you apart.

Next steps:
(1) To learn how to up-size your home, check out my free "Move & Grow Method" guide. 
(2): Follow me on my Instagram @trevorthiessen for more tips on real estate, and how we can help.