So, you’ve found your Chicago dream home, but you have a feeling you might not be the only one. What can you do to help your offer stand out? One great strategy for buyers is to write a letter letting the sellers know why they are so excited about the home. Here are a few things to consider when drafting your note:

Be Genuine

Your letter is about making a connection with the sellers, so it’s important to let your personality come through. It shouldn’t be an overly formal document void of emotion. Instead, it should be a personal note expressing your excitement about the home. Give sellers a bit of information about you and your family and let them know what it is you love so much about their property.

Share (Some of) Your Vision

Do you envision family dinners in the beautiful dining room or your children playing on the swingset in the backyard? These are great details to share. One area buyers may want to stay away from in their letters, though, is renovation. Remember, many homeowners are sentimental about their homes, so your plans to change it up may not be as interesting to them. 

Find Common Ground

Do your research and see if you have anything in common with the sellers. Maybe you both have young children, or perhaps you both have a love for gardening. Finding these points of common ground can help make the connection feel a bit stronger. You want the sellers to feel like they’ve gotten to know you a bit and can relate.

Be Concise

Finally, remember sellers don’t need your life story to make the connection. Overly long and detailed letters don’t necessarily help your case. You want sellers to be able to read your letter in a few minutes without feeling overwhelmed. You want to respect their time and capture the most important things you’d like them to know.

Have you ever written a letter to sellers? Have you ever received a letter when selling your home? What other details do you think buyers should include? I’d love to hear your thoughts!