Does Sending Buyer "Love Letters" To Home Sellers Work?
- Author: Jennifer Kloss
- Posted: 2025-10-16
What these letters are
A buyer “love letter” is a note meant to make an offer stand out by showing interest in the home and appealing to the seller’s emotions.
Do they help?
Some data says yes: Redfin reports buyers who include a letter may be 52% more likely to win. Others say no: Zillow agents ranked love letters last out of 376 homebuying strategies.
In practice, some agents see them as a low-risk way to make a plain offer stand out or explain issues like contingencies. They may help in bidding wars or when offers are very close.
Sellers who feel a strong attachment to their home may favor a buyer who seems likely to appreciate it.
The legal risk
The Fair Housing Act bars discrimination based on protected traits, including race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, familial status, and more.
Many letters reveal these details without meaning to. For example, talking about kids loving the backyard (familial status) or a church nearby (religion).
Because of this, some agents advise buyers not to send these letters and advise sellers not to consider them. They say decisions should be based on price, terms, and contingencies—not personal details.
That said, actual lawsuits tied to love letters are extremely rare. The National Association of Realtors says it isn’t aware of any.
When letters can be most effective
In tight bidding situations, a well-written letter may tip the scales. Buyers using VA loans (often with low or no down payment) may use a letter to give context and ease seller concerns.
Shared experiences can matter. For example, a veteran seller may feel a connection with a veteran buyer when offers are otherwise similar.
Agents also say pet owners, teachers, and first responders sometimes get positive responses. Sellers who’ve owned a home for a long time might respond to buyers who plan to care for and enjoy the property.
How to write one safely
- Talk to your agent first and understand Fair Housing rules.
- Keep the focus on the property and your offer, not on personal traits.
- Good topics: what you like about the home’s features (layout, yard, location for practical needs) and why your offer is strong and reliable.
- Avoid mentioning protected details like family size, religion, or anything else that touches on protected categories.
- Think of it like a brief “cover letter”: clear, respectful, and centered on the home and the terms—not your personal life.
Bottom line
Love letters can sometimes help, especially when offers are close, but they come with legal concerns if they reveal protected information.
If you choose to send one, keep it neutral and focused on the home and the strength of your offer. Sellers should base their choice on offer terms rather than personal details.
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