There’s some serious skirmishing happening on our own turf these days, and it’s called bidding wars. Multiple buyers are lusting over the same prime listings. And offers – very often all cash - are soaring above original asking prices. The countdown clock is ticking. So, how do you stand out from the crowd and win over a seller? 

Maybe it’s time to write a letter.

I’m going to level with you: introducing yourself to a seller by way of a letter is no guarantee of clinching a deal. That said, many of my clients have edged out the competition with the help of a brief, heartfelt, intelligently composed letter that expresses their enthusiasm for an apartment - often acknowledging special details that any seller would be especially proud of. You don’t want to get too personal, and I’ll get to that in a moment. And you definitely don’t want to hand the letter to a doorman. It’s the responsibility of your real estate agent (after reviewing your letter) to deliver it to the seller’s agent.

A few things to consider.

“Love letters,” as they’re affectionately called, have their admirers (count me in!) and naysayers. Critics believe that letters can create fair housing risks. They might contain personal information or characteristics about a buyer - such as their race or family status or job or pets - that could intentionally or unintentionally affect a seller’s decision to accept or reject an offer. In fact, Oregon’s governor signed a bill into law - the first of its kind in the country – telling seller’s agents to reject this type of communication. Happy to report, New York is the country’s literary hub…and writing a smart, subtly persuasive message to a seller is totally acceptable. Just remember: you’re not writing a letter to Grandma.

The right agent makes all the difference.

Spring is here, and prime listings – from Upper East Side co-ops to Brooklyn townhouses - are hotter than ever. This can lead to heated bidding wars. Helping my clients find the perfect dream home requires in-depth knowledge of the market and the savviest negotiating strategies. Yes, letters to sellers can often direct the spotlight your way…as long as they bear the “stamp” of a real estate pro.