Should Buyers Write “Love Letters”?
Valentine’s Day is around the corner but buyers have been writing love letters long before Feb. 14th. It continues to be a competitive market for buyers as they vie with others to purchase the small number of homes for sale. To help sway sellers, buyers may write a letter to them explaining why they love their house, complete with photos. While the purpose is innocent, love letters can unintentionally lead to bias and housing discrimination. Offers accepted on any basis beyond price, terms, and merit might violate fair housing laws (and it doesn’t matter if there was no discriminatory intent). Letters can convey information resulting in implicit bias favoring one buyer over the other. For example: “The large backyard will be perfect for our 3 children.” “We look forward to being close to our church.” Letters can also backfire by unknowingly offending a seller based on some personal comment.
The Fair Housing Act prohibits the denial of housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, and disability. The act was created so every American would have an equal opportunity to seek a place to live, without being afraid of discrimination. While love letters are not illegal, they could lead to legal issues. I do understand why letters are written, and that most sellers are very receptive to them; however, given the potential for problems, maybe it’s best to avoid letters all together. Buyers should focus on writing the best offer possible and sellers should review offers based on their terms and conditions.
donna@donnaforest.com - (603) 731 5151