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A Simple Guide On How To Write a Persuasive Rental Letter For Sure Approval

Joe Mahlow avatar

by Joe Mahlow •  Updated on Feb. 24, 2024

A Simple Guide On How To Write a Persuasive Rental Letter For Sure Approval
A caption for the above image.

Believe it or not, writing that perfect rental letter is easy! And guess what? Securing your dream rental is possible with just a few simple tips. Getting approval for a rental property goes beyond just filling out an application form or providing your credit score.

Not many know it, but a well-crafted character letter could be the secret weapon that sets you apart from other applicants.

Let me ask you this question: How's that possible? What should I write in the letter to the landlord to help my chances? OK, I know what you're thinking, this sounds too good to be true. 

This article is in reference to how to get approved for a rental with bad credit. In the next section, I'll walk you through exactly how to compose the ideal rental letter to impress landlords and stand out from the competition.

 

 


Contents:

     


    Choosing VS Apartment and Houses is Essential

    Choosing VS Apartment and Houses is Essential

    Before writing your rental application letter, you first have to be careful about your choice. 

    Remember, most apartment complexes operate under strict criteria set by management companies, often revolving around credit scores. Why? Well, it's because these management companies have standardized procedures for pre-approving applicants, leaving little room for personalization.

    Have you ever considered reaching out directly to the homeowner instead of dealing solely with management companies? Make no mistake, this approach could be a game-changer in your rental journey.

    Landlords, especially individual homeowners, often have more flexibility in their decision-making process. By submitting a compelling character letter, you have the opportunity to showcase your unique qualities and persuade the landlord to overlook any shortcomings in your credit history.


    Setting the Stage: The Power of First Impressions in Rental Applications

    Your rental application letter can make or break your chances of securing that dream apartment. Landlords and property managers receive dozens, if not hundreds, of applications for a single listing. And guess what? They're only going to seriously consider the strongest, most compelling ones.

    As if that's not enough pressure, here's something interesting: According to a study by CareerBuilder, it takes just 15 seconds for someone to make a first impression. Let that sink in - 15 seconds for a potential landlord to form an opinion that could decide your fate. How's that possible? It comes down to the power of first impressions and the snap judgments we all make, whether consciously or not. OK, I know what you're thinking: "But I have a stable job and good credit. My application should speak for itself!" Not many know it, but there's more to an application than numbers on a page. Put yourself in the landlord's shoes. Would a generic form letter make you excited to meet this prospective tenant? Or would a thoughtful, well-written introduction sharing why this person is such a great fit capture your interest? Enthusiasm and personality matter.

    Remember, when you're reviewing the sea of applications for your listing, which ones stand out and make you want to schedule a showing? The ones that make a personal connection, highlight what makes the applicant a dream tenant, and convey a genuine interest in the property. Your application letter is your chance to make that connection and share your story. A little extra effort can go a long way in today's competitive rental market. If you want to believe you have a real chance at getting your dream place, put in the work to make a stellar first impression. You'll be glad you did!


    Unveiling the Secret Weapon: The Character Letter

    writing a rental letter

    Did you know that there's a hidden gem in the rental application process that could significantly boost your chances of approval? And guess what? It's not about inflating your credit score or scrambling to meet strict criteria set by management companies. It's the art of crafting a persuasive character letter directly to the landlord. 

    Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

    The Personal Touch

    Believe it or not, adding a personal touch can work wonders. Instead of crafting a generic letter, take the time to research the landlord's interests or background. Mentioning a shared hobby or mutual connection can create an instant rapport and set your letter apart from the rest.

    A sample of being personal:

    • "I couldn't help but notice the charming garden outside your property; it reminded me of my childhood home, where I spent countless hours nurturing my own garden."
    • "Your property's cozy fireplace instantly captured my attention; I envision cozy evenings spent curled up with a good book, creating cherished memories."
    • "As a pet lover myself, I was delighted to learn about the pet-friendly policies at your property; I can already picture my furry companion exploring the nearby park and becoming a part of the community."

    Showcase Your Story

    Don't shy away from sharing your story. Landlords appreciate transparency and authenticity, so don't hesitate to open up about your journey and aspirations. Whether it's overcoming challenges or pursuing your dreams, sharing your narrative can evoke empathy and make a lasting impression.

    A sample of sharing your story:

    • "In my journey, I've faced challenges that have shaped me into the responsible and reliable tenant I am today."
    • "I'm excited to share my story with you, as I believe it reflects my determination and resilience."
    • "From overcoming obstacles to pursuing my dreams, my experiences have instilled in me a strong sense of accountability and integrity."

    Build Value

    Have you considered offering creative incentives to sweeten the deal? Think outside the box and propose perks such as taking care of minor repairs or assisting with property maintenance. Not only does this show your commitment to the property, but it also fosters a positive landlord-tenant relationship.

    Sample of Building Value:

    • "In addition to paying rent on time, I'm willing to offer my skills in minor repairs or maintenance to ensure the property remains in top condition."
    • "I believe in fostering a positive landlord-tenant relationship and am committed to contributing to the upkeep and well-being of the property."
    • "Beyond fulfilling my obligations as a tenant, I'm dedicated to adding value to the community and creating a harmonious living environment for all residents."

    Focus on Your Strengths

    In crafting your rental application letter, don't just recite your qualifications. Focus on your strengths and what makes you an ideal tenant. How's that possible? Mention things like your stable job, excellent references, and rent payment history. Let me ask you this question: What do you value in a tenant? Landlords want responsible, trustworthy renters who pay on time and respect the property. Show how you meet those criteria. Giving concrete examples of why you're qualified will ease any concerns.

    Sample of Focusing on Your Strengths:

    • "With a stable job and glowing references from previous landlords, I have a proven track record of reliability and trustworthiness."
    • "My consistent rent payment history reflects my commitment to fulfilling my financial obligations responsibly and promptly."
    • "I take pride in my excellent communication skills and proactive approach to addressing any concerns or issues that may arise."

    Be Polite and Courteous

    You might think that a cover letter for an apartment seems unnecessary. The fact is that politeness and courtesy go a long way. Use a respectful and friendly tone. Thank the landlord for their consideration. Your thoughtfulness will be appreciated and make you a more attractive candidate.

    Sample of Being Polite and Courteous:

    • "I want to express my sincere gratitude for considering my application and taking the time to review my letter."
    • "Thank you for the opportunity to introduce myself, and I look forward to the possibility of becoming your tenant."
    • "Your consideration is greatly appreciated, and I'm eager to discuss any further details or questions you may have."

    Express Your Enthusiasm

    Not many know it, but enthusiasm and a positive attitude can go a long way. Convey your genuine excitement about the place in your letter. Are you excited about the prospect of living there? Then express that excitement!

    Say why you're enthusiastic about the location, amenities, or community. Mention specific features that attracted you to the property. OK, I know what you're thinking: is that really necessary? Absolutely. Landlords want tenants who will appreciate the space. Your enthusiasm and positivity will shine through.

    Sample of Expressing Your Enthusiasm:

    • "I am genuinely excited about the prospect of living in your property and becoming a part of such a vibrant community."
    • "The amenities and location of the property have captured my interest, and I'm eager to explore all the benefits it has to offer."
    • "I can't wait to envision myself making this space my own and creating wonderful memories in such a welcoming environment."

    Offer to Provide More Information

    Let the landlord know you're happy to provide more details or answer any additional questions. Give your contact information and the best way to reach you. Make it easy for them to learn more about you as an ideal tenant for their property.

    Sample Offering to Provide More Information:

    • "Please feel free to reach out to me if you require any additional details or have further questions about my application."
    • "I'm available at your convenience to provide any further information or discuss any concerns you may have."
    • "Should you need any further clarification or wish to schedule a meeting, I'm more than happy to accommodate your request."

    Close Confidently

    In closing, reiterate your interest in the rental and your confidence in being an ideal tenant. Provide your contact information and availability for a showing. Keep your letter concise while highlighting what makes you the perfect candidate. Believe it or not, following these tips will help you craft a compelling letter that boosts your chances of getting the place you want. With the right approach, you'll be well on your way to securing your dream rental.

    A Sample of Closing Confidently:

    • "In closing, I want to reiterate my genuine interest in the rental and my confidence in being an ideal tenant."
    • "Thank you once again for considering my application. I'm hopeful for the opportunity to discuss this further and look forward to the possibility of calling your property home."
    • "With my enthusiasm, reliability, and commitment to maintaining a positive living environment, I believe I would be an excellent fit for your property. I'm excited about the prospect of moving forward with this opportunity."

    Following these tips will help you craft a compelling cover letter that boosts your chances of getting that dream rental. A little personalization and enthusiasm can make you stand out. Give it a try-you have nothing to lose and a great new place to gain!

    Recommended: Credit Repair for Mortgage Approval: Key Strategies and Essential Tips


    Understanding the Landlord's Perspective

    As if that's not enough, let's delve into the mindset of a landlord. Contrary to popular belief, many landlords have the final say in approving tenants, even if they employ a management company. But here's something interesting: while credit score matters, landlords often value personal attributes and stability just as much, if not more.

    You see, for landlords, selecting the right tenant is not merely a matter of financial risk assessment. It's actually a delicate balance of trust, reliability, and compatibility. While a stellar credit score may signify financial responsibility, it's just one piece of the puzzle in the landlord's evaluation process. What truly resonates with landlords are the intangible qualities that speak volumes about an individual's character and integrity.

    landlords perspective

    Picture this: a prospective tenant with a flawless credit history but a lack of communication skills, or worse, a history of untimely rent payments. Now juxtapose that with another applicant whose credit score may not be impeccable, but who exudes professionalism, demonstrates a strong sense of accountability, and communicates openly and honestly about their circumstances. Who would you, as a landlord, feel more inclined to trust with your property?

    It's about more than just crunching numbers; it's about forging a sense of mutual respect and understanding between landlord and tenant. Landlords often value tenants who exhibit traits such as reliability, honesty, and a genuine commitment to maintaining the property. After all, renting out a property isn't just a business transaction; it's a symbiotic relationship built on trust and mutual respect.

    So, while credit scores certainly play a role in the tenant selection process, savvy landlords recognize that they only tell part of the story. They understand that personal attributes such as communication skills, responsibility, and a positive rental history are equally—if not more—important in fostering a harmonious and mutually beneficial tenancy.

    Essentially, landlords prioritize confidence and trust over mere credit scores. By adopting this holistic approach, they not only mitigate financial risk but also foster enduring, positive relationships with tenants who embody their most valued qualities.


    Putting Pen to Paper: Sample Character Letter

    See for yourself the power of a compelling character letter. Below is a sample template to guide you in creating your own persuasive narrative. OK, I know what you're thinking - "What do I write?" Don't worry; we've got you covered. Feel free to customize this template to reflect your unique qualities and circumstances.

     

    [Sample Character Letter]

    [Your Name]

    [Your Address]

    [City, State, Zip Code]

    [Landlord's Name]

    [Property Address]

    [City, State, Zip Code]

    [Date]

     

    Dear [Landlord's Name],

    I am writing to express my sincere interest in renting [Property Address]. As a prospective tenant, I want to provide you with insights into my character and reliability beyond what may be reflected in my credit report.

     

    Throughout my professional career and personal life, I have demonstrated a strong commitment to responsibility and integrity. I have maintained stable employment with [Company Name] for [X] years, ensuring a consistent income to meet my financial obligations. Additionally, I take great pride in my involvement in the local community, volunteering with [Organization Name] and actively participating in neighborhood initiatives.

     

    While I acknowledge that my credit history may not be flawless, it's important to understand that any negative items were due to circumstances beyond my control. Despite this, I have always prioritized my rent payments and have never faltered in meeting my financial commitments. I believe my track record of reliability and conscientiousness speaks volumes about my suitability as a tenant.

     

    I am genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity to call [Property Address] my home. I am confident that with my stable income, impeccable rental history, and dedication to maintaining a positive living environment, I would be an excellent tenant.

     

    Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing this further.

     

    Sincerely,

    [Your Name]

     

    Conclusion: Sealing the Deal

    seal the deal

    I hate it when people miss the opportunity just because of simple things. Still, writing that perfect rental letter is no small feat - it requires a blend of creativity, authenticity, and strategy. My goal here is to equip you with the tools and insights you need to craft a persuasive rental letter that stands out from the crowd.

    There are some upsides to mastering the art of the rental letter:

    • It’s surprisingly easy once you know the ropes.
    • With the right approach, securing your dream rental is entirely within reach.
    • A well-crafted character letter could be the secret weapon that sets you apart from other applicants.

    I don’t think this is a “one-size-fits-all” solution – writing a persuasive rental letter requires careful consideration and customization to suit your specific circumstances. However, armed with the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the challenge with confidence.

    So, my final verdict is: give it a try and see where it takes you. With a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of perseverance, you might just land the rental of your dreams.

    To dive deeper into the world of rental applications and discover additional tips and insights, be sure to explore our recommended resources from ASAP Credit Repair. With the right guidance, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a rental letter that leaves a lasting impression and secures your spot in your ideal home.


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