In a competitive real estate market like we have been experiencing for the last year and half, letters from buyers to the sellers with personal information about their life history, work life, pictures, family, etc. have played an influential role in how a seller might select the buyer, in addition to a number of other key factors, of course. This last year, the California Association of Realtors® issued a new advisory against sending these personal letters from buyers. The reason for this? Simply put, a seller could, as a result, un-intentionally discriminate against a buyer based on the personal information provided, and select another.
At first, I felt a little disabled with my buyer clients in following this new advisory as the story of a buyer often catches on to the emotions of a seller and could make the difference between my client getting the house or not. Still, I followed the rule in earnest as I certainly would not want to play a role in any act of discrimination. I have to say that it is refreshing to know that the playing field for all buyers’ offers that are presented to a seller of a home is (should be) based solely on their financial abilities and terms of the offer. If only all agents would follow this advisory, we could all continue to strive to eliminate any question of discriminatory practice in the world of real estate transactions.
As a “listing agent”, I receive these “love letters” surprisingly often, still. I am flabbergasted at the number of agents who blatantly disregard this new advisory designed to protect both buyer and seller, not to mention the agents and brokerages involved. As a general rule, after first making my clients aware that I am in receipt of a letter from a buyer, I will not present them along with any offers. This is done to protect my clients’ position and ensure there is no question of how the seller came to the decision of who to select as their “buyer”.
Having grown up in a culturally diverse environment, I welcome advancement toward eliminating any form discrimination. When working with me, I am here to protect your position whether buyer or seller, as well as to guide you regarding how to get your offer accepted (without a letter). Contact me if you’d like to discuss how I can help you achieve your real estate goals at 619-944-2798.