Should I write a letter to the seller with my offer?
Personal letters to sellers have become much less common in Arizona and many agents and brokerages now discourage or prohibit them due to fair housing concerns. A letter that describes your family, background, or lifestyle can unintentionally introduce protected class information like race, religion, familial status, or national origin, which may expose the seller to fair housing liability if they make a decision influenced by those details. The strongest offer is built on price, terms, financing strength, flexibility on timing, and a clean contract. If you want to stand out, focus on a solid earnest deposit, quick closing, waived contingencies if appropriate, and proof of funds or a strong preapproval.
More on offers and negotiation
- How do I win in a multiple-offer situation or bidding war?
- How much below asking price can I offer?
- What are seller concessions and can the seller pay my closing costs?
- How much earnest money should I put down?
- Should I waive the inspection or appraisal contingency to win?
- How do I make an offer on a house?
Meet Jon Hegreness

Jon Hegreness
REALTOR / Associate Broker · Howe Realty
AZ License BR540940000
Full-time Phoenix North Valley REALTOR and Associate Broker with 24 years in Arizona residential real estate. A negotiator and problem solver who works the way you would want a friend in the business to work: direct, on your side, and steady through the parts that get complicated.
