When renting or buying a house, landlords and real estate agents often require character references. This type of reference provides information about an applicant’s character and can help landlords and agents determine if a tenant is trustworthy and responsible. In this article, we’ll provide tips for writing a character reference for a house, as well as seven examples that you can edit as needed.
Tips for Writing a Character Reference For A House
When writing a character reference for a house, it’s important to keep in mind that you’re vouching for someone’s character and reliability. Here are some tips to help you create a strong reference:
1. Highlight the Applicant’s Responsibility
Mention the applicant’s reliability and their ability to pay rent on time. You can also mention any past rental history they have.
2. Provide Details on Their Character
Include details about their personality, work ethic, and ability to get along with others. Describe them in a positive and detailed manner.
3. Use Specific Examples
Provide examples of how the applicant has demonstrated responsible behavior in the past. For example, mention how they have taken care of their previous rental property or kept their financial obligations in order.
4. Keep It Professional
Avoid mentioning anything that could be seen as discriminatory, such as an applicant’s race, religion or sexual orientation. Stick to the facts and keep it professional.
5. Provide Contact Information
If possible, provide your contact information so that the landlord or real estate agent can follow up with any additional questions they may have.
Seven Examples of Character Reference For A House
Example 1: Character Reference for a First-Time Renter
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a tenant. [He/She] is a responsible and reliable person who always pays their bills on time. [He/She] has never had a rental history before, but I believe [he/she] would make a great first-time renter. [He/She] takes good care of [his/her] belongings and has a great work ethic.
I highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] and believe [he/she] would be a great tenant.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Character Reference for a Student Renter
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a tenant. [He/She] is a responsible and diligent student who I have known for [number of years]. [He/She] always pays [his/her] bills on time and is respectful of others. [He/She] is a great tenant who takes pride in keeping [his/her] living space clean and tidy.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Character Reference for a Military Member
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a tenant. [He/She] is a military member who I have known for [number of years]. [He/She] is a responsible and reliable person who always pays their bills on time. [He/She] is respectful of others and is a great tenant who takes pride in keeping [his/her] living space clean and tidy.
I highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] and believe [he/she] would be a great tenant. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Character Reference for a Pet Owner
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a tenant. [He/She] is a responsible and reliable person who always pays their bills on time. [He/She] is also a dedicated pet owner who takes great care of their furry friends. [He/She] is respectful of others and would make a great tenant.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Character Reference for a Self-Employed Renter
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a tenant. [He/She] is a self-employed individual who I have known for [number of years]. [He/She] is a responsible and reliable person who always pays their bills on time. [He/She] is respectful of others and has a great work ethic.
I highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] and believe [he/she] would be a great tenant. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Character Reference for a Retired Renter
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a tenant. [He/She] is a retired individual who I have known for [number of years]. [He/She] is a responsible and reliable person who always pays their bills on time. [He/She] is respectful of others and has a great work ethic.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 7: Character Reference for a Small Business Owner
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] as a tenant. [He/She] is a small business owner who I have known for [number of years]. [He/She] is a responsible and reliable person who always pays their bills on time. [He/She] is respectful of others and has a great work ethic.
I highly recommend [Applicant’s Name] and believe [he/she] would be a great tenant. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions About Character Reference For A House
What should I include in a character reference for a house?
You should include information about the applicant’s responsibility, character, and reliability. Use specific examples to support these claims and provide contact information for follow-up questions.
Can I write a character reference for a family member or friend?
Yes, but it’s important to remain objective and provide an honest assessment of the applicant’s character and reliability. Avoid exaggerating their qualities or skills.
What if I don’t know the applicant well enough to write a character reference?
If you do not know the applicant well enough to provide a reference, it’s best to decline the request. Providing a vague or inaccurate reference can harm the applicant’s chances of being approved for a rental property.
Should I mention the applicant’s financial situation in a character reference?
No, it’s not appropriate to mention an applicant’s financial situation in a character reference. This information should be kept confidential and is not relevant to the purpose of the reference.
How long should a character reference for a house be?
A character reference for a house should be a few paragraphs long and provide specific details about the applicant’s character and reliability. It should not exceed one page.
How should I format a character reference for a house?
A character reference for a house should be formatted as a formal letter. Include a greeting, two paragraphs that provide details about the applicant’s character and reliability, and a complimentary close.
Conclusion
Writing a character reference for a house can be a great way to help someone secure a rental property. Keep in mind the tips we’ve provided, and use our examples as a guide. Remember to be honest, specific, and professional in your reference, and you’ll help the applicant stand out as a great potential tenant.