When it comes to securing housing, having a character reference can often make the difference between being approved or denied. A character reference is a written recommendation from someone who has known the potential tenant for an extended period of time and can attest to their good character traits, such as responsibility and reliability. In this article, we will provide several character reference examples for housing to help you create a compelling reference letter.
If you have been asked to write a character reference for someone who is looking to secure housing, you may be wondering where to start. Writing a character reference can be a daunting task, but it is an essential part of the rental application process. Here are some examples of character reference letters that you can use as a guide when writing your own.
These examples are designed to give you an idea of what to include in your letter, but it’s important to tailor your reference to the specific situation and individual you’re supporting. Personalize your letter by including specific examples of the tenant’s good character traits and any experiences you’ve had with them that demonstrate their reliability and responsibility. Remember, the more specific and detailed your letter, the more effective it will be.
You can find examples online and edit them as needed. This can be a helpful starting point if you’re unsure where to begin. However, it’s crucial that you write your reference letter in your own words, using your own experiences and observations.
Example 1: Unemployed Applicant
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing this letter on behalf of [Tenant Name] who is applying for housing at [Apartment/Complex Name]. I have known [Tenant Name] for [length of time] and can attest to their good character traits.
[Explain what makes this tenant reliable and responsible. Provide specific examples]
I have no doubt that [Tenant Name] will make an excellent tenant and will take good care of the property. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Student Applicant
Dear [Apartment/Complex Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant Name] for housing at your establishment. I have known [Tenant Name] for [length of time] and have found them to be a reliable and responsible individual.
[Explain what makes this tenant reliable and responsible. Provide specific examples]
[Optional: If the tenant is a student, mention their academic achievements and any extracurricular activities that demonstrate their responsibility]
I am confident that [Tenant Name] will be an excellent tenant, and I recommend them without reservation. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Family Applicant
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing this letter on behalf of [Tenant Name] and their family, who are looking to secure housing at [Apartment/Complex Name]. I have known [Tenant Name] for [length of time] and can attest to their good character traits.
[Explain what makes this tenant reliable and responsible. Provide specific examples]
[Optional: If the tenant has children, mention any interactions you’ve had with them and how responsible they are]
I have no doubt that [Tenant Name] and their family will make excellent tenants and will take good care of the property. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Self-Employed Applicant
Dear [Apartment/Complex Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant Name] for housing at your establishment. I have known [Tenant Name] for [length of time] and have found them to be a reliable and responsible individual.
[Explain what makes this tenant reliable and responsible. Provide specific examples]
[Optional: If the tenant is self-employed, mention their business and how successful they are]
I am confident that [Tenant Name] will be an excellent tenant, and I recommend them without reservation. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Elderly Applicant
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to recommend [Tenant Name] for housing. I have known [Tenant Name] for [length of time] and have found them to be a reliable and responsible individual.
[Explain what makes this tenant reliable and responsible. Provide specific examples]
[Optional: If the tenant is elderly, mention any assistance you’ve provided and how responsible they are]
I am confident that [Tenant Name] will be an excellent tenant, and I recommend them without reservation. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Low-Income Applicant
Dear [Apartment/Complex Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant Name] for housing at your establishment. I have known [Tenant Name] for [length of time] and have found them to be a reliable and responsible individual.
[Explain what makes this tenant reliable and responsible. Provide specific examples]
[Optional: If the tenant is low-income, mention any assistance they have received and how responsible they are with their finances]
I am confident that [Tenant Name] will be an excellent tenant, and I recommend them without reservation. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing a Character Reference for Housing
When writing a character reference for housing, keep the following tips in mind:
- Be specific and detailed. Provide examples of the tenant’s good character traits and any experiences you’ve had with them that demonstrate their reliability and responsibility.
- Mention the tenant’s name, the length of time you’ve known them, and your relationship to them
- If the tenant has any specific circumstances, such as being unemployed, self-employed, or low-income, mention these in your letter and how they have dealt with them.
- Use a professional tone and be respectful. Avoid any overly personal anecdotes or comments.
- Proofread your letter for spelling and grammatical errors before sending it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I include in a character reference for housing?
A: Your character reference should include specific examples of the tenant’s good character traits, any experiences you’ve had with them that demonstrate their reliability and responsibility, and your recommendation for them as a tenant.
Q: Who should I address the character reference to?
A: Address the letter to the appropriate person or organization, such as the landlord or property management company.
Q: How long should a character reference for housing be?
A: A character reference for housing should be no more than one page long, or approximately 40 to 50 sentences.
Q: Can a family member write a character reference for housing?
A: It’s best to avoid having family members write a character reference, as it may be perceived as biased. Instead, consider asking a teacher, employer, or community leader who knows the tenant well.
Q: Should I include my contact information in the character reference?
A: Yes, include your contact information, such as your phone number and email address, so that the recipient can contact you if they have any questions.
Q: Can I write a character reference for someone I’ve only known for a short time?
A: It’s best to write a character reference for someone you’ve known for an extended period of time, as you will be able to provide more specific examples of their good character traits and reliability. If you’ve only known the person for a short time, it may be difficult to provide a strong reference.
Conclusion
A character reference is an essential part of the rental application process. It can help a potential tenant secure housing by providing the landlord with additional insight into their good character traits and reliability. By following the tips and examples provided in this article, you should feel confident in writing a compelling character reference for housing.