If you are looking for a rental property, you may need to provide a character reference to the landlord or property manager. This reference letter will help the landlord to assess your character and determine whether you are a suitable tenant for the property. In this article, we will discuss the tips for writing an effective character reference for rental property and provide you with some examples that you can edit as needed.
Tips for Writing a Character Reference for Rental Property
When writing a character reference for rental property, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Be honest
The most important thing when writing a character reference is to be honest. Do not exaggerate the person’s qualities or provide false information. If the landlord finds out that you have lied, it could damage your reputation and the reputation of the person you are referring.
2. Explain your relationship with the person
Start your letter by introducing yourself and explaining your relationship with the person you are referring. This will give the landlord an idea of how well you know the person and why you are qualified to provide a reference.
3. Discuss the person’s character
The main purpose of a character reference is to discuss the person’s character. Talk about their personality traits, work ethic, and any other qualities that make them a good tenant. You can also mention any past experiences you have had with the person that show their responsible behavior.
4. Provide examples
One way to make your character reference more effective is to provide specific examples. For instance, if you know that the person has always paid their bills on time, mention this and provide a specific example of when they did so.
5. Use a professional tone
When writing your reference letter, it’s important to use a professional tone. Avoid using slang or casual language. Your letter should be well-written and polished.
6. Edit and proofread
Before submitting your letter, edit and proofread it carefully. Check for grammar and spelling errors. Make sure that your letter is well-organized and easy to read.
7. Offer your contact information
Finally, offer your contact information in case the landlord has any questions or concerns. This will show that you are willing to be available and helpful.
Examples of Character Reference for Rental Property
Example 1: Employment Reference
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Tenant’s Name]. I have known [Tenant’s Name] for over three years in my capacity as their supervisor at [Company Name], where they work as a [Position].
[Tenant’s Name] is an extremely responsible and reliable individual. They have an excellent work ethic and always complete their tasks on time and to a high standard. I have never had any issues with [Tenant’s Name] in the workplace, and I believe that they would be an ideal tenant for your rental property.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Personal Reference
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Tenant’s Name]. I have been friends with [Tenant’s Name] for over five years, and I have always been impressed by their responsible behavior.
[Tenant’s Name] is a kind and considerate individual who always goes out of their way to help others. They are also very organized and dependable, and I am confident that they would make an excellent tenant for your rental property.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Academic Reference
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Tenant’s Name]. I have known [Tenant’s Name] for four years in my capacity as their professor at [University Name].
[Tenant’s Name] is an outstanding student who consistently earns top grades and exhibits strong leadership skills. They are also very responsible and reliable, and I am confident that they would make an excellent tenant for your rental property.
Please feel free to contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address] if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Volunteer Reference
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Tenant’s Name]. I have had the pleasure of working with [Tenant’s Name] as a volunteer at [Organization Name] for over two years.
[Tenant’s Name] is an extremely dedicated and responsible individual who always shows up on time and completes their tasks with enthusiasm. They are also very friendly and easy to work with, and I am confident that they would be an excellent tenant for your rental property.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Neighbor Reference
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Tenant’s Name]. I have been [Tenant’s Name]’s neighbor for the past two years, and I can attest to their responsible behavior.
[Tenant’s Name] is a quiet and respectful tenant who always keeps their property clean and well-maintained. They are also very friendly and easy to get along with, and I believe that they would be an excellent addition to your rental property.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Family Reference
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for my [Relationship] [Tenant’s Name]. I have known [Tenant’s Name] for [Number] years, and I can confidently say that they are a responsible and reliable individual.
[Tenant’s Name] is a hardworking and honest person who always pays their bills on time and takes care of their property. They are also very friendly and easy to get along with, and I am sure that they would be an excellent tenant for your rental property.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 7: Landlord Reference
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for my former tenant, [Tenant’s Name]. [Tenant’s Name] rented my property for [Number] years, and I can attest to their responsible behavior as a tenant.
[Tenant’s Name] always paid their rent on time and kept the property clean and well-maintained. They were also very respectful of the property and its neighbors. I believe that they would be an ideal tenant for your rental property.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a character reference for rental property?
A character reference for rental property should include your relationship with the person, their character traits, and any specific examples of their responsible behavior. You should also provide your contact information in case the landlord has any questions or concerns.
Who should I ask to write a character reference for me?
You can ask a supervisor, professor, coworker, friend, or family member to write a character reference for you. Make sure that the person you ask is familiar with your character and can provide an honest and positive reference.
How long should a character reference for rental property be?
A character reference for rental property should be one to two pages long. It should be well-organized and easy to read, with specific examples of the person’s responsible behavior.
Can I write my own character reference for rental property?
No, you should not write your own character reference for rental property. The purpose of a character reference is to provide an unbiased assessment of your character from someone who knows you well.
Can I use a character reference for rental property for multiple applications?
Yes, you can use the same character reference for rental property for multiple applications. However, make sure that you edit the letter as needed to match the requirements of each landlord or property manager.
How should I submit my character reference for rental property?
You can submit your character reference for rental property either in person or by email. Make sure that you follow the landlord’s instructions for submitting the reference, and that the letter is well-organized and easy to read.
Conclusion
Providing a character reference for rental property can help landlords to assess your character and determine whether you are a suitable tenant. By following the tips in this article and using our examples as a guide, you can write an effective character reference that will help you to secure the rental property you want.