If you’re applying for a rental property, you may be asked to provide a character reference letter from someone who knows you well. This type of letter can help landlords get a better understanding of your character and reliability as a tenant. In this article, we’ll provide you with several examples of character reference letters for rental properties, along with some tips and frequently asked questions.
Examples of Character Reference Letters for Rental Property
Letter for a Family Member
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for my [brother/sister/parent/etc.], [Name]. I have known [Name] for [number of years] years and can attest to their honesty, responsibility, and reliability. They have always been a great tenant and have taken excellent care of their previous rental properties.
[Name] is a [occupation/student/etc.] and has a steady income to support their rent payments. They are a quiet and respectful tenant who always follows the rules and treats the property with care. I have no doubt that they would make an excellent tenant for your rental property.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for a Friend
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for my friend, [Name], who is applying to rent your property. I have known [Name] for [number of years] years and can attest to their trustworthiness, responsibility, and positive attitude.
[Name] is a [occupation/student/etc.] and has always been financially responsible. They are a clean and tidy person who takes excellent care of their living space. They are also respectful of their neighbors and follow all rules and regulations. I have no doubt that they would make a great tenant for your rental property.
Thank you for considering my recommendation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for a Former Colleague
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for my former colleague, [Name], who is applying to rent your property. During the time that we worked together, I was consistently impressed by [Name]’s professionalism, reliability, and integrity.
[Name] is a hardworking and responsible individual who always pays their bills on time. They are a respectful and courteous person who would make an excellent tenant. I have no hesitation in recommending them for your rental property.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for a Neighbor
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for my neighbor, [Name], who is applying to rent your property. I have known [Name] for [number of years] years and can attest to their kindness, responsibility, and reliability.
[Name] is a [occupation/student/etc.] and has always been financially stable. They are a quiet and respectful person who takes excellent care of their home and yard. They are also friendly and helpful to their neighbors, and I have no doubt that they would make an excellent tenant for your rental property.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for a Church Member
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for my fellow church member, [Name], who is applying to rent your property. I have known [Name] for [number of years] years and can attest to their honesty, generosity, and strong moral character.
[Name] is a [occupation/student/etc.] and has always been financially responsible. They are a respectful and responsible person who would make an excellent tenant. I have no doubt that they would take excellent care of your rental property and would be a valuable addition to your community.
Thank you for considering my recommendation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for a Teacher
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for my former student, [Name], who is applying to rent your property. During the time that [Name] was in my class, I was consistently impressed by their intelligence, responsibility, and hardworking nature.
[Name] is a [occupation/student/etc.] and has always been financially stable. They are a quiet and respectful person who takes excellent care of their living space. They are also a great communicator and would be an excellent tenant for your rental property.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing a Character Reference Letter for Rental Property
Keep it brief and to the point
A character reference letter should be no longer than one page. It should focus on the individual’s character, reliability, and responsibility as a tenant. Avoid including irrelevant information that does not pertain to their ability to be a good tenant.
Include specific examples
Include specific examples that demonstrate the individual’s positive qualities. For example, you can mention how they always pay their bills on time, take excellent care of their living space, or are respectful of their neighbors.
Be honest
It’s important to be honest and truthful in your character reference letter. Do not exaggerate or embellish the individual’s qualities, as this can be easily detected by the landlord.
Offer to answer any questions
At the end of your letter, offer to answer any questions that the landlord may have about the individual. This shows that you are confident in your recommendation and are willing to provide additional information if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a character reference letter for rental property?
A character reference letter for rental property should include the individual’s positive qualities, such as their honesty, responsibility, and reliability. You should also include specific examples that demonstrate these qualities, as well as your relationship to the individual.
Who should I ask to write a character reference letter for rental property?
You should ask someone who knows you well and can attest to your positive qualities as a tenant. This can include a family member, friend, colleague, or neighbor.
How do I address the letter to the landlord?
You should address the letter to the landlord by using their name, such as “Dear Mr. Smith” or “Dear Ms. Johnson”.
What should I do if I don’t have anyone who can write a character reference letter for me?
If you don’t have anyone who can write a character reference letter for you, you can ask a former employer or teacher who knows you well. You can also ask a professional reference, such as a doctor or lawyer, who can attest to your positive qualities.
How many character reference letters should I provide?
You should provide at least two character reference letters for rental property. These letters should be from people who know you well and can attest to your positive qualities as a tenant.
What should I do if the landlord doesn’t ask for a character reference letter?
If the landlord doesn’t ask for a character reference letter, you can still provide one as part of your rental application. This can help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of being accepted.
Conclusion
A character reference letter for rental property can help landlords get a better understanding of your character and reliability as a tenant. By following our tips and using our examples, you can create a powerful letter that showcases your positive qualities and increases your chances of being accepted for your desired rental property.