Writing A Supporting Letter For Housing can feel like a big deal, but it doesn’t have to be! Whether you’re helping a friend, family member, or employee, these letters can make a real difference in someone’s ability to secure housing. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from what to include to different letter examples for various situations.
Understanding the Importance of a Support Letter
Supporting letters for housing are basically official statements that vouch for a person’s character, financial stability, or need for housing. They’re often requested by landlords, property managers, or housing authorities. These letters provide extra context and reassurance, especially if the applicant has a limited credit history, has faced past challenges, or is in a difficult situation. The primary goal of these letters is to help the applicant get approved for housing by painting a clear and positive picture of their ability to be a responsible tenant.
Here are some key things to keep in mind when writing one:
- Be honest and truthful in all statements.
- Be specific and provide concrete examples whenever possible.
- Focus on the applicant’s positive qualities and your personal knowledge of them.
Think of it like this: you’re helping the housing provider see the applicant from a different angle, highlighting aspects that might not be immediately obvious from a rental application alone.
Letter Example: Supporting a Friend’s Application
Email Example: Supporting a Friend’s Application
Subject: Letter of Support for [Friend’s Name] – Housing Application
Dear [Landlord’s Name or “To Whom It May Concern”],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend my friend, [Friend’s Name], for housing at your property. I have known [Friend’s Name] for [Number] years, and I can confidently attest to their responsible and trustworthy character.
I have personally witnessed [Friend’s Name]’s commitment to maintaining a clean and organized living space. They are also very respectful of others and are always considerate of their neighbors. [Optional: Add a specific example, like “For example, I’ve seen them consistently pay their bills on time and maintain a positive relationship with everyone.”].
I believe [Friend’s Name] would be a wonderful tenant, and I have no doubt they would take excellent care of the property. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Letter Example: Supporting a Family Member’s Application
Dear [Landlord’s Name or “To Whom It May Concern”],
I am writing this letter in support of my [Relationship to applicant: e.g., daughter, brother, cousin] [Applicant’s Name]’s application for housing at your property. I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years and can speak to their character and responsibility.
[Applicant’s Name] is a [Positive Adjective, e.g., responsible, kind, hardworking] individual. [Optional: Briefly explain why they are applying for housing – e.g., “They are looking to move closer to their job” or “They are seeking independent living.”]. I am aware that they are [mention financial stability if you know – e.g., “currently employed” or “receiving financial support,” but only if true and with their permission].
I believe [Applicant’s Name] would be an excellent tenant. I’m confident that they would maintain the property well. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Letter Example: Supporting an Employee’s Application
Subject: Letter of Support for [Employee’s Name] – Housing Application
Dear [Landlord’s Name or “To Whom It May Concern”],
I am writing to support [Employee’s Name]’s application for housing. I am [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], and [Employee’s Name] has been employed with us as a [Employee’s Position] since [Start Date].
During their employment, [Employee’s Name] has consistently demonstrated responsibility, reliability, and a strong work ethic. [Optional: Briefly mention their job performance – e.g., “They are a dedicated employee who consistently meets deadlines and works well with others.”] [Employee’s Name]’s employment is [full-time/part-time] and they have a consistent income, which I believe demonstrates financial stability.
I am happy to provide this letter of support and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] if you require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Job Title]
[Company Name]
Letter Example: Supporting an Individual with Limited Credit History
Subject: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Name] – Housing Application
Dear [Landlord’s Name or “To Whom It May Concern”],
I am writing to support [Applicant’s Name]’s application for housing. I understand that [Applicant’s Name] may have a limited credit history, and I would like to offer my perspective on their character and financial responsibility.
I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years. During this time, I have found them to be [Positive Adjective, e.g., honest, reliable, trustworthy]. [Optional: Provide specific examples, e.g., “They have always been punctual with their payments to me” or “I have witnessed their careful budgeting and financial planning”].
While a limited credit history can sometimes be a concern, I believe [Applicant’s Name]’s character and demonstrated responsibility make them a viable candidate for tenancy. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Letter Example: Supporting an Individual Facing Difficulties (e.g., Past Eviction)
Subject: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Name] – Housing Application
Dear [Landlord’s Name or “To Whom It May Concern”],
I am writing to support [Applicant’s Name]’s application for housing. I understand that [Applicant’s Name] may have experienced some challenges in the past. I want to offer my perspective on their character and current situation.
I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years. While they may have faced [briefly and generally mention the past issue, e.g., “some difficulties with previous housing arrangements”], I have witnessed their [Positive Adjective, e.g., commitment to change, willingness to learn, efforts to improve their situation]. [Optional: Provide a specific example of their efforts, e.g., “They have been actively working on improving their financial literacy” or “They are currently enrolled in a program to help with…”].
I believe [Applicant’s Name] has learned from their past experiences and is now a responsible individual. I am confident they will be a reliable tenant. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Letter Example: Supporting an Individual’s Need for Housing Due to a Specific Circumstance
Subject: Letter of Support for [Applicant’s Name] – Housing Application
Dear [Landlord’s Name or “To Whom It May Concern”],
I am writing to support [Applicant’s Name]’s application for housing. [Applicant’s Name] is currently facing [briefly state the specific circumstance, e.g., “a difficult situation and needs a stable living environment” or “is relocating for a new job”].
I have known [Applicant’s Name] for [Number] years and have always known them as [Positive Adjective, e.g., a responsible, hardworking, caring person]. [Optional: Give a brief description, “They have always met their obligations and maintained positive relationships.”]. Having stable housing would greatly benefit [Applicant’s Name] during this period of transition. [If you know, mention anything about their finances if you know, e.g., “They are currently employed,” or “are receiving support”].
I believe providing [Applicant’s Name] with housing would be a positive step. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Remember to adapt these examples to fit your specific situation and knowledge of the applicant. Honesty and genuine support are key.
Conclusion
Writing A Supporting Letter For Housing can feel overwhelming, but by following these guidelines and using the example templates, you can create a helpful and effective letter. Remember to be honest, specific, and focus on the positive qualities of the applicant. Your support can make a real difference in helping someone secure a safe and stable place to live! Good luck!