What is a Renter Cover Letter?

A renter cover letter is a letter written by wannabe renters for potential future landlords or property management companies. Rental cover letters are meant to showcase a renter's character and best attributes to boost their reputation and odds of getting the desired lease.

What to include in a renter cover letter

Rental cover letters should help convince a potential landlord or property management company that you are the best person to fill their unit. Provide examples that showcase your reliability, professionalism, lifestyle preferences that are similar to those of other renters and people in the community, or examples of how you have contributed to communities in the past.

It's also a good idea to include this like employment history, credit history and several references in your letter. Landlords aim to ensure their tenants are responsible and will take care of the property, follow the rules and pay rent and fees on time.

Credit and employment history will convince landlords that you're able to pay your rent and are reliable when it comes to paying your bills on time.

woman writing letter

Make sure you add these details to your renter cover letter

When to write a renter cover letter

Rental cover letters are not always required, but writing one — especially when you're vying for a rental property in an especially competitive market — couldn't hurt your chances. Do some market research to determine how competitive the housing market is in your area. If it is, try to bolster your appeal to landlords with a letter.

Letters are worth the effort

Even if a rental cover letter is not required, writing a letter for your potential landlord can give your application an edge and help you secure your ideal living space in a competitive market.

With the guidelines outlined here, you'll have a great cover letter in no time — and the new apartment you've been trying to get into.

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