Letters to Accompany Offers in Michigan?

[Melissa Nichols]

Hi there,

I'm looking to invest in Michigan, although I currently live in California. In California, it's standard protocol to include a letter along with an offer on a house as a way to 'win' over a seller. Just did it in CA on my primary residence and it worked like a charm. Now that I'm looking to invest out of state in Michigan, the agent I spoke with said that letters accompanying offers was no standard practice and that most agents "wouldn't even do it for fear of discrimination." I'm sorry... what? I figure if it helps win a sale, what's the harm? Is this true for Michigan or is this agent giving me incorrect advice?