Why 23% of First-Time Buyers Used a Gift or Family Loan for Their Down Payment — And How It Can Help You Too
Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to saving for the down payment. But here’s an encouraging fact: 23% of first-time buyers used a gift or a loan from friends or family to help cover their down payment. That means nearly 1 in 4 new buyers found creative support to make homeownership possible sooner — and you can too.
Leveraging family assistance isn’t just common — it’s becoming a smart strategy many buyers use to get into the market faster, avoid rising rents, and secure better loan options.
Below are 3 key advantages for homebuyers considering gift funds or family loans as part of their down payment strategy:
1. It Helps You Buy Sooner — Before Prices Rise Again
Home prices continue to trend upward in many markets. Using a gift or family loan can immediately boost your buying power, allowing you to enter the market now instead of waiting years to save the full amount.
A little help today can save you thousands down the road.
2. You Can Unlock Better Loan Programs and Lower Monthly Payments
A larger down payment can mean:
- Lower monthly mortgage payments
- Better interest rates
- Smaller mortgage insurance costs
Gift funds can help you qualify for loan options you may not have reached on your own — making your purchase more affordable over the long term.
3. It Gives You More Flexibility in a Competitive Market
In today’s market, having stronger funds upfront gives you more confidence when making offers.
With a boosted down payment, you’ll stand out in competitive situations, negotiate more effectively, and move faster when the right home appears.
Thinking About Using Gift Funds or Family Assistance?
You’re not alone — and it could be the key to making your first home purchase sooner and easier.
If you want to explore how gift funds work, how they’re documented, and which loan programs allow them, I’d be happy to guide you
through the process.
Contact me today to get started.
Learn More:
https://www.equityzonemortgage.com
Maximize Your Home Buying Power!

READ MORE POSTS















