More than half of first-time buyers in the UK require financial support from family members to purchase their first property, according to research published by Savills.
The data reveals that whilst 64% of first-time buyers draw on their own savings, 53% rely on family assistance through gifts, loans, or inheritance to complete their purchases.
Financial support breakdown
Family contributions totalled £8.3 billion in 2025 through gifts and loans, rising to £11 billion when inheritance is included, according to the property consultancy’s survey.
Outright gifts remain the most common form of support, with 32% of buyers receiving them compared to 16% who benefit from family loans. The research indicates that almost half of those receiving gifts or loans obtain contributions from grandparents, extending support beyond parents alone.
Inheritance plays a role for 14% of first-time buyers who are drawing on inherited wealth to fund their property purchases.
Market conditions
Lucian Cook, Head of Residential Research at Savills, said: “First-time buyers continue to feel the impact of higher mortgage rates, which has stretched affordability and kept the average deposit high and maintained a reliance on the so-called Bank of Mum and Dad.”
Cook noted that less stringent mortgage regulation and gradual easing of rates over time should help broaden access to home ownership. The Financial Conduct Authority has proposed mortgage rule changes that could facilitate wider borrower access to the market.
Despite potential regulatory changes, Cook stated that family support will remain a significant component of first-time buyer funding. The findings come as first-time buyers face additional cost pressures in the current market environment.
The research highlights the continued challenges facing those attempting to enter the property market without family financial backing, with high deposit requirements and elevated mortgage rates creating barriers to home ownership for independent buyers.
