
Bank of Mom and Dad Fuels 2026 Gen Z Homebuyers
Young buyers are increasingly relying on parental help to buy homes in 2026, with 40% of homeowners receiving down-payment assistance (up from 35%), led by Gen Z (78%) and millennials (56%). Cash gifts from family commonly range from $25k to $49,999, and about 74% of parents plan to or have already helped, with 29% saying helping is more important than paying for college. This support—typically funded from checking accounts (65%), investments (50%), home equity (35%), and retirement accounts (32%)—helps about 43% qualify for a mortgage and 33% reduce monthly payments.













