What Are Gifted Deposits and How Do They Work?
For many first-time buyers, saving for a deposit can be one of the biggest hurdles to buying a home. That’s where gifted deposits can make a significant difference. Whether you’re buying one of the many houses for sale in Billericay or looking at homes further afield, understanding how gifted deposits work can help you move forward with clarity.
What Is a Gifted Deposit?
A gifted deposit is a sum of money given to a homebuyer, usually by a family member, to put towards the deposit on a property. Unlike a loan, this money does not need to be repaid. It forms part of the buyer’s equity in the home, which can make mortgage lenders more confident in approving the application.
Gifted deposits are most common between parents and children, but they can also come from grandparents, siblings, or even close friends. However, lenders often require proof that the money is a gift, not a loan, to avoid issues with affordability assessments.
How Gifted Deposits Can Help Buyers
A gifted deposit can increase the amount a buyer has available to put down, potentially giving access to better mortgage deals. Larger deposits can result in lower interest rates and monthly payments.
We regularly work with buyers who have received financial support from family to help them purchase a home. A gifted deposit could improve your buying power.
What Do Mortgage Lenders Need?
When using a gifted deposit, mortgage lenders will ask for:
- A signed letter from the person giving the gift, stating that the money is a gift and does not need to be repaid
- Confirmation that the person gifting the money has no legal interest in the property
- Identification and proof of funds from the person giving the gift, to comply with anti-money laundering regulations
It’s important to have this documentation in place early to avoid delays later in the process.
Are There Tax Implications?
In most cases, gifted deposits are exempt from tax at the time of the gift. However, they may be subject to inheritance tax if the giver dies within seven years of making the gift. Buyers and their families should seek financial advice if they have concerns about long-term implications.
How Ashton White Can Help
At Ashton White, we guide buyers through every stage of their property journey. As your local property expert, we understand the nuances of the buying process, including how gifted deposits affect mortgage applications, negotiations, and timelines.
Whether you’re browsing property for sale or just getting started, we can recommend trusted mortgage advisors and solicitors to help streamline your purchase. Our team of estate agents based in Billericay offer friendly, expert support to help you make the most informed decisions.
Planning to Buy With a Gifted Deposit?
If you’re considering using a gifted deposit to buy a home, start by speaking to a mortgage advisor. Then, talk to an estate agent who understands the local market and can guide you through the buying process. At Ashton White, we’ve helped many families successfully purchase their new home using gifted deposits.
As trusted estate agents, we’re here to make your property journey as smooth and informed as possible. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help you find the right property for sale in Billericay with the support of a gifted deposit.
