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Why Newlyweds Are Asking for Homebuying Help Instead of Wedding Gifts

For many modern couples, something borrowed isn't just a tradition—it's part of the financial plan. Today’s newlyweds are increasingly prioritizing homeownership over material gifts, and their wedding guests (and parents) are playing a major role in helping them achieve that dream.


According to a recent LendingTree study, 48% of homeowners married in the past two years asked for financial help with a down payment instead of traditional wedding gifts like china sets or kitchen appliances. The trend is even stronger among specific groups:

  • 57% of men requested down payment assistance,

  • 53% of couples with children under 18 did the same,

  • 53% of newlyweds married within the past six months also chose home savings over registries.


"Gifts used to be dinnerware and candlesticks that sat unused," said Matt Schulz, LendingTree’s chief analyst. "Now, couples feel more comfortable asking for financial help toward a home or honeymoon."


At ReadySetLoan, we see firsthand how this cultural shift is helping buyers break into the market faster. "It's refreshing to see newlyweds being practical about their financial goals," says Neil Caron, Retail Sales Manager at CMG Mortgage. "Saving for a down payment remains one of the biggest hurdles for first-time buyers. Turning gift funds into real estate investments is a smart move that sets couples up for long-term success."


Parents Are Playing a Key Role


It’s not just wedding guests offering support. Among all newlywed homeowners, 71% received help from their parents—whether toward the wedding, the down payment, or both. In fact, 37% said their parents contributed to both expenses.

"Family support is often the missing link between renting and owning," explains Neil Caron. "Especially in today’s housing market, where affordability is still a major challenge, even a small gift from parents can dramatically change a couple’s buying power."


Meet HomeFundIt®: A Better Way to Turn Gifts Into a Home


For newlyweds wondering how to organize down payment gifts, CMG Mortgage’s HomeFundIt® platform is a game-changer. HomeFundIt® allows couples to create an online, wedding-style gift registry specifically for their home down payment. Friends and family can contribute easily and securely—and best of all, the funds are verified to meet mortgage guidelines, eliminating the paperwork hassles that often slow down the loan process.


"HomeFundIt® makes it seamless for couples to turn love and support into a real investment," says Neil Caron. "It’s perfect for newlyweds who want to focus on building a life together, not just building a wedding registry."


✅ No traditional gift letters needed for each contributor.✅ Contributions are properly tracked and documented for the mortgage.✅ Potential bonus contributions from participating merchants just for shopping online!



RSL Piggy Points 🐷


  • 48% of newlywed homeowners asked for down payment help instead of wedding gifts.

  • 71% of newlyweds received parental help with wedding and/or homebuying costs.

  • HomeFundIt® lets couples safely collect down payment gifts online—fast, easy, and mortgage-approved.


At ReadySetLoan, we specialize in helping couples and first-time buyers turn gifts into lasting investments. If you’re newly married (or about to be) and dreaming about owning your first home, we're ready to be your educational partner every step of the way.


Visit ReadySetLoan.com to learn more about using gift funds, exploring down payment assistance options, and taking the first step toward your happily-ever-after with HomeFundIt®!





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