A family assist mortgage lets a relative (or sometimes a friend) help the buyer get a home by providing extra security. This help can be cash kept in a linked savings account, equity in the helper’s own home, or their income added to the loan. Because the extra security reduces the lender’s risk, buyers may be able to borrow up to 100% of the purchase price.

1. The buyer applies for a mortgage with a lender that offers a family assist option.
2. The helper either:
- Deposits savings (usually 10–20% of the purchase price) into a linked account
- Puts a legal charge on part of their own home’s equity
- Goes on the mortgage to boost the buyer’s income
3. The lender treats the helper’s contribution as extra security, so the buyer can borrow a larger loan, or purchase a property without putting any deposit down themselves.
4. If repayments are made on time, the helper’s savings or charge are released after an agreed period (typically 3–10 years).

If you choose to go with a family assist mortgage, which involves your helper depositing savings into a savings account held by the lender, the release period depends on the lender. Most hold the savings or equity for 3–10 years or until the mortgage balance falls below a set loan-to-value, usually 80–90%. If all repayments are up to date, the funds are returned with any interest earned, and any legal charge on the helper’s property is removed.