Is getting help from your parents really the golden ticket into the property market or could it actually be setting you up for financial trouble? In this episode, we break down the real risks of the Bank of Mum and Dad, especially for first home buyers who aren’t financially prepared to take on home ownership.

We talk about what happens when buyers skip key money lessons; like budgeting, tracking expenses, and preparing for ongoing costs, simply because they’ve had a leg-up from family. The data is sobering: first home buyers who get parental help are three times more likely to default on their loans in the first three years. That stat alone should make you think twice about rushing in.

Beyond finances, there are emotional strings and expectations that often come with family support. Whether it’s influence over what you buy or where you live, or unclear repayment terms, these dynamics can lead to stress and conflict if not handled properly. That’s why we share tips on how to approach these conversations with clarity and boundaries.

This episode is packed with practical advice to help you make smarter decisions around family support. We explore how to build financial discipline, structure repayment agreements, and use parental help as a tool, not a crutch. If you’re considering accepting help, or already have, don’t miss this honest conversation about the often-overlooked risks of the Bank of Mum and Dad and how to avoid falling into them.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction

02:51 - BOMAD is now the fifth-largest lender

03:40 - The danger of skipping the financial learning curve

07:18 - Why parental help increases the risk of loan default

08:55 - Building financial habits before borrowing

12:27 - Hidden costs first-time buyers forget

13:26 - How family help can influence buying decisions

15:49 - A smarter way to structure parental help

19:10 - Use parental help to increase your deposit, not your budget

21:24 - Be realistic about interest rate changes

22:11 - How to make the most of a rare privilege

Course Details:

• The First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It's the next best thing to having your own buyer's agent. With our expert guidance, you'll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG

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