Gifted house deposit - feel guilty

[lowkeywhy12]

Parents have extremely kindly offered to put towards our deposit. We are saving constantly but struggling to save as we’re renting. They have paid their mortgage off but are both retired so I was shocked when they offered help. We haven’t fully decided on a property and are still looking but it’s likely this amount will be between 5-7k.
I feel very guilty about it as the upbringing they provided must have cost enough! My parents have brushed this off when I’ve told them I think it’s too generous and have simply replied, families look after each other/you’ll help us when we’re older/you’ll do it for your kids. Has anyone got any good ideas as to how we can repay them for this?

I find it really odd that you've said your upbringing must have cost enough. You didn't choose to be born, or brought up in any particular way, your family chose that. You don't need to be grateful for being born and raised...

I have two daughters and in a position to help them. My eldest bought her own place last year and I helped her with a deposit. She would not have been able to buy otherwise. Speaking from a parents point of view, it gives me pleasure to be able to help her and things are a lot harder for people now compared to when I was starting out. I am fortunate (but unfortunate in losing my mum) as able to use inheritance left to me. I would rather give to my children now whilst I am around to see them enjoy it rather than they wait until I was dead to get it. It is now that they need it, not when they are older. I don't think your parents will see it as in you need to pay back to them in any way. They will if like me just enjoy seeing you getting on the property ladder.

I get the guilty feeling. The deposit my parents gave me totalled a quarter of the cost of my house. I am very aware that I am beyond fortunate and I do feel badly that a lot of what I have is because of my mum and dad.

BUT my dad worked hard in his job to earn the wage he did and it makes him so happy to know that he can provide for my brother and I and help us out (especially since we both moved to one of the most expensive counties in the country for work 🙄)

I think feeling guilty shows you're not taking the gift lightly, you're appreciative and aware that it's a generous amount that not everyone will be lucky enough receive, which is a good attitude to have.

We helped two DC's with the deposit and will help third DC when the time comes. Better you now than HMRC down the road

It’s very normal, this may help - www.dailymail.co.uk/property/article-10288305/Bank-Mum-Dad-forking-32k-average-help-kids-buy-homes.html

Think nothing of it, most of us would do it for our kids if we could. Only thing to be wary of is siblings and all being treated fairly.