The ‘Bank of Mum’ Is More Than Money in Today’s Property Market

With Mother’s Day approaching, Harcourts highlights the growing role of mums in helping Australians into property — financially and emotionally.

As affordability pressures continue to shape Australia’s property market, a familiar trend is taking on new meaning — the growing role of the “Bank of Mum”, not just as a financial backer, but as a source of guidance, reassurance and support across life’s biggest decisions.

According to Harcourts Australia, family involvement is becoming an increasingly important factor in helping first-home buyers navigate a complex and often challenging market.

Adrian Knowles, CEO of Harcourts Australia, said while financial assistance remains important, the emotional and practical support provided by parents — particularly mothers — is often just as valuable.

“Like many Australians, I had help from my mum getting into my first home — but it wasn’t just financial,” Knowles said.

“The emotional support, the confidence, and having someone in your corner can be just as important as the dollars.”

Knowles said in today’s environment, where interest rates, affordability and competition remain front of mind, having a trusted voice to help guide decisions can make a significant difference for buyers entering the market.

“For many first-home buyers, it’s not just about getting a foot in the door — it’s about having the confidence to take that step,” he said.

“We’re increasingly seeing parents involved throughout the entire journey, from attending open homes to helping assess value and providing reassurance during negotiations.”

The trend reflects a broader shift in how property decisions are being made, with family playing a more active role in both financial and non-financial support.

While not all buyers have access to this level of support, Knowles said its growing influence is shaping the way agents work with first-home buyers.

“In today’s market, buying property is rarely a solo effort,” he said.

“Family support — whether financial, emotional or practical — is becoming a key part of the equation.”

With Mother’s Day approaching, the role of mums in particular is coming into sharper focus, not just as financial contributors, but as trusted advisors helping the next generation make one of the biggest decisions of their lives.

As the market continues to evolve, Harcourts expects the influence of family support to remain a defining factor for many first-home buyers navigating their path into property.