It has become acceptable and increasingly common for couples to ask wedding guests for monetary contributions towards a home down payment. Nearly 90% of couples are now including cash requests in their wedding registries. A significant portion, almost 40%, are specifically using these funds to purchase a new home or relocate.
This shift reflects the current housing market, where home prices have soared to near-record highs, and mortgage rates are hovering around 7%. According to a Realtor.com survey, 85% of couples who created a registry in the past two years would have preferred cash for a down payment over traditional gifts. Furthermore, 80% indicated that, if given the chance to redo their registry, they would include an option for guests to contribute to housing-related costs like down payments, monthly mortgage payments, or closing costs.
Experts note that this trend makes sense given the economic realities. Couples are prioritizing financial milestones like homeownership over items they may not need, such as china or blenders. This phenomenon is particularly prevalent among younger couples who still aspire to achieve the American dream of homeownership despite the challenges posed by high home prices and interest rates. The total amount given by guests can vary, with suggestions ranging from $150 to $250 per gift.
