Family support proves crucial as property values surge in capital city
Brisbane’s property market is seeing a notable increase in first-home buyers, many of whom are relying on support from Gen X parents to purchase their first properties as rising prices continue to challenge affordability for younger Australians.
Recent data from Finder’s First Home Buyer Report 2025 shows that 17% of first-home buyers across Australia received financial help from their parents, a figure that has grown by more than half since 2022. In Brisbane, where the median house price now exceeds $1 million and unit prices are nearing $750,000, such assistance is playing a crucial role.
“Brisbane’s property values have surged nearly 80% over five years, but what’s remarkable is the resilience and resourcefulness of first-home buyers,” said Zoran Solano (pictured top), buyers’ agent at Hot Property Buyers Agency. “We’re seeing a new generation – especially single women – who’ve saved diligently and are now using strategic tools like buyers’ agents, guarantor loans, and early inheritances to secure their future.”
From Oct. 1, changes to the Federal Government’s Home Guarantee Scheme will remove scheme place and income limits and increase property price caps. These adjustments will allow more first home buyers to enter the market with a 5% deposit and without the need for Lenders Mortgage Insurance.
Research from Cotality indicates that Brisbane’s dwelling values have increased by 78.3% over five years, second only to Perth. Despite these increases, many first-home buyers are still finding ways to purchase homes, often with help from Gen X parents, who are sometimes referred to as the “Sandwich Generation” due to their dual responsibilities supporting both children and ageing parents.
“These families aren’t just helping financially, they’re empowering the next generation to build wealth and stability,” Solano said. “It’s a quiet revolution in how Australians are approaching property ownership.”
Another study, The Sandwich Generation Report 2025, found that nearly 70% of respondents expect to provide more financial support to their families over the next five years. More than 80% are already assisting younger generations, highlighting the prevalence of intergenerational support.
Solano also noted a significant rise in enquiries from first-home buyers since the beginning of the year, particularly from those seeking advice in a competitive market. “We’re seeing first-home buyers take a more proactive and informed approach to entering the market,” he said. “With access to professional guidance and family support, many are making well-considered decisions that are prioritising long-term housing security as well as property aspirations.”
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