In mortgage terminology, who is the individual that gifts money for a home purchase without expecting repayment?

The appropriate term for an individual who gifts money to facilitate a home purchase without anticipating repayment is a donor. Donors provide funds as a gift, often to assist family members or friends in achieving home ownership. This financial aid does not require any repayment and is usually associated with programs aimed at helping first-time homebuyers or assisting with down payment requirements.

In the context of mortgage transactions, a donor's contribution can be crucial for buyers who may not have adequate savings for a down payment. This distinguishes the role of a donor from other options such as a benefactor, who generally provides support but may not specify the nature of the funds regarding real estate; an investor, who typically seeks a financial return on their investment; and a lender, who provides money with the expectation of repayment plus interest.