I am a reporter for a nationally syndicated real estate section published weekly in newspapers across the country. I’m looking to interview real estate experts for the following article, with a deadline of Nov. 18, 2014:

STORY: TAPPING INTO GIFTS AND LOANS FROM LOVED ONES FOR THE DOWN PAYMENT ON A HOME. According to an annual survey released last week by the National Association of Realtors (details at: tinyurl.com/pox5prg), 26% of first-time buyers helped raise down payment funds by receiving a gift from a friend or relative – most likely their parents – and 6 percent received a loan from a relative or friend. This article will explore ways to ask a relative/friend/loved one for a gift or personal loan for down payment funds, and how these strategies can affect your ability to qualify for a mortgage as well as their tax ramifications. I’m looking to interview lenders, property attorneys, agents/brokers, and other housing experts for this article. Please e-mail me back your interest, availability and phone number. My deadline is noon central time, Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2014.

QUESTIONS:
1. Were you surprised by the NAR survey findings (26% of first-time buyers helped raise down payment funds by receiving a gift from a friend or relative – most likely their parents – and 6 percent received a loan from a relative or friend) in any way? Why/why not?
2. What are the advantages of receiving a financial gift/loan from a friend/relative that you can use as a home purchase down payment?
3. What are the disadvantages, including any tax ramifications or impact on your ability to qualify for a mortgage?
4. How can a prospective home purchaser best pursue this strategy—is there a tactful way to ask a loved one/friend for a “gift” or loan? What do you recommend here?
5. How should a personal loan be structured and what terms should be included, in your opinion? What is fair to expect when you’re the recipient of a personal loan (e.g., a low interest rate, a flexible repayment schedule, etc.)?
6. Are there any other strategies you would suggest pursuing outside of seeking a gift/loan from a friend/relative to help fund the down payment?
7. Any other thoughts, tips, suggestions on this topic that I failed to ask about?
What is your full name, title, company, and location where you are based?