what s the difference between a gift of equity and a cash gift for a home purchase 
a gift of equity involves transferring part of a home s value as a gift while a cash gift is a direct transfer of money both can help a loved one purchase a home but a gift of equity is specific to real estate transactions eliminating the need for a cash transfer for the down payment or dealing with a third party in the sale of a property can a gift of equity be used in estate planning yes a gift of equity can be a part of estate planning it permits homeowners to transfer property to family members or other loved ones while still alive potentially reducing future estate taxes this could help ensure that the property remains within the family 