Credit contribution – what if not cash?

Own contribution is an essential element of a mortgage, which can be a big financial challenge for many borrowers. Although it is most often identified with cash, law and banks also allow other forms of making their own contribution. What are the alternatives?

Does your own contribution always have to mean money? Experts of the Gethome.pl portal decided to check what is worth knowing in 2025 when planning to buy a flat on credit.

What is own contribution and why is it required?

The own contribution is part of the property value that the borrower must cover from his own funds – regardless of whether it is money or other assets. It provides collateral for the bank and reduces the risk of granting a loan. In Poland, in accordance with the recommendation of the Polish Financial Supervision Authority, the minimum own contribution is 20% of the property value. It is possible to reduce it to 10%, but only if you are purchased by additional low -contribution insurance, which increases the cost of the entire loan.

What is 20% of your own contribution in 2025?

In 2025, housing prices in Poland continue to persist at a high level. By assuming the purchase of a M with an area of ​​50 m², the value of the property and own contribution is as follows:

As you can see, the own contribution can be from PLN 88,840 to even PLN 177,908 depending on the location. Not everyone has this amount. Are there other possibilities?

Own contribution – not just cash

Although cash is the simplest and most common form of own contribution, there are several other solutions that banks can accept. Here are the most important of them:

1. Value of the construction plot

If you plan to build a house and you are the owner of the plot, its value can be included in your own contribution. The condition is that the plot should be your property and have a regulated legal status (legible land and mortgage register, no loads).

2. Value of another property

Do you have a flat, house or commercial premises? Their value can also be considered as own contribution – especially if the property is unsatisfied and can be used as additional loan collateral.

3. Construction works made with an economic system

In the case of building a house, the value of already completed works – e.g. a flooded foundation or a completed installation – can be included in the own contribution. However, the appraiser's valuation and documentation confirming the progress of construction will be necessary.

4. Building materials

Previously purchased building materials (e.g. bricks, reinforcing steel, windows) can also be considered as own contribution, provided that they are used to build the property to which the loan applies.

5. Bonus from a housing booklet

Although rare, the warranty bonus from a housing book can be used as part of its own contribution – if specific conditions of its use are met.

When is the own contribution not required?

Theoretically, some banks offer 90% or even 100% of the property value – but it is very rare today and usually involves a higher interest rate, additional insurance costs and the need to have high creditworthiness. Since 2023, such cases have occurred mainly as part of government programs, e.g. “Safe 2%Credit” (currently quenched) or its potential successors. For now, however, there is no new housing program with support for borrowers.

What to watch out for with an alternative own contribution?

• Valuation – the bank will always be based on an appraisal applied by an appraiser. It may turn out that the value of the plot or materials is lower than you assumed.
• Documentation – each alternative own contribution must be properly documented. Formal deficiencies may result in its rejection.
• Security – when bringing real estate as a own contribution, the bank may want to charge it with a mortgage as an additional loan collateral.

Flexibility under the rules

Own contribution is an important, but not always limiting element of the mortgage. Although cash is the simplest form, banks also accept other assets as a contribution. If you do not have a lot of cash, but you have a plot, a different property or investing in construction – it is worth considering alternatives.

Remember: Before you decide on a loan, consult a financial or credit advisor. It will not only help you choose the right offer, but also optimize how to make your own contribution. The property is an investment for years – it is worth preparing for it with your head.

Marcin Moneta

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