Generation Rent is feeling slightly more optimistic about the possibility of getting on the property ladder as economic conditions improve.
But one in five still believe it is virtually impossible to obtain a mortgage to buy a first property given today's affordability problems.
The Halifax Generation Rent report has shown increasing levels of pessimism in recent years among both first-time buyers and their parents.
This has reversed slightly, with just 12% of parents saying it was "virtually impossible" to get on the property ladder, a figure that rose to 21% among prospective first-time buyers.
The latest improvement in optimism remains tentative, however, as many children are forced to move back to the family home.
This year 28% of parents said their children had moved back home, up from 24% in 2012.
Direct parental contributions towards the costs of a mortgage have remained steady, with homeowners the most helpful.
Halifax found that 57% of parents are likely to contribute towards their child's deposit, compared to just 24% of parents who rent.
And 24% of homeowners said they would be happy to be a guarantor on a mortgage, compared to just 7% of parents who rent.
As parental help is increasingly important, the children of existing homeowners should find the path to the property ladder easier than those whose parents rent.
Craig McKinlay, mortgage director, Halifax, said: "The Generation Rent Report shows a clear divide between parents and their children as regards optimism over getting on the housing ladder.
"In reality there are more mortgages available which require a 5% deposit and first-time buyer numbers are increasing.
"But whether it is giving their children a cash lump sum or providing a roof over their heads while they save, it is clear the bank of mum and dad will have a role to play in helping their children get on the property ladder for the foreseeable future."
Stephen Smith, director, Legal & General Mortgage Club and Housing, said rising house prices have made buying a home unaffordable for many, private rental costs are rising as well, making it difficult to safer deposit.
"Moving back in with parents allows some people to cut down on living costs so they can save money more quickly, but it is not an option for everyone."
Smith said a lack of housing is pushing up prices for those looking to rent as well as buy. "The Government promised to address this issue by building more houses and we need action on this now in order to reduce house price inflation and make homeownership an achievable goal for people looking to buy."
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