Buying your first home is a major milestone, but it can also be financially daunting. Fortunately, the Irish government offers several grants and schemes designed to help first time buyers get onto the property ladder. These supports aim to ease the burden of deposits, stamp duty, and Grants for first time buyers, making homeownership more accessible.
If you’re a first time buyer in Ireland wondering what help is available and how to apply, this guide covers everything you need to know—from the main grants and schemes to eligibility criteria and application tips.
The rising property prices and costs associated with buying a home—such as stamp duty, solicitor fees, and mortgage deposits—can make it challenging for first time buyers to save enough money.
Grants and schemes provide essential financial assistance by:
Reducing upfront costs
Making mortgage repayments more affordable
Encouraging homeownership and stability
Supporting the government’s housing strategy
The Help to Buy Scheme is designed to assist first time buyers in purchasing or building a new home.
What it Offers:
A tax refund of up to 10% of the purchase price, capped at €30,000.
Eligibility:
You must be a first time buyer buying or building a new home in Ireland.
The property price must not exceed €500,000.
You must have paid income tax and PRSI in Ireland for at least four tax years in the previous six years.
How to Apply:
Apply through Revenue after your home purchase completes. The refund is given as a lump sum to help with deposit or other expenses.
This government-backed scheme helps you buy a share in a newly built home and pay rent on the remainder.
What it Offers:
Purchase between 30% and 70% share of a new home, with the government retaining the rest.
Eligibility:
First time buyers who can’t afford to buy outright.
Income limits apply based on household size.
How to Apply:
Register interest with local authorities or approved housing bodies. Shared ownership gives you the option to buy more shares later.
Local authorities provide loans to first time buyers who meet income and property criteria.
What it Offers:
Affordable home loans with competitive interest rates, typically for purchasing or building a home.
Eligibility:
Must be a first time buyer.
Income limits and property price caps apply.
How to Apply:
Apply directly through your local authority housing office.
Though recently scaled back, some mortgage interest relief may still be available for certain buyers.
First time buyers purchasing a home under €500,000 may be eligible for a stamp duty exemption or relief.
It is crucial to confirm eligibility with your solicitor during the purchase process.
Though not a direct grant for buying, this scheme supports home improvements, which can benefit new homeowners.
Each scheme has its own criteria, but general requirements include:
Being a first time buyer (never previously owned property in Ireland or abroad).
Meeting income thresholds specific to the scheme.
Purchasing a new build home (some schemes exclude second-hand properties).
Complying with property price caps.
Having a mortgage approval or financing in place.
Understand which schemes suit your financial situation and housing goals.
Review income limits, property types, and purchase price caps.
Have a mortgage agreed in principle to show lenders and grant bodies.
You’ll typically need:
Proof of income (payslips, tax returns)
Identification (passport, driving license)
Proof of deposit and savings
Contract for the property purchase
Apply online or through your solicitor or mortgage broker depending on the scheme.
Stay in contact with grant authorities to track your application.
Apply as early as possible once you have a property in mind.
Work with experienced mortgage brokers and solicitors familiar with first time buyer grants.
Keep thorough records and submit complete applications.
Attend information sessions or workshops offered by local authorities or housing bodies.
Yes, some grants can be combined, such as Help to Buy with local authority loans, but check specific terms.
Many schemes require new builds, but some local authority loans apply to second-hand homes.
Both buyers must meet first time buyer criteria, or only the first time buyer’s eligibility will apply.
Yes, most grants have income caps that vary by household size and scheme.
The Irish grants for buying your first home valuable grants and schemes to support first time buyers, making it easier to own your home despite rising property costs. Understanding what’s available, ensuring you meet eligibility criteria, and applying correctly are key steps toward securing your dream home.
If you’re ready to take the first step on your homeownership journey, exploring these grants could save you thousands of euros and reduce financial stress.