Thinking about buying a home in Donegal? 2025 has ushered in fresh opportunities and challenges. With property prices nationally up around 8 % year‑on‑year, Donegal remains comparatively affordable, especially in towns like Letterkenny. In this guide we explore local market trends, grants and neighbourhoods to help you make an informed purchase.
Overview of the local market
Donegal lies at the heart of Ireland’s Ulster. Key towns include Letterkenny, Buncrana, Donegal town, Ballybofey, Killybegs. Rugged headlands along the Wild Atlantic Way, the Slieve League cliffs and the Irish‑speaking Gaeltacht make Donegal unique. In 2025, housing supply across Ireland remains tight, so properties here continue to appreciate, though price growth in western and midland counties tends to lag the double‑digit increases seen in Dublin and the bigger cities. Buyers will find that three‑bed semi‑detached homes in the county are still priced below the national median, while sellers benefit from steady demand from commuters and remote workers.
Tips for Buyers
Start by considering your lifestyle. Do you want to live close to Atlantic Technological University Donegal (Letterkenny) or the major employers clustered in Letterkenny Business & Technology Park? Commuters favour areas along routes to Derry and the N15 to Sligo, where new estates offer energy‑efficient builds and easy access to bigger cities. Explore derelict cottages and farmhouses too — the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant can provide up to €50,000 towards doing up an old dwelling, and it’s a great way to create a bespoke home.
Work out your budget and talk to a mortgage broker early. Nationally, median asking prices now sit around €375,000, but in many parts of Donegal they’re much lower. First‑time buyers can reclaim income tax under the Help‑to‑Buy scheme and bridge any gap through the First Home Scheme, while Shared Equity options are available for qualifying new builds. Remember that you must live in the home for five years if you claim these incentives.
County Comparisons
Donegal sits alongside counties like Derry, Leitrim and Fermanagh. While major cities such as Dublin saw price growth of around 12 % and rents jumping nearly 19 % in Limerick, midland and western counties experienced steadier increases. Affordability remains a strong selling point here compared to high‑priced counties such as Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow. Yet improved transport links mean that commuter towns in Donegal are closing the gap.
Local Schemes & Supports
Beyond national programmes like Help‑to‑Buy and the First Home Scheme, local authorities often run affordable purchase schemes and low‑cost loans. Check with the Donegal County Council for schemes to refurbish vacant properties or to assist older homeowners in downsizing. If you’re in Northern Ireland, Co‑Ownership and the FairShare programme help first‑time buyers get on the ladder by purchasing part of a property and paying rent on the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Donegal affordable for first‑time buyers?
Homes in Donegal remain among the better‑value options in 2025. Typical three‑bed semis in towns like Donegal town and nearby villages often cost less than the national median, making it attractive for first‑time purchasers. Price growth has been around 8 % year‑on‑year, so it’s wise to budget for further increases.
What incentives can I use?
Eligible buyers can combine the government’s Help‑to‑Buy tax rebate of up to €30,000 with the First Home shared equity scheme, which covers up to 30 % of the purchase price for a new build. Local Authority mortgages and vacant‑home refurbishment grants may also help if you’re renovating a derelict cottage.
Where are new developments happening in Donegal?
New estates are springing up around growing towns. In Donegal, check out developments near major commuter roads and local business parks — they’re popular with families and tend to hold their value.
Ready to take the next step on your property journey? Visit FindQo.ie for tailored listings, expert advice and tools to help you rent, buy, sell or share in Donegal.
