First-Time Buyer Grants and Schemes in Ireland Explained: A Complete Guide for New Home Buyers

Buying a home is one of the biggest milestones in life, and for new home buyers in Ireland, the journey can feel both exciting and overwhelming. The good news? There’s a range of government-backed supports designed to make the process easier, especially for first-time buyers. Whether you’re wondering about first-time buyer grants in Ireland, or simply want to understand how to apply for first-time buyer support, this guide breaks it all down.

Let’s explore the key schemes available, who’s eligible, and how you can take full advantage of them.

What Support Is Available for New Home Buyers in Ireland?

In recent years, the Irish Government has introduced several initiatives aimed at helping new home buyers get on the property ladder. These schemes are especially relevant in today’s market where property prices remain high, and saving for a deposit is a major hurdle for many.

Three of the most important supports include:

Help to Buy Scheme
First Home Scheme
Local Authority Home Loan

Each of these is tailored to support different aspects of the buying process. Below, we’ll look at how each scheme works and who can apply.

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Help to Buy Scheme: Getting a Boost on Your Deposit

The Help to Buy (HTB) Scheme is one of the most well-known supports for new home buyers. It offers a refund of income tax and Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT) paid over the previous four years. The idea is to help first-time buyers fund the deposit needed to buy or build a new home.

Key Points:

You must be a first-time buyer.
The property must be newly built (not second-hand).
The rebate can be up to 10% of the property value or €30,000 (whichever is lower).
The property must cost €500,000 or less.

This scheme has helped thousands of new home buyers bridge the gap between their savings and the required deposit.

How to Apply:

Applications are made through Revenue’s online system. You’ll need to provide documentation such as mortgage approval, a signed contract, and proof of tax compliance. If you’re wondering how to apply for first-time buyer support in Ireland, this scheme is a straightforward place to start.

First Home Scheme: Bridging the Affordability Gap

For many new home buyers, even with the HTB rebate, affording a mortgage can be a challenge. That’s where the First Home Scheme (FHS) comes in.

This shared equity scheme allows the Government to take a stake of up to 30% in your home to reduce the amount you need to borrow. It’s not a loan in the traditional sense. You don’t repay the equity straight away, and no repayments are due for the first five years.

Key Points:

Available to first-time buyers and other eligible groups (e.g., divorced or separated individuals).
Applicable to newly built homes in private developments.
Combined income limit of €75,000 (for single applicants) or €150,000 (joint applicants).
The buyer must have mortgage approval of at least 70% of the property price.

This scheme provides a useful lifeline for new home buyers priced out of the market, particularly in cities where affordability is a major concern.

How to Apply:

Visit FindQo.ie and complete the eligibility checker. You’ll need your mortgage details and information about the property you’re purchasing. You’ll also work with your lender and solicitor to finalise the agreement.

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Local Authority Home Loan: For Buyers Struggling with Mortgage Approval

If you’ve been refused a mortgage by two banks or lending institutions, the Local Authority Home Loan offers another pathway to home ownership. It’s a Government-backed mortgage for new home buyers on modest incomes.

Key Points:

Maximum income: €70,000 (couple) or €50,000 (single applicant).
Available for both new and second-hand homes.
Maximum loan: €320,000 in Dublin, Cork, Galway, and other designated areas.
Fixed interest rates starting from 3.35%.

This loan makes home ownership more accessible for buyers who may not qualify under standard bank criteria.

How to Apply:

You’ll apply directly through your local council. Expect to provide proof of income, mortgage refusals, bank statements, and identification. Approval is subject to your financial standing and the price of the property.

Other Incentives and Supports for New Home Buyers

Aside from the main grants and schemes, there are other smaller supports and regional incentives worth knowing about:

Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant: Offers up to €70,000 to renovate vacant homes in rural towns and villages.
Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan (previous version of LAHL): Still applies to some legacy applicants.
Exemption from Local Property Tax (LPT): Newly built homes may qualify for a temporary exemption.

These additional options can further reduce the financial strain on new home buyers, especially those willing to renovate or move outside the big cities.

Things to Know Before You Apply

Before jumping into applications, keep the following in mind:

Eligibility varies – Check the specific income limits, property types, and geographic restrictions.
Documentation is critical – Ensure your paperwork is complete and up to date.
You may be eligible for more than one scheme – Many buyers combine the Help to Buy with the First Home Scheme.
Schemes are subject to change – Budget updates and policy shifts can affect what’s available.

For the most accurate and updated information, speak with a mortgage broker, estate agent, or directly with scheme administrators.

Final Thoughts for New Home Buyers

There’s never been more support available for new home buyers in Ireland. From tax rebates to shared equity schemes and local authority loans, these supports are designed to help turn your homeownership dream into a reality.

But navigating the options can be daunting. That’s where expert guidance comes in.

If you’re ready to take the next step towards buying your first home, FindQo.ie is here to help. Our platform connects you with trusted estate agents, financial advisors, and property experts who understand the Irish market inside and out.