Buying your first home is a huge milestone, but in Ireland’s rising property market, it can also be one of the biggest financial challenges. Many potential homeowners struggle to bridge the gap between savings, mortgage limits, and house prices. Fortunately, several buying property schemes have been introduced by the Irish government to help ease that burden.
If you’re a first-time buyer or someone re-entering the market after personal or financial changes, this guide explains the top government supports available. From equity-based options to tax rebates, we will break down how each scheme works, who is eligible, and how to apply.
What Is a Buying Property Scheme?
A buying property scheme is any structured initiative from the government designed to support homebuyers financially or logistically. These schemes aim to help people secure their first home by reducing costs, offering shared ownership, or extending lending capacity.
In Ireland, the government has created multiple avenues under this approach, each tailored to different needs such as deposit shortfalls, affordability challenges, or access to new builds.
Why Government Schemes Matter for First-Time Buyers
Property prices, especially in urban areas like Dublin, Cork, and Galway, have made homeownership difficult without support. The average first-time buyer cannot always match mortgage lending rules with high purchase prices. That’s why government schemes for home buyers in Ireland play a vital role.
They can:
- Reduce upfront costs
- Increase loan approval chances
- Provide equity support
- Offer tax refunds
- Expand housing options
Let’s take a look at the most important schemes available today.
1. Help to Buy (HTB) Scheme
The Help to Buy Scheme offers first-time buyers a tax refund of up to €30,000. This refund is based on the income tax and DIRT you’ve paid over the previous four years and can be used towards your deposit for a new-build home.
How It Helps
- Covers up to 10 percent of the property price
- Eases the pressure of saving for a deposit
- Works well alongside other buying property schemes
Eligibility
- Must be a first-time buyer
- Property must be newly built and under €500,000
- Must have mortgage approval for at least 70 percent of the property value
- Property must be your primary residence
This scheme is often used in combination with the First Home Scheme, making it one of the most popular first-time buyer property support options available.
2. First Home Scheme
The First Home Scheme is a shared equity scheme where the government takes a percentage equity share in your home in exchange for financial support. This helps bridge the affordability gap between your mortgage and the property price.
How It Helps
- Covers up to 30 percent of the property price
- No interest or repayments required until you sell, remortgage, or buy out the government share
Eligibility
- First-time buyer or ‘Fresh Start’ applicant (following separation or bankruptcy)
- Property must be newly built and within local price ceilings
- Income and mortgage must meet affordability conditions
This buying property scheme is ideal for those who qualify for a mortgage but still fall short of the required amount to buy a home.
3. Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme
Under this initiative, homes are offered at a reduced price by local councils. The discount represents an equity share held by the council, repayable only if the home is sold or refinanced.
How It Helps
- Access to new-build homes at reduced prices
- Up to 30 percent discount available
- Supportive for those outside social housing thresholds
Eligibility
- First-time buyers or Fresh Start applicants
- Income limits apply based on location
- Deposit and mortgage requirements must be met
This is one of the most accessible help to buy and housing schemes in Ireland for buyers who are financially stable but priced out of their local market.
4. Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan
This scheme provides low-interest loans to first-time buyers through their local authorities. It’s targeted at those who have been refused a mortgage by two mainstream lenders.
How It Helps
- Offers fixed interest rates for up to 30 years
- Allows borrowing up to 90 percent of the property value
Eligibility
- First-time buyer aged between 18 and 70
- Max gross income of €70,000 (couples) or €50,000 (single applicants)
- Must be unable to secure a mortgage elsewhere
This is an important first-time buyer property support option for individuals with steady incomes but little access to conventional lending.
How to Choose the Right Buying Property Scheme
With multiple supports available, choosing the right one depends on your personal circumstances. Here’s how to approach your decision:
Consider Your Deposit
If saving a deposit is your biggest hurdle, the Help to Buy Scheme may be most beneficial.
Review Your Mortgage Eligibility
If your mortgage approval falls short of the required property price, consider combining Help to Buy with the First Home Scheme.
Look at New Build Availability
Some schemes are only valid for new-build homes, so check local developments listed on platforms like FindQo.ie for eligible properties.
Seek Advice
Speak to a financial advisor or mortgage broker who understands how these schemes work in practice and can help you combine options where possible.
How to Apply for These Schemes
Application processes vary slightly across schemes, but they generally include:
- Proof of First-Time Buyer Status
- Mortgage Approval in Principle
- Proof of Income and Employment
- Completion of the Online Application Forms
Each scheme will also require documentation and may involve legal agreements. It is important to apply early, as some schemes are tied to specific developments with limited units.
Final Thoughts on Buying Property Schemes in Ireland
If you’re entering the housing market for the first time, exploring a buying property scheme could be the smartest financial move you make. Whether it’s through a shared equity agreement or tax rebate, these supports are designed to empower you to move from renting to owning.
Ireland’s range of government schemes for home buyers gives you flexibility, control, and a clear pathway toward sustainable homeownership.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
At FindQo.ie, we bring clarity to your property journey. Discover available schemes, browse new home listings, and connect with agents who specialise in helping first-time buyers like you.
Visit FindQo.ie today to start your journey with the right buying property scheme and make your dream of owning a home in Ireland a reality.
