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First Home Scheme

What is the First Home Scheme?

The First Home Scheme is a government backed initiative designed to help first time buyers and eligible applicants bridge the gap between their mortgage, deposit, and the price of a new home. It is available across Ireland and can make purchasing a newly built home more achievable.

What the Scheme Does

The scheme provides a shared equity support. This means the government and participating banks can cover a portion of the purchase price in exchange for taking a percentage stake in your home. You own and live in the property as normal, and you can buy back the equity share at any time.

Who Can Apply

You may be eligible if:

  • You are a first-time buyer, or you qualify under the Fresh Start principle (e.g., following separation or insolvency).
  • You are purchasing a new-build home in a private development.
  • Your mortgage and deposit are not enough to cover the full purchase price.
  • The property price falls within the regional price ceilings set by the scheme.

 

Full eligibility criteria are available on the official First Home Scheme website.

How Much Support You Can Get

The scheme can provide up to 30% of the property price, or 20% if you are also using the Help to Buy scheme.

The exact amount depends on:

  • Your income
  • The property price
  • Your mortgage approval amount
  • Your personal savings and deposit

Key Features

  • You remain the homeowner and live in the property as your main residence.
  • No repayments are required on the equity share for the first five years.
  • From year six, service charges apply to the equity portion.
  • You can redeem (buy back) the equity share at any time, in full or in stages.

How to Apply

Applications are made directly through the First Home Scheme portal. You can learn more and start your application here:

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