IPD

First-Time Buyer's Guide

Everything you need to know about buying your first home in Ireland

Help to Buy
Calculate your tax relief
Affordability
What can you borrow?
Stamp Duty
Calculate your tax
The Buying Process
Step-by-step guide to purchasing your first home
1

Check Your Budget

Banks can lend up to 3.5x your gross annual income. Calculate what you can afford.

2

Save Your Deposit

First-time buyers need at least 10% deposit. The more you save, the better rates you'll get.

3

Get Mortgage Approval

Apply for Approval in Principle (AIP) before you start viewing properties.

4

Find Your Property

Search for properties within your budget. Consider location, transport links, and amenities.

5

Make an Offer

Research comparable prices in the area. Be prepared to negotiate.

6

Complete the Purchase

Hire a solicitor, get a survey, and finalise your mortgage. Allow 8-12 weeks to close.

Help to Buy Scheme
Up to €30,000
Tax relief for first-time buyers purchasing new homes
  • Available for new build properties only
  • Maximum property value: €500,000
  • Relief up to 10% of purchase price
  • Maximum relief: €30,000
  • Based on income tax paid in last 4 years
  • Must be a first-time buyer
Buying Costs
Budget for these costs in addition to the purchase price

Deposit

Of purchase price

10% minimum

Stamp Duty

On first €1M

1%

Legal Fees

Solicitor costs

€2,000-€4,000

Survey

Property inspection

€300-€500

Valuation

Bank requirement

€150-€300
Central Bank Mortgage Rules

Loan-to-Income (LTI) Limit

Banks can lend up to 3.5 times your gross annual income. Joint applicants can combine their incomes.

Loan-to-Value (LTV) Limit

First-time buyers need a minimum 10% deposit. Non-first-time buyers need at least 20%.

Ready to Start Your Search?

Browse property prices and find areas that match your budget