Two government-backed schemes can significantly cut the upfront cost of buying your first home in Ireland — the Help to Buy (HTB) scheme and the First Home Scheme (FHS). This guide explains how both work, who qualifies, and how to use them together to maximise your buying power.
A Revenue tax rebate that refunds income tax and DIRT paid over the previous four years — paid directly to your developer as part of your deposit.
Up to €30,000A shared equity arrangement where the government co-invests in your home, bridging the gap between your mortgage and the purchase price.
Up to 30% of valueWhat is the Help to Buy Scheme?
The Help to Buy scheme is a tax rebate designed to help first-time buyers fund the deposit on a newly built home. Administered by Revenue, it allows eligible buyers to claim back income tax and DIRT paid over the previous four tax years.
How much can you claim?
You can claim up to 10% of the purchase price of a new build, subject to a maximum rebate of €30,000. The exact amount is capped at the total income tax and DIRT you have paid over the previous four years.
| Detail | Help to Buy (HTB) |
|---|---|
| Maximum rebate | €30,000 or 10% of purchase price (lower applies) |
| Property type | New build only (self-builds also eligible) |
| Property price cap | €500,000 |
| Administered by | Revenue Commissioners |
| When paid | Directly to the developer or into your self-build account |
Who qualifies for Help to Buy?
To be eligible, you must meet all of the following:
Note: Applications for the Help to Buy Incentive close on 31 December 2029. However, if you have signed a contract to purchase a property and your application has been approved before this date, you may still draw down the grant after 31 December 2029. Please note that if the sale of your property does not complete within two years of the grant drawdown date, Revenue may seek repayment of the grant amount.
What is the First Home Scheme?
The First Home Scheme is an equity-sharing arrangement between the Irish government, participating lenders, and first-time buyers. Rather than a cash rebate, the scheme tops up your mortgage by taking a percentage stake in your home — the government co-owns a share of your property alongside you.
How much can you receive?
The First Home Scheme can provide up to 30% of the market value of a property (or up to 20% if you are also using the Help to Buy scheme). The minimum equity stake is 2.5%.
| Detail | First Home Scheme (FHS) |
|---|---|
| Maximum equity stake | Up to 30% (or 20% if also using HTB) |
| Minimum equity stake | 2.5% of property value |
| Property type | New build only |
| Dublin price cap | €500,000 |
| Other counties | €400,000–€475,000 depending on location |
| Charges | None for years 1–5; service charge applies from year 6 |
Who qualifies for the First Home Scheme?
Do you have to repay the First Home Scheme?
Can You Use Both Schemes Together?
Yes — and this is where the real benefit lies. HTB and FHS are designed to be used in combination. Using HTB first reduces the equity stake required from the First Home Scheme, keeping your long-term co-ownership percentage as low as possible.
Using Help to Buy first is the smartest move — it reduces the slice of equity the First Home Scheme needs to take, meaning you own more of your home from day one.
— McGrath Group Property GuidesWorked example
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Both Schemes
Frequently Asked Questions
Thinking About Your First Home?
Our team can walk you through the developments currently available and help you understand exactly how these schemes apply to your situation.
View Our DevelopmentsThis article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Scheme rules, caps, and eligibility criteria are subject to change. Always consult a qualified financial adviser and solicitor before making a property purchase. McGrath Group, 2026.