Homes are advertised scheme by scheme on council websites and NewStarterHomes.ie. There's no single waiting list, so watch for your area.
Quick facts
- Council stake
- 5% to 40%
- Income test
- 4 × income under 85.5% of market value
- Deposit
- At least 10%
- Savings allowed
- Deposit + €30,000
- Buy back
- Within 40 years, or on sale
- Who
- First-time buyers, fresh start
How it works
"The Starter Home Purchase Scheme helps people on moderate incomes to buy new homes at reduced prices. This scheme was previously called the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme, but in 2026 the name changed to the Starter Home Purchase Scheme."
"The local authority takes a percentage stake in your home that covers the reduction in price. So, if you buy the home at a 20% discount, the local authority has a 20% stake in your home." "The maximum equity share the local authority can have in your home is 40% and the minimum is 5%."
Who qualifies
You must be a first-time buyer, or a 'fresh start' applicant after separation, divorce, insolvency or bankruptcy. Multiply your gross income by 4: "Your purchasing power must be less than 85.5% of the open market value of the affordable home."
"You must have a minimum deposit of 10% of the purchase price of the home." On savings: "You can have the money to cover the deposit for the home and an additional €30,000." Anything above that counts towards your purchasing power.
Applying and buying back
"You apply for affordable homes as they become available and are advertised. There is no central application system." Look on your council's website and NewStarterHomes.ie. Help to Buy and the Local Authority Home Loan can be combined.
"You must buy back the local authority's stake after 40 years or if you sell your home." You can pay it off early in parts. "However, the minimum repayment is €10,000." The stake is a percentage, so it grows if prices rise.
Common questions
What is the Starter Home Purchase Scheme?
The 2026 name for the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme: new homes sold at a discount, with the council taking a 5% to 40% stake.
How much deposit do I need for the Starter Home Purchase Scheme?
At least 10% of the purchase price.
How do I apply for an affordable home from the council?
Each council advertises schemes as homes become available, on its website and NewStarterHomes.ie. There's no central list.
Do I have to pay back the council's share?
Yes, within 40 years or when you sell, in one go or in parts of at least €10,000.