How Much Deposit Do You Need?
In Ireland, first-time buyers need a minimum 10% deposit of the purchase price. For a €350,000 home, that's €35,000.
| Property Price | 10% Deposit | With HTB (€30k) |
|---|---|---|
| €300,000 | €30,000 | €0 + fees |
| €350,000 | €35,000 | €5,000 |
| €400,000 | €40,000 | €10,000 |
| €500,000 | €50,000 | €20,000 |
Saving Strategies
1. Set a Target and Timeline
Work backwards from your target. If you need €35,000 and can save €1,200 per month, you'll reach your goal in about 30 months (2.5 years).
2. Open a Dedicated Savings Account
Lenders want to see a track record of saving. A dedicated deposit savings account shows discipline. Regular standing orders help prove your ability to make monthly mortgage payments.
3. Use a Rent-to-Own or Rent-as-Savings Scheme
Some local authorities and approved housing bodies offer rent-to-own arrangements where part of your rent is credited toward your deposit.
4. Consider the Help to Buy Scheme
If buying a new-build home, the HTB scheme can provide up to €30,000 — dramatically reducing the savings you need.
Local Authority Home Loan
The Local Authority Home Loan (formerly Rebuilding Ireland Home Loan) is a government-backed mortgage for first-time buyers who cannot get a sufficient mortgage from a bank.
- Maximum loan amount: Varies by county (up to €360,000 in some areas)
- Interest rate: Fixed at 3.15% – 3.85% (2026 rates)
- Deposit: As low as 10%
- Eligibility: You must have been refused a mortgage by at least 2 banks
Grants and Supports
Help to Buy (HTB)
Up to €30,000 tax rebate for new-build homes. Read our full HTB guide →
First Home Scheme (FHS)
Shared equity of up to 30% to bridge the gap. Read our full FHS guide →
Local Authority Affordable Housing
Discounted homes via local authorities for eligible first-time buyers. Purchase prices can be 25-30% below market value. Read our affordable housing guide →
Gifted Deposits
Many first-time buyers in Ireland receive help from family. If you receive a gifted deposit, your lender will require a signed letter confirming it is a gift (not a loan). Gifts may also have implications under Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) — the small gift exemption is €3,000 per person per year.
Additional Costs to Budget For
Beyond the deposit, budget for these costs:
- Solicitor fees: €1,500 – €3,000
- Survey/engineer's report: €400 – €800
- Stamp duty: 1% of purchase price (up to €1M)
- Valuation fee: €150 – €300
- Lender's booking fee: €0 – €500
- Moving costs: €500 – €2,000
- Total additional costs: €3,000 – €7,000+
2026 Updates
- Local Authority Home Loan interest rates remain competitive at 3.15%–3.85%
- HTB extended through 2026
- No changes to minimum deposit requirements