Buying or building a home
Local Authority Home Loan
A government-backed mortgage for first-time and Fresh Start buyers who cannot get enough finance from a commercial lender.
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What it is
The Local Authority Home Loan lets you borrow up to 90% of the value of a new, second-hand or self-build home at a fixed rate, where the banks won't lend you enough.
How much you can get
Government mortgage up to 90% of the value.
| Fixed rate (up to 25 yrs) | 4.00% |
| Fixed rate (26 to 30 yrs) | 4.05% |
| Income limit | €80,000 single / €85,000 joint |
Who can get it
First-time or Fresh Start buyer aged 18 to 70, with income under €80,000 (single) or €85,000 (joint) from April 2026, in continuous employment, who was refused sufficient finance by two lenders.
What you’ll need
- Two letters of refusal or insufficient offer from banks
- Proof of income and employment
- Property within the value limit for your county
How to apply
- Apply to the housing section of your local authority
- Provide income, employment and refusal evidence
- Receive approval and draw down the loan
Common questions
How much is the Local Authority Home Loan?
Government mortgage up to 90% of the value. A government-backed mortgage for first-time and Fresh Start buyers who cannot get enough finance from a commercial lender.
Who qualifies for the Local Authority Home Loan?
First-time or Fresh Start buyer aged 18 to 70, with income under €80,000 (single) or €85,000 (joint) from April 2026, in continuous employment, who was refused sufficient finance by two lenders.
How do you apply for the Local Authority Home Loan?
Apply to the housing section of your local authority Provide income, employment and refusal evidence Receive approval and draw down the loan