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.
AmountGovernment mortgageup to 90% of the value
Who runs itLocal authorities
Best forBuyers who can't get a bank mortgage
Not sure if you qualify?
Check this against 40+ other grants in about a minute.
Check in 60 seconds →
Check this against 40+ other grants in about a minute.
Work out your grant
A quick estimate. Not a guarantee — always confirm on the official source.
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
Official source: Local Authority Home Loan. Figures current June 2026. This is a free guide, not a government service — always confirm on the official page.