Reviewed by Ian, Mortgage Broker (QFA & CFA).
Help to Buy (HTB) is a tax rebate that helps first-time buyers of new-build homes in Ireland fund their deposit. It is worth up to €30,000, or 10% of the purchase price, or the income tax and DIRT you paid over the previous four years — whichever is lowest — on properties up to €500,000.
What is the Help to Buy scheme?
Help to Buy is a Government incentive, administered by Revenue, that refunds income tax and DIRT paid over the previous four years to help first-time buyers of newly built homes with their deposit. It applies to new builds and once-off self-builds, not second-hand homes.
How much is Help to Buy worth?
You can claim the lowest of: €30,000; 10% of the purchase price (or approved valuation for a self-build); or the income tax and DIRT you paid over the previous four years. The property must cost €500,000 or less.
Who qualifies for Help to Buy?
You must be a first-time buyer, be tax compliant, take out a mortgage of at least 70% of the property value, and live in the home as your main residence for at least five years. If buying with someone else, all buyers must be first-time buyers.
How do I apply for Help to Buy?
You apply online through Revenue’s myAccount or ROS in two stages — an application stage that confirms the amount you qualify for, and a claim stage once you have signed contracts. Your solicitor or the developer verifies the claim. We can help you understand the timing alongside your mortgage.
Can I use Help to Buy with the First Home Scheme?
Yes. Many buyers combine Help to Buy with the First Home Scheme to bridge the gap between their deposit, mortgage and the purchase price. See our First Home Scheme guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is Help to Buy available for second-hand homes?
No. Help to Buy applies only to new-build homes and once-off self-builds, not to second-hand or previously owned properties.
Does Help to Buy count as my deposit?
Yes, the Help to Buy refund can be used towards the deposit on a qualifying new-build home, subject to the scheme conditions.
What is the maximum property price for Help to Buy?
The property must cost €500,000 or less to qualify for Help to Buy.
Do both buyers need to be first-time buyers?
Yes. If you are buying jointly, every person named on the mortgage must be a first-time buyer to qualify.
How Harbour View can help
Related: How much can I borrow in Ireland? · First Home Scheme
As an independent, regulated mortgage broker we help you combine the right supports with the right mortgage. Talk to us for a free, no-obligation consultation.
This guide is general information, not financial advice, and is based on scheme rules that can change at Budget time. Check the official source and speak to a regulated adviser for your situation. Warning: your home is at risk if you do not keep up payments on a mortgage or any other loan secured on it.
