Your first home.
Made simpler.
Buying your first home is a big step. Here is what you need to know about mortgages, government schemes and how buying a new home with us works.
Know your budget
before you start.
Your lender will look at your income, your regular spending, and how you have managed savings and repayments in recent months. Getting mortgage approval in principle early tells you what you can afford and means you are ready to move when homes are released.
Talk to your bank or a mortgage broker first. They can also tell you which government schemes you are likely to qualify for.
Most first-time buyers can borrow up to four times their gross household income.
The minimum deposit you will need, as a share of the purchase price.
Energy-efficient homes, which some lenders reward with lower green mortgage rates.
Get your paperwork
together.
Lenders and solicitors will ask for these. Having them ready early saves weeks later on.
- Photo ID and proof of address
- Payslips for the last three months
- Recent bank and savings statements
- Employment Detail Summary from Revenue
- Mortgage approval in principle
- A solicitor to handle the purchase
Help with
your deposit.
Government schemes can help with your deposit or close the gap between what you can borrow and the price of a new home. Limits and eligibility change, so check the official details before you commit.
Help to Buy
A tax refund for first-time buyers of new homes that goes towards your deposit. You apply through Revenue before you sign contracts.
First Home Scheme
The State and participating banks take a share in your home to bridge the gap between your mortgage, your deposit and the price. Price limits vary by county.
Affordable Purchase
Some new homes are sold below market value through your local council. Fort View in Cavan includes affordable homes delivered with Cavan County Council.
Local Authority Home Loan
A government-backed mortgage for first-time buyers who cannot get enough finance from a bank. You apply through your local council.
How buying a new home works.
From your first enquiry to collecting your keys, here is what to expect.
Register your interest
Register on the development page and we will keep you updated on launches, house types and prices.
Get approved
Have your mortgage approval in principle and any scheme approvals in place before homes are released.
Reserve your home
Choose your home and pay a booking deposit through the selling agent. Contracts then go to your solicitor.
Sign and move in
Sign contracts and pay the contract deposit. We keep you updated through the build until you collect your keys.
Questions first-time
buyers ask us.
Something we have not covered? Get in touch and we will point you in the right direction.
Can I use Help to Buy and the First Home Scheme together?
Yes. Many buyers use Help to Buy towards their deposit and the First Home Scheme to bridge the remaining gap. Your mortgage adviser can tell you how the two work together for your situation.
Can I buy a home before it is finished?
Yes. Most of our homes are sold off the plans while they are being built. We will keep you updated on progress and give you an expected completion date when you reserve.
What is a booking deposit?
A booking deposit takes the home off the market while contracts are prepared. It is paid through the selling agent and is usually refundable until contracts are signed.
Do I need a solicitor?
Yes. Your solicitor reviews the contracts, deals with the title and handles the money on the day you complete. It is worth choosing one early.
How do I find out when new homes are released?
Register your interest on the development page. You will hear about new phases, house types and prices before they go on general sale.
Find your
first home.
See which of our developments are on sale now and register your interest in what is coming next.
first-time buyers