Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 May 2026
190. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he will expand the help-to-buy scheme for first-time buyers under the Revenue Commissioners' remit to those purchasing second hand properties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39770/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Help to Buy (HTB) incentive, is a scheme to assist first-time purchasers with the deposit they need to buy or build a new house or apartment. It also aims to encourage additional supply of new houses. The Programme for Government commits to "retain and revise the Help to Buy scheme.".
In relation to second-hand properties, an increase in the supply of new housing remains a priority aim of Government policy. The HTB scheme is specifically designed to support the demand for affordable new build homes so as to encourage the construction of an additional supply of such properties.
HTB provides a refund of Income Tax and Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT) paid in Ireland over the previous four years, subject to limits outlined in the legislation.
The level of support available to first time buyers under the HTB scheme, is whichever is the lesser of:
• €30,000; or
• 10 per cent of the purchase price of the new property; or
• the amount of Income Tax and DIRT paid in the four years before application for the relief.
For a property to qualify for the HTB scheme, it must be new or converted for use as a dwelling, having not previously been used as a dwelling. Additionally, the purchase value/approved valuation of the property must not exceed €500,000.
Based on the latest available data (30 April 2026), the scheme has supported over 65,000 individuals or couples to buy or build their own home.
As with all taxation matters, the HTB scheme is kept under review as part of the budgetary process. Any revisions to the scheme would have to be considered as part of the annual Budget and Finance Bill processes and take into account the effective operation of the scheme and the impact any proposed changes would have on the broader housing market.
