See how much the State and banks will contribute towards your new home. Combine with Help to Buy to maximise your buying power. Updated for 2026 price ceilings.
You cannot use both FHS and an MPE. If offered both, choose one.
See your full cost breakdown including solicitor fees, insurance & monthly repayments
Full Affordability Calculator →The First Home Scheme (FHS) is a shared equity scheme that helps first-time buyers and eligible homebuyers bridge the gap between their mortgage, deposit, and the purchase price of a new home. The State and participating banks (AIB, Bank of Ireland, PTSB) pay up to 30% of the market value of your home in return for an equivalent equity stake.
There are no strict income limits for the FHS — eligibility is based on borrowing capacity. You must borrow the maximum available from a participating lender under Central Bank rules (4× income for FTBs). Price ceilings vary by area and are reviewed every 6 months. The scheme applies to new builds and self-builds only. If combining with Help to Buy, the maximum FHS equity reduces from 30% to 20%.
Dublin: €500,000 | Cork City: €400,000 | Galway County: €450,000 | Galway City: €400,000 | Limerick City: €350,000 | Waterford City: €325,000 | Wicklow: €450,000 | Meath: €400,000 | Kildare: €400,000 | Other areas: €325,000–€375,000. Ceilings are reviewed every 6 months — next review expected mid-2026.
For more tools, visit our First-Time Buyer Hub or use the Help to Buy Calculator.