Vacant property grant: Almost €5m paid in Donegal bringing 93 homes back into use

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne has today published the latest figures relating to the vacant property refurbishment grant.

The figures - which outline applications, approvals and payments under the scheme up to the end of December 2024 - clearly show an exponential increase in the rate of grants issued to homeowners following the completion of work with, nationally, over €77 million paid out in relation to the refurbishment of 1,449 homes nationwide.

Overall, since the launch of the grant in July 2022, Donegal County Council holds the highest number, there have been 1,042 applications, 715 approvals and 93 grants issued up to 31 December 2024. As the scheme continues, more and more completions are coming on stream.

READ NEXT: Ready for lift-off as Ireland West Airport prepares for its busiest season yet

Under the vacant property refurbishment grant, you can receive a payment of up to €70,000 to turn a vacant or derelict house or building into your permanent home or a rental property. The grants are paid upon the completion of the works and the submission of the required paperwork demonstrating the work approved has been delivered.

Reflecting on the latest data, Minister for Housing, James Browne said: “The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is delivering real results, with over €77 million already paid out to bring nearly 1,500 homes back into use in towns and villages across the country.

“The rapid increase in grant payments, €4,926,197 in Donegal shows the scheme is growing momentum, helping to tackle vacancy and providing much-needed housing.

“With its ability to provide housing and revitalise communities, it is not surprising that the grant is so popular. Indeed, with over 11,000 applications received and hundreds of applications being received monthly, this initiative is making a real difference in communities across the country.”