New price ceiling of €375,000 for homes bought in Donegal under First Home Scheme

The price ceiling for homes purchased in Donegal under the First Home Scheme has increased by €25,000.

The announcement made by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, which came into effect from January 1, raises the maximum qualifying house price in Donegal to €375,000.

Welcoming the increase, Donegal Minister of State, Charlie McConalogue said: "This is a significant boost for prospective first-time buyers across the county. It will offer them greater choice and make the task of home ownership a reality for more families."

The First Home Scheme is a key pillar of the Government’s "Housing for All" strategy. It functions as an equity share initiative, bridging the affordability gap between a buyer’s mortgage, their deposit, and the actual price of a new home. The scheme has already approved over 8,300 buyers nationwide, providing an average of €66,000 in support.

"I am acutely aware of the challenges facing first-time buyers in securing an affordable home. This targeted €25,000 increase directly responds to market realities on the ground here in Donegal, ensuring that the First Home Scheme remains a practical, effective solution for local people," the Minister for Sport and Postal Policy added.

The twice-yearly review process, which led to price ceiling increases in 17 local authority areas across Ireland, ensures the scheme remains flexible and adaptive to local market conditions.

READ NEXT: Electric car sales surge in Donegal as new registrations almost double 2025

"The Government is committed to broadening opportunity and making the ambition of home ownership achievable for many more people. This targeted increase in Donegal is a proactive step to support our communities, help people put down roots, and build a stronger and more vibrant county," he commented.

The First Home Scheme has provided over €273 million in support to people who have bought or self-built their homes using the Scheme. A total of over 19,200 potential buyers or self-builders have registered their interest in the Scheme. The average purchase price for homes purchased, or build cost for homes built, using the scheme is €387,000.