Grants & Schemes

If you buy a vacant property that has been empty for 2+ years and refurbish it as your principal private residence, you can receive up to €50,000 in grant funding — or up to €70,000 if the property is a protected structure. The property must be vacant and built before 2008. Available through your local authority.

• Up to €50,000 for standard vacant properties
• Up to €70,000 for protected structures
• Property must be vacant for at least 2 years
• Must be used as principal private residence
• Apply through your local authority
• Can be combined with mortgage finance

The Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund provides grants for the refurbishment of derelict properties in towns and villages with a population under 30,000. Properties must be derelict (not just vacant). Grant is paid on completion of works after inspection.

• Up to €50,000 for derelict properties
• Towns and villages under 30,000 population
• Property must be structurally derelict
• Grant paid after works completed and inspected
• Must occupy as principal residence
• Applies nationwide outside major cities

SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) provides grants for upgrading the energy efficiency of your home. Works include insulation, heat pumps, solar panels, windows and doors. A higher BER rating can also improve your mortgage rate with green mortgage products.

• Attic insulation: up to €1,500
• Wall insulation: up to €8,000
• Heat pump system: up to €6,500
• Solar PV panels: up to €2,400
• Windows and doors: up to €1,500
• One Stop Shop service manages everything

Several lenders offer preferential 'green' mortgage rates for properties with a BER rating of B3 or better. If you're buying a new build (typically A-rated) or upgrading an existing home, you may qualify for a lower interest rate — saving thousands over the term.

• Available for BER B3 or higher
• BOI, PTSB, Haven and others offer green rates
• Rate discount typically 0.2%–0.4%
• New builds almost always qualify
• SEAI upgrades can bring older homes to B3
• Ask Francis to check your specific property

The Local Authority Home Loan is a Government-backed mortgage for first time buyers and fresh start applicants who cannot get sufficient mortgage finance from a bank. Fixed rates from 4.0% for up to 30 years. Maximum loan €350,000 in most areas.

• For first time buyers declined by two lenders
• Fixed rate mortgage from the local authority
• Max loan €350,000 (€500,000 in Dublin/Cork)
• Term up to 30 years
• Open to employees and self-employed
• Apply through your local authority