Why Choose DNG for Your First-Time Buyer Mortgage?

Why Choose DNG for Your First-Time Buyer Mortgage?

We successfully help First Time Buyers achieve home ownership.

With the latest digital application capabilities, access to the most competitive mortgage options available, decades of expertise, and a no-fee service, DNG Mortgages is the trusted partner for your first-time buyer mortgage journey.

Customised mortgage guidance for first time buyers: Personalised support from consultation to securing your dream home. Trust us to make your home buying journey smooth and stress-free.

Explore market-leading mortgage options tailored for first time buyers. With the most competitive rates and personalised solutions, we're here to help you secure the most suitable mortgage for you.

DNG Mortgages: Your Trusted Home Buying Partner. Tailored solutions and expert guidance for first time buyer mortgage applicants, ensuring a seamless journey to homeownership. Let us make your dream home a reality.

Contact Us

First Time Buyer Mortgage Eligibility in Ireland

a. You (and any co-borrower) must not have previously purchased or built a residential property in Ireland or abroad.
a. Typically, a minimum deposit of 10% of the property’s value is required for first time buyers.
a. Most first time buyers can borrow up to 4 times their gross annual income.

b. Example: If your annual income is €50,000, you may be able to borrow up to €200,000.
a. Help-to-Buy (HTB) Scheme – allows you to claim a tax rebate of up to €30,000 or 10% of the property value (whichever is lower).

b. First Home Scheme – a shared equity scheme helping buyers bridge the gap between mortgage approval and the property price.
a. You must show a good credit history, stable income, and ability to repay the mortgage.

b. Lenders will also check existing debts (loans, credit cards, etc.).
a. Must be a newly built or second-hand residential property located in Ireland.

b. Properties bought under government schemes may have specific restrictions.

Scheme for First time buyers


 

The First Home Scheme

The First Home Scheme is a government-backed initiative designed to help first-time buyers in Ireland bridge the gap between their mortgage and the property price. If your approved mortgage and savings aren’t enough to cover the full cost of your new home, the scheme provides support through a shared equity arrangement.

The Help to Buy Scheme

The Help to Buy Scheme is a tax refund initiative for first-time buyers in Ireland, allowing you to claim back income tax and DIRT paid over the last four years. This refund can be used towards your deposit, making it easier to take the first step onto the property ladder.

Mortgage Timeline for First-Time Buyers in Ireland

1

Mortgage Approval in Principle

Start by getting Approval in Principle (AIP) from your lender. This shows how much you can borrow and helps you focus on suitable properties.

2

House Hunting & Offer

With AIP in place, you can confidently make offers on properties within your budget.

3

Booking Deposit

Once your offer is accepted, you’ll pay a booking deposit to the estate agent.

4

Full Loan Application

Submit your mortgage application along with documents such as payslips, bank statements, and proof of savings.

5

Valuation & Survey

The lender will arrange a property valuation, and you may choose to carry out a structural survey.

6

Letter of Offer

If approved, the bank issues a formal Letter of Offer outlining your mortgage terms.

7

Conveyancing & Legal Work

Your solicitor will review contracts, carry out legal checks, and liaise with the seller’s solicitor.

8

Mortgage Drawdown

Funds are released by the lender to complete the purchase.

9

Getting the Keys

Once contracts are signed and the mortgage is drawn down, you officially become a homeowner.

how do you want to get started?

Choose one of the options below to start your journey with DNG Financial Services

Choosing the Right Type of Mortgage  
 

When buying your first home in Ireland, one of the key decisions you’ll make is choosing the type of mortgage that suits your needs. Most lenders offer fixed rate and variable rate mortgages, with fixed terms typically ranging from 1 to 30 years.

The right option will depend on your financial situation, future plans, and how comfortable you are with potential changes in monthly repayments.

It’s also important to consider the length of your mortgage term. A longer term can reduce your monthly repayments, but you’ll pay more interest over time. A shorter term means higher monthly payments, but less interest paid overall.

 

Fixed Rate Mortgages

Your monthly expenses can be managed with ease. We've created an easy-to-use template to help you stay organised and in control.

Variable Rate Mortgages

With a variable rate mortgage, your interest rate can change over time, sometimes in line with movements from the European Central Bank (ECB). As a result, your monthly repayments may increase or decrease during the term of your mortgage.

Key financial terms you’ll come across  
 

  • Loan to Income (LTI): The amount you can borrow based on your annual income.
  • Loan to Value (LTV): The amount you can borrow based on the purchase price and deposit.
  • Repayment term: This refers to the period you require the home loan. Mortgage terms are usually offered between 5 and 35 years.
  • Indicative APRC (Annual Percentage Rate of Charge): Shows the total cost of a mortgage, including fees, over the entire period of the loan.
  • Approval in Principle (AIP): An approval in principle is a letter from a lender showing the amount they could lend you based on some initial checks. It’s free to get an AIP, and usually valid for six or 12 months.

Latest House Prices in Ireland

Ireland’s average house price for the 12 months to January 2026 is approximately €389,986, highlighting the continued demand in the property market. 

According to the Residential Property Price Index (RPPI), property prices have increased by 7% over the past 12 months. Prices in Dublin rose by 6.1%, while properties outside Dublin saw a slightly higher increase of 7.7%. 

There is also significant regional variation in house prices. For example, Donegal remains one of the most affordable areas, with a median price of around €195,000, whereas Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown is among the most expensive, with median prices reaching approximately €680,000.   

Source: Central Statistics Office (CSO) – Residential Property Price Index

Financial Products to Support First-Time Buyers

 

Buying your first home involves more than just securing a mortgage. There are several financial products designed to protect you, your property, and your financial future throughout the home-buying journey.

Here are some key products first-time buyers in Ireland should consider:


 

Mortgage Protection Insurance

A policy typically required by lenders, ensuring your mortgage is paid off in the event of death. This provides peace of mind for you and your family.

Income Protection Insurance

Provides a replacement income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury, helping you keep up with mortgage repayments.

 

Our financial advisors can help you choose the right combination of products to protect your home and your financial future. Get in touch today to discuss your options.        

 

Join the DNG Mortgage Club Waiting List

Not ready to apply now, but want to enter our 6 month ‘getting mortgage-ready’ programme? Join our waiting list and we will contact you when a space becomes available.

By clicking Join Now, you agree to our Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy and Terms of Business.

Meet the team

Head of Financial Planning

contact our mortgage team

One of our expert Mortgage Advisors will be in contact with you soon.

By clicking Submit, you agree to our Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy and Terms of Business.

Why choose DNG fs?

Our People

Our team comprises seasoned and highly skilled professionals in financial services, poised to be your trusted financial partners.

Our Locations

With our extensive nationwide presence, we're uniquely positioned to serve clients across the Republic of Ireland.

Our Experience

To empower you with clear, structured wealth management strategies, guiding you toward financial independence through collaborative partnership.

First Time Buyer FAQ

The most common first time buyer mortgage questions answered by DNG Mortgages, your home buying mortgage partner.

For a first time buyer mortgage application in Ireland, you typically need proof of identity, address, income, employment, savings, and any debt you may have. Additional documents will include bank statements and proof of deposit. DNG Mortgages will provide you with a comprehensive checklist of documentation requirements needed for your first time buyer mortgage application.

At DNG Mortgages, we don’t charge you a fee for mortgage applications. Benefit from our expert guidance and support without any additional charges, making your mortgage process hassle-free.

As a first-time buyer, using a Mortgage Broker gives you access to multiple lenders through a single application, helping you compare mortgage options and secure the most suitable deal. DNG Mortgages also manages the paperwork and guides you through every stage of your first time buyer mortgage journey, making the process simpler and less stressful.

 If you purchase a new build or self-build your own home, you may be eligible to avail of either or both of the Help to Buy Scheme and the First Home Scheme.

At DNG Mortgages, we specialise in helping first-time buyers secure their first home. You'll receive expert guidance, access to all leading lenders, personalised mortgage solutions, and support throughout the entire application process. Our fee-free service helps you secure the most suitable mortgage with confidence.

As a first-time buyer in Ireland, you can typically borrow up to 4 times your allowable taxable income, including basic salary and a portion of any variable income. As each lender assesses affordability differently, DNG Mortgages can help you understand your maximum first time buyer mortgage borrowing capacity.

Typically 10% of the property value.

Yes, subject to lender affordability checks.

speak to our team

Plan your budget with our mortgage calculator

Get an idea of how much you can afford to borrow and plan your budget with our mortgage calculator.

Insight & opinion

Home Mortgage Regulatory Information


DNG Financial Services is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.


 

Lending criteria, terms and conditions apply. Over 18s only. Security may be required.


 

WARNING: If you do not keep up your repayments you may lose your home.


 

WARNING: You may have to pay charges if you pay off a fixed-rate loan early.


 

WARNING: Your interest rate may increase and the amount of your mortgage repayments may increase as a result.


 

WARNING: If you do not meet the repayments on your loan, your account will go into arrears. This may affect your credit report, which may limit your ability to access credit, a hire-purchase agreement, a consumer-hire agreement or a BNPL (Buy Now Pay Later) agreement in the future.