Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme in Ireland
A practical guide to the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme, where eligible buyers can purchase certain new local-authority affordable homes at a reduced price in return for an equity stake for the local authority.
Page checked: 21 October 2026
What is the scheme?
The Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme makes certain new homes available to eligible applicants at reduced purchase prices. In return, the local authority takes an equity stake in the home equal to the discount from the full market value.
Who is it aimed at?
The scheme is primarily aimed at first-time buyers. Under the government's Fresh Start principle, some people who are separated or divorced, whose relationship has ended, or who have gone through insolvency proceedings and have no remaining interest in their former home may also qualify, subject to the rules and the local authority's assessment.
How is affordability assessed?
The government scheme information states that an applicant's maximum mortgage capacity, without a Central Bank mortgage-measure exemption, must be no more than 85.5% of the full market value of the Affordable Home. The local authority also considers cash savings when assessing eligibility.
The home is sold below market value
The purchase price and the percentage equity stake are calculated by the local authority in accordance with the scheme rules. The size of the local authority's equity stake reflects the discount between the market value and the price paid.
Each local authority runs its own opportunities
There is not one national application form for every property. The relevant local authority advertises its available Affordable Purchase homes and manages the application process. The exact price, eligibility details, household requirements and scheme of priority can therefore differ between developments and local authorities.
How this differs from the First Home Scheme
Both schemes use an equity model, but the structure is different. The First Home Scheme operates through the FHS with participating lenders and defined qualifying products and local-authority price ceilings. The Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme is run by local authorities for specific Affordable Purchase homes offered in their area.
Check whether a particular development is open
The practical next step is to check your local authority's current Affordable Purchase advertisements and the government information. Availability is tied to specific developments rather than a general entitlement to a reduced-price home.
Official sources
- Department of Housing — Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme
- Department of Housing — Affordable Housing
- Department of Housing — Housing for All supports
Scheme rules, eligibility, price limits, tax treatment and charges can change. The information above is a general guide, not an eligibility decision. Check the current official rules before applying.