Salary is a starting point, not an approval
People often start with one question: how much mortgage can I get on my salary? In Ireland, the Central Bank's mortgage measures provide a useful ceiling for standard owner-occupier lending. They do not guarantee that a lender will offer the maximum.
For first-time buyers, the standard loan-to-income limit is 4 times gross income. For second and subsequent buyers it is 3.5 times gross income. Lenders still assess each application individually.
Quick examples
| Gross household income | 4× illustration | 3.5× illustration |
|---|---|---|
| €40,000 | €160,000 | €140,000 |
| €50,000 | €200,000 | €175,000 |
| €60,000 | €240,000 | €210,000 |
| €70,000 | €280,000 | €245,000 |
| €80,000 | €320,000 | €280,000 |
| €90,000 | €360,000 | €315,000 |
| €100,000 | €400,000 | €350,000 |
| €120,000 | €480,000 | €420,000 |
These are simple multiple illustrations, not lender offers. The Central Bank also permits a proportion of lending above the standard limits.
Why your actual figure can be lower
A lender may offer less than the regulatory ceiling after looking at your income, existing loans and credit commitments, household spending, dependants, employment circumstances, deposit and the property's value. The Central Bank explicitly says the mortgage measures do not guarantee a mortgage up to the LTI/LTV limits.
Deposit matters too
For standard residential lending, first-time buyers and second/subsequent buyers generally need a minimum 10% deposit. That means a €300,000 home has a €30,000 minimum deposit under the standard LTV rule, before allowing for purchase costs and any lender-specific requirements.
Don't forget the monthly payment
Two households with the same income can have very different comfortable budgets. Use the mortgage amount as a starting point, then test the monthly repayment at several interest rates and terms. Leave room for property tax, insurance, maintenance, utilities and normal living costs.
FAQ
How much mortgage can I get on my salary in Ireland?
A proportion of first-time-buyer lending can be above the standard LTI limit, but it is not guaranteed and lender criteria still apply.
Does the 4× mortgage income rule apply to everyone?
No. The standard LTI limit is 4× for first-time buyers and 3.5× for second/subsequent buyers. Different mortgage types have different rules or exemptions.
Is gross salary or take-home pay used for mortgage borrowing?
The Central Bank LTI measure is based on gross income. Lenders then perform their own affordability assessment using broader financial information.
Related guides
Official sources
- Central Bank — Mortgage Measures · Central Bank — retail interest rates (August 2026)
- Central Bank — Mortgage Measures FAQ
Information is for general information only. Mortgage rules, lender criteria, rates and costs can change. Confirm the current position with the relevant lender or official source before acting.