The Local Authority Home Loan is a Government-backed mortgage for creditworthy applicants who cannot get sufficient funding from commercial banks to purchase or build a home. It has been available nationwide from local authorities since 4 January 2022 for first-time buyers and fresh start applicants. The loan can be used both for new and second-hand properties, or to self-build.
The Housing Loans Regulations 2021 state that each of the persons making the application has a right to reside in the state. The Credit Policy, which is made in accordance with the provisions of Section 5 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009, provides further guidance on the application of the Local Authority Home Loan. The Credit Policy requires that as part of the eligibility criteria for the Local Authority Home Loan, applicants must currently have a legal right to reside and work in the State. For Non-EEA/EU citizens, applicants must be legally resident in Ireland for a period of 5 years or have leave to remain extending to permit 5 years reckonable residence or have indefinite leave to remain in the state.
Decisions on individual applications are a matter for the local authority.
