Starter home supports rise sharply in early 2026

Delivery of Starter Home Supports accelerated markedly in the first six months of 2026, with 4,699 supports provided—an increase of 57% compared to the same period last year when 2,980 supports were delivered.

The second quarter alone saw 2,683 supports, marking a 46% rise year-on-year. This growth reflects ongoing commitment to expanding affordable housing options across the country.

Key schemes driving progress

The Starter Home Purchase Scheme, which enables eligible buyers to purchase new-build homes at a reduced price, delivered 565 homes in the first half of 2026, up 65% from 343 homes in the same period in 2025. Quarter 2 saw 279 new homes, a 30% increase on the previous year. Since its launch in 2022, over 3,000 Starter Homes have been provided by local authorities, Approved Housing Bodies, and the Land Development Agency.

Cost Rental homes doubled their delivery with 1,399 new homes provided by the end of June 2026—a 111% increase from 664 homes in the first half of 2025. In Q2 alone, 927 new Cost Rental homes were completed, a 68% rise compared to the same quarter last year. More than 7,600 Cost Rental homes have been delivered nationally since the tenure was introduced.

The First Home Scheme, designed to assist purchasers with bridging the gap between mortgage, deposit, and purchase price, saw 996 supports drawn down in H1 2026—a 56% increase from 639 in H1 2025. The second quarter recorded a 50% rise in supports compared to the previous year.

Meanwhile, the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant helped bring 1,739 homes back into use, a 30% increase on the 1,334 homes refurbished during the same period in 2025. Between April and June, 923 grants were issued, representing a 31% increase year-on-year. This scheme continues to play a crucial role in revitalising towns, villages, and rural communities.

Minister’s commitment

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, acknowledged the affordability challenges faced by prospective homeowners and emphasised the government’s dedication to expanding affordable housing initiatives. He noted that these supports are vital for helping people buy their first home, access affordable rental housing, and restore vacant properties.

Minister Browne stated, “I am pleased to see strong progress across these programmes in 2026, but we must continue to push for greater delivery. With favourable momentum in planning permissions, commencements, and completions, our affordable housing supports will remain a priority to ensure more people can secure a safe and secure home.”

The positive trajectory in Starter Home Supports builds on record achievements in 2025 and sets a solid foundation for continued advancement throughout the year.

Further details and the latest statistics on Starter Home support delivery are available on the Department of Housing’s website.