First-time buyers accounted for 60pc of home loans drawn down last yearSome homeowners fear they will be unable to secure another property once they sell their own. New figures confirm that first-time buyers now dominate the mortgage market. First-time buyers borrowed the lion’s share of that – accounting for 60pc of loans and 61pc of the total amount drawn down – many to buy new builds or fund self-builds. In the last three months of last year, the number of mortgages drawn down by first-time buyers increased by 4pc to 8,371. Movers are also at a distinct disadvantage versus first-time buyers if they want to buy new homes, because they do not qualify for the same state supports.

Source: Irish Independent January 28, 2026 12:25 UTC