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Supports to turn a vacant property into a cosy home

Turning a vacant property into a warm, inviting home is not just a rewarding endeavour but also a practical way to address some of Ireland’s housing challenges. For those looking to take on such a project, local authorities may be able to offer advice and financial supports through initiatives like the Local Authority Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and the Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan. These schemes are designed to encourage the rejuvenation of vacant properties, breathing new life into communities around the country.

Dáta

Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant

If you want to turn a vacant property into a home a Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is available to go towards the cost of refurbishing it so you can live in it or rent it out.  

A grant of up to €50,000 is available for vacant properties and up to €70,000 for derelict properties.  

You may qualify for this grant if:

  • The property has been vacant for at least two years and was built before 2008.
  • You own the property or are in the process of buying it. 
  • The property will be your private principal residence when the work is complete, or you rent it out and register the tenancy with the Residential Tenancies Board. 

To find out more about the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and download application forms visit gov.ie/vacancy. 

Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan

If you don't own the property yet and you're having difficulty securing a mortgage from commercial lenders then the Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan (LAPR) may be able to help. The LAPR is a Government-backed loan for the purchase and renovation of derelict and non-habitable homes that qualify for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.

The amount you can borrow depends on the type of renovation works required and what the value of the home will be when the work is complete.

You may qualify for this scheme if:

  • You are a first time buyer or Fresh Start applicant
  • The property has been vacant for more than two years and meets all other Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant criteria.
  • The property will be your private principal residence when the work is complete.
  • The estimated value of the home at the end of the renovation works is not above these limits:
    • €360,000 in Dublin, Kildare or Wicklow,
    • €330,000 in Cork, Galway, Louth or Meath,
    • €300,000 in Clare, Kilkenny, Limerick, Waterford, Westmeath or Wexford
    • €275,000 in Carlow, Cavan, Donegal, Kerry, Laois, Leitrim, Longford, Mayo, Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, Sligo or Tipperary.

For more information on the LAPR visit https://purchaseandrenovationloan.ie/

Vacant Homes Officers

Vacant Homes Officers are available in all local authorities to provide support and information. If you own or are interested in buying a vacant home they can provide expert advice on bringing it back into use. You will find their contact details on this page: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/f59b3-vacant-homes-officer-contacts/