We here at Adrian Hassett Auctioneers understand that saving for a first home can feel like one of the biggest financial challenges many people face. With property prices, rent and everyday living costs to consider, building a deposit in 2026 requires planning, discipline and realistic goals. The good news is that with the right strategy, many first time buyers in Ireland are successfully moving from saving to home ownership.
The first step is understanding how much you need to save. Most mortgage lenders require first time buyers to have a deposit of at least 10 percent of the purchase price. In addition to the deposit, buyers should also budget for legal fees, stamp duty, surveys and moving costs. Having a clear savings target makes the process feel far more manageable.
Creating a structured savings plan is essential. Setting up a dedicated savings account specifically for your deposit can help keep funds separate from everyday spending. Many buyers find that automatic monthly transfers make saving more consistent. Treating savings as a fixed monthly commitment rather than something left over at the end of the month can accelerate progress.
Reviewing spending habits is another practical step. Small changes can make a noticeable difference over time. Cutting unnecessary subscriptions, reducing impulse purchases and setting a realistic budget can free up extra funds each month. Even modest adjustments can add up significantly over a year or two.
Government supports may also assist first time buyers. Schemes designed to help buyers enter the property market can contribute towards a deposit or improve affordability. Understanding what supports are available and how they work can be an important part of your overall plan.
It is also helpful to monitor your credit profile. Mortgage lenders will review your financial history when assessing an application. Demonstrating consistent savings, stable income and responsible financial behaviour strengthens your position when applying for approval.
Finally, patience plays an important role. Saving for a deposit takes time, and the journey can sometimes feel slow. However, maintaining a clear goal and steady savings habits often leads to success sooner than expected.
Buying your first home is a major milestone. With careful preparation and a realistic savings strategy, many buyers are finding ways to achieve their goal of home ownership in today’s Irish property market.
If you would like to discuss buying or selling a property, contact us on 0871303206 or email sales@adrianhassett.com or visit adrianhassett.com.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for general guidance only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, details may change and errors may occur. This content does not constitute financial, legal or professional advice. Readers should seek appropriate professional guidance before making decisions. Neither the publisher nor the authors accept liability for any loss arising from reliance on this material.
