Budget 2026: What Potential Changes Mean for the Irish Property Market
As the autumn leaves begin to turn, all eyes in Ireland turn towards Dublin and one of the most anticipated dates on the political calendar: Budget Day. With the announcement of Budget 2026 just a few days away, speculation is running high. For anyone looking to buy, sell, or invest in Irish property, the decisions made on October 7th will have a significant impact.
While nothing is certain until the Minister for Finance stands up to speak, we can look at the key conversations and pressure points to understand the potential changes on the horizon. Here’s a preview of what the team at GoldGro is watching closely.
Disclaimer: This article is based on pre-budget speculation and public discussion. The measures mentioned are not confirmed and are subject to change.
1. The Future of First-Time Buyer Supports
The Help to Buy (HTB) scheme has been a cornerstone of government support for first-time buyers for years, but it's currently due to expire.
What We're Watching: The number one question is whether the HTB scheme will be extended, and in what form. There are also whispers about whether the government might increase the maximum relief available to help buyers keep pace with rising property prices.
Potential Impact: A straightforward extension would bring certainty to thousands of buyers, including many returning Irish expats looking to purchase their first home here. Any enhancement to the scheme would be a major boost, potentially allowing more people to get onto the property ladder sooner.
2. The Investor and Landlord Landscape
Ireland's rental shortage is a critical issue. To address this, the government is under pressure to make it more attractive for private landlords to stay in—or enter—the market.
What We're Watching: We're looking for any potential changes to the tax treatment of rental income. Might we see improved tax relief for landlords to help ease their financial burden and increase the supply of available rental properties?
Potential Impact: More favourable tax conditions could encourage landlords to remain in the market, which is crucial for increasing rental supply. For international clients considering a buy-to-let investment in Ireland, any positive change here would be a significant development.
3. A Focus on Vacancy and Dereliction
Bringing empty and derelict houses back into use is a major government priority. We've already seen the success of grants aimed at renovating these properties.
What We're Watching: Will there be an expansion of the popular Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant? Could the grant amount be increased, or the criteria broadened to include more types of properties?
Potential Impact: Bolstering these grants could unlock a huge amount of potential housing stock, particularly in Ireland's beautiful towns and villages. For those dreaming of moving to Ireland and restoring a home with character, enhanced supports in this area would be a fantastic opportunity.
4. Stamp Duty and Other Property Taxes
Stamp Duty is always a key area of focus in any budget, particularly as it relates to institutional investors or "cuckoo funds."
What We're Watching: While major changes for the average homebuyer are unlikely, we’ll be monitoring any adjustments to the 10% stamp duty rate that applies to the bulk purchase of 10 or more residential homes.
Potential Impact: Any tweaks in this area are aimed at levelling the playing field between individual homebuyers and large investment funds, potentially influencing the dynamics of the new homes market.
Our Final Thoughts
Housing is guaranteed to be a centerpiece of Budget 2026. We expect a continued focus on supporting first-time buyers, alongside strategic moves to tackle the rental crisis and the issue of vacancy.
The landscape is always changing, and expert guidance is more valuable than ever.
Navigating the Irish property market requires a clear understanding of the latest policies. After the budget is announced, we'll be back with a full analysis. In the meantime, if you're planning your move, contact the GoldGro team to discuss how you can prepare for your property journey in Ireland.