Longford County Council has promoted its new Starter Home Purchase Scheme at the PTSB Ideal Home Show, drawing strong interest from people exploring affordable routes to home ownership.

Throughout the show, the Council's Housing Activation team hosted a series of seminars explaining who can apply, how the application process works and what supports are available, with interactive Q&A sessions helping attendees address individual queries and better understand the pathway to buying a home.

The Starter Home Purchase Scheme provides 25 high-quality, A-rated family homes at Cúirt an Easpaig on Ballinalee Road, Longford Town. It is intended to narrow the gap between incomes and house prices by offering homes below market value, with eligible purchasers potentially receiving support of up to €95,000. Buyers may also combine the scheme with the Help to Buy Scheme, allowing eligible first-time buyers to access up to €30,000 towards their deposit. This is set to rise to €35,000 from next year following the recent Budget announcement.

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Interest at the Ideal Home Show was strong, with many visitors keen to learn about affordable home ownership in Longford. Attending the event were the Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Gerry Hagan, and Chief Executive Samantha Healy, along with Housing Section staff and representatives from DNG Begley, Athlone, who engaged directly with potential purchasers.

The Cúirt an Easpaig scheme comprises five two-bedroom terrace homes, eight three-bedroom terrace homes and 12 three-bedroom semi-detached homes. All units are built to an A-rated energy standard to support comfort, lower energy use and reduced running costs.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council Cllr Gerry Hagan said: "I was delighted to attend the recent PTSB Ideal Home Show to support the Housing Team from Longford County Council. The response at the Ideal Home Show was extremely encouraging. Cúirt an Easpaig presents a real opportunity for individuals and families to purchase a high-quality A-rated home at a price that would otherwise be beyond reach for many buyers. Longford offers affordability, strong community connections, excellent amenities and an outstanding quality of life. We look forward to welcoming new residents who choose to make their home here.”