Affordable housing boost for Limerick as 23 homes set to go on sale

A NEW, affordable housing development in County Limerick will soon open for applications.

Limerick City and County Council have announced that the online portal for new homes at Castle Place, Newcastle West, Co Limerick, will operate from 12pm on Monday, August 31.

23 three-bedroom homes will be available for first-time buyers and fresh start applicants who do not own a home, although a small number of exceptions apply.

The available properties include 2 three-bedroom semi-detached homes, 14 three-bedroom end-terrace houses and 7 three-bedroom mid-terrace homes.

The accommodations are described as being spacious, with a modern layout, en-suite master bedrooms and private back gardens. All homes are A-rated with insulation and air tightness.

Depending on income, the properties are available for sale from €319,047 and €324,047. To be eligible to apply to the scheme, applicants must satisfy a number of criteria.

The semi-detached homes have an equivalent market value of €425,000, representing an approximate 23.8% reduction from market value. As well as this, the 14 end-terrace homes and seven mid-terrace properties have equivalent market values of €415,000 and €400,000 respectively. These also represent approximate reductions of 21.9% and 20.2% from market value.

Commenting on the news, Mayor John Moran said: “Providing more affordable homes for people and families all the way across Limerick remains one of our key priorities. The opening of applications for Phase 3 of the Affordable Housing Scheme at Castle Place is another important step in helping individuals and families achieve home ownership in a location where they can live, work and become part of a thriving community.

“These high-quality, energy-efficient homes offer a real opportunity for first-time buyers and fresh start applicants to put down roots, and I encourage anyone who may be eligible to explore the scheme and submit their application. Two weeks ago, we celebrated the provision of new public housing in Kilfinane. Now it is Newcastle West’s turn,” he concluded.

Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Tom Ruddle, said this demonstrates Limerick City and County Council’s commitment to “increasing housing supply and ensuring that home ownership is within reach for more people.”

Cllr Ruddle commented: “The launch of applications for 23 affordable homes at Castle Place, Newcastle West demonstrates that commitment in action. Through initiatives such as the Affordable Housing Scheme, we are helping to bridge the gap between incomes and house prices while supporting the continued growth and vitality of our towns and communities across Limerick.”

Director General at Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly says that Newcastle West continues “to play a vital role in Limerick’s growth, and it is encouraging to see another phase of affordable homes being delivered in the town. Castle Place offers an opportunity for individuals and families to put down roots in a vibrant community with excellent services, schools, amenities and employment opportunities.”

Applicants must have Mortgage Approval in Principle (AIP) in order to be eligible for this scheme and should also ensure that they have access to adequate finances to afford the minimum sale price of the house type that they wish to apply for.

Eligible applicants will be prioritised based on the Limerick City and County Council Scheme of Priority.

The online application portal for homes at Castle Place, Newcastle West, will close at 12pm on Monday, September 28.

Further information on eligibility criteria and the application process is available at Affordable Home Purchase Scheme | Limerick.ie.