News

Confidence among prospective home buyers remains strained, with many expressing growing frustration at the pace of housing delivery across Ireland. According to recent consumer sentiment research from MyHome, concern about the wider property market remains high, while only a small minority believe recent housing policy measures have made purchasing a home any easier.

The survey highlights planning delays as a central issue. Nearly three quarters of respondents identified slow planning processes as a key reason homes take so long to be built, while one in two said inadequate local infrastructure has already influenced where they would consider buying. These findings point to structural barriers that continue to limit supply, even where demand remains strong.

Infrastructure deficits also feature prominently in buyer concerns. Only a modest proportion of respondents feel enough progress is being made in this area, a view that has gained further attention in light of recent public debate around flooding and flood relief works. The perception among buyers is that planning and infrastructure challenges are now acting as a combined brake on housing delivery.

Despite this frustration, the data suggests buyers are willing to adapt. A significant share of respondents indicated they would consider purchasing a vacant or derelict property if grant supports were strengthened and made more accessible. This reflects a practical willingness to explore alternative routes onto the property ladder, provided the financial and administrative barriers can be reduced.

Affordability remains a decisive constraint. Many respondents reported postponing buying decisions due to rising costs, while others said financial pressure limits their ability to renovate older properties, even where grants are available. This gap between policy intent and real-world affordability continues to shape buyer behaviour.

Separate figures from the GeoDirectory Residential Buildings report provide further context. The national vacancy rate stood at 3.7% at the end of 2025, with wide regional variation. Dublin recorded the lowest vacancy rate in the country, while Leitrim had the highest. Although the number of derelict properties declined over the year, almost 19,500 buildings remain classified as derelict nationwide.

The level of interest in vacant and derelict homes suggests targeted measures could unlock additional supply. Streamlining planning processes and improving how renovation grants are structured and paid could help bring more of these properties back into use. While housing delivery has increased, with over 36,000 homes completed last year, the survey findings imply that further progress is required to meet market demand.

There are some signs of shifting expectations on pricing. Slightly more than half of respondents expect house prices to rise over the coming year, a noticeable fall compared with sentiment recorded earlier in 2025. This may indicate a growing belief that price growth is moderating, even as supply challenges persist.

Overall, the message from buyers appears consistent. They are seeking clearer communication, faster delivery, and practical solutions that translate policy commitments into tangible outcomes in the housing market.

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.