Questions, answered

Homely is built for people who can comfortably afford rent but don't yet have access to a mortgage. You get secure, long-term tenancy rights combined with the legal right to buy at the end. We give you the time and support to become mortgage-ready, let you build value through rent discounts, and help improve your credit profile with mortgage-coaching partners.

We focus on quality homes in well-connected Irish locations, 2-4 bedroom houses, duplexes, and modern apartments near schools and transport. We're currently active in Dublin, Meath, Kildare, Limerick and Laois, with nationwide expansion planned. You can also propose your own property for us to assess.

You're never forced to buy. You can walk away penalty-free, extend your tenancy if you're not yet mortgage-ready, or move to another Homely property. Mid-term exits are possible with standard notice (typically 2-3 months), and we'll always try to find a fair solution.

Homely serves people who can afford rent but don't yet have mortgage access, typically aged 22-45 with steady income but a limited deposit. That includes employees, freelancers, business owners, the newly self-employed, people relocating to Ireland, those going through separation or divorce, and people temporarily between jobs but with savings. HAP recipients aren't excluded but should show strong potential to become mortgage-ready before the term ends.

It's simple: complete the online form, have a short call where we explain everything, and we'll guide you through approval. Approved applicants join our waitlist while we identify a suitable property, or we secure a home you've found yourself.

Your monthly rent is based on the market rent for the property at the start of your tenancy. The tenancy is formally registered with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) and reviewed annually, always staying compliant with Irish rent cap laws and any local Rent Pressure Zone limits.

Your tenancy rights remain fully protected through RTB registration, exactly the same legal protections as any standard Irish rental. Your purchase option is secured directly on the property's title, so your right to buy survives even if the company becomes insolvent.

Your initial payments mainly cover the real costs of purchase (legal fees, surveys, stamp duty, insurance). A portion of monthly rent supports running the programme. Beyond that, we share in future value growth, so our success is aligned with yours. All terms are fixed and stay the same throughout the programme.

Homely covers major issues like storm damage or burst pipes. You handle routine upkeep and any personal damage. Every home meets safety standards before you move in, and you're welcome to make it yours, paint, hang pictures, and keep pets.

Yes, your home should feel like home. Pets are generally welcome with advance notice, as long as they don't cause damage or disturbance. Some managed developments have building-specific rules you'd need to follow.

Yes, with prior written approval. We'll ask for advance notice, that your housemate agrees to the house rules (with no further subletting), and that you stay compliant with insurance and regulations.

No. We review your income, financial history and spending patterns to confirm affordability, not to exclude you. The whole point is to help you become mortgage-ready over time.

You can find a property yourself or choose from our partner developer and agent listings. We'll assess suitability, your budget and the location before going ahead.

Yes. Homely covers all the legal and transaction costs when we secure the home. The only upfront cost to you is the pre-agreed setup fee. We require you to take independent legal advice before enrolling.

The tenant-purchase element of the First Home Scheme should apply at the end of the programme, subject to eligibility. The new-build elements of Help to Buy and the First Home Scheme don't technically apply because the property has been occupied during your tenancy. We believe customers buying their first-ever home deserve these supports and are advocating for government alignment, including the potential future extension of Help to Buy to second-hand homes.

We're happy to help. Email us at info@ownhomely.com or join the waitlist and we'll be in touch.