These are tough times for house hunters.

But with the price of property climbing ever higher, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel for some with the launch to market of 64 affordable homes in White’s Cross.

Cork City Council, in partnership with Vella Homes, has announced the launch of an exciting new Affordable Housing Scheme at Danesfort, Whites Cross, to the northeast of Cork City.

The development consists of a total of 64 affordable homes, available for sale via Cork City Council’s ‘Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme’, providing for 58 three-bedroom and six two-bedroom A2-rated, architecturally designed, spacious homes, all for sale at around 20 per cent below open market values to those who qualify for the Ascheme.

The two-bedroom homes will be available from €261,000 and three-bedroom homes will start at €296,000.

How does the Affordable Housing Scheme work?

The Danesfort Affordable Housing Scheme homes are generally available for first-time buyers who do not already own a property, although exceptions will apply for ‘Fresh Start’ applicants.

Income limits apply and potential applicants are advised to familiarise themselves with the qualification criteria and the documentation required.

Under the terms of the scheme, purchasers will enter an ‘Affordable Dwelling Purchase Agreement’, with the local authority, which will see the council retaining a percentage equity share in the house equal to the difference between its open market value and the price paid by the purchaser.

Applications may be made between noon on Tuesday, May 21st, 2024 and 12 midnight on Tuesday, June 11th, 2024 via an online application portal, available on danesfortwhitescross.ie.

More homes on the way

Earlier today. The Lord Mayor of Cork , Councillor Kieran McCarthy, Michael McGrath T.D., Minister for Finance and Ann Doherty, Chief Executive of Cork City Council turned the sod to mark the commencement of construction of 45 affordable homes at Glenmore Heights, Lehenaghmore.

Picture: Michael O’Sullivan /OSM PHOTO

This affordable housing scheme, being constructed by OBR Construction in partnership with Cork City Council, will provide 45 homes for sale via Cork City Council Local Authority Affordable Purchase scheme, a mix of three and two-bedroom houses, with delivery scheduled for early 2025.