By M10News Staff | Property & Economy Desk | Published: July 20, 2025
As house prices continue to climb across Ireland, more buyers are teaming up—often as couples, friends, or siblings—to combine their incomes and secure mortgages, according to a report by Midwestradio.ie
The average price of a home in Ireland has now reached €370,000, marking a €35,000 rise over the past year. With affordability stretched, joint mortgage applications are becoming increasingly common among younger buyers and those working in the public sector.
‘Four Incomes, One Loan’
Financial advisers say many aspiring homeowners see joint applications involving up to four parties as the only viable path onto the property ladder.
“We’re seeing growing interest from siblings and close friends teaming up to buy,” one mortgage broker told M10News. “Especially in urban areas, this is becoming a trend driven by necessity rather than preference.”
However, industry experts are warning that these arrangements come with serious risks. Under current lending rules, each applicant is jointly and severally liable—meaning every person on the loan is legally responsible for the entire mortgage, not just their share.
Legal and Financial Risks
While joint mortgages can unlock higher borrowing potential, they also bind applicants together for the full life of the loan.
“If one person loses their job or wants out of the deal, it can become legally and financially complicated,” said one property solicitor. “Everyone involved needs to consider the long-term implications before signing.”
Some banks are now offering bespoke legal advice and co-ownership agreements to applicants entering joint mortgage deals, but these are optional rather than mandatory.
A Generational Shift
The trend marks a shift in how homeownership is approached in Ireland, reflecting a market where solo buyers are increasingly priced out.
With limited housing stock, particularly in major cities, many young adults are now prioritising stability over independence, opting to team up to buy rather than rent indefinitely.
