Last Updated: June 18, 2026
The Irish mortgage market remains highly competitive in mid-2026, but the landscape has evolved since the beginning of the year. Following the European Central Bank's 0.25% interest rate increase on 11 June 2026, lenders have begun selectively adjusting their products while continuing to compete aggressively for new business.
Despite the ECB move, mortgage pricing remains attractive by recent historical standards. Green mortgage products, low loan-to-value (LTV) borrowers, first-time buyers, and mortgage switchers continue to benefit from some of the lowest rates available in the Irish market.
According to the latest data published by the Central Bank of Ireland, the weighted average interest rate on new mortgage agreements stood at 3.50% at the end of April 2026, down slightly from March. Fixed-rate mortgages averaged 3.45%, while variable-rate agreements averaged 4.13%. Fixed-rate products continue to dominate new lending, accounting for more than 90% of new mortgage drawdowns.
For borrowers willing to shop around, headline rates as low as 3.00% remain available through selected green mortgage products offered by major lenders such as AIB, Haven, PTSB, and Bank of Ireland.
However, the "best" mortgage is not necessarily the one with the lowest advertised interest rate. Loan-to-value ratios, BER ratings, cashback incentives, fees, flexibility, and APRC all play a crucial role in determining the true long-term cost of borrowing.
| Metric | April 2026 |
|---|---|
| Average New Mortgage Rate | 3.50% |
| Average Fixed Rate | 3.45% |
| Average Variable Rate | 4.13% |
| Share of Fixed Mortgages | 90%+ |
| ECB Deposit Rate | 2.25% |
Table 1: Central Bank of Ireland mortgage market snapshot (mid-2026).
Current Mortgage Market Snapshot (Mid-June 2026)
The dramatic rate-cutting cycle seen during late 2025 and early 2026 has largely ended.
Instead of broad reductions, lenders are now making targeted adjustments to remain competitive in key borrower segments.
Recent market developments include:
- ECB increased rates by 0.25% on 11 June 2026.
- Fixed-rate products continue to account for more than 90% of new lending.
- Green mortgages remain the most aggressively priced products in the market.
- Competition remains strongest among AIB, Haven, Bank of Ireland, PTSB, and Avant Money.
- Some non-bank lenders such as ICS Mortgages and Finance Ireland have introduced selective increases on specific products.
- Variable-rate products remain attractive but are now more exposed to future ECB policy changes.
Although rates have stabilized overall, borrowers should expect lenders to continue fine-tuning their offerings throughout the remainder of 2026.
Average Mortgage Rates Trend (2025–2026)
Apr 2025
3.78%
Feb 2026
3.51%
Apr 2026
3.50%
Figure 1: Average Irish mortgage rates have declined significantly from 2025 peaks before stabilising in 2026.
Top Mortgage Rates in Ireland Right Now (Mid-June 2026)
The rates below are indicative and subject to lender criteria, BER rating, loan size, and LTV requirements.
Green & Best-in-Class Fixed Mortgage Rates
| Lender | Product | Indicative Rate |
|---|---|---|
| AIB / Haven | Green Fixed Mortgage | From 3.00% |
| PTSB | Green Fixed Mortgage | 3.00%–3.35% |
| Bank of Ireland | EcoSaver Mortgage | Low 3% range |
| Avant Money | High Value Fixed (≤60% LTV) | From 3.20% |
| Avant One Mortgage | Long-Term Fixed | Around 3.40% |
Variable Mortgage Rates
| Lender | Product | Indicative Rate |
| Avant Money | Flex Mortgage (≤80% LTV) | 3.70% |
| Avant Money | Flex Mortgage (>80% LTV) | 3.90% |
| Other Variable Products | Standard Variable | Typically 4.00%+ |
Always verify rates directly with lenders or an independent mortgage broker, as products can change monthly.
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Why Fixed Mortgages Continue to Dominate
One of the clearest trends in 2026 is the continued preference for fixed-rate mortgages.
More than 90% of new borrowers are choosing fixed products because they provide certainty during an uncertain economic environment.
Popular fixed-rate periods include:
- 3-year fixed
- 4-year fixed
- 5-year fixed
Current pricing generally falls between 3.00% and 3.80% depending on borrower profile.
For many homeowners, knowing exactly what their monthly payment will be for the next several years outweighs the potential savings of a variable product.
The recent ECB rate increase has reinforced this preference.
Variable Mortgages: Still Worth Considering?
Variable-rate mortgages remain attractive for certain borrowers.
Avant Money's Flex Mortgage continues to offer competitive rates while providing additional flexibility compared with many fixed products.
Benefits include:
- Potentially lower rates in some scenarios
- Flexible overpayments
- No fixed-term break penalties
- Ability to benefit if benchmark rates decline
However, variable mortgages now carry greater risk than earlier in the year.
Because Flex products are linked to Euribor benchmarks, future ECB decisions can directly affect monthly repayments.
Borrowers choosing variable products should ensure they have sufficient financial flexibility to absorb potential future increases.
Fixed vs Variable Rates
Fixed
3.45%
Variable
4.13%
Figure 3: Fixed mortgages remain cheaper than average variable rates in mid-2026.
The Green Mortgage Advantage
Green mortgages remain one of the most important developments in Irish lending.
Properties with BER ratings between A1 and B3 can qualify for special discounted mortgage rates from many major lenders.
Typical green discounts range from:
- 0.10%
- 0.20%
- 0.30%
- Up to 0.40% below standard mortgage rates
While these differences may appear small, the long-term savings can be substantial.
For example:
A borrower with a €300,000 mortgage over 30 years could potentially save between €15,000 and €30,000 in interest costs through a green mortgage discount.
This explains why many homeowners are investing in:
- Heat pumps
- Solar panels
- Insulation upgrades
- Window replacements
- Energy-efficiency improvements
before applying for financing.
➡️ Read Also: Green Building Certifications in 2026: Which Ones Actually Deliver ROI for Investors and Developers
What Determines Your Mortgage Rate?
Several factors influence the rate offered by lenders.
1. Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV)
The lower your LTV, the better your pricing.
Typical lender tiers include:
- ≤60% LTV (best rates)
- ≤80% LTV (very competitive)
- 80–90% LTV
- 90% LTV (highest rates)
Borrowers with larger deposits generally receive significantly better offers.
2. BER Rating
Energy-efficient homes receive preferential pricing through green mortgage programs.
This is currently one of the largest pricing differentiators available in the market.
3. Borrower Type
Lenders compete aggressively for:
- First-time buyers
- Mortgage switchers
- High-income borrowers
- Large loan balances
These groups frequently receive enhanced offers and incentives.
4. Loan Size
Many lenders offer improved pricing for loans exceeding €250,000–€300,000.
5. Credit Profile
Strong credit history remains essential.
Lenders continue to stress-test affordability approximately 2% above the offered rate in line with regulatory requirements.
What Drives Your Mortgage Rate?
🏠
LTV RatioLower LTV = Lower Rate
🌱
BER RatingGreen Discount Available
💳
Credit ProfileStrong Credit Wins
💰
Loan SizeLarger Loans Often Discounted
Figure 2: The four biggest factors influencing mortgage pricing in Ireland.
Government Supports Available in 2026
Several schemes remain available to help buyers enter the market.
Help to Buy Scheme
Eligible first-time buyers can still receive support of up to €30,000 toward the purchase of a qualifying new home.
First Home Scheme
The First Home Scheme continues to provide shared-equity support for eligible buyers who cannot bridge the affordability gap through traditional financing.
Together, these schemes remain important tools for younger buyers entering the housing market.
| Scheme | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Help to Buy | Up to €30,000 support |
| First Home Scheme | Shared Equity Support |
| Green Mortgage | 0.10%–0.40% Discount |
Table 3: Key government and lender support programmes available in 2026.
How to Get the Best Mortgage Rate
1. Compare Multiple Lenders
Do not rely on a single lender's website.
Use comparison services and obtain multiple quotes.
2. Speak to a Mortgage Broker
Independent brokers often access lender pricing sheets and special offers unavailable through public channels.
3. Focus on APRC
The Annual Percentage Rate of Charge provides a more accurate measure of borrowing costs than headline rates alone.
4. Improve Your BER Rating
Even relatively small upgrades may unlock green mortgage discounts.
5. Consider Cashback Carefully
Cashback offers can appear attractive but should be evaluated against long-term interest costs.
6. Monitor Market Changes
Lenders continue adjusting products regularly throughout 2026.
Timing can influence your final rate.
Outlook for the Rest of 2026
Most analysts expect relative stability rather than dramatic rate movements for the remainder of the year.
The key variable remains future ECB policy.
Potential scenarios include:
- Stable rates with minor lender adjustments
- Additional ECB tightening if inflation resurges
- Gradual easing if economic growth weakens
For now, fixed mortgage rates in the low-3% range continue to represent attractive long-term value for risk-averse borrowers.
Competition among lenders remains strong, which should help limit significant increases unless broader economic conditions deteriorate.
Impact of a Small Rate Difference
3.00%
3.20%
Example: On a €350,000 mortgage over 30 years, a 0.20% rate difference can cost thousands of euros in additional interest.
Figure 4: Even a small mortgage rate difference can have a significant long-term impact on borrowing costs.
Final Advice
The best mortgage rates available in Ireland today generally range between 3.00% and 3.70% for well-qualified borrowers.
However, choosing the right mortgage involves far more than finding the lowest headline rate.
Borrowers should evaluate:
- APRC
- Fees
- Cashback incentives
- Flexibility
- Overpayment options
- BER eligibility
- Future refinancing opportunities
A difference of just 0.20% on a €350,000 mortgage over 30 years can translate into thousands of euros in additional interest costs.
Before committing, compare multiple lenders, speak with an independent mortgage broker, and review all costs associated with the mortgage—not just the advertised rate.
Mortgage rates remain competitive by historical standards, but informed borrowers continue to achieve the best outcomes.
Rates and information are accurate as of mid-June 2026 and are subject to change. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always consult an authorised mortgage adviser, broker, or lender before making financial decisions.
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