Applications invited for last five homes in Moate affordable housing scheme

Westmeath County Council is inviting prospective homeowners to apply for the last five houses remaining at Gort an Locha, its affordable housing development in Moate.

Gort an Locha, on Lake Road, is a small estate consisting of 22 homes, with prices starting at €229,500 for qualifying applicants under the affordable purchase scheme.

Last July, applications opened for the 22 homes and the council received more than 140 expressions of interest in the houses at that stage.

However, it appears that most of those applications did not meet the qualifying criteria, as the council said today (Friday) that five of the homes were still available.

The online application system for the five houses will re-open on Monday, May 13, at 12 noon.

The local authority said: "These homes are all 3-bedroom properties, built, ready and waiting for their new owners!

"These homes are being made available for sale under the Affordable Dwelling Purchase Arrangements in accordance with the Affordable Legislation.

"The properties are open to First Time Buyers or those who qualify under the ‘Fresh Start Principle’."

The council added that all applications would be assessed in line with its "scheme of priority" for affordable dwelling purchase arrangements.

In advance of the online application system re-opening on Monday, those who are interested are being advised to familiarise themselves with the application process and required documentation, in particular a copy of their mortgage approval in principle.

A deposit of 10% of the purchase price of the property will be required, the council added.

For more information or to apply for the scheme, visit: www.westmeathcoco.ie