Is a first home still tax-exempt?

No. The first-home transfer-tax exemption ended on 1 Jan 2024; the tax is 1.5% of the debt-free price.

What is an ASP account?

A supported savings account for young first-home buyers that helps build the down payment and lowers the loan interest.

How much own money is needed?

Because of the loan cap, the bank usually requires a down-payment share; the exact amount depends on the situation and collateral.

First-home buyer's guide: budget, financing and taxes 2026

By Lumi · Updated: Jun 19, 2026, 12:00 AM

First-home buyer checklist: total budget, ASP and the loan cap, monthly costs and transfer tax (the exemption ended in 2024). What to check before making an offer.

Important: The first-home transfer-tax exemption ended on 1 Jan 2024 — budget 1.5% of the debt-free price for tax. Also account for the loan cap and monthly costs, not just the sale price.

Buying a first home is a big decision where you should look at the total cost, not just the sale price. Here is how to frame the budget, financing and taxes in 2026.

Total budget, not just the sale price

Calculate the debt-free price (sale price + share of the company loan), the monthly maintenance and finance charges, plus the transfer tax and moving costs.

A good rule of thumb: budget clearly more than just the deposit — tax and fees increase the final sum.

ASP and financing

An ASP account is a savings scheme for young first-home buyers, where the state and bank support the interest. The bank typically requires a down-payment share set by the loan cap.

Compare loan offers: the interest margin, loan term and repayment method significantly affect the monthly instalment.

Taxes and fees

The transfer tax on housing shares is 1.5% of the debt-free price. The first-home exemption ended on 1 January 2024, so first-home buyers also pay the tax.

Also remember possible costs of the manager's certificate and a condition inspection, as well as moving expenses.

What to check in the apartment

The construction year and renovation risk (pipes, wet room), the housing company's finances and upcoming renovations from the PTS, and the area's price level and services.

You get the building's age, renovation window and area profile by address directly from the Lumi report — a good starting point for comparison.

Frequently asked questions

Is a first home still tax-exempt?: No. The first-home transfer-tax exemption ended on 1 Jan 2024; the tax is 1.5% of the debt-free price.
What is an ASP account?: A supported savings account for young first-home buyers that helps build the down payment and lowers the loan interest.
How much own money is needed?: Because of the loan cap, the bank usually requires a down-payment share; the exact amount depends on the situation and collateral.