Home Start Loan: Hungary’s 3% Government-Backed Mortgage Program
The Home Start Loan or Home Start Program is a newly introduced, government-subsidized housing loan in Hungary aimed at helping first-time homebuyers.
What is the Home Start Loan?
To be launched in September 2025, Home Start Program offers up to HUF 50 million loan (~EUR 125,000) at a fixed 3% interest rate for a maximum term of 25 years.
Market mortgage rates in Hungary are starting at 6,18%, so the fixed 3% rate halves typical interest costs. Compared to a standard loan, Home Start reduces monthly repayments by ~€300 and cumulative cost by ~€30,000 on a 25-year HUF 50 million loan.
There are no requirements for marriage or having children, making the credit accessible to single applicants, unlike some other Hungarian housing supports.
Who is eligible for a Home Start Loan?
- First-time buyers: No more than 50% share in any residential property. Low‑value prior ownership under HUF 15 million is exempt.
- Must be aged 18+, there’s no maximum age cap
- At least 2 years of continuous Hungarian or foreign social insurance
- Must pass the bank’s credit assessment
- Foreign nationals need an official Hungarian address card. Non-EU residents may require permanent residence status.
Home Start Loan Property & Down Payment Criteria
Purchase price cap:
- HUF 100 million (~EUR 250,000) for apartments,
- HUF 150 million (~EUR 375,000) for standalone houses.
Price-per-square-meter limit: HUF 1.5 million (~EUR 3,750)
Minimum down payment: 10% of purchase price (market loans generally require at least 20%)
Home Start Program dates & availability
- Home Start Program rollout begins September 2025 as stated in the official government announcement.
- Home Start loans will be handled through Hungarian banks. Individual loan conditions (such as minimum income or accepted form of incomes) are subject to each bank’s internal policies
- Home Start Loan can be combined with other state schemes, such as CSOK Plusz, Falusi CSOK, or Babaváró, Munkáshitel, further reducing home buying costs.
Other Hungarian Housing Supports and Loans
Hungary offers several complementary housing subsidies designed for different life stages as well as interest-free loans for young people.
CSOK Plus (Family Home Loan)
Supports families with children by 3% subsidized mortgages. Requires at least one child, and can be reduced by HUF 10 million (~EUR 250,000) when at least two children are born.
Falusi CSOK (Rural Family Home Loan)
Similar to CSOK Plusz, but specifically for purchasing or renovating properties in rural areas.
Babaváró Loan (Baby Expecting Loan)
An interest-free loan (~EUR 27,500) for married couples, convertible into a grant if 3 children are born during the loan term.
Munkáshitel (Young Worker’s loan)
Worker’s loan is an interest-free loan (~EUR 27,500) for people under 25 who are already working. Loan debt can be reduced if children are born.
10% Own Equity for Young People
A special mortgage requiring only 10% down payment, targeted at buyers under 41 entering the housing market.
FAQ
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What is the Home Start loan in Hungary?
The Home Start loan (official Hungarian name: Otthon Start Program / Otthon Start hitel) is a Hungarian government-supported mortgage. It offers up to HUF 50 million (~€125,000) at a fixed 3% interest rate for first-time home buyers. -
Why is the Home Start Program beneficial?
The Home Start loan’s 3% interest rate is significantly lower than Hungary’s current market mortgage rates (around 6,5%). It also requires just 10% down payment and unlike other Hungarian programs, it has no marriage or child requirement. -
Can foreigners apply for the Home Start loan?
Yes, foreigners can apply if they have a valid Hungarian address and have been insured under Hungary’s social security system (Társadalombiztosítás) for at least two years. Additional rules may apply for non-EU residents. -
How does Home Start compare to CSOK Plusz and other Hungarian programs?
Unlike CSOK Plusz or Babaváró, the Home Start loan does not require marriage or children. However, it can be combined with other support schemes. -
What kind of property can I buy with the Home Start loan?
Any apartment under HUF 100 million (~€250,000), or any house under HUF 150 million (~€375,000). -
What are the drawbacks of the Home Start Program?
Though it increases affordability, some real estate experts warn that increased demand may push property prices higher.
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