Ljubljana Launches Shared Equity Scheme for First-Time Homebuyers

Ljubljana's city council has announced that 150 new apartments in the Bezigrad district will be available under the shared equity scheme, a government-backed initiative aimed at helping first-time homebuyers access affordable housing.

The shared equity scheme matters now because Ljubljana's real estate market is becoming increasingly competitive, with prices rising by 10% in the past year alone. As a result, many first-time buyers are finding it difficult to get on the property ladder, making initiatives like the shared equity scheme a vital lifeline. The scheme is particularly relevant in neighbourhoods like Šiška and Vič, where property prices are higher than in other parts of the city.

In Ljubljana, the shared equity scheme is being implemented in partnership with organisations like the Ljubljana Housing Fund and the Slovenian Housing Agency. The scheme will be available to first-time buyers who meet certain eligibility criteria, including a maximum household income of €40,000 per year. Buyers will be able to purchase apartments on streets like Cankarjeva ulica and Slovenska cesta, with the government covering up to 30% of the purchase price.

According to data from the Slovenian National Bank, the average price of a new apartment in Ljubljana is now €120,000, up from €90,000 just two years ago. However, under the shared equity scheme, first-time buyers will be able to purchase apartments for as little as €80,000. Since the scheme's launch in January 2026, over 200 applications have been received, with 50 apartments already sold. The most popular locations are in the city centre, particularly around Prešeren Square and the Ljubljanica River.

How the Scheme Works

The shared equity scheme is relatively straightforward: the government covers a portion of the purchase price, and the buyer repays this amount over a set period of time, typically 10-15 years. The repayment amount is calculated as a percentage of the buyer's income, ensuring that the scheme remains affordable. For example, a buyer purchasing a €100,000 apartment with a 20% government contribution would repay €20,000 over 10 years, at a rate of €166 per month.

For those looking to take advantage of the scheme, the next step is to contact the Ljubljana Housing Fund or the Slovenian Housing Agency to discuss eligibility and apply for the scheme. Buyers should also research the available apartments and neighbourhoods, such as the upcoming development on Tržaška cesta, to find the best fit for their needs and budget. With the shared equity scheme, first-time homebuyers in Ljubljana can finally access affordable housing and start building a secure future.