Househunters can apply for the 'help-to-buy' scheme online from today

Meanwhile a number of reports released today show the increases recorded in property prices across the country last year.

A number of reports released today show the increases recorded in property prices across the country last year.

MyHome.ie and Daft.ie say average prices nationwide jumped 5.5 and 8%, respectively last year.

Meanwhile, househunters can apply for the 'help-to-buy' scheme online from today.

It was introduced in October's budget and will give first time buyers of new homes 5% back on the price of their property.

More from Cork