A survey by property website MyHome.ie indicates that two out of three intending first-time buyers say they plan to buy a property in the next year.
The survey also finds that 78% of first-time buyers now have the funds required to pay a deposit, which is up 20% from last September.
A similar number have either received or are seeking mortgage approval.
In his analysis of the results, independent economist Paul Murgatroyd said first-time buyers clearly do not expect market and economic conditions to deteriorate significantly within the next 12 months.
Managing Director of MyHome.ie Angela Keegan said: 'It is clear that Dublin will be the first market to see increased activity as 64% of first-time buyers wish to buy in the capital.
'A further 13% are focused on purchasing in the traditional commuter counties of Meath, Wicklow and Kildare.'
However, in an opinion piece in today's Irish Independent, economist David McWilliams argues that buying a house now makes no economic, financial or social sense, as he believes that houses are still substantially overvalued.
