First time buyer qualification criteria - TRS on mortgage

I bought a house jointly with my wife 3 years ago. We were both single when we bought it and she was a first time buyer - I was not.

Since we got married, we have always been treated as non-first time buyers by the tax collector. Is this correct ? Is it possible for my wife to change her status and be treated as a first time buyer (we are jointly assess for income tax).

In light of the recent budget changes with TRS reducing to 15% for non-first time buyers, a change in status would be of some benefit to us.

Appreciate any feedback.

Once any party involved in the house purchase in a non-first time buyer then all are I'm afraid. Had you known this in advance you're wife could have bought on her own as a FTB but it's too late now.

I respect of TRS, your wife should be getting First Time Buyer rate of relief for the balance of seven years since she first bought, i.e. approximately the next four years.

If your first purchase was less than seven years ago, you can still claim FTB rate for the balance of seven years since you first bought.

If you haven't been receiving the FTB rate for at least your wife, you should contact the TRS section in Revenue.

Liam,
If you are correct and my wife should be on a FTB rate then how does this work, considering it is a joint mortgage and I am a non FTB.
Does revenue overlook that fact that I am a non FTB ?

I was more inclined believe the previous posters (elcato) explanation.

Your wife should get TRS up to the ceiling for a FTB. You get TRS up to the ceiling for a non-FTB.

Thanks Liam,

What about the budget changes in Interest rate Relief for FTB's and non FTB's - can this also be split accordingly ?