EBS Building Society said today its share of the Irish retail mortage market had grown by 6.6% since last year to 21.7%.

EBS’ market share in the first-time buyer segment has grown to 38.4%, the company said citing figures released by the Irish Banking Federation.

“Over the course of the year, despite the uncertainty that existed in the financial services sector, we remained true to our commitment to provide access to credit to those who were in a position to buy a home,” said spokesman Dara Deering.

“This approach has resulted in significant market share growth for EBS over the course of the year. Despite the fact that this growth is happening in a declining market it underscores the fact that borrowers are selecting EBS and that EBS is actually open for business.”

The financial institution also said that the level of mortage applications in the past three months was up 60% on the first three months of the year, offering a “strong indication” that more people are considering getting back into the market.