The Department of Infrastructure says it doesn't have an official policy on reserving homes for first-time buyers, but does try to encourage developers to build suitable houses.
In a written answer to a question in the House of Keys this week, Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne says when planning permission is granted, his department doesn't restrict occupancy to first-time buyers.
But he is telling Onchan MHK Peter Karran his department applies a strategic plan policy to developments which says a quarter of new homes should be affordable housing.
The policy is subject to an agreement between builders and the Department of Social Care.