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Buying Property in Ireland: Frequently Asked Questions

To make an offer, find the property on our "Browse Listings" page, click into the property details, and select "Make Offer." After submitting your offer, you’ll receive an email with the next steps. If you prefer to make an offer by phone or email, please contact us, and we’ll be happy to assist.

When you make an offer, we’ll notify you if a higher or additional offer is being considered, allowing you to submit a new one. You can also call or email us anytime for the latest updates. If you’re waiting to make an offer, let us know your situation, such as awaiting financing, so we can keep you informed.

Our agents make the bidding process straightforward and efficient. Offers can be submitted easily through our website and are visible only to the agent and vendor. Once an offer is verified, the agent updates other interested parties and manages any subsequent bids. Once an offer is accepted, we will notify all parties and provide next steps.

Besides the purchase price, budget for expenses like stamp duty, legal fees, property surveys, and a bank valuation. You may also want to consider any potential costs for upgrades or renovations, plus ongoing expenses like local property tax (LPT), utilities, insurance, and management fees.

If everything runs smoothly and all parties are motivated, a sale can close in as little as 8 weeks. However, it typically takes 12 to 16 weeks. Holiday periods, such as Christmas or summer, may cause delays.

Pay attention to the property’s condition, structural integrity, potential maintenance issues, and the neighborhood. Ask questions about the property’s history and any planned developments in the area.

In a leasehold property, you buy the right to occupy the property for a specific lease term, while in a freehold property, you own the property and the land it sits on.

A property survey assesses the physical condition of the property and identifies potential issues. It’s optional but recommended, especially for older properties. If you are obtaining a mortgage, it may be required.

A property appraisal is an assessment of the property’s value by a professional appraiser. Lenders often require it to ensure the property’s value matches the loan amount. Your lender will have a panel of approved valuers.

When buying a property in Ireland, you’ll pay Stamp Duty, which is 1% on the first €1 million, 2% on the portion between €1 million and €1.5 million, and 6% on any amount above €1.5 million. Additionally, you’ll incur an annual Local Property Tax (LPT) based on the property’s market value and local authority rates.

Yes, there are several government schemes to help property buyers in Ireland, including the Help to Buy (HTB) Scheme, offering tax refunds of up to €30,000 for first-time buyers; the First Home Scheme (FHS), a shared equity scheme providing up to 30% of a new home’s purchase price; and the Local Authority Home Loan, a government-backed mortgage covering up to 90% of a property’s value. Additionally, the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant offers up to €50,000 (or €70,000 for derelict properties) to refurbish unused homes, and Mortgage Interest Relief provides tax relief on interest payments for buyers with mortgages taken out between 2004 and 2012. To find out more, read our guide on “Government Incentive Schemes for Buyers.”

Yes, it is essential to have a solicitor when buying a property in Ireland to handle the legal aspects of the transaction, ensure due diligence, and manage the transfer of ownership.

Once your offer is accepted, please check your email for a list of next steps to complete the "sale agreed" status. These steps include paying a booking deposit, providing your solicitor’s contact information, confirming proof of funds if needed, and arranging for a surveyor and bank valuer if required. Once we have these details, we’ll send a sales advice note to you and your solicitor with an update on the sale.

When buying a new home, each development will be at a unique stage, so it’s essential to stay informed about timelines and required actions. Your agent will guide you on construction milestones, anticipated completion dates, and the snagging process—an inspection to address any minor defects before moving in. Additionally, ensure your mortgage approval is in place, and appoint a solicitor to handle contracts and title transfers. Many developers also provide a homeowner’s manual outlining features, maintenance, and warranties to help you settle in smoothly. For more details, read our guide on "Buying a New Home: What You Need to Know."

Mortgages can be complex, and it’s crucial to make informed decisions. We recommend reaching out to a mortgage advisor or financial expert who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances. They will be able to answer your questions and assist you in navigating the mortgage process effectively.

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