Back to site

What are the costs involved in leasing a commercial property?

May 23, 2025 #

When leasing a commercial property in Ireland, businesses must consider several hidden costs beyond the monthly rent. Key expenses include:

Security Deposit – Typically 3-6 months’ rent, depending on the lease length and tenant history. This deposit is held by the landlord and may be forfeited if the lease terms are not met.
Stamp Duty – Tenants must pay stamp duty on leases over 35 years or with a high rental value. The cost varies based on the annual rent and the lease duration.
Service Charges – In multi-tenant buildings, businesses pay for shared amenities, cleaning, security, and maintenance of communal areas. These charges vary based on property type.
Insurance Costs – Tenants are usually responsible for business insurance, public liability insurance, and contributions to the building’s insurance policy.
Legal & Surveyor Fees – Hiring a solicitor to review lease agreements and a chartered surveyor to assess the property’s condition typically costs between €2,000 and €5,000.
Fit-Out Costs – Businesses leasing empty spaces may need to budget for interior design, renovations, and compliance with fire safety regulations.

Understanding these costs in advance helps businesses avoid unexpected financial strain when leasing a commercial property.

📞 Need help budgeting for your lease? Contact us for expert financial advice!
🏢 Check out commercial leasing options here!

What are the typical lease terms for commercial properties in Ireland?

May 23, 2025 #

Commercial leases in Ireland vary depending on the business size, industry, and property type. The three most common structures are:

Short-Term Leases (1-5 years) – Ideal for small businesses, start-ups, and pop-up shops, these leases offer more flexibility and often include break clauses for early termination.
Long-Term Leases (10-25 years) – Common for large retailers, office spaces, and industrial properties, these leases usually include rent reviews every 3-5 years and may require tenants to handle property maintenance.
Full Repairing and Insuring (FRI) Leases – The tenant is responsible for repairs, insurance, and property upkeep, reducing the landlord’s liability but adding to tenant costs.

Understanding these terms is crucial when selecting a commercial lease. Many landlords prefer long-term stability, while tenants may require greater flexibility.

📞 Need help budgeting for your lease? Contact us for expert financial advice!
🏢 Check out commercial leasing options here!

What is a BER rating, and why does it matter?

May 23, 2025 #

A Building Energy Rating (BER) is an energy efficiency assessment for homes in Ireland, ranking properties from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). This rating impacts your heating costs, comfort, and overall property value.

✔ High BER Ratings (A or B) – Homes with better insulation, modern heating systems, and energy-efficient windows tend to have lower utility bills and higher resale value. Many lenders offer green mortgages with lower interest rates for properties with a strong BER rating.
✔ Low BER Ratings (E, F, or G) – Older homes with poor insulation, outdated heating systems, and inefficient windows may lead to higher energy costs. Buyers should factor in potential renovation expenses such as insulation upgrades, double glazing, and heating system improvements.
✔ Legal Requirement – A BER certificate is mandatory when selling or renting a property in Ireland, and buyers should always check the BER rating before committing to a purchase.

Understanding a property’s BER rating helps buyers make energy-efficient choices that can save thousands on future energy bills and increase the home’s long-term value.

🏡 Start your home search now! Browse available properties!

What are the key differences between commercial and residential leasing in Ireland?

May 23, 2025 #

The primary differences between commercial and residential leasing in Ireland lie in lease structure, tenant rights, and financial responsibilities.

Lease Length – Residential leases are typically short-term (1-4 years), while commercial leases tend to be longer (5-25 years), particularly for businesses investing in property fit-outs.
Legal Protections – Residential tenants benefit from stronger protections under the Residential Tenancies Act, whereas commercial tenants have fewer safeguards and must negotiate lease terms carefully.
Rent Negotiations – Residential rents are often regulated, while commercial lease agreements allow flexibility in rent setting, rental increases, and lease renewals.
Repair & Maintenance Obligations – Commercial tenants may be responsible for full property maintenance, repairs, and insurance, unlike residential tenancies where landlords usually handle structural repairs.
Break Clauses & Exit Strategies – Commercial leases may not have early exit options, meaning businesses must carefully negotiate break clauses to allow flexibility.

📞 Need help budgeting for your lease? Contact us for expert financial advice!
🏢 Check out commercial leasing options here!

What are the hidden costs of buying a house in Ireland?

May 23, 2025 #

When purchasing a home, it’s essential to budget for additional costs beyond the purchase price. These hidden expenses can add up, so being financially prepared is crucial:

✔ Stamp Duty – This government tax is 1% on properties up to €1 million and 2% on the excess above €1 million. For example, a €400,000 home will require €4,000 in stamp duty.
✔ Solicitor Fees – Legal costs for conveyancing typically range from €1,500 to €3,000 + VAT.
✔ Surveyor & Valuation Fees – A survey ensures the property is in good condition and costs between €300 and €600. Mortgage lenders also require a valuation report, costing approximately €150.
✔ Mortgage Protection Insurance – Required by lenders, costing around €15 to €50 per month.
✔ Home Insurance – Essential for mortgage approval, with annual premiums between €400 and €800.
✔ Local Property Tax (LPT) – Charged annually, based on the market value of your home. Rates vary by local authority and should be checked before purchasing.
✔ Moving & Renovation Costs – Hiring a removals company, furnishing your home, or making repairs can add to your budget.

Being aware of these costs helps you make informed decisions and avoid unexpected financial stress during the buying process.


🏡 Start your home search now! Browse available properties!

How do I get mortgage approval in Ireland?

May 23, 2025 #

Securing a mortgage in Ireland involves a step-by-step process to ensure you meet lender requirements and get the best possible deal. Here’s how it works:

✔ Assess Your Financial Situation – Lenders evaluate your income, expenses, credit history, and financial stability. A strong credit score and steady employment history increase your chances of approval.
✔ Save for a Deposit – First-time buyers need a 10% deposit, while second-time buyers require 20%. For example, purchasing a €300,000 home requires a €30,000 deposit for first-time buyers.
✔ Get Mortgage Approval in Principle (AIP) – This is a preliminary approval from a lender that outlines how much you can borrow. It typically lasts six months, allowing you to house-hunt with confidence.
✔ Prepare Supporting Documents – Banks require payslips, P60s, tax returns, savings history, bank statements (usually six months), and details of existing debts.
✔ Compare Mortgage Offers – Different lenders provide varying interest rates, repayment terms, and incentives like cashback offers. Use mortgage comparison tools or consult a mortgage broker to find the best option.
✔ Final Approval & Legal Process – After finding a property and agreeing on a price, the lender will conduct a property valuation before issuing a formal mortgage offer. Your solicitor will then handle the legal process before finalizing the purchase.


🏡 Looking for your dream home? Check our available properties now!

How long does it take to sell a house in Ireland?

May 23, 2025 #

The time it takes to sell a house in Ireland can vary based on location, market demand, and legal processes. On average, it takes three to six months from listing to completion, but this can be shorter in high-demand areas like Dublin, Cork, or Galway.

To speed up the sale:
✔ Have all legal documents ready (BER certificate, title deeds, mortgage details).
✔ Price your property competitively based on current market trends.
✔ Stage your home for sale with high-quality photos and professional marketing.
✔ Work with an experienced estate agent who understands the local market.

Delays often occur due to mortgage approval waiting times, legal checks, and buyer negotiations, so choosing the right professional team is essential.

📞 Looking to sell your home quickly? Get in touch with our experts today!
🏡 Want to know how much your property is worth? Get a FREE online valuation now!

How much does it cost to sell a house in Ireland?

May 23, 2025 #

Selling a property in Ireland involves several costs, and being prepared can help you maximize your profits. Here are the key expenses:

  • Estate Agent Fees – Typically 1% to 2.5% of the sale price plus VAT.
  • Solicitor Fees – Expect to pay between €1,000 and €2,500 for legal services.
  • BER Certificate – Required by law and costs between €150 and €300.
  • Capital Gains Tax (CGT) – If the property is not your principal private residence, CGT is 33% on the profit from the sale.
  • Mortgage Redemption Fees – If there’s an outstanding mortgage, early repayment charges may apply.

Other costs to consider include potential staging expenses, removals, and outstanding Local Property Tax (LPT) payments. Understanding these costs in advance helps ensure a smooth sale process and better financial planning.

📞 Looking to sell your home quickly? Get in touch with our experts today!
🏡 Want to know how much your property is worth? Get a FREE online valuation now!

What are the legal requirements for selling a house in Ireland?

May 23, 2025 #

Selling a house in Ireland involves several legal steps to ensure a smooth and secure transaction. The first step is to hire a solicitor to manage the conveyancing process, which includes verifying title deeds and preparing legal contracts. You are legally required to obtain a Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate, which measures your property’s energy efficiency and must be included in all advertisements.

The property must be marketed correctly, often with the assistance of a licensed estate agent who will handle viewings and negotiations. Once a buyer is secured, a Contract for Sale is signed, and the buyer pays a booking deposit. The final step is the completion of all legal and financial documentation before the property is officially transferred to the new owner.

📞 Looking to sell your home quickly? Get in touch with our experts today!
🏡 Want to know how much your property is worth? Get a FREE online valuation now!

Pagespeed Optimization by Lighthouse.