Ireland home-buying guide
What are the steps to buying a house in Ireland?
Buying a house in Ireland usually follows seven steps, from getting mortgage approval in principle to signing contracts, closing the sale and collecting the keys.
The process
Seven steps to buying a house in Ireland
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Get mortgage approval in principle
Before you start viewing properties, arrange mortgage approval in principle so you know how much you may be able to borrow and what your likely budget is.
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Save your deposit
You will usually need a deposit of 10%. Depending on your circumstances, you may also be able to use the Help to Buy scheme.
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View properties and register with local estate agents
View homes that match your requirements and budget. Registering with local estate agents can help you hear about suitable properties and viewing opportunities.
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Make an offer through the agent
When you find a property you want to buy, make your offer through the estate agent handling the sale.
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Pay the booking deposit once your offer is accepted
Once the seller accepts your offer, you pay a booking deposit. This is subject to contract, so the sale is not yet legally binding at this stage.
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Complete the legal and mortgage checks
Your solicitor checks the title and contracts while you arrange a survey and finalise your mortgage. These checks help prepare the purchase for contracts to be signed.
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Sign contracts, close the sale and collect the keys
After the contracts are signed and the sale closes, you can collect the keys to your new home.