Your Step-by-Step Journey to Homeownership in Ireland
Buying a home in Ireland is a significant life step. You're not alone; many feel overwhelmed at first. With preparation and guidance, the process becomes more manageable. This guide outlines key stages in Ireland's home-buying process: financial planning, legal steps, and government supports.
Step 1: Define Your Needs
Start by identifying what matters most to you:
- Location: Proximity to work, schools, transport, and amenities.
- Property Type: Apartment, semi-detached, detached, or new build.
- Budget: Consider your savings, borrowing capacity, and monthly affordability.
Sherry FitzGerald’s mySherryFitz portal allows you to manage viewings, save favourites, and tailor your search.
Step 2: Get Mortgage Ready
Most buyers will need a mortgage. To prepare:
- Review your income, savings, and credit history.
- Gather documents: payslips, bank statements, Employee Detail Summary (formerly P60), and ID.
- Use tools like Sherry FitzGerald’s mortgage calculator to estimate repayments.
You may also qualify for schemes such as:
- Help-to-Buy Scheme: Tax rebate up to €30,000 for new builds. Available to first-time buyers of new or self-build homes, with property value limits.
- First Home Scheme: Shared equity support for eligible first-time buyers.
- Local Authority Home Loan: For those unable to secure traditional finance. Available to first-time buyers or "fresh start" applicants with income ceilings and credit criteria.
Step 3: Understand the Costs
Beyond the purchase price, budget for:
- Stamp Duty: 1% up to €1 million; 2% thereafter.
- Legal Fees: Solicitor costs vary.
- Survey & Valuation: Typically €300–€500.
- Insurance: Home and mortgage protection.
- Service Charges: For apartments or managed estates.
Sherry FitzGerald’s guides offer detailed breakdowns of these costs.
Step 4: Make an Offer
Once you find a suitable property:
- Submit an offer through your estate agent.
- If accepted, pay a booking deposit (usually 2–5%).
- Your solicitor will begin legal checks before contracts are signed.
Step 5: Legal Process
Your solicitor will:
- Review contracts and title deeds.
- Conduct planning and compliance checks.
- Handle stamp duty and registration.
Once the contracts are signed and the funds are transferred, you’ll receive the keys.
Step 6: Government Supports
Ireland offers several national schemes to support buyers:
Help-to-Buy Scheme
Refunds income tax and DIRT paid over the past four years. Applies to new builds and self-builds up to €500,000.
First Home Scheme
Bridges the gap between mortgage/deposit and property price. The government takes an equity stake, which can be repaid later.
Local Authority Home Loan
Available to first-time buyers or “fresh start” applicants who cannot access traditional mortgages. Covers up to 90% of the property value.
Affordable Purchase Scheme
Local authorities offer homes at reduced prices through shared equity models.
Step 7: Moving In
Once the sale is complete:
- Arrange utilities and broadband.
- Notify relevant services of your new address.
- Consider home improvements or furnishings.
Sherry FitzGerald also offers advice on buying off-plan, viewing tips, and selecting a solicitor.
Final Thoughts
Buying a home requires planning, patience, and support. With expert advice from estate agents like Sherry FitzGerald and national schemes designed to make homeownership more accessible, you can take confident steps toward securing your ideal property.
For more resources, visit:
Sherry FitzGerald Buyers Guide
Gov.ie Housing Supports
