Buying a home or investment property in Ireland can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers or those unfamiliar with the Irish conveyancing process. At Cosgrove Gaynard Solicitors, our Dublin-based property team provides clear, efficient guidance at every step. Below are answers to the questions we are most frequently asked.
Ireland imposes no restrictions on foreign or non-resident buyers, and both residents and international purchasers are free to buy residential or commercial property. However, purchasing a property does not automatically grant residency or immigration status. Cosgrove Gaynard Solicitors can advise on the legal considerations for non-resident buyers and investors.
The Irish conveyancing process typically involves:
We guide you through every stage to ensure a smooth and legally sound purchase.
Yes. Irish property transfers must be handled by lawyers and should be handled by a qualified and experienced conveyancing solicitor as opposed to a junior member of a firm. Our team at Cosgrove Gaynard Solicitors manages title reviews, contract review, searches, mortgage documents, and registration with the Property Registration Authority.
Current Central Bank guidelines usually require:
When budgeting for your purchase, consider:
We offer clear, transparent fee estimates for all conveyancing work prior to being engaged.
Stamp Duty is a tax payable to Revenue when transferring the ownership of property. Cosgrove Gaynard Solicitors calculates and submits this on your behalf as part of the conveyancing process. To confirm it is payable prior to closing as your solicitor will need to hold these funds to pay Revenue immediately on completion.
A survey is not legally required, but we strongly recommend one. A qualified surveyor can identify structural issues or defects, protecting you from unexpected costs after purchase. A solicitor can only review the title to a property which may be perfect on paper however the property itself could have numerous structural defects which only your surveyor would be able to confirm.
Yes, your survey is carried out to identify any structural issues for you. The valuation, whilst you pay for this, is for the bank. This simply confirms that the property value is as required in terms of the LTV of the mortgage. It is not the same as a survey.
Most purchases in Ireland take 8–12 weeks, though timelines can vary depending on mortgage approval, searches, and documentation. It can also depend on whether there are any title issues or indeed whether there is a chain in place affecting the timeline. Our experieced property solicitors work proactively to avoid delays.
“Sale agreed” indicates that your offer has been accepted, but the sale is not yet legally binding. It becomes binding only when contracts are signed, the deposit paid and contracts are exchanged.
Typically prior to issuing the loan pack:
After issuing the loan pack:
Our team works closely with lenders and mortgage brokers to keep your application moving.
Some Irish banks lend to non-residents, although requirements can be stricter.
We regularly assist international buyers navigating Irish lender criteria and cross-border purchasing.
You legally own the property when:
Cosgrove Gaynard Solicitors handles the full registration process.
Yes, but auctions require immediate deposit payment and the sale becomes binding at the fall of the hammer. It is essential your solicitor reviews the legal pack before you bid to ensure you are fully protected.
Depending on your circumstances, you may need to pay:
Yes. Landlords must comply with Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) requirements, safety standards, and rental regulations. We can guide you through landlord obligations, RTB registration, and tenancy agreements.
Buying your first home in Ireland is one of the most exciting but complex financial decisions you will ever make. The legal process of buying property — known as conveyancing — is a critical part of that journey. This guide walks you through every stage, explains key stages and timelines, and gives practical tips that will save you stress (and money) and perhaps even the entire transaction.
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Text Link39 Waterloo Road,
Dublin 4
DX 109060 Fitzwilliam
Phone: 01 234 0044
Fax: 01 234 0047