Buying a Property in Ireland – FAQs

Cosgrove Gaynard Solicitors, Dublin – Specialist Conveyancing & Property Lawyers

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.

1. Who can buy property in Ireland?

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.

2. What are the main steps in the property buying process?

The Irish conveyancing process typically involves:

1. Mortgage approval in principle (if required)
2. Viewing properties and making an offer through the estate agent
3. Instructing your solicitor—Cosgrove Gaynard Solicitors handles all conveyancing matters
4. Paying the booking deposit
5. Contract review and signing
6. Surveys, legal checks, and final mortgage approval
7. Completion and key handover

We guide you through every stage to ensure a smooth and legally sound purchase.

3. Do I need a solicitor to buy property in Ireland?

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.

4. How much deposit do I need?

Current Central Bank guidelines usually require:

• 10% for first-time buyers
• 20% for second-time buyers
• 30% or more for investors

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5. What additional costs should I expect when buying a home?

When budgeting for your purchase, consider:

• Stamp Duty (A percentage of the purchase price)
• Legal fees
• Registration fees
• Surveyor costs
• Valuation fees
• Mortgage protection
• and home insurance

We offer clear, transparent fee estimates for all conveyancing work prior to being engaged.

6. What is Stamp Duty?

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.

7. Do I need a structural survey?

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.

8. Do I need a structural survey aswell as a valuation?

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.

9. How long does the conveyancing process take?

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.

10. What does “sale agreed” mean?

“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.

11. What documents do lenders require for a mortgage?

Typically prior to issuing the loan pack:

• Proof of income
• Bank statements
• Tax documents
• ID and proof of address
• Evidence of savings and deposit
• Details of current loans

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After issuing the loan pack:

• Loan offer signed
• Assignment of life policy
• Solicitors undertaking
• Home insurance
• Life insurance / mortgage protection.
• Direct debit mandate
• Valuation
• Evidence of any gift - including a deed of confirmation from the persons providing the gift if relevant.

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Our team works closely with lenders and mortgage brokers to keep your application moving.

12. Can non-residents get a mortgage in Ireland?

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.

13. When do I become the legal owner of the property?

You legally own the property when:

1. Contracts are completed,
2. All funds are transferred, and
3. Your solicitor closes.
4. After closing your solicitor registers the property with the PRA and you will be shown as the legal owner on title.

Cosgrove Gaynard Solicitors handles the full registration process.

14. Can I buy a property at auction?

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.

15. What taxes apply after I buy the property?

Depending on your circumstances, you may need to pay:

• Stamp duty on the purchase
• Local Property Tax (LPT)
• Income tax on rental income if applicable

16. Can I rent out my property after purchase?

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.

Why Choose Cosgrove Gaynard Solicitors for Conveyancing in Ireland?

• Experienced Dublin-based property and conveyancing solicitors
• Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees
• Fast, responsive communication
• Support for first-time buyers, investors, and owner occupiers
• Comprehensive legal protection at every step

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