Buying your first home in Ireland? There’s a lot to think about — but this checklist will help keep you on track, confident, and prepared.

Step 1: Get Your Finances in Order

Before you begin house-hunting, take control of your finances:

• Set a savings goal: Aim for 10%–15% of the property value. For a €300,000 home, that means €30,000–€45,000.
• Open a dedicated savings account: Preferably one with a decent interest rate or bonus (e.g., Credit Union, Revolut Vaults).
• Review your credit history: Request a free credit report from the Central Credit Register and resolve any issues early.
• Avoid large financial changes: Don’t take out new loans or switch jobs — banks look for stability.

Tip: Use budgeting apps like Revolut, YNAB, or Spendee to track spending and speed up your savings plan.

Step 2: Know What You Can Afford

Understanding your budget avoids heartbreak later:

• Use online calculators (AIB, BOI, bonkers.ie) to estimate your borrowing power and monthly repayments.
• Factor in additional costs: These include:
  • Stamp duty (1% of the property value)
  • Solicitor fees (€1,500–€2,500)
  • Engineer’s survey (€300–€600)
  • Moving costs, furniture, utilities, home insurance

Tip: Don’t stretch your budget to the max — leave room for emergencies or future life changes.

Step 3: Understand Grants & Support Schemes

Take advantage of government supports:

• Help to Buy Scheme: Up to €30,000 tax rebate for new homes.
• First Home Scheme: Shared equity scheme where the state helps cover the gap between your deposit and mortgage.
• Local Authority Loans: Low-interest loans available for those who may not qualify with banks.
• Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant: For those buying fixer-uppers.

Tip: You can combine some schemes. Talk to a mortgage broker to see what’s possible.

Step 4: Get Mortgage Approval in Principle

This is a non-binding approval showing how much you may borrow:

• Gather your documents:
  • 6 months of payslips
  • 6 months of bank statements
  • Proof of savings and gift letters (if applicable)
  • ID and proof of address
• Apply through a broker or directly with banks**
• Approval in principle lasts around 6 months and helps you make real offers.

Tip: Use a broker if you want to compare multiple lenders quickly. They’re often free to you (paid by the lender).

Step 5: House Hunting & Making Offers

Now comes the fun part — finding your home:

• Use Daft.ie and MyHome.ie: Set alerts for new properties in your price range.
• Visit multiple properties: Compare BER ratings, neighbourhoods, and features.
• Ask the right questions: Why is the seller moving? Are there any known issues? Is it in a flood zone?
• Make a realistic offer: Stick within your approved budget — avoid emotional overbidding.

Tip: Bring someone experienced with you on viewings for a second opinion.

Step 6: Surveys, Solicitors & Contracts

Due diligence protects your investment:

• Hire a qualified engineer to perform a pre-purchase survey. They can uncover structural issues, damp, or boundary problems.
• Appoint a solicitor who specializes in conveyancing. They’ll handle contracts, title checks, and liaise with the seller’s solicitor.
• Review all documents carefully before signing.

Tip: Don’t skip the survey — even in a competitive market. It could save you thousands.

Step 7: Final Approval & Drawdown

Once your offer is accepted:

• Get full mortgage approval from your lender
• Sign legal documents with your solicitor
• Transfer your deposit and pay stamp duty
• Mortgage is drawn down — lender releases funds to the seller

Step 8: Get the Keys & Move In

Congratulations — you’re now a homeowner!

• Collect your keys and celebrate the milestone
• Set up utilities (gas, electricity, bins)
• Update your address with banks, revenue, etc.
• Schedule a deep clean or renovations if needed

Tip: Keep a moving checklist to stay organised. Don’t forget broadband and TV setup!