Buying a Secondhand House in Ireland

Blanchardstown, Castleknock, Dublin City Centre

Buying a Secondhand House in Ireland

 

Buying a secondhand house in Ireland is a different process than purchasing a new house. 

The principal of caveat emptoror buyer beware still very much applies to secondhand house purchases and to ensure that you know exactly what you are purchasing.

There is no substitute for a thorough survey report of the property to avoid any future unforeseen problems arising that you may have been unaware of, which could lead to planning complications, such as:

  • Heating problems
  • Poor insulation
  • Poor ventilation
  • Illegal extensions
  • Additions to the property.

It is advisable for you to retain your own architect or surveyor to carry out a structural survey of the secondhand house, and you should deal directly with your Architect or Surveyor in this regard. If you are a first-time buyer of a secondhand house read our guide below.

10-STEP GUIDE TO BUYING A SECONDHAND HOUSE IN IRELAND

 

1. Booking Deposit

Once you have paid your booking deposit you will need to give your conveyancing solicitor’s name to the auctioneer in order that they may instruct the solicitors for the vendor (Seller) to forward us the Contracts for Sale and vouching documentation.

2. Loan Approval

In the meantime, you should be attending to the matter of Loan Approval and you will need to instruct your Mortgage Broker / Lender of the full purchase price, the property address, and your Solicitor details in order that they issue the complete letter of offer of loan approval (i.e. not loan approval in principle). The Bank will generally conduct now a valuation of the property before the loan offer issues.

3. Planning Issues

It is important at this time that you make enquiries as to the planning in the area and the likely future development of the locality.

The best way to find out this information is to enquire personally with the Planning Department of the Local Authority offices to inspect the planning file and ascertain the development plan, the zoning of the area, and any planning application in the local area which may affect the property.

At the relevant Planning Department, you can inspect and ascertain the following:

  • The Planning File
  • The Development Plan
  • The zoning of the area
  • Road development
  • Planning Applications in the local area

You should attend to any planning queries you may have before the execution of contracts.

Once you execute contracts you will be bound to purchase the property and as you are intending on making the locality your home for many years to come it is important that you are satisfied with any proposed development for the locality.

In April 2012 the Department of the Environment, Community, and Local Heritage launched myplan.ie providing free access to zoning in some developments and local area plans.

You may wish also to visit this information service to view what information is available there regarding matters such as flooding, census, and other information that may be of assistance if it covers the area where you intend to purchase.

4. Property Survey

We strongly advise at this stage that you engage an Architect, Engineer, or Surveyor to conduct a full and thorough survey of the property and its maps. This will help avoid any future unforeseen problems arising that you may have been unaware of such as heating problems, poor insulation or ventilation, illegal extensions, or additions to the property which could lead to planning complications.

We also strongly advise you to consult an architect to deal with any issues relating to planning permissions for any development that has taken place OR may take place, during or following the sale.

You also need to check the planning issues for the surrounding areas, as these may affect the property being sold.

Likewise, if there are issues relating to engineering matters such as mapping or the laying of pipes arise, these should be dealt with by an engineer.

5. Examination of the Title

Once we receive contracts, we read the title and raise any queries regarding it with the solicitors acting for the vendor. When all queries are addressed and when your written loan approval is to hand, we will contact you we will make an appointment for you to attend at our Blanchardstown office for the purpose of executing Contracts for Sale and payment of the balance deposit.

6. Signing of Contract

When the contracts and balance deposit are returned to the vendor’s solicitors, the agreement to purchase is binding. The contracts are then countersigned by the Vendor with their Solicitor and one part returned to our office whereupon the contract is binding upon all parties to the transaction.

7. Transfer of Title

Further legal work then takes place between the Vendor’s Solicitor and the Purchaser’s Solicitor to prepare for the transfer of the title and legal ownership to you.

8. Lodging Title with your bank

If you are borrowing, your solicitors submit further legal documentation in connection with the loan to your bank. This includes a report on the title to the bank and undertaking to deposit the title deeds and Certificate of Title with the bank on drawdown of the loan as well as registration of the change of ownership.

9. Getting your mortgage cheque

You must attend directly with your bank/building society to ensure that all items necessary are in place to have your loan cheque issued in time for closing. Also ensure that your direct debit mandate, mortgage protection, house insurance, etc are in place. The balance of the monies towards the purchase of the property should also be organised in anticipation of the closing date.

10. Getting your keys!

We will then arrange to draw down your loan cheque and make arrangements with the vendors’ solicitors for the completion of this transaction at which time our fees will be payable and you will get the keys to your new home!

Get your conveyancing quote now by calling our blanchardstown office on 01-8272888 or use the quick enquiry form here to find out more about buying a secondhand house in ireland for a first-time buyer from our conveyancing solicitors.

Buying a Secondhand House in Ireland

 

Your Expert Conveyancing Claims Legal Team in Blanchardstown

At Carmody Moran Solicitors in Blanchardstown our experienced conveyancing solicitors are on hand to advise and skilled in handling the process of buying a secondhand house in Ireland.

The two partners of Carmody Moran Solicitors in Blanchardstown have a combined total of in excess of twenty five years professional legal experience. Together with their associates they aim to make the Court process as straight forward and navigable as possible while being on hand to alleviate their clients concerns and worries about going through the Court process.

Anthony-Carmody-Solicitor-Dublin

Anthony Carmody

Partner

Anthony Carmody is one of the founding Partners of Carmody Moran Solicitors.

He has significant experience in personal injury cases and general litigation having handled literally thousands of cases on behalf of clients based in Ireland and abroad.

Niamh-Moran-Family-Law-Solicitor-Dublin

Niamh Moran

Partner

Niamh Moran is one of the founding partners of Carmody Moran Solicitors and is a solicitor with wide ranging experience across all areas of general practice.

Niamh manages the family lawconveyancing in Dublin, and probate divisions of the practice. Niamh’s practice of law is extremely varied and she is regularly sought out for her expertise by clients and colleagues alike.

*While we have made every effort to provide accurate information, the law is always changing and it affects each person differently. This information is not a substitute for specific advice about you personally and it is not intended as legal advice. We will not be liable to you if you rely on this information. In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement. This statement is made in compliance with Reg.8 of SI 518 of 2002.

You should note that no solicitor/client relationship or duty of care or liability of any nature shall exist or be deemed to exist between Carmody Moran Solicitors and you until you have received a written letter of engagement from us in which we confirm our appointment as your Solicitors.

INDEPENDENT GOOGLE CLIENT REVIEWS

Aileen Power
Aileen Power
16:36 10 Mar 23
Carmody Moran recently helped me with the sale of my home. Niamh, Caila and all the team were fantastic to deal with from start to finish. They explained everything so clearly, were extremely professional, efficient and always responded promptly. On top of that they were just such a friendly group of people to deal with. I would highly recommend them.
Guillaume Rachet
Guillaume Rachet
16:25 20 Jan 23
The client service was really great. Understanding, easy to deal with and reactive
Joe Marsh
Joe Marsh
17:59 26 Sep 22
We recently closed on a first time house purchase and we were very pleased with how the whole process was handled at Carmody Moran. They always responded clearly and promptly to the many queries I had along the way and were on the ball with following up issues with the sellers solicitors to keep the process moving.The reason I went with them originally over other options was because they gave a very clear breakdown for the charges and the quoted price we were given was transparent and easy to understand compared to other quotes I received.I will definitely use them again if the need arises and recommend them to my friends and family.
Kenneth Ohaa
Kenneth Ohaa
09:52 01 Sep 22
I got the keys to my new house a few weeks back. I cannot recommend Carmody Moran Solicitors highly enough. It was a bit lengthy as I was buying and selling at the same time. In such cases you need experienced and competent solicitors such as Carmody Moran Solicitors.Stephanie and Helen were a pleasure to work with. Very transparent and communicative. Also occasionally dealt with Lucy and Caila. They were brilliant as well.I would like to say Thank you to the entire Carmody Moran team.Kenneth
Salt Almighty
Salt Almighty
06:16 10 Aug 22
I needed a solicitor to arrange a mortgage, and they went above and beyond to help me !I would advise them to anyone
Andrew NEROH
Andrew NEROH
19:39 04 Jul 22
My partner and I recently made the acquisition of our first home and it was a lengthy and difficult process, due to the fact we were buying from a receiver.In such difficult cases, you will need a legal representation as competent and professional as Carmody Moran Solicitors on your side.We were primarily dealing with Stephanie who gave us regular updates, helped us understand what is happening and what to do. We felt our interest always came first which made every appointment with her something we looked forward to.We were also occasionally in contact with Lucy, Niamh and other brilliant members of the firm, all of whom provided an excellent level of support and knowledge in Stephanie's absence.I couldn't recommend Carmody Moran enough. I would like to give a heartfelt thank-you on behalf of myself and my partner to every one involved at the firm who helped us make our dream a reality. We will not hesitate to call upon your services again should the occasion arise.Andrew.
jonathan
jonathan
16:14 28 Jun 22
I would highly recommend Carmody Moran Solicitors. Niamh Moran and her team helped and supported me through the sale of my home. The transaction was dealt with efficiently and quickly. Every step was clearly explained from the Sale Questionnaire, Contract for Sale to Completion.
Herghelegiu Oana
Herghelegiu Oana
22:44 20 Jun 22
We just got the keys to our dream home 🏡 special thanks to Stephanie,Helen,Caila and Carmody Moran team.All the girls are very friendly and helpful.Stephanie was a pleasure to have you as our solicitor.Highly recommend!
Karolina Siwakowska
Karolina Siwakowska
20:00 28 Mar 22
We've just got the keys to our dream home and Carmody Moran has helped us with all the legal work. We've been dealing with Stephanie and Helen and they both have been great: friendly, professional and communicative. The whole process can be intimidating at times, but they've made sure to make it as easy as possible for us. They've represented us well. Highly recommended.
ciara daly
ciara daly
16:27 18 Feb 22
Anthony and his team went above and beyond for me, everything was always looked after and I was constantly kept in the loop for my RTA case. From phone calls to emails to dealing with insurers. Gave me great peace of mind that I chose the right solicitor and Anthony himself is a gentleman. I would highly recommend Carmody Moran Solicitors.
Cassandra Reyes
Cassandra Reyes
11:11 14 Jan 22
Tony is quick and responsive to me. Very professional and would definitely recommend to my family and friends.Thank you so much.
Martin Kinsella
Martin Kinsella
17:23 15 Dec 21
CarmodyMoran were a pleasure to deal with. I found them to be extremely helpful in all my queries and responded to me in a very personal and professional manner.
Marie Byrne
Marie Byrne
14:06 30 Nov 21
Anthony & Niamh are our family Solicitor, so had no hesitation when the decision was made to sell of our family home. They dealt with my dad in the most caring manner explaining everything in detail. I dealt with Helen Ryan and Stephanie Tierney. The response to every query was exceptional. An absolute pleasure to deal with. If they were unavailable Emma at reception would pass all messages on. It was a very positive experience and a fantastic team at Carmody/Moran Solicitors. Thank you. Marie Byrne
Jennifer Foley
Jennifer Foley
18:13 27 Nov 21
Excellent.I am a client of Carmody Moran for the last few years.Niamh is a lovely person she made a difficult and lengthy process easy and answered any questions in a timely manner, very approachable and thorough.With her guidance and experience I found her to be very professional and understanding of my position, every step of the process was explained to me without overwhelming me.I cannot speak highly enough of Niamh and her team.I am happy to recommend them to anyone.
Richard Lawrence
Richard Lawrence
13:04 02 Sep 21
Would highly recommend.Tony and his team were absolutely brillant dealing with my case.Tony made me feel comfortable from day one, he explained everything to me at all times . Any time I had questions about thing's there was no problem in picking up the phone or sending a email Tony always got back to me and answered my questions.Fantastic service.
Fran Carroll
Fran Carroll
18:10 10 Jun 21
Tony an his team are brilliant.Left no stone unturned.
We availed of Carmody Moran Solicitors for the sale of our property. Niamh and her team were very efficient, quick, easy to reach and, most importantly, proactive to solve issues and process the sale. Really happy with the service and a very good value for money. Highly recommend!
Annamay Rowan
Annamay Rowan
12:21 10 Mar 21
Would highly recommend Anthony Carmody as he was so supportive with me and my family's case. If you made contact he would ring or email you back that day and explain things in your language.
Anant Batra
Anant Batra
00:05 05 Feb 21
Fantastic experience dealing with Anthony. Excellent and quick communication. Would highly recommend!
Elvyra Petkeviciute
Elvyra Petkeviciute
15:43 02 Sep 20
Great service, efficient, proffesional, very responsive. Over all very happy with services.
Tracy Ankers
Tracy Ankers
11:22 02 Aug 20
Would highly recommend Anthony and his team .
Elaine McSweeney
Elaine McSweeney
10:01 31 Jul 20
Really pleased with the advice, help, communication and understanding that I received all the way through my case. A very personable and professional firm with the focus always on the client.
Maxine Hudson
Maxine Hudson
13:47 12 May 20
Would highly recommend. No nonsense straight to the point. Kept informed at all times during the process. Anthony and staff all great.
Mark Kelly
Mark Kelly
02:11 06 Feb 20
Great team to deal with, very professional, communication from them constantly was beyond amazing, nothing but great things to say for them, Tony went above and beyond for me, highly recommended A++ for there service, thank you again guys much appreciated.
Mick Giles
Mick Giles
15:50 09 Dec 19
My experience with this law firm was exceptional. Tony is a very professional man who gave me his time and opinion without over promising on the result. Honest and trustworthy - Highly recommend
david clarke
david clarke
17:01 02 Dec 19
Absolute pleasure working with the CM team. Highly professional, always helpful. Great communication and made the process as hassle free as possible. Highly recommended.
Matthew Canning
Matthew Canning
17:17 23 May 19
Streetfront Lawyers.
Alan Alyyan
Alan Alyyan
19:14 21 Jan 19
Professional Solicitors that you can depend on!
Vanja Jovanovic
Vanja Jovanovic
07:49 06 Jul 18
We have dealt with both, Niamh and Anthony. Very pleased with the level of service. Very professional and always there to answer any questions we had while guiding us through the process. Highly recommended
Bonnie B
Bonnie B
07:52 14 Jun 18
Great to deal with professional,patient and efficient. Big thanks to Niamh, Leanne and Camilla .
declan mcgrath
declan mcgrath
07:36 12 Jun 18
Great service from Niamh, Leanne and all the team at Carmody Moran. Thanks
Phyllis Dalton
Phyllis Dalton
16:33 31 May 18
Our experience with Carmody Moran was very positive. They were very professional and always there on the phone if I ever needed anything. Great service.
Andrew Penrose
Andrew Penrose
23:57 24 May 18
We selected Carmody Moran to represent us. Great experience with Niamh and the crew after over a year engagement on property dealings have nothing but great things to say. Very professional, prompt to queries and very responsive. Highly recommended.
Paul Moran
Paul Moran
17:52 25 Feb 18
Professional but very friendly and courteous.
jingjing xu
jingjing xu
16:11 15 Jun 15
I went to Carmody after deciding to get a house. I found their work is detailed and very reliable. I will go again to them for next time legal service.
David McGowan
David McGowan
16:43 14 May 15
I went to Carmody Moran Solicitors after a car accident and needed injury claim advice, I was incredibly impressed and was kept well informed of how my claim was progressing.They were very straight forward and never set unrealistic time frames or over promising but delivered on everything, They were consummate professionals and I really can't thank them enough, I would highly recommend them to anyone and I will use them for any legal advice I may have in the future.
Terry Palmer
Terry Palmer
15:24 23 Apr 15
I have always found the service offered by Carmody Moran to be first rate and i would would have no hesitation in recommending them.
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