Buying a Home

Buying a home is one of the most important financial commitments many people make. We advise buyers throughout the conveyancing process, from reviewing contracts and title documents to dealing with mortgage requirements, searches, signing and completion. 

How we can help 

  • Reviewing contracts for sale and title documents
  • Raising and reviewing pre-contract enquiries
  • Advising on planning, title and property-related issues
  • Liaising with your lender and dealing with mortgage requirements
  • Reviewing searches and closing documentation
  • Advising you before signing contracts
  • Managing completion and transfer of ownership
  • Dealing with post-completion registration matters

    • The buying process 

  • 1. Sale agreed and initial instructions – Once the sale is agreed, we obtain the contract papers from the seller's solicitor and begin reviewing the title and transaction documents.
  • 2. Contract and title review – We review the contract, title, planning documentation and other relevant property papers, and raise any necessary pre-contract enquiries.
  • 3. Mortgage and funding – If you are obtaining a mortgage, we liaise with your lender and deal with the legal requirements needed before loan drawdown.
  • 4. Signing the contract – Once the legal position is satisfactory and you are ready to proceed, we explain the contract and arrange for signature and payment of the contract deposit.
  • 5. Pre-completion and closing – Before completion, we carry out the required searches, review closing documents and arrange transfer of the purchase funds.
  • 6. After completion – Following completion, we deal with stamp duty and registration of your ownership with Tailte Éireann, where applicable.

    • Mortgage and lender requirements 

    If you are purchasing with a mortgage, your solicitor will also act in relation to the lender's security requirements. This can include reviewing the loan documentation, complying with lender-specific conditions, confirming title matters, arranging execution of the mortgage documents and dealing with the legal steps required before loan funds can be released.

  • Loan offer and lender instructions
  • Mortgage deed and security documentation
  • Title and planning requirements
  • Property insurance and other lender conditions
  • Certificates, undertakings and closing requirements
  • Loan drawdown and completion arrangements

    • Before you sign the contract 

    Before signing a binding contract, buyers should make sure that they are satisfied with the legal, financial and physical aspects of the property. We will advise you on the legal position, but some matters may require input from your lender, engineer, surveyor or other professional adviser.

  • Mortgage approval and any conditions attached to the loan offer
  • Survey, engineer's report or structural inspection, where appropriate
  • Planning and building regulation issues
  • Title, boundaries, rights of way and other property rights
  • Management company and service charge matters, where applicable
  • Fixtures, fittings and any agreed contents
  • Contract deposit and available purchase funds
  • The legal effect of signing and the proposed completion date

    • Frequently asked questions 

    How long does it take to buy a home in Ireland?
    There is no fixed timeframe. The process depends on matters such as the seller's title documents, replies to enquiries, mortgage approval, surveys and the readiness of all parties. We will keep you updated as the transaction progresses.

    When do I become legally bound to buy the property?
    In a typical residential transaction, the parties become legally bound when binding contracts have been executed and exchanged in accordance with the agreed contractual arrangements. We will explain the position to you before you sign.

    Do I need a survey or engineer's report?
    A solicitor advises on the legal title but does not inspect the physical condition of the property. Buyers should consider obtaining an appropriate survey or engineer's report before becoming legally committed to the purchase.

    When do I pay the deposit?
    A booking deposit may be paid to the estate agent when the sale is agreed. A further contract deposit is normally dealt with when contracts are signed, subject to the terms of the particular transaction. We will confirm the amount and timing with you.

    What happens if I am buying with a mortgage?
    We will normally also deal with the legal aspects of your lender's security, including the mortgage documentation and the lender's legal requirements before funds can be drawn down.

    What happens on completion?
    On completion, the balance of the purchase price is transferred in return for the agreed closing documents and possession arrangements. After completion, we deal with the relevant stamp duty and registration steps.


    Buying a property in Ireland? Speak to our property team. 

    Contact Chen Solicitors to discuss your purchase and the next steps in your conveyancing process. 

    Contact Us