In recent years, Ireland has emerged as a major draw for international migrants. Some of the many contributing causes to its rising popularity are a high standard of living, a high level of education, a thriving economy, and a large number of available jobs.
Those who intend to make Ireland their permanent home should consider purchasing a residence for themselves and their families. Buying a home in Ireland is not limited by where one resides. Those who are not Irish citizens, EU/EEA nationals, or permanent residents of Ireland can nevertheless purchase property in Ireland.
However, homebuyers and investors may face challenges in Ireland due to the country’s expanding population, robust labour market, and extremely limited housing stock. This is especially noticeable in Dublin and other desirable areas. The local market is so competitive that a one- or two-bedroom flat will sell in a matter of months, on average, and in as little as a few weeks.
Despite the economic uncertainty caused by events in Ukraine, rising oil prices, consumer price inflation, and interest rate rises by the European Central Bank (ECB), demand for property remains robust. As long as interest remains high, deals will continue to be struck at a premium to the asking price.
Real estate has a long track record of being a safe investment that may even grow in value during periods of high inflation. Ireland has a stable economy, making real estate investments there not only secure but also lucrative with potential returns in excess of 5%.
It’s an exciting time to buy property in Ireland, but before you do, you should read the details below.
Budgeting and financing a home
Mortgage and budgeting
Legal fees, insurance, and stamp duty are just a few of the additional expenses a homebuyer in Ireland would face. Budget between three and five percent of the home’s price to cover closing fees in Ireland.
New and pre-owned properties both must pay stamp duty. Every time you change ownership of a home, you’ll have to pay stamp duty. The present rates are as follows: 1% on the first €1 million spent on a property, and 2% on any sum above €1 million.
For a home purchase of €1.3 million, for instance, the buyer would pay €10,000 (1% of $1,000,000) and €6,000 (2% of $300,000).
In countries where VAT is in effect, stamp duty is computed using the purchase price before VAT is added.
When you finalise the purchase of a home, your solicitor will handle the payment of stamp duty on your behalf.
Mortgage applications from non-native speakers tend to be treated with suspicion. Most lenders (i.e. banks) in Ireland will not provide you a mortgage until you have been living there for at least six months and working there for at least twelve months.
It may be simpler for a “expatriate” to qualify for a mortgage in Ireland if they are returning home after living abroad for some time. If you don’t make the majority of your income in Euros and you don’t live in Ireland, some Irish banks won’t even consider lending to you.
Value of Energy
In order to sell, a home has to obtain a BER rating. Your home’s energy efficiency is measured by its BER. Energy efficiency ratings range from A (highest) to G (lowest), with A houses being the most efficient and G dwellings being the least. Energy efficiency ratings should be taken into account when purchasing a home since they directly impact monthly utility bills and because homes with high energy efficiency ratings sell for about 10% more than similarly situated homes with low BER ratings.
Power of Attorney and Legal Representation
Lawyer
Suppose you cannot be physically present in Ireland to oversee the purchase of a property, but still want the benefit of competent legal counsel. In that case, you can appoint a solicitor resident in Ireland to act on your behalf and give that person full legal authority to do so.
The costs of hiring a solicitor can vary widely, but considering that a reputable one who has expertise representing international purchasers can help you avoid or deal with frequent complications, it is usually money well spent.
Taxation/PPS
Whether you are a resident of Ireland or not, you must apply for an Irish PPS Number (the equivalent of a National Insurance Number) to buy property there. Without the PPS Number, you cannot finalise any substantial financial transaction. If you are unsure of where to begin, see a lawyer.
How to Make a Purchase
Typically, a 10% down payment is necessary to reserve a home and remove it from the market, with the remaining 90% is due within a few weeks after signing a contract that your lawyer will send to the seller’s lawyer. On the date the property is finished, the remaining balance is due.
Title Requirements
In the time between signing the contract and making the final payment, your attorney will prepare a purchase deed and send a series of routine inquiries (Requisitions on Title) to the seller’s attorney about the sale of the property. It’s important to remember that while you’ve now committed to buying the property (if the requisition replies are satisfactory), the seller won’t be legally obligated to sell until they sign the Deed of Conveyance your lawyer has drawn up.
Buying a home is not only a joyful milestone, but also a significant accomplishment. Investing in real estate is a terrific way to amass passive income and long-term wealth. Are you thinking about investing in Irish real estate? Browse the site for more listings to see if what we have suits your need.
