When you’ve done the hard part of saving for your deposit, figuring out your budget and completing your application, now comes the exciting time of searching for your dream home. Remember we’re here to support you throughout your home buying journey, so should you have any questions along the way or need to check back in if your circumstances change, our team is always on hand to support you. To help you stay focused, we’ve outlined some tips and information below.
Set your Priorities
When you're looking for your dream home you’ll need to prioritise your needs and consider them against what you can afford. A good place to start is figuring out if you’d prefer a new build or a fixer-upper home.
For first-time buyers you may be eligible for the government’s Help to Buy Scheme, this scheme is designed to help to get a deposit together but only applies to new homes. Check to see if you qualify on www.revenue.ie. A second hand home may require some love and extra work however you can often get a lot more space for your money and the gardens tend to be on the larger side.
Another aspect to consider is deciding on the neighbourhood you’re looking to buy in. If you’re considering buying in an area that you’re not familiar with, it helps to do your research. Take a look at our blog to find out what to look for in an area you don't know.
House Viewing Tips
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, many Estate Agents offer virtual viewings to help you find your new home. Virtual viewings are a convenient and immersive way to see key features of the property so we’ve put together Our Top Tips for Virtual Viewings to help you be as prepared as possible.
Making a Bid
When you’ve found that dream home, you’ll need to start thinking about making a bid. Some Estate Agents have moved their bidding process online, which allows you to make bids online and see the latest offers on properties. Use our Bidding for Beginners guide to help you get your final bid over the line.
Moving from Sale Agreed to Sold
Once you’ve found your dream home and your bid has been accepted. There are a few things that you’ll need to consider before committing to the purchase.
Property Valuation and Structural Survey
Firstly you will need to get a valuation of the property. We can work with you to get your new home valued by Property Valuer. This is for your own financial protection and is also required for your mortgage application. It’s also a good idea to have a professional carry out a structural survey of the property before committing to the purchase. This will help you detect if there are any defects and tell you everything you need to know about the house.
Insurance
You will be required to take out mortgage protection insurance (a type of life insurance) and in some cases building insurance when getting a mortgage to buy your home. This is something we can help you with or you can obtain a policy from another provider if you prefer. This will come as an extra cost so it’s worth bearing in mind when you’re budgeting.
Find a Solicitor
You’ll also need a solicitor to look after the legal aspects of buying your new home, you could ask a friend or family member for a trustworthy recommendation. We will issue your solicitor with all the loan information you need to complete the purchase. Once all the contracts are signed, your solicitor will agree a completion date with the house seller and arrange the transfer of funds and collection of the keys to your new home.
Wherever you are on your home buying journey we’re here to support you along the way so book an appointment to start your journey home with us today or find out more on our Mortgage Section on our website.
Home Insurance options are arranged by permanent tsb p.l.c and underwritten by Allianz p.l.c. permanent tsb is appointed as a Single Agency Intermediary of Allianz p.l.c. for Home Insurance. Allianz p.l.c. (trading as Allianz) is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
permanent tsb are a tied assurance agent of Irish Life Assurance plc. Irish Life Assurance plc is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
Product eligibility criteria applies. Lending criteria, terms and conditions apply. Security and Insurance required. permanent tsb p.l.c is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
