Blog: Buying Your First Home in Ireland: A Step-by-Step Guide

Buying your first home is one of life’s biggest milestones — and we understand just how exciting (and daunting) that journey can be. Whether you're looking for a place in Carrick-on-Suir or beyond, this guide will help you understand the key steps involved in buying your first home.

Step 1: Know Your Budget

Before you start looking at homes, it's important to get a clear picture of your finances.

Start by reviewing your income, savings, and monthly expenses. Figure out how much you can realistically save for a deposit and how much you can afford to repay each month on a mortgage.

Don't forget to factor in:

• Property tax
• Home and mortgage protection insurance
• Maintenance and repairs
• Legal fees and stamp duty
• Possible interest rate increases (especially if you’re on a variable mortgage)

Step 2: Deciding Where to Live

Your budget will likely shape your options, but it’s also important to consider what you want from a community.

Would you prefer to be close to work, or are you willing to commute? Do you want access to schools, shops, public transport, or the countryside?

For those working in cities like Waterford or Kilkenny but hoping to get more value for their money, living in Carrick-on-Suir or surrounding areas could be a great option.

Step 3: Amenities and Lifestyle Fit

Different buyers have different priorities. Families might focus on schools and parks, while young professionals may want cafés, gyms, and fast internet for working from home.

Consider:

• Proximity to your workplace or potential employers
• Access to bus or train routes
• Internet and mobile coverage
• The overall feel and pace of the neighbourhood

Step 4: Understanding the Market

The housing market in Ireland can be competitive — and local trends matter.

Ask yourself:

• Are house prices rising in the area you're looking at?
• Is supply limited?
• Would it make sense to wait, or expand your search?
• What is the potential resale value of the home in a few years?

Sometimes starting with a more affordable “starter home” and building equity is a smarter long-term plan.

Step 5: Safety and Sense of Community

Feeling safe and comfortable in your neighbourhood is vital.

If you’re unfamiliar with an area, try talking to locals or spending time there before committing. Ask:

• Is there a strong sense of community?
• Are there any reports of antisocial behaviour?
• Do you feel comfortable walking around the area?

Resources like PhoneWatch’s burglary reports can also give insight into local crime rates.

Step 6: Finding the Right Home for You

When house-hunting, list out your non-negotiables and things you’d be willing to compromise on.

Ask yourself:

• How many bedrooms and bathrooms do I need?
• Do I want a garden or off-street parking?
• Am I happy to renovate or prefer a move-in-ready home?
• Would I be happy in a semi-detached house, or is privacy a priority?

Step 7: Think Ahead

Your first home might not be your forever home — and that’s okay.

People often buy a home that suits their current needs and budget and then move on to something larger or more suited to family life later on. So, consider:

• Will this home work if your family grows?
• Is there room to extend or improve the property over time?
• Is it likely to retain or increase in value?

Step 8: Getting Mortgage Approval

Before making any offers, it's a good idea to get mortgage approval in principle. This shows how much a lender may be willing to lend you and helps narrow your property search.

At Carrick-on-Suir Credit Union, we take the time to understand each member’s unique circumstances.

We’ll look at:

• Your income and employment
• Existing loans or financial commitments
• Your savings and credit history
• How much you're hoping to borrow

Step 9: Viewings, Surveys & Going Sale Agreed

Once you're approved, the search really begins! Attend viewings, ask questions, and don’t rush the process.

Important steps:

• Hire a surveyor to inspect the property's condition
• Review the BER (Building Energy Rating)
• Engage a solicitor to manage legal matters
• Discuss your bid and next steps with their help

Once your bid is accepted, you'll go sale agreed and the home will be taken off the market while paperwork is finalised.

Step 10: Moving In

Your solicitor will guide you through contracts, registration, and fund transfers. Before closing, make sure to:

• Secure home and mortgage protection insurance
• Take final meter readings
• Notify utility companies and relevant authorities of your new address

And just like that — you’re a homeowner!

Need Help Getting Started? Talk to Us.

At Carrick-on-Suir Credit Union, we know buying your first home is a big life moment. That’s why we’re here to support you at every step — with helpful advice, fair lending, and a local team who cares about you.

Visit us or call in to chat with a friendly member of our team today about our Credit Union mortgage options. We’ll help you move one step closer to the keys of your new home.

Please note: This guide is for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always speak to a qualified advisor before making significant financial decisions.