Buying and Selling a House at the Same Time in Ireland Checklist

To use the checklist as a google spreadsheet, sign in to your google account and go to this checklist sheet webpage and then click ‘File’, and click ‘Make a Copy’ to create your own version which you can edit.

Checklist line items in the spreadsheet

• Weigh up your options and requirements – Why do you want to move? What do you gain? What do you lose?
• Get a professional valuation: Obtain an accurate valuation to price your home competitively.
• Assess finances and define your budget. Can you afford to move? Can you afford to buy before you sell?
• Organize mortgage and/or bridging finance (if required) and obtain mortgage approval in principle.
• Investigate obtaining a mortgage based on keeping your current home as a rental – as this will put you in a better position to buy: Understand mortgage and tax implications for buy-to-let.
• Explore family loan options: If applicable, consider loans secured against property with clear agreements.
• Put plans in place for potential transitional accommodation – In case there’s a gap between selling and buying.
• Prepare for potential delays or issues: Have contingency funds.
• Prepare your property for sale: Clean, declutter, and carry out any necessary repairs or improvements.
• Research and choose a reputable estate agent: Look for agents with strong local market knowledge and good communication skills.
• Discuss your dual transaction situation with your agent: Ensure they understand you are buying and selling simultaneously.
• Engage a solicitor specializing in conveyancing: They will handle contracts, searches, and legal checks.
• Provide your solicitor with all necessary documentation: This includes title deeds, planning permissions, and mortgage details.
• Authorize your solicitor to requisition the property title deeds from the bank
• Confirm with your solicitor that the title documents for the home you are selling are all in order.
• Arrange a Home Energy Rating (BER) certificate: This is mandatory for selling property in Ireland.
• Ensure your agent takes high-quality photos and creates a compelling listing: Present your home attractively online and in marketing materials.
• Market your property widely: Use online portals, social media, and local advertising.
• Review offers carefully: Consider not just price, but buyer’s readiness and flexibility.
• Wait to receive offers before bidding on other properties: Avoid overextending yourself financially.
• Communicate clearly with potential buyers and sellers: Keep all parties informed about timelines and conditions.
• Your solicitor will negotiate sale terms with both parties and try to align closing dates and conditions to avoid gaps.
• Prepare a contingency plan if your purchase falls through: Know your options if the sale of your current home completes but the purchase doesn’t.
• Notify utility providers and change address: Arrange disconnections and new connections in advance.
• Inform relevant authorities and services of your move: Update your address with banks, insurance, tax office, etc.
• Use a detailed checklist to track progress: Monitor each step to avoid missing deadlines.

Selling and Buying Simultaneously Blog Post

You can visit our blog post on Buying and Selling a property at the same time here.