Keys to Ireland 🔑: Your Guide to Buying a Home in Ireland 🏡

Mike and Katie
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Whether you're moving to Ireland 🍀 or buying your first home here, Keys to Ireland 🔑 is your guide to navigating the Irish property market. Hosts Katie and Mike cover mortgages, deposits, government supports, legal steps, and what to watch out for when choosing a home with extra tips for American 🗽 expats. With clear advice backed by Irish resources, estate agent insights, and real buyer experiences, this podcast helps you make smart, informed decisions whether you're buying a city apartment or a countryside cottage.

Episodes

  1. Italy’s 1 Euro Houses 💶: Dream Deal or Money Pit? 🌟Bonus Episode 🌟

    06/03/2025 · BONUS

    Italy’s 1 Euro Houses 💶: Dream Deal or Money Pit? 🌟Bonus Episode 🌟

    🎙️ Bonus Episode 🌟: Italy’s 1 Euro Houses 💶 Dream Deal or Money Pit? You've seen the headlines... a house in Italy for just one Euro? In this special bonus episode of Keys to Ireland 🔑, Katie and Mike dive into the iconic One Euro House scheme that’s captured imaginations around the world. They break down how it actually works from finding a town, applying, and paying the symbolic Euro, to the much larger realities of renovation costs, permits, and living in a rural Italian village. Whether you're dreaming of restoring an old stone home or just curious about the hype, this episode gives you the real picture. 🌟 We cover: How to apply for a One Euro House in ItalyWho is eligible and what documents are requiredThe hidden costs: deposits, permits, renovation deadlinesWhy many of these towns offer alternative grants or relocation incentivesThe pros and cons and is it really worth it? ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to the One Euro House Phenomenon00:38 – Understanding the Motivation Behind One Euro Houses01:12 – Finding and Applying for a One Euro House04:30 – The Financial and Legal Commitments05:40 – The Renovation Process08:10 – Pros and Cons of One Euro Houses12:38 – Alternative Incentives and Final Thoughts 🔗 References & Resources: Idealista – Villages Still in the Spotlight in 2025Fra Noi – What Happened to the 1 Euro Home?Idealista – Buying as a Foreigner: Documents RequiredAccounting Bolla – 2025 Home Renovation IncentivesWhat’s Going On Ireland – 1 Euro GuideItalian Real Estate Lawyers – The Role of a NotaryIdealista – Pros and Cons of 1 Euro HousesIdealista – Discover the Hidden CostsEmilia Delizia – Ultimate GuideReddit – Was It Worth It? 🌟 This is a bonus episode of Keys to Ireland 🔑, exploring what it really takes to make the dream of owning a home in Italy a reality. 📬 Contact us: keystoireland@gmail.com

    15 min
  2. After the Keys 🚚: Moving In, Setting Up, and Living in Ireland

    05/27/2025

    After the Keys 🚚: Moving In, Setting Up, and Living in Ireland

    🎙️ Episode 5: After the Keys – Moving In, Setting Up, and Living in Ireland Congratulations! 🍻 You have the keys to your new home in Ireland! Now what? In this final episode of Keys to Ireland 🔑, Katie and Mike walk you through the next crucial steps after closing. From setting up utilities to building your local network, this guide will help you settle in smoothly, whether you're moving across town or across the ocean. You’ll learn: How to register for Local Property Tax (LPT)Getting the right home insurance and contents coverWhy snagging is critical for new buildsTips for moving day and furnishing on a budgetHow to explore and connect with your new neighborhoodBuilding your local network through clubs and community groupsExtra tips for expats adjusting to Irish systems and norms Whether you’re a local buyer, a returning Irish resident, or a new expat, this episode gives you a clear plan to turn your new house into a home in Ireland. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome and Congratulations!00:48 – First Steps: Local Property Tax (LPT)04:50 – Protecting Your Investment: Home Insurance09:01 – New Builds: The Importance of Snagging11:32 – The Big Move: Tips and Tricks12:49 – Settling In: Furnishing and Neighborhood13:27 – Building Your Local Network15:16 – Final Thoughts and Resources 🔗 Resources Mentioned: Global Citizen Solutions – Buying Property in Ireland as an AmericanSwitcher.ie – Broadband in IrelandCitizensInformation.ie – Electricity ServicesRetail Solutions – Grocery Shopping in IrelandCitizensInformation.ie – Healthcare in IrelandInsurance Ireland – Household Insurance GuideCitizensInformation.ie – Waste and RecyclingRecharge.com – Mobile Data CostsReddit – Joining a GAA ClubCitizensInformation.ie – Local Property TaxRelocating to Ireland – Setting Up UtilitiesCitizensInformation.ie – Steps to Buying a HomeCitizensInformation.ie – Switching Bank AccountsCitizensInformation.ie – TV LicensesAn Post Insurance – New Homeowners ChecklistWise – Opening a Bank Account in IrelandNew Home Surveys – Snagging Process DublinReddit – Finding TradespeopleReddit – Dealing with Tradespeople in Ireland This is Episode 5 of Keys to Ireland 🔑, your complete guide to buying and living well in your new home in Ireland. 📬 Contact us: keystoireland@gmail.com

    16 min
  3. Navigating the Legal Side 👩‍⚖️: Solicitors, Contracts, and Closing Your Irish Home

    05/20/2025

    Navigating the Legal Side 👩‍⚖️: Solicitors, Contracts, and Closing Your Irish Home

    🎙️ Episode 4: Navigating the Legal Side – Solicitors, Contracts, and Closing Your Irish Home 🍀 Buying a home in Ireland means more than just finding the right place... it means navigating the legal system confidently. In this episode of Keys to Ireland 🔑, Katie and Mike break down the full legal journey from “Sale Agreed” to getting your keys. They explain the role of your conveyancing solicitor, what title deeds really mean, the importance of surveys, pre-contract checks, and what can cause frustrating delays. You’ll learn: What a solicitor does for buyersWhy title checks and planning searches matterWhat happens during the Sale Agreed stageHow stamp duty, LPT, and registration fees workWhy the process takes 3–4 months (or more)Common mistakes buyers should avoid Whether you’re a local buyer, a returning resident, or relocating from abroad, this episode gives you a legal roadmap to close the deal with confidence. ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Buying a Home in Ireland00:54 – Role of the Conveyancing Solicitor03:00 – Choosing the Right Solicitor05:48 – What Happens at "Sale Agreed"08:31 – Title Deeds Explained10:21 – Stamp Duty, LPT, and Costs12:04 – Timeline and Delays14:16 – Common Pitfalls and Final Advice 🔗 Resources Mentioned: Wise.com – Buying Property in IrelandReddit – How Long It Took People to Buy a HomeSummit Law – Key Factors When Searching for ConveyancingCitizensInformation.ie – Property DeedsAuctioneera – What Does Sale Agreed Mean?CitizensInformation.ie – Stamp DutyCitizensInformation.ie – Steps to Buying a HomeGeaney Solicitors – Legal Process OverviewProperty Solicitors Dublin – Role of a Conveyancing SolicitorMichael Monahan Solicitors – Choosing a Solicitor in 2024 This is Episode 4 of Keys to Ireland 🔑, your practical guide to buying a home in Ireland from first searches to finally getting the keys. 📬 Contact us: keystoireland@gmail.com

    17 min
  4. Finding the Right Home in Ireland 🏡: Research, Viewings, and Choosing Wisely

    05/13/2025

    Finding the Right Home in Ireland 🏡: Research, Viewings, and Choosing Wisely

    🎙️ Episode 3: Finding the Right Home in Ireland: Research, Viewings, and Choosing Wisely Buying a home in Ireland is about much more than the right price - it is about finding the right fit for your life. In this episode of Keys to Ireland 🔑, Katie and Mike guide you through how to search smarter, view properties critically, and choose wisely. From understanding BER energy ratings to spotting red flags during viewings, they share practical tips to help you avoid costly mistakes. You’ll learn: Where to search (Daft.ie, SherryFitzgerald, local agents)How to evaluate listings and spot warning signsWhat BER ratings really mean for your bills and comfortThe pros and cons of new builds vs second-hand homesEssential questions to ask during a property viewingHow to research a neighborhood’s transport, safety, schools, and community vibe Whether you are buying your first home, upgrading, or relocating to Ireland, this episode gives you a clear, actionable checklist to find a home that truly fits. 🔗 References and Resources Mentioned: Zurich.ie – Questions to Ask When Viewing a HouseSherry FitzGerald – What to Look For When Viewing a HomeCCPC.ie – Step-by-Step Home Buying GuideDaft.ie Blog – Where to Start When Buying PropertyReddit – Estate Agent Red Flags and TacticsRentDodo.ie – Guide to Avoid Rental Scams in IrelandESRI – Neighbourhood Factors and Mental HealthFirst Time Buyers Ireland – New Build vs Second-Hand HomesSEAI.ie – Understanding BER RatingsReddit – Questions to Ask When Viewing a Property This is Episode 3 of Keys to Ireland 🔑, your practical guide to buying a home in Ireland whether you're a first-time buyer, a returning resident, or moving from abroad. 📬 Contact us: keystoireland@gmail.com

    15 min
  5. Financing Your Irish Dream Home 💸: Mortgages, Deposits, and First-Time Buyer Supports

    05/06/2025

    Financing Your Irish Dream Home 💸: Mortgages, Deposits, and First-Time Buyer Supports

    🎙️ Episode 2: Financing Your Irish Dream: Mortgages, Deposits, and First-Time Buyer Supports Buying a home in Ireland? Whether you are a first-time buyer, an expat, or just trying to understand Ireland's mortgage system, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you get mortgage-ready. Hosts Katie and Mike break down: How to qualify for a mortgage in Ireland (income, job stability, credit history)Deposit rules and real-world averagesHow much you can borrow based on LTV (Loan-to-Value) and LTI (Loan-to-Income) rulesSmart saving strategies and financial habits that banks love to seeEssential supports for first-time buyers: Help to Buy (HTB) and First Home Scheme (FHS)What mistakes to avoid when applying for a mortgageSpecial tips for expats transferring deposits and building Irish credit history Whether you are moving from abroad or buying locally, this episode helps you navigate the financial side of getting your keys to a home in Ireland. References and Resources Mentioned: Bonkers.ie - Mortgage mistakes to avoidSherry Fitzgerald - Mortgage Central Bank GuidelinesFirstHomeScheme.ie - EligibilityCentral Bank of Ireland - Mortgage MeasuresMortgageLine.ie - Deposit amounts explainedCitizensInformation.ie - Help to Buy SchemeHarbourview Mortgages - Borrowing limits guideIrish Life - Cost of buying a home in IrelandCitizensInformation.ie - Mortgage Insurance GuideReddit - Irish deposit experiences Get your mortgage plan ready and open the door to your new home in Ireland!

    17 min
  6. Keys to Ireland 🔑: How to Buy a Home in Ireland 🍀

    04/29/2025

    Keys to Ireland 🔑: How to Buy a Home in Ireland 🍀

    🎙️ Episode 1: How to Buy a Home in Ireland: A Step-by-Step Guide for Both Expats or Locals Buying a home in Ireland in 2025 can feel overwhelming, especially if you're navigating the process for the first time. In this kickoff episode, hosts Katie and Mike break down the entire journey from saving your deposit to collecting your keys. Whether you're a local first-time buyer, a returning Irish resident, or someone moving from abroad, this episode gives you the essential roadmap to owning a home in Ireland. 🍀 You’ll learn: How much you need for a deposit and how borrowing limits work in IrelandWhat supports are available for first-time buyers, like: The Help to Buy (HTB) schemeThe First Home Scheme (FHS) shared equity optionHow to get mortgage approval in principle (AIP) and why it mattersWhat "proof of funds" really means and why sellers careWhat extra costs to plan for (stamp duty, solicitor fees, surveys, BER, LPT, and more)What a solicitor (conveyancer) does, and how to find a good oneHow to use tools like Daft.ie, Sherry Fitzgerald, and mortgages.ieWhat to expect when buying new builds (snag lists, show houses, timelines, social housing allocation)How to research a neighborhood, compare real sale prices, and make a competitive offerWhy surveyors and snag lists can save you thousandsWhat to know about insurance, property registration, and getting your keys We have gathered real-world insights from official Irish government resources, local estate agents, Reddit recommendations, and our own research into listings and support schemes all tailored to American buyers entering the Irish market for the first time. 🔗 Resources mentioned in this episode: CCPC.ie - Step-by-step home buying guideFirst Home Scheme - Eligibility and infor/Cork - Solicitor recommendationsDaft.ie - Property listings in CorkMortgages.ie - First time buyer infoSherry FitzGerald - First-time buyer guide (PDF)Daft Blog - Supports for First-Time BuyersTPD Solutions - Pre-purchase surveys 📑 Chapter Markers: 00:00 - Introduction to Buying a Home in Ireland01:05 - Understanding Deposits and Borrowing Limits02:11 - Government Schemes for First-Time Buyers03:37 - Proof of Funds and Buyer Types04:34 - Budgeting Beyond the House Price06:24 - Navigating the Mortgage Process07:47 - Essential Paperwork and Mortgage Protection09:18 - Finding a Property Solicitor09:28 - Understanding the Role of a Solicitor09:55 - Solicitor Fees and Recommendations11:53 - House Hunting Tips for Expats14:33 - Making an Offer and Sale Agreement15:55 - Finalizing the Purchase19:13 - Recap and Final Thoughts 🏡 This is Episode 1 of Keys to Ireland, a podcast for anyone looking to understand the home-buying process in Ireland for both expats and locals alike. We are here to demystify the process and share the knowledge we wish we had when we started. Hit subscribe and follow along for future episodes covering everything from picking a solicitor to what to do after move-in day. 📬 Contact us: keystoireland@gmail.com

    21 min
  • 6 Episodes

About

Whether you're moving to Ireland 🍀 or buying your first home here, Keys to Ireland 🔑 is your guide to navigating the Irish property market. Hosts Katie and Mike cover mortgages, deposits, government supports, legal steps, and what to watch out for when choosing a home with extra tips for American 🗽 expats. With clear advice backed by Irish resources, estate agent insights, and real buyer experiences, this podcast helps you make smart, informed decisions whether you're buying a city apartment or a countryside cottage.

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