Questions to ask your solicitor when buying a home in Ireland

Use these prompts when comparing solicitors or preparing for your first conversation. You do not need to ask every question at once. Your solicitor can explain which issues matter for your particular purchase.

Why ask early? Conveyancing includes legal checks, title and planning enquiries, funds transfer and registration. The CCPC advises buyers to engage a solicitor early and request a written costs estimate.

Before you appoint a solicitor

What is your fee for a standard residential purchase?
Is the quote fixed or an estimate?
Does it include VAT, searches, registration, postage and other outlays?
What costs could arise in addition to the estimate?
Will you provide a written costs notice and update me if the estimate changes?
Who will handle my file day to day?
How will you communicate updates, and how quickly do you usually respond?
What information and documents do you need from me to open the file?
Do you have experience with this type of property, such as a new build, apartment or second-hand home?

After the property is sale agreed

What happens next, and what is the expected sequence of steps?
Have you received the contracts and title documents from the seller's solicitor?
What searches and enquiries will you carry out?
Are there any title, planning, boundary, access or rights-of-way issues I should understand?
What is the status of planning permissions, building regulations and relevant certificates, where applicable?
What should I know about management-company fees or sinking funds if buying an apartment or managed development?
What conditions in the contract need particular attention?
What could cause delays, and what can I do to avoid them?

Before signing contracts

Can you explain the key obligations and deadlines in the contract?
What deposit is due, when is it due and how is it held?
What happens if either side cannot complete on time?
Are fixtures, fittings, appliances, parking spaces or storage areas clearly included?
Are there any special conditions or restrictions I should understand?
What questions remain unanswered before you recommend signing?

Before closing

What exact balance and other funds must I transfer, and by what date?
How much stamp duty is due, and how was it calculated?
What registration and other closing costs remain?
What insurance documents does the lender require?
Have all mortgage conditions been satisfied?
When will you request mortgage drawdown?
How will I know when closing has completed and when I can collect keys?
What documents will I receive after closing, and when will title registration be completed?

Keep a record

Write down the date, person spoken to, question, answer and next action. Keep important instructions and confirmations in writing. Do not send funds to changed bank details without independently verifying them using a trusted phone number.

Professional boundary: This list is an organisational aid, not legal advice. Your solicitor is responsible for advising you on the contract and legal issues in your own transaction.

Official resources

Last reviewed: November 2026. General information only.