Ireland

Real estate websites
STEPS
Check Eligibility
- Non-Residents: Foreigners, including non-EU nationals, can purchase property in Ireland. However, non-residents may be subject to different tax rules, such as higher stamp duty rates.
- Financing: Foreign buyers can typically obtain mortgages in Ireland, although they may need to meet specific criteria, including having a stable income and a substantial deposit (usually at least 20% to 30%).
Determine the Budget
- Budgeting: Take into account the total cost of purchasing property, which includes the purchase price, stamp duty, legal fees, and additional costs like home insurance and maintenance.
- Mortgage: If seeking a mortgage, Irish banks usually offer loans up to 80% of the property value for first-time buyers and up to 70% for non-first-time buyers. You will need a substantial deposit.
Find a Property
- Online Search: Use Irish property websites such as Daft.ie, MyHome.ie, and Rent.ie to browse available listings. You can filter properties by location, price, size, and more.
- Real Estate Agents: Engaging with a local estate agent can be beneficial, especially for foreign buyers. They can help with property searches and negotiations.
View the Property
- Inspections: Consider having a professional property inspection to check for any potential issues with the property, such as structural damage, plumbing, or electrical problems.
- Visiting the Property: If you're not in Ireland, you can appoint a representative to view the property for you or arrange for a virtual tour.
Make an Offer
- Bidding: It is common for properties in Ireland to be sold for the asking price, but you may still be able to negotiate. Once you make an offer, you will typically sign a letter of offer or a preliminary agreement.
- Contract: A deposit (usually around 10% of the purchase price) is often required when the offer is accepted.
Complete Legal Formalities
- Legal Assistance: A solicitor will be needed to ensure that all legal requirements are met and the sale is legally binding. The solicitor will carry out due diligence to ensure there are no outstanding issues with the property.
- Stamp Duty: Ireland imposes a stamp duty on property purchases, which is typically 1% of the property value up to €1 million and 2% on the portion above €1 million.
Register the Property
- Land Registry: After signing the contract and completing the transaction, the property must be registered with the Property Registration Authority of Ireland (PRAI) to transfer ownership.
- Insurance: It's advisable to get property insurance (home insurance) to cover damage, theft, and any other unforeseen issues.
Move In
- Once all legal processes are completed, the property is yours, and you can move in.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Legal Assistance: It's recommended to engage a solicitor to handle the legal aspects of the property transaction and ensure everything is in order.
- Taxes and Fees: Be aware of stamp duty, legal fees, registration costs, and other taxes that may apply when purchasing property in Ireland.
ADDITIONAL NOTICES
- Stamp Duty: Stamp duty in Ireland is 1% on property purchases up to €1 million, and 2% on the portion above €1 million.
- Mortgage Financing: Foreign buyers can secure a mortgage in Ireland, but may face stricter requirements, such as a larger down payment (typically 20% to 30%).
- Legal Role: A solicitor plays a crucial role in the property purchase process in Ireland. They ensure that the transaction complies with Irish law and verify that the property is free from legal issues.

In Ireland, real estate taxes are regulated by the government at both national and local levels. The key types of taxes related to real estate in Ireland include:

Property Ownership Tax

Local Property Tax (LPT): In Ireland, property owners are required to pay an annual Local Property Tax, which is based on the value of residential properties.

  • The LPT is calculated based on the market value of the property, with different valuation bands, ranging from €0 to over €1 million.
  • The tax rate generally ranges from 0.18% to 0.25% of the property’s value, depending on its value.
  • The tax is typically paid annually, and it is the responsibility of the property owner to pay it.
Real Estate Transfer Tax

The real estate transfer tax, also known as Stamp Duty, is applied when a property changes ownership, such as during a sale or inheritance.

  • The standard rate of Stamp Duty is 1% of the purchase price or market value, whichever is higher, for residential properties.
  • The rate for non-residential properties, including commercial properties, is 7.5%.
  • For certain property transfers, such as those involving family members, exemptions or reductions may apply.
Capital Gains Tax on Real Estate

Capital gains tax applies when a property is sold at a profit, though exemptions may apply for primary residences under certain conditions.

  • The general capital gains tax rate is 33% on the profit made from the sale of the property (the difference between the sale price and purchase price).
  • If the property has been owned for more than 12 months, the property owner may be eligible for certain exemptions or reductions in the capital gains tax liability.
  • If the property was used as the primary residence for at least 3 years, it may be exempt from capital gains tax upon sale.
Inheritance and Gift Tax

Inheritance and gift tax, also known as Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT), applies to the transfer of property through inheritance or gifting.

  • The standard rate of Capital Acquisitions Tax is 33% on the value of the property received.
  • However, there is a tax-free threshold that varies depending on the relationship between the deceased and the beneficiary. Close relatives such as children or spouses receive higher exemptions.
  • In cases where property is inherited or received as a gift, capital gains tax may apply if the property is later sold at a profit.
Income Tax on Rental Income

If rental income is generated from real estate, it is subject to both income tax and potentially local taxes.

  • Rental income is taxed as part of the overall personal income tax system, with rates ranging from 20% to 40%, depending on the total income of the property owner.
  • Property owners can generally deduct related expenses, such as mortgage interest, maintenance costs, and property management fees, from their rental income to reduce taxable income.
Vacancy Tax

In some areas, a Vacancy Tax may apply if residential properties remain vacant for extended periods. This tax is intended to encourage owners to either sell or rent out unused properties.

  • The specifics of the Vacancy Tax can vary depending on local regulations and are typically applied by local councils in certain urban areas.
Note: Tax rates and regulations can vary based on specific circumstances and location. It is recommended to consult a local tax professional or the Irish Revenue Commissioners for up-to-date information and advice.
Official
Republic of Ireland
CIOC
IRL
Subregion
Northern Europe
Borders
GBR
Capital
Dublin
Area
70 273 km²
Population
4 995 000
Timezones
UTC
Phone
+353   
Currencies
Euro (EUR €)