Level 5 – What does this mean for property purchases?

Since Ireland moved into level 5 status many services and businesses had to close their doors. However, new rules have been put in place that mean you can continue your search for a new home or progress a sale safely and in a controlled manner. Below we’ve listed out the new policies for viewing, buying, auctioning and selling property.

Viewings

Estate agent offices are now closed but they can still arrange viewings of vacant new and second-hand homes by appointment. However, there are some further restriction on this.

Property hunters need to provide proof of funds and must have already viewed the property online

Appointment times must be strictly adhered to in order to avoid any cross-over of viewers

Only viewings of two people from the same household are permitted at this time

Where possible we recommend people look for properties with virtual tours and videos on their ad details page. You can now filter by this on the Daft app.

Post-Sale Agreed

If you are sale agreed it is still possible to progress your sale and access the necessary services of valuators, surveyors and other property professionals, but there are some additional conditions that must be in place:

• The property must be sale agreed

• The contract for sale must be signed subject to conditions

• The property must be unoccupied at the appointment time when the property professional visits

Auctions

Only online auctions are permitted to take place during level 5 restrictions.

Selling

Estate agents are permitted to visit the property that you would like to sell so it can be valued. They can also arrange the BER cert, which is a legal obligation when listing a property for sale.

For more details please check with your estate agent or solicitor who can advise you on the next steps depending where you are on your buying journey. If you have any questions please check this document for a full list of new regulations. #Buying