Buying your first home or moving house is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when you’re faced with unfamiliar legal language. From “contracts for sale” to “closing” and “burden of covenants”, the Irish conveyancing process is filled with terms that can leave buyers and sellers unsure of what’s happening at each stage.
At Dillon Solicitors, we believe that legal matters should be clear and accessible. Understanding the terminology used throughout your property transaction will help you feel more confident, informed and in control of your move.
Below is a helpful A–Z glossary of common conveyancing terms, explained in plain English.
A–Z of Property Sale & Purchase Terms
Assignment
The transfer of an existing lease from one party (the seller) to another (the buyer). Common in apartment or commercial property transactions.
Booking Deposit
A refundable deposit paid to an estate agent to secure a property once your offer is accepted. It shows your intention to proceed but is not legally binding.
Closing (Completion)
The final stage of the transaction when the balance of funds is paid, ownership transfers to the buyer, and keys are released.
Closing Date
The agreed date on which the sale is completed and the buyer takes possession of the property.
Conditions of Sale
Standard terms that govern the sale of a property in Ireland, typically included in the contract for sale.
Contract for Sale
A legally binding agreement between buyer and seller setting out the terms of the property transaction. It becomes binding once signed by both parties.
Conveyancing
The legal process of transferring ownership of property from seller to buyer.
Deed of Transfer / Deed of Conveyance
The legal document that formally transfers ownership of the property from the seller to the buyer.
Deposit (Contract Deposit)
Usually 10% of the purchase price, paid when signing contracts. This is generally non-refundable once contracts are exchanged (subject to conditions).
Folio
A document issued by the Property Registration Authority confirming ownership of registered land and any rights or burdens attached to it.
Freehold
Ownership of both the property and the land it stands on, with no time limit.
Ground Rent
An annual payment payable on some leasehold properties to the landlord or management company.
Land Registry
The system of property registration in Ireland that records ownership and interests in land. Most modern properties are registered here.
Loan Offer
A formal offer from a lender outlining the terms of your mortgage, including amount, interest rate and conditions.
Management Company
An entity responsible for maintaining common areas in developments such as apartments or estates. Buyers may need to pay management fees.
Mapping / Land Registry Map
A map showing the boundaries of the property as registered with the Land Registry.
Mortgage
A loan secured against the property, typically provided by a bank or financial institution to help fund the purchase.
Planning Permission
Approval from the local authority for development or structural changes to a property. Your solicitor will check that all works have proper permission.
Property Registration Authority (PRA)
The State body responsible for maintaining the Land Registry and Registry of Deeds in Ireland.
Registry of Deeds
An older system of recording property ownership, often used for unregistered land.
Requisitions on Title
A standard set of legal questions raised by the buyer’s solicitor to the seller’s solicitor to clarify title and property details before completion.
Searches
Checks carried out by your solicitor (e.g. planning, judgment and bankruptcy searches) to ensure there are no legal issues affecting the property.
Stamp Duty
A tax payable by the buyer on the purchase of property in Ireland, calculated as a percentage of the purchase price.
Subject to Contract
A term indicating that no legally binding agreement exists until formal contracts are signed.
Title
The legal right to ownership of a property.
Title Deeds
Documents that prove ownership of a property and outline any rights, obligations or restrictions attached to it.
Vacant Possession
A term confirming that the property will be empty and free from occupants on completion.
Vendor
Another word for the seller of the property.
Buying or Selling a Property
Understanding these key terms can make a significant difference to your experience of buying or selling a property. While your solicitor will guide you through every stage, having a clear grasp of the language used helps you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary stress.
At Dillon Solicitors, we pride ourselves on explaining every step in a straightforward, approachable way – so you’re never left in the dark.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or have moved home multiple times, our team is here to support you with clear advice, timely updates and a process that feels manageable from start to finish.
If you’re planning a move or simply want to understand your options, get in touch with our team today.
