For many people, buying or selling a property can feel overwhelming – particularly if you haven’t moved before, or if your last move was many years ago. While the process itself hasn’t fundamentally changed, the pace of the market, documentation requirements and timelines often come as a surprise.
At Dillon Solicitors, we regularly support clients across Dublin who are navigating the property process for the first time in decades. A clear understanding of what lies ahead can make the experience far less stressful and help avoid unnecessary delays.
Getting Ready to Buy or Sell
Before any contracts are issued or offers accepted, a little preparation goes a long way. Whether you are buying, selling, or doing both at the same time, it is helpful to engage a solicitor early.
For sellers, this allows legal documents to be gathered and reviewed in advance. For buyers, it means having someone ready to advise as soon as a property is identified.
Key steps at this stage often include:
- Confirming your budget and mortgage approval in principle
- Gathering title deeds and property documentation
- Clarifying timelines and expectations
- Appointing a solicitor before going sale agreed
Early legal advice helps ensure that when an offer is accepted, matters can progress smoothly without avoidable hold-ups.
The Sale Agreed Stage
Once a property goes sale agreed, the legal process formally begins. This is often where uncertainty arises, particularly for those unfamiliar with the steps involved.
For sellers, your solicitor will issue contracts and supporting documentation to the buyer’s solicitor. For buyers, your solicitor will review the contracts, raise legal queries and carry out necessary checks.
These checks typically cover:
- Title and ownership
- Planning permission and compliance
- Rights of way or access issues
- Conditions attached to the property
This stage is designed to protect both parties and ensure there are no unexpected issues after completion.
Contracts and Signing
Once all legal queries are resolved and both sides are satisfied, contracts are signed. At this point, a booking deposit is paid by the buyer, and the transaction becomes legally binding.
It is important to understand that once contracts are exchanged, both parties are committed to completing the sale or purchase on the agreed terms. This is why careful review and clear advice beforehand are essential.
Your solicitor will guide you through the contract terms and explain any obligations or timelines that apply, ensuring you are fully informed before signing.
Preparing for Completion
After contracts are signed, attention turns to preparing for completion. This includes drawing down mortgage funds, finalising figures and ensuring all documents are in order.
Your solicitor will liaise with banks, agents and the other party’s solicitor to coordinate completion. Clear communication at this stage helps ensure everyone is working towards the same date.
For buyers, this is also the point at which practical arrangements such as insurance, utilities and moving plans should be finalised.
Completion and Closing
On completion day, the balance of funds is transferred, keys are released and ownership is formally transferred. For sellers, this marks the conclusion of the transaction. For buyers, it is the beginning of the next chapter.
Following completion, your solicitor will attend to registration of ownership and any mortgage with the relevant authorities.
Why Clear Legal Advice Matters
Buying or selling a property is one of the most significant financial decisions many people will make. Having a solicitor who explains each step, keeps you informed and is available to answer questions can make a meaningful difference to your experience.
At Dillon Solicitors, we act for buyers and sellers across Dublin, including Rathfarnham and surrounding areas. We take a practical, client-focused approach and understand that for many people, the process can feel unfamiliar or daunting.
Here to Guide You Through the Process
Whether you are moving for the first time, returning to the property market after many years, or helping a family member through the process, early advice can provide reassurance and clarity.
If you are thinking about buying or selling a property, or would like to discuss the process in more detail, our property team is here to help.
To book an appointment, contact Dillon Solicitors. We are focused on you, every step of the way.
