Search Results for 'Mortgage'

Since the beginning of 2026, the residential property market in Galway has continued to reflect a familiar trend seen across much of the country: robust demand set against a limited supply of homes. Galway’s leading estate agents, DNG Leonard & Heaslip, report that buyer activity has remained strong in the early months of the year, particularly from first-time buyers and families seeking to settle within the city’s established residential areas.

Purchasing a home is an exciting yet complex milestone, and the process of securing a mortgage can often feel overwhelming. Lenders assess a range of criteria, with one of the most important being your ability to consistently meet mortgage repayments. To demonstrate this, you typically need to show a strong savings record along with regular rent payments (if applicable). Ideally, this track record should cover at least 12 months, though 24 months is preferred, as it provides stronger evidence of financial stability and repayment capacity. It is also essential to keep your bank account in good order, with clear and responsible spending habits. Avoiding irregular transactions such as gambling or excessive discretionary spending helps present a stable financial profile and reassures lenders of your reliability. However, there is a wealth of support available to guide you through the process. To make the most of your mortgage journey, working with a financial adviser can offer valuable expert guidance - helping you navigate the process with confidence, avoid common pitfalls, and make informed decisions that support your long-term financial goals.

First-time buyers in Galway are being urged to be fully prepared, financially disciplined and flexible as competition for homes remains intense, while sellers are warned that pricing and preparation are key to securing a successful sale.

For the majority of us, building, buying or renovating a home will be the biggest financial undertaking of our lives. But picking a mortgage provider can be almost as important as choosing the perfect home – with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming.

By Brian McCormack, Sherry Fitzgerald Financial Services

The new homes market in Galway city and county continues to be characterised by strong demand and constrained supply, particularly for modern energy-efficient housing. Demand from first-time buyers and families for A-rated homes has grown significantly, driven by rising energy costs, green mortgage incentives and a greater awareness of long-term sustainability.

In good news for home buyers and switchers, Claddagh Credit Union is launching a new standard mortgage product. With a competitive variable rate of 3.85%, and an interest rate capped at 4.4% for the first three years, the innovative new product provides borrowers with a certainty of repayment, while also delivering the benefits of a variable offering.

According to the latest residential market review from leading property advisors DNG, the average price of a second-hand home nationally has increased to €313,453 in the first half of the year.

According to the latest residential market review from leading property advisors DNG, the average price of a second-hand home nationally has increased to €313,453 in the first half of the year.

By Ruth Hennelly, certified financial planner professional and Managing Director of Hennelly Finance