First-Time Buyers
& New Builds
Your First Home Starts Here.
Buying your first home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming.
Whether you’re purchasing through the Help to Buy Scheme (HTB), Affordable Housing Scheme, First Home Scheme or buying directly from a developer, Meridian will guide you through every step of the process.
24/7 Online Tracking. 50% Faster. Real Solicitors. Fixed Fees.
What We Do For You
Our team will:
- Explain things in plain English.
- Keep your purchase moving forward.
- Proactively manage deadlines and paperwork.
- Liaise with your lender and mortgage broker
- Identify potential issues before they become problems.
- Keep you updated every step of the way.
Our Promise
You’ve found your home, leave the stress to us.
- We are proactive, not reactive.
- We keep your transaction moving forward and actively follow up with all parties.
- Any issues or delays are identified early and communicated to you promptly.
- You will always know where your transaction stands and what happens next.
We’ll Take it
From Here.
Buying your first home involves more than simply signing contracts.
Our numbers don't lie
Which new built scheme can you help with?
Help to Buy Scheme
The Help to Buy Scheme can provide valuable assistance towards your deposit when purchasing a qualifying new build property.
We work alongside your broker, lender and developer to ensure the legal process runs smoothly.
Affordable Housing Scheme
Purchasing through the Affordable Housing Scheme involves additional legal documentation and local authority requirements.
Our team will guide you through the process and explain your obligations clearly.
First Home Scheme
We regularly advise buyers using the First Home Scheme and can help coordinate the legal aspects of the shared equity arrangement.
Is a new build purchase different than second hand?
Purchasing a new build property is different from buying a second-hand home.
We review contracts, planning documentation, permissions and development paperwork to ensure everything is in order before you commit to the purchase.
Key New Build Considerations
✓ Contract review
✓ Planning and compliance checks
✓ Developer documentation review
✓ Scheme eligibility requirements
✓ Mortgage drawdown coordination
✓ Completion and registration
Do I need to snag?
Before moving into your new home, we strongly recommend obtaining a professional snagging inspection.
A snagging survey can identify defects or incomplete works that should be addressed by the developer before or shortly after completion.
While we deal with the legal process, a snagging inspector helps ensure the property itself meets the standard you expect.
Do I pay less stamp duty?
Many first-time buyers are surprised to learn that stamp duty on new build homes is calculated differently.
Stamp duty is generally charged at 1% of the purchase price excluding the VAT element, which can reduce the amount payable compared to what buyers initially expect.
We will calculate the correct amount and guide you through the process.
Why Choose Us
Fixed Fees
No hidden fees. Know exactly what you're paying from the outset.
Real Solicitors
No case managers on between, direct communication with your solicitor. Your file is handled by a qualified solicitor from start to finish.
Real-Time Updates
Receive instant notifications when there is a note, any progress made on file, and key milestones are reached.
24/7 Online Portal
Track your transaction whenever it suits you.
Buying your 1st home in Ireland
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a solicitor cost when buying a home?
We provide fixed-fee pricing so you know exactly what to expect from the outset. Get an instant online quote from us now with estimate outlays. No marketing, no obligations.
When should I instruct a solicitor?
Ideally before you go sale agreed as your solicitor’s contact details are required at the time of sale agreed.
Can I track my purchase online?
Yes. Our portal provides 24/7 access to documents, updates and milestones. You will also be notified by email instantly anytime there is an update for you on the portal.
Will I deal directly with my solicitor?
Yes. Your file is handled by a qualified solicitor from instruction to getting your keys, not a case manager.
Can you help with Help to Buy?
Yes. We regularly assist buyers purchasing with the Help to Buy Scheme as well as First Home Scheme and Affordable Housing Scheme.
What is a snagging survey?
A snagging survey identifies defects and unfinished items within a new build property before completion.