Websites like www. mortgageline. ie and www. moving. ie offer lowcost packages for house-moving.

Agents fees: In most cases, estate agents fees are 1%, although according to the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers (IPAV), but we could see fees rise to 2%, as Ireland currently has one of the lowest estate agent fees in Europe and it's as high as 6% in some countries. If your home sells within a reasonable time-frame and achieves a fair selling price, it will be worth it.

Mortgage valuation report: All mortgage lenders require that your prospective home undergoes a valuation report to make sure the property is suitable for a mortgage and worth the cost. Expect to pay between 130 and 150. This report will only highlight any obvious faults.

Structural survey: This is a full inspection of a second hand property to make sure it is structurally sound. While it's not always obligatory, Marie Sherry of Mason Estates says skipping a structural survey can be a false economy. There are different types of surveys, some of which will be very detailed and therefore more costly, depending on the type of property you're buying. For an average survey expect to pay from 300 upwards.

Mortgage protection: All lending institutions require you to have mortgage protection. This is just an insurance which will pay off the balance of a mortgage in the event of the death of a mortgage holder. Costs depend on several factors including the amount of the mortgage, number of years it runs for, and the age and health of the applicants. Basic coverage for a sum of 100,000 costs around 12 per month, and increases with the amount borrowed. You can pay a higher premium if you want to insure yourself against critical illness or loss of income.

Home insurance: All lending institutions require building's insurance on the property you are buying. Buildings insurance will cover your home against serious loss or damage. Expect to pay around 500 per year for an average three-bed house.

Moving costs: These can vary considerably so make sure you shop around. You need to give the moving company around three weeks notice of your closing date. It might be easier to get a company to move you midweek. Expect to pay from 560 for an average three-bed.

Lenders fees: Some mortgage brokers charge a set fee of around 2500 which is payable after contracts are signed, but they usually refund their commission fee of 1% on mortgages up to 250,000.

Stamp duty: First time buyers are exempt from stamp duty on all homes, while new homes are also exempt from stamp duty for everyone. All other buyers pay stamp duty on a sliding scale from 3% on properties priced between 190,501 and 254,000 up to 9% on homes over 635,000. You can reduce your stamp duty slightly if you're buying a home with extras included such as white goods, quality flooring, curtains, fittings etc. Your solicitor can calculate the cost of these extras and issue you a refund after the closing of the sale.

Hidden extras: Always allow an extra few hundred or even a couple of thousand euro for unexpected costs once you move in like getting the property painted, locks changed, shelves built etc.