In The News

Is it time to change the way we buy houses?

Nov 10, 2025
Ciarán Mulqueen, the mind behind the Crazy House Prices social media account, dives into the chaotic Irish housing market and critiques its outdated buying system. He highlights the frustrating bidding wars fueled by underpricing by estate agents and discusses innovative models from Scotland and France that could streamline the process. Ciarán proposes binding contracts to stop casual pull-outs and suggests e-conveyancing to expedite transactions. Plus, he sheds light on the concerning impacts of rising rents and eviction crises, blending insights with a touch of hope for reform.
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INSIGHT

Opaque Market Worsens Buyer Stress

  • Ireland's house-marketing process is unusually opaque and slow compared with other countries.
  • That lack of transparency worsens stress and market dysfunction for buyers and sellers.
INSIGHT

Low Asking Prices Fuel Auctions

  • Estate agents often advertise properties well below expected sale value to stimulate bidding wars.
  • That practice inflates final prices and disadvantages mortgage-dependent buyers.
ADVICE

Require Pre-Sale Checks And Verified Bids

  • Set up mandatory pre-sale surveys and independent bidding to improve transparency.
  • Use verified online bidding or a notary-like intermediary so offers are real and visible to all bidders.
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