Applying for a mortgage can be a challenging process. At Smart Mortgages our aim is to make this process easier and quicker for you. One of the ways we do this is through our online application process. Applying online for a mortgage is a convenient way for people to multitask or for those that do not have enough time in the day. When you are applying for a mortgage banks will always ask for what may seem like a large amount of paperwork and documentation. We have made it possible for our clients to upload the documents required for a mortgage application securely via our unique, online portal. We will then apply to the banks on your behalf.

Where do I start?

  1. Find out what you need to do to get mortgage ready (see list below).
  2. Use our handy calculators to determine how much you can borrow.
  3. Register via our secure, online portal and upload the documentation that needs to accompany your application.

At Smart Mortgages we have a team of Qualified Financial Advisers with years of industry experience. We have an in-depth knowledge of the mortgage process in Ireland and we have excellent relationships with Ireland’s leading mortgage providers.

Why go through a mortgage broker?

  • The team at Smart Mortgages are experts in financial matters. You do of course have the option of going straight to a bank yourself but the disadvantage of doing this is the amount of work that is involved for you. You will also only get offered mortgage options from that one  particular bank.
  • We will work with you to understand your requirements in relation to obtaining a mortgage and guide you through the mortgage application process.
  • We will assess a number of lenders in the market, providing you with a broad choice.
  • We will recommend the mortgage term, rate and lender most suitable for you.
  • We will also be able to recommend other products such as mortgage protection and home insurance.
  • When you apply for a mortgage through Smart Mortgages you will have a dedicated mortgage expert who will keep you updated with the progress of your application from start to finish.

Document Checklist

  • Proof of  ID (drivers license or passport)
  • Proof of residence at your home address (must be less than 3 months old)
  • Salary Certificate
  • Employment Detailed Summary (EDS) for 2022, 2021 & 2020
  • Last 3 payslips
  • Last 6 months personal and / or joint bank statements (include Revolut, N26 if you have them)
  • Loan statements (even if loans are cleared)
  • Last 3 credit card statements (even if cards are cleared)
  • Evidence of deposit (saving statements, gift letter)
  • Copy of Stamp 4 Visa / proof of Irish residency or Stamp 1 Visa with critical skills
  • Marriage Certificate
  • Previous Mortgage Statement
  • Help-to-buy scheme approval if applicable (PDF of application code & access code)
  • CV

*If you are self-employed the information required is slightly different. The banks will want to see:

  • Proof of ID (drivers licence, passport)
  • Proof of residence at your home address (must be less than 3 months old)
  • Last 2 years accounts
  • Last 2 years notice of assessment / Chapter 4
  • Last 2 years Form 11
  • Tax Clearance Certificate
  • 6 months bank business statements

The Mortgage Process

Whether you would like to apply online or meet with a member of our team over coffee we will provide you with the same comprehensive level of service.

  • Information Gathering – After we have reviewed the above documentation we will make a preliminary assessment of your requirements and get in touch with you to discuss your application. We will then apply to the chosen bank on your behalf.
  • Approval in Principle – If the application is successful you will receive Approval in Principle from the bank.
  • Formal Loan Offer – When you find the house you want to buy we will advise you on the best loan and interest rate options and will liaise with the lending institution to obtain your formal loan offer.
  • Mortgage Protection & Life Assurance – We will advise you on the best options available to you and we will liaise with the selected insurance provider on your behalf.
  • Sale complete – We remain in contact with throughout the full mortgage process to ensure any outstanding requirements are dealt with in a timely manner.

What costs are involved?

As a mortgage broker we are paid by commission. This means you get a choice of many providers, impartial advice and personal service without any extra cost and without the hassle of finding the best deal yourself.

We do charge a small administration fee of €100 to process a mortgage, we get charged this amount for an IT platform we use which allows us switch applications from one bank to the next online which is well worth it.  Additional costs to you will include the standard legal fees involved for completing the sale of your new home and for the valuation survey of the property.