To make an offer against a property you will need to put money against that offer - normally between 3,000 - 10,000 euros. The Agent makes this offer on your behalf and then the vendor will accept or decline this offer. The sum put forward becomes non-refundable when the offer is accepted by the vendor. If the offer is rejected by the vendor the buyer has the option of making another offer or receiving a full refund of the money.

Find out as much as possible about the vendor's reasons for selling. If they are moving for a job or have already bought another property, their urgency to sell may give you more scope for bargaining.

Equally, reveal little about your own circumstances to the vendor and their agent and don't be pressurised into agreeing a price.

Make sure your offer includes the following contingencies:

Before you commit to putting down any money in the non-refundable holding deposit, there are various checks you need to carry out on the property and the owner.
Detailed Buyers Guide

Your offer is based on the contingency that the property passes an inspection by professionals (e.g. a structural survey by an architect, if necessary). Then you can agree on the price and put down your deposit.