How do I make an offer on a house/apt.

[Redshoes]

I have never purchased a house in Ireland before. How do I make an offer on a house I'm interested in. Do I just call the auctioneer and make a verbal/phone offer for the asking price, or a price I feel the home is worth? How legal is a phone offer? Can I change my mind after I make a verbal/phone offer? I assume if the owner accepts the offer the next step is signing some kind of contract.
I have ordered a book called 'Irish Property Buyers Handbook' which I'm sure will be helpful but it won't arrive before the weekend and I'm viewing a house then that I'm very interested in. Any help would be appreciated

 

[peteb]

You just ring up and make an offer for whatever price you want. You can change your mind at any point. No one is obliged to fulfill anything until contracts are agreed.

 

[Brendan Burgess]

I am surprised that there is no Key Post on the topic such as A guide for first time buyers. Anyone fancy compiling one?

You will find this of use

How to negotiate with estate agents

 

[Brendan Burgess]

I see I asked the same question almost one year ago to the day!

Anyone want to start a Key Post for first time buyers?

Cashier provided this link

[broken link removed]

Some other useful posts on askaboutmoney

First-time Buyer - Where to start...

Preparing for a mortgage application

Costs of Buying and Selling a House

 

[Redshoes]

Thanks for all those tips. I found buyingahouse.ie particularly helpful!