29 Aug 2018
Posted in: First Time Buyer, Mortgages
Blame it on our pagan roots, but we Irish are a pretty superstitious bunch. From saluting solo magpies to our dislike of shoes on the table, some of us just can’t help ourselves. When it comes to moving house, you might be surprised by the number of previously unheard of superstitions that emerge from the mouths of your nearest and dearest. Some of these traditions might give you a giggle, while others are actually pretty lovely. We’ve rounded up a few below. Of course, it goes without saying that all of these should be taken with a pinch of salt. Which, conveniently, brings us to our first superstition…
Salt
Bring a little flavour into your new home by sprinkling salt at your doorway. It’s said to keep pesky evil spirits away and bring good luck. Just don’t forget to sweep it up after 24 hours.
Leave the Broom Behind
According to the principals of Feng Shui, your old broom carries all the negative aspects of your life – as well as the literal dirt and dust from your last home. Even if you’re not one to get swept up in superstitions, no-one wants to carry all that dirt (metaphorical or otherwise) into their new abode. A new broom traditionally signifies a new start, and on the plus side, it’ll give your rooms a better sweeping too!
Never Carry a Hoe Into the House
While we’re on the subject of tools… Bizarrely, you should never carry a hoe into the house. Apparently, it’s bad luck. If you do, you can reverse the effects easily with the genius move of walking backwards through your front door. No harm done then.
Entering the House
Speaking of going in and out of doors, when you enter your new home for the first time, go via the front door and then exit through the same one. Superstition dictates that if you don’t you won’t settle in your new home.
Don’t Move on a Saturday
Although it’s likely your most convenient time to move, Saturday gets a bad rap as a moving day. There are several different theories as to why this superstition came to be, but anyone who is vehemently trying to convince you of this now might just be looking for an excuse to get out of helping you move!
If you’re taking this superstition into account, you may also be interested to know that moving on a rainy day is also considered bad luck. Which leaves us with very few options here in Ireland.
Burn Some Sage
Sage has been used in Native American tradition for generations to clear out negative energy and protect the home. There’s a very specific way of doing this, called smudging.
Ring a Bell
If you want to summon good fortune, try ringing a bell in your new home. It’s thought that the sound brings positive energy to space. We’re not sure if testing out your new doorbell has the same effect – but sure it’s worth a go!
Throw a Housewarming
Don’t forget to invite your friends and family over for a good old-fashioned housewarming. Apparently filling your house with people you love literally warms up the rooms. Plus, you’ve got to celebrate the massive achievement you’ve just made by buying a house!
Thinking of Buying a House?
Get the ball rolling by booking an appointment with an AIB mortgage advisor who will help you start the process. We’re experienced in navigating the financial side of things and can help alleviate some of the stress. You can find lots of useful information on ourwebsiteor simply drop in and speak to one of our mortgage advisors today.
Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. is an authorised agent and servicer of AIB Mortgage Bank in relation to the origination and servicing of mortgage loans and mortgages. Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. and AIB Mortgage Bank are regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Copyright Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. 1995.
