Buying an Apartment as a Single Person

Hi,

I'm looking to get some advice in regards to buying an apartment on an average single income.

I'm 31 and work as a pharmacy technician in the HSE and currently earn €45,017 before taxes, however that figure will see a modest increase every few months due to the current pay increase for public health workers. Taking into account pay increases and salary increments by next August I could be earning around £47,500 euros.

I have no debt and at the moment I'm saving €1500 every month. I currently live at home with my mother and have no dependents. I have €51500 saved at the moment.

I currently live and work in Ballinasloe though I'm looking to or closer to Galway City as I like being closer to the sea, Connemara and offers more social opportunities.

I realize apartments can in cases be a bit dodgy and the management fees could be a concern, however it seems the most realistic if I want to have my own home.

I'm not sure to speak to a mortgage advisor or financial advisor about, but hoping by posting here I will be nudged in the right direction.