I'm in a similar position (based abroad, substantial salary, looking for a small mortgage, have a large deposit - and an existing Irish property in negative equity). KBC didn't have a problem making me a mortgage offer on the basis that I lived abroad (although I didn't go with them in the end as they said they wouldn't lend against a 1-bed flat). AIB provided a suitable mortgage offer which I am close to drawing down. Had to jump through quite a few hoops to get to this stage though and the interest rate isn't great!