Fix it up: Restore a three-bed Irish cottage for a life of tranquil island bliss
The property is close to four white sandy beaches on Inishturk South in Galway
The cottage has been vacant for a few years
What is it?
A forlorn three-bedroom cottage on Inishturk South, a small island off Clifden, Co Galway, and not to be confused with the larger Inishturk Island off Mayo.
Tell me more about the place
The house is located a few paces from the water’s edge on the land-side of the island. Inishturk South used to have 130 full-time inhabitants at one point , but is now home only to seasonal residents.
The 645 sq ft house has a kitchen/dining room and bathroom in addition to the three bedrooms.
The bad news?
The cottage has been fully vacant for a couple of years. It has not been surveyed in approximately five years, since the current owners bought it.
In addition to any structural and cosmetic work that might be necessary, the septic tank needs to be upgraded and there is no mains water on the island.
The house has a rain water collection system, but this will also need updating.
Getting materials and labour over to your cottage may prove challenging.
Everything has to be brought by boat and there is no ferry service, although there is a dock on the island. With a G BER, the home will need insulation.
The cottage has been vacant for a few years
And the good news?
Another problem faced by its buyer is to choose which of the four white sandy beaches to use on any given day.
Said refurbishment may also of course be subject to grant aid under a number of guises.
It may qualify for the vacant property refurbishment grant of up to €70,000 in addition to a Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) grant to help improve the energy efficiency of the property, subject to all the usual eligibility and conditions.
A rigid inflatable boat (RIB) is included in the sale of the cottage, which will be auctioned online on July 25.
How much to buy it?
The guide price is €135,000.
And to fix it up?
Depending on what style and size of home you want to end up with, you could be looking at €150,000 to €200,000, possibly the higher end if you plan to use it as a short-let.
As a rule, island holiday homeowners are usually content with a more basic level of comfort.
What will I end up with?
Peace and quiet by the lobster pot-load in a cosy holiday home on a paradise island — at least when the sun is shining.
It’s in a location that can never be built on, in a place where there is no traffic. And if it gets too quiet, you can still stream your favourite TV shows or movies as the island has broadband.
Who should I talk to?
Anyone who fancies a boat trip should row in with Martin O’Connor at DNG Martin O’Connor, (091) 866708.
The cottage goes up for auction on July 25 and you’ll need to register in order to bid.
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