Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant explained: the pros and cons of scheme made famous by ‘Room to Improve’ architect Dermot Bannon

'Room to Improve' architect Dermot Bannon. Photo: Mark Condren

Jim O'Brien

Interest in vacant and derelict rural houses has increased massively thanks to the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.

In the context of a severe housing shortage, soaring urban rents and the mainstreaming of remote work, the abandoned cottage on a half-acre at the end of a boreen suddenly becomes very attractive as a home, a home office and a place from which to do business.