Co Leitrim to Co Wicklow

Second-hand properties were slower to sell because of the variety of tax incentives made available to buyers of new properties. Increases in the stock of tax-incentive, owner-occupier holiday homes means the market is well supplied. Apartment stock, as in other remote regions, is low but sustained by the supply of tax-break building in villages such as Leitrim.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €187,000
Jan 2006: €197,000
Jan 2007: €219,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €215,000
Jan 2006: €225,000
Jan 2007: €239,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €210,000
Jan 2006: €215,000
Jan 2007: €235,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €230,000
Jan 2006: €240,000
Jan 2007: €255,000
Second-hand two-bed apartment:
Jan 2005: €180,000
Jan 2006: €185,000
Jan 2007: €190,500
New two-bed apartment:
Jan 2005: €193,000
Jan 2006: €195,500
Jan 2007: €199,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €205,000
Jan 2006: €210,000
Jan 2007: €215,500
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €190,000
Jan 2006: €195,000
Jan 2007: €199,000
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €80,000-€100,000
Jan 2006: €90,000-€100,000
Jan 2007: €100,000-plus
New holiday cottage:
Jan 2005: €100,000
Jan 2006: €100,000-plus
Jan 2007: €100,000-plus
Large country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €200,000-€500,000
Jan 2006: €200,000-€500,000
Jan 2007: €550,000-plus
(Source: Brady Real Estate Alliance)

Co Limerick

Average new home: €195,000
Second-hand: €210,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 10%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 7%

Market view: The county continued to experience strong growth, with agents reporting a 10% increase in prices last year. Historically, prices outside Limerick city have been low but they are now being affected by people chasing good value within commuting distance of the city in areas such as Castleconnell and Clarina.

Agents report demand for second-hand properties and sites is high as there is a limited supply. Larger homes in Patrickswell and Ballyclough once again sold strongly, thanks to a new dual carriageway.

Newcastlewest maintained its popularity with those people moving out of Limerick city in search of better value for money. It is one of the fastest growing towns in Munster, according to a private census carried out by the local chamber of commerce, which noted a 50% rise in its population since the last official census.
This is reflected in waiting lists of six to nine months for all of the new developments under construction in the town. The area still represents good value for money and the proposed Adare bypass will further boost house prices.

Holiday home prices jumped 16% in the past 12 months, although demand and stock are limited. Agents say couples downsizing and emigrants returning from abroad, especially the UK, account for a large proportion of this market, particularly in the towns of Foynes and Glin.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €180,000
Jan 2006: €195,000
Jan 2007: €205,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €160,000
Jan 2006: €180,000
Jan 2007: €190,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €195,000
Jan 2006: €210,000
Jan 2007: €220,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €175,000
Jan 2006: €185,000
Jan 2007: €200,000
New two-bed apartment:
Jan 2005: €130,000
Jan 2006: €145,000
Jan 2007: €155,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre,
outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €200,000
Jan 2006: €210,000
Jan 2007: €220,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre,
outside town:
Jan 2005: €185,000
Jan 2006: €195,000
Jan 2007: €205,000
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €120,000
Jan 2006: €140,000
Jan 2007: €160,000
Larger country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €350,000
Jan 2006: €400,000
Jan 2007: €440,000
(Source: Sherry FitzGerald Ruddle)

Co Longford

Average new home: €230,000
Second-hand: €225,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 7.5%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 5%-7.5%

Market view: The market in Longford has been buoyed by rural renewal tax incentive schemes, although the booming local economy means all property types have prospered. The increase in jobs in the town has upped demand in both the rental and sales sectors. Agents remain optimistic despite job losses in the town caused by the fire at Albert Reynolds’s C&D Foods factory.

A stream of people relocating to Longford has been prompted the presence of companies such as Intel, and the opening of the M4, improving access to the capital for the county’s growing band of hardy commuters.

A surge in the supply of new schemes in Longford town and its surrounding villages has kept price increases to an average of 7.5%. The second-hand- house market continues to be sluggish, with a few notable exceptions at the top end. Some record prices have been set in recent months but the new-homes market continues to be the dominant force. Much of this is an extension of the rural tax relief and will continue into 2007.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €160,000
Jan 2006: €170,000
Jan 2007: €180,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €200,000
Jan 2006: €210,000
Jan 2007: €217,500
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €185,000
Jan 2006: €195,000
Jan 2007: €205,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €225,000
Jan 2006: €240,000
Jan 2007: €255,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €170,000
Jan 2006: €190,000
Jan 2007: €210,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €165,000
Jan 2006: €175,000
Jan 2007: €185,000
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €140,000
Jan 2006: €160,000
Jan 2007: €170,000
Large country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €395,000
Jan 2006: €410,000
Jan 2007: €450,000
(Source: Property Partners Quinn Brothers)

Co Louth

Average new home: €275,000
Second-hand: €279,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 10%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 12%

Market view: Agents reported solid activity in most areas, with the districts most attractive to commuters continuing to experience double-digit price increases.

The completion of the motorway is probably the biggest factor driving prices in the county.

Passengers are well served by trains and public and private coach services to the capital. The rail network has improved dramatically.

Increased accessibility by road, private coach and rail has caused a marked rise in prices in Drogheda in the past 12 months.

The gateway town of Dundalk has also benefited from the continual expansion of Dublin’s commuter belt, with prices rising as much as 15% in some sectors. An increase in demand was also evident for large country homes with prices driven by condition and planning possibilities.

Changes to the stamp duty regulations have been beneficial to first-time buyers and second-hand vendors alike. The 100% mortgage offers have introduced a new type of first-time buyer into the market.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €185,000
Jan 2006: €230,000
Jan 2007: €260,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €190,000
Jan 2006: €290,000
Jan 2007: €325,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €250,000
Jan 2006: €290,000
Jan 2007: €325,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €280,000
Jan 2006: €320,000
Jan 2007: €350,000
Second-hand two-bed apartment:
Jan 2005: €200,000
Jan 2006: €200,000
Jan 2007: €235,000
New two-bed apartment:
Jan 2005: €210,000
Jan 2006: €225,000
Jan 2007: €240,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €330,000
Jan 2006: €370,000
Jan 2007: €370,000-plus
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €315,000
Jan 2006: €335,000,
Jan 2007: €365,000-€380,000
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €200,000-€300,000
Jan 2006: €200,000-€300,000-plus
Jan 2007: €200,000-€300,000-plus
Large country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €800,000 (period house
in need of renovation on two acres), €1.5m (large house 4,500 sq ft,
25-30 years old on seven acres)
Jan 2006: €800,000
Jan 2007: €1m and upwards (depending on condition)
(Sources: Gunne; Michael Lavelle Estate Agents)

Co Mayo

Average new home: €242,000
Second-hand: €220,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 3%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 7%

Market view: Agents in the county said they had a good year, although their optimistic estimates of double-figure increases for 2005 failed to materialise. The increase in prices varied greatly in different parts of the market, with the entry of a large number of second-hand properties into the market as a result of 2004 job losses in the Castlebar area.

The most active sector last year was the first-time buyer market, and new housing was their preferred option — the price of new four-bedroom homes rose 12%. The increase in second-hand stock resulted in excellent value in this category for first-time buyers.

The latter half of last year saw rents in the town returning to an average of €650 a month for three-bedroom semis, which should reflect an increase in investor activity in 2006. The price of Section 23 stock also rose significantly.

The second half of 2005 saw an upturn in the holiday homes market, with some new properties recording 46% increases. New Section 23 holiday homes in Achill rose by more than 30%.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €217,000
Jan 2006: €220,000
Jan 2007: €225,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €225,000
Jan 2006: €232,000
Jan 2007: €235,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €220,000
Jan 2006: €220,000
Jan 2007: €225,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €280,000 (detached)
Jan 2006: €290,000 (detached)
Jan 2007: €325,000 (detached)
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €230,000
Jan 2006: €245,000
Jan 2007: €250,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €225,000
Jan 2006: €235,000
Jan 2007: €240,000
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €175,000 (€285,000, Achill)
Jan 2006: €180,000 (€290,000, Achill)
Jan 2007: €210,000 (€310,000, Achill)
New holiday homes:
Jan 2005: €200,000 (€240,000, Achill)
Jan 2006: €205,000 (€265,000, Achill)
Jan 2007: €300,000 (€350,000, Achill with Section 23)
Large country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €445,000 (new house on one acre)
Jan 2006: €460,000
Jan 2007: €460,000
(Source: Property Partners Durcan Auctioneers)

Co Meath

Average new home: €350,000
Second-hand: €366,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 10-20%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 10%

Market view: 2005 saw prices in some sectors of the market jump as much as 20%. In 2005, housing output in the Royal County remained strong. It is now 429% above the level of 10 years ago. Meath’s population is expected to exceed 180,000 by 2012.

The introduction of the 100% mortgage made first-time buyer house prices boom in the last three months of 2005. These buyers are now the driving force behind the markets in Navan and Ashbourne. These towns’ continuing ability to attract retailers have also exerted positive influences on the residential property market.

The proposed M3 between Clonee and Kells and phase 1 of the Navan rail link (Dublin to Dunboyne) are due to be completed by the end of 2009 and the N2 Ashbourne bypass is almost complete. As last year’s by-election showed, the county’s commuters are growing increasingly frustrated. Although house completions were up by 9.5% last year, the county’s infrastructure is creaking at the seams. Agents warn that improved transport links and investment in schools will be required to keep prices rising in the long term, especially with more than 1,000 new homes already planned for next year. East Meath, with its rail line, proved one of the strongest markets.

At the moment, the three and four-bedroom semi remains the most popular house-type in Co Meath, with demand outstripping supply. The lack of development land and new homes is driving the second-hand market. At present, most new home developments in the region consist of apartments or four and five-bedroom detached houses.

Towns and villages nearest to Dublin are experiencing the highest price rises. Agricultural land in some parts is achieving up to €40,000 an acre. A housing density report, due later this year, will further illustrate the number of new houses needed over the next five years.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €230,000
Jan 2006: €282,500
Jan 2007: €330,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €232,000
Jan 2006: €298,500
Jan 2007: €350,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €265,000
Jan 2006: €328,500
Jan 2007: €372,500
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €275,000
Jan 2006: €375,000
Jan 2007: €407,500
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €340,000
Jan 2006: €405,000
Jan 2007: €480,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €315,000
Jan 2006: €451,000
Jan 2007: €480,000
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €250,000-€400,000 (depending on location)
Jan 2006: €265,000-€400,000 (depending on location)
Jan 2007: €275,000-€400,000 (depending on location)
Large country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €1m-plus
Jan 2006: €1.05m-plus
Jan 2007: €1.15m-plus
(Sources: Ronald Duff & Associates; Gunne Residential)

Co Monaghan

Average new home: €232,000
Second-hand: €260,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 10.5%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 11.5%

Market view: Agents in Co Monaghan reported strong growth last year: prices in some sectors of the market, well-located three-bedroom semis in particular, rose as much as 20% in the past 12 months.

First-time buyers accounted for a significant slice of the new and second-hand homes on sale. Interest in the sector also came from investors, the result of sustained demand in the rental market, which continues to drive up prices.

Despite the introduction of 100% mortgages it is becoming increasingly difficult for first-time buyers to get on to the property ladder, particularly in Monaghan town.
The new Carrickmacross bypass has cut the journey time to Dublin’s outskirts to just 1½ hours, which means the south of the county is now part of the commuter belt.

Commercial developments around the larger towns should help to maintain growth across the county, although price rises will be most significant around the urban centres.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €175,000
Jan 2006: €200,000
Jan 2007: €217,500
(depending on location)
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €190,000
Jan 2006: €209,000
Jan 2007: €230,000
(depending on location)
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €250,000
Jan 2006: €275,000
Jan 2007: €290,000
(depending on location)
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €240,000
Jan 2006: €264,000
Jan 2007: €294,000
(depending on location)
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €270,000
Jan 2006: €297,000
Jan 2007: €300,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €250,000
Jan 2006: €275,000
Jan 2007: €325,000
Large country homes with land (rare):
Jan 2005: €320,000-€1.35m (depending on acreage and condition of house)
Jan 2006: €350,000-€1.35m (depending on acreage and condition of house)
Jan 2007: €370,000- €1.35m (depending on acreage and condition of house)
(Source: Gunne, Monaghan)

Co Offaly

Average new home: €245,000
Second-hand: €255,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 5%-7%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 5%-7%

Market view: The parts of the county bordering Kildare experienced another strong year, with robust price growth for new and second-hand properties. The county’s proximity to the Greater Dublin area has seen an increase in its commuting population, with “Dulchies” moving to Edenderry and other outer realms of the Pale to take advantage of the bigger and better-value properties.

Tullamore’s commercial and residential sectors are both booming. The demographic of the general Tullamore region has led to high demand from first-time buyers. The average cost of a new three-bedroom semi-detached is € 230,000.

The influx of eastern Europeans and Regional General hospital employees into the area accounts for an increase in the demand for rental properties.

This resurgence in demand for rental homes and an increase in rental yields has attracted the investor back into the market. The average rental income for a three-bedroom semi is about €700 per month. Ex-council houses in the town have increased in value by as much as 30%, as have second-hand bungalows on the outskirts of town.

New two-bed apartment:
Jan 2005: €193,000
Jan 2006: €195,000
Jan 2007: €199,000
Second-hand two-bed apartment:
Jan 2005: €180,000
Jan 2006: €185,000
Jan 2007: €190,000
Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €187,000
Jan 2006: €197,000
Jan 2007: €219,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €218,000
Jan 2006: €225,000
Jan 2007: €250,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €210,000
Jan 2006: €215,000
Jan 2007: €235,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €230,000
Jan 2006: €240,000
Jan 2007: €255,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €205,000
Jan 2006: €210,000
Jan 2007: €215,500
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €190,000
Jan 2006: €195,000
Jan 2007: €199,000
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €80,000-€100,000
Jan 2006: €100,000
Jan 2007: €100,000-plus
New holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €100,000
Jan 2006: €100,000
Jan 2007: €100,000-plus
Large country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €200-€500 (depending on acreage and condition of house)
Jan 2006: €200-€500 (depending on acreage and condition of house)
Jan 2007: €550,000-plus (depending on acreage and condition of house)
(Source: Property Partners Richard Cleary)

Co Roscommon

Average new home: €243,000
Second-hand: €220,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 5%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 5%

Market view: Roscommon town has experienced huge residential and commercial growth in the past 12 months, with the arrival of Dunnes Stores to the town just one indication of the rude health of the local economy.

The residential sector has experienced large numbers of new homes have been built, to meet the demand from first-time buyers. The first phases of current housing developments have sold out, and 100% mortgage approval is likely to ensure that demand in this sector remains strong throughout the coming year.

The semi-detached house still reigns in Roscommon, with very strong demand among first-time buyers.

Prices are being driven up by an influx of newcomers from Dublin and other regions into Roscommon town, who have chosen to move westwards to purchase larger properties for less. The Kinnegad bypass has had a positive impact on the town and its environs cutting the travelling time to the capital to two hours.

Development continues apace across the county, with housing developments of 10 to 20 properties sprouting up in almost every town.

The rural renewal owner-occupier scheme has rejuvenated some of the county’s outer edges. The prices of second-hand homes have also risen but at a much slower pace than in the rest of the country.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €200,000
Jan 2006: €210,000
Jan 2007: €225,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €210,000
Jan 2006: €220,500
Jan 2007: €232,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €230,000
Jan 2006: €241,500
Jan 2007: €250,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €270,000
Jan 2006: €283,500
Jan 2007: €300,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €175,000
Jan 2006: €183,000
Jan 2007: €200,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €165,000
Jan 2006: €172,250
Jan 2007: €180,000
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €110,000
Jan 2006: €115,500
Jan 2007: €125,000
Large country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €500,000-€1m-plus
Jan 2006: €500,000-€1m-plus
Jan 2007: €500,000-€1.5m-plus
(Source: Property Partners John Earley)

Co Sligo

Sligo town
Average new home: €275,000
Second-hand: €270,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 15%
Projected increase to Jan 07: 9%

Market view: Sligo town’s market is unique, being the only large town in its county. Agents report high demand for both new and second-hand properties.

New housing is scarce, though, which continues to push prices up, with new developments showing increases of as much as 15% in some cases.

Most of the demand at about €300,000 is either from first-time buyers or investment-led, but all sectors in the town are healthy. There is only a marginal increase of purchasers as a result of 100% mortgages.

Improved retail development has generated confidence in the area and the range of amenities such as the Sligo general hospital and the completion of several new hotels also heighten the attraction.

The increase in property values has also been experienced in the satellite villages of Rosses Point, Strandhill, Collooney, Ballisodare, Carney, Tubbercurry and even Grange, which are slowly inching closer to town.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €230,000
Jan 2006: €245,000,
Jan 2007: €265,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €230,000
Jan 2006: €245,000
Jan 2007: €265,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €250,000
Jan 2006: €270,000
Jan 2007: €280,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €250,000
Jan 2006: €270,000
Jan 2007: €280,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €270,000
Jan 2006: €297,000
Jan 2007: €310,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €250,000
Jan 2006: €275,000
Jan 2007: €290,000
Large country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €320,000-€1.35m (depending on acreage and condition of house)
Jan 2006: €400,000-€1.35m
Jan 2007: €550,000-€1.35m
(Source: Sherry FitzGerald Draper)

Rest of county:
Average new home: €205,000
Second-hand: €195,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 10%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 8%

Market view: Towns and villages within a 15 to 20km radius of Sligo had an average increase in prices of 8% last year. There was a reasonable amount of new development in the town, and demand was steady for properties in nearby towns such as Rosses Point, Strandhill and Collooney. Ballisodare, Carney, Tubbercurry and Grange all benefited too. The biggest price increases in these areas was for those elusive four-bedroom homes.

Further outlying villages attracted less interest. Last year saw few new developments of family homes but plenty of tax incentive new homes schemes. Development land was in demand and one 12- acre parcel in Maugheraboy made €16m.

Town such as Tubbercurry and Ballymote have experienced good commercial growth and this will continue to be reflected in residential prices.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €155,000
Jan 2006: €170,000
Jan 2007: €180,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €165,000
Jan 2006: €175,000,
Jan 2007: €195,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €160,000
Jan 2006: €170,000,
Jan 2007: €200,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €180,000
Jan 2006: €190,000,
Jan 2007: €210,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €230,000
Jan 2006: €240,000
Jan 2007: €260,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €195,000
Jan 2006: €205,000
Jan 2007: €225,000
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €90,000-€180,000
Jan 2006: €95,000-€185,000
Jan 2007: €100,000-€200,000
New holiday homes:
Jan 2005: €210,000
Jan 2006: €220,000
Jan 2007: €230,000
Large country homes:
Jan 2005: €500,000-€1.9m
Jan 2006: €600,000-€1.9m-plus
Jan 2007: €800,000-€2m
(Source: Sherry FitzGerald Draper)

Co Tipperary

North Riding:
Average new home: €200,000
Second-hand: €225,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 5.5%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 5%

Market view: Last year began quite slowly in the north of the county, but by March sales prices had picked up and there was strong interest in properties that sold in October and November. Percentage increases of 5% last year were on a par with the growth rate of 2004.

In Nenagh, the expansion of commercial developments has increased demand for homes. As in other growing towns, the arrival of supermarket chains demonstrates the continued growth.

The new regional redevelopment plan, which will effectively encourage cluster development near villages rather than one-off housing, will also boost demand in and around Nenagh and outlying villages. Demand for three-bedroom semis is strong in North Riding, and there is increasing interest in four-bed semis and four-bed detached properties, a house-type becoming increasingly rare in Ireland.

A huge number of apartments have been built in the past three years and supply is now outstripping demand in this sector.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €170,000
Jan 2006: €190,000
Jan 2007: €200,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €160,000
Jan 2006: €175,000
Jan 2007: €185,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €210,000
Jan 2006: €225,000
Jan 2007: €235,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €190,000
Jan 2006: €220,000
Jan 2007: €240,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €225,000
Jan 2006: €240,000
Jan 2007: €255,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €195,000
Jan 2006: €205,000
Jan 2007: €210,000
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €165,000-€210,000
Jan 2006: €180,000-€220,000
Jan 2007: €195,000-€240,000
Large country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €550,000
Jan 2006: €750,000-€1m
Jan 2007: €850,000-€1.1m
(Source: Sherry FitzGerald Talbot)

South Riding:
Average new home: €225,000
Second-hand: €250,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 9%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 7%

Market view: Sales in South Riding and the town of Tipperary were more robust than in the North Riding last year despite this part of the county remaining largely undiscovered by commuters. Second-hand house prices have increased between 8-10%.

With permission for one-off housing rare, there is a huge demand for four-bedroom detached rural houses, a sector of the market not catered for by the developer.

Three-bedroom semis continue to be built and the local demand for super-sized semis just keeps on growing.

According to agents, apartment living is still new territory for South Riding and it remains a yuppie-free part of Ireland. There is some availability but demand has reached saturation point. Property price inflation in this part of the county is only beginning to catch up with the rest of the country but the demand experienced in similar-sized towns is not yet evident in Tipperary. It is only a matter of time: Tipperary is only 24 km from Limerick, making it a relatively easy commute.

With the realignment of the N24 in the next few years, Cork, Kilkenny and Waterford will all be within commuting distance. The South Riding will also become part of the Dublin commuter belt when Irish Rail launches its hourly passenger service to the capital next year.

The relocation of the Department of Justice to the town of Tipp is a political football at present, but it is expected to become a reality. The site has already been purchased, although the move may not take place for two years at least. The region also offers the added benefits of proximity to both Shannon and Cork airports. The outdoor lifestyle, fishing, hill walking and less crowed schools all help to sell the lifestyle in the region. And there is lots of property coming on stream in the next two years.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €195,000
Jan 2006: €210,000
Jan 2007: €220,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €200,000
Jan 2006: €210,000
Jan 2007: €220,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €200,000
Jan 2006: €220,000
Jan 2007: €230,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €215,000
Jan 2006: €225,000
Jan 2007: €239,000
Four-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €260,000
Jan 2006: €286,000
Jan 2007: €299,000
Four-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €250,000
Jan 2006: €265,000
Jan 2007: €285,000
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €150,000-€170,000
Jan 2006: €165,000-€187,000
Jan 2007: €200,000-€220,000
(Source: Sherry FitzGerald Ryan)

Co Waterford

Average new home: €235,000
Second-hand: €255,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 12.5%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 10%

Market view: House prices in Waterford rose even faster than anticipated last year, with prices for new homes increasing by 10% and second-hand homes recording a rise of 15%. This is compared with a projected price rise of 6%, as published in last year’s guide.

With strong demand for new, second-hand and holiday homes, Waterford continues to be considered better value for money than its neighbouring counties.

First-time buyers were very active in the second-hand homes sector because of the increase in stamp-duty thresholds and the introduction of 100% mortgages. As a result of rising demand, there continues to be a shortage of second-hand stock. Second-hand properties yielded good results, but prices are largely dictated by house type and location.

The average cost of a new home increased by 5% in the county. Developers have begun to target the northside of the city and there are 2,000 homes planned for the Ferrybank/Belmont areas. The outer Ring Road has also increased demand for property on the south side of the city, so the outlook is strong, although Section-23 housing experienced a slow-down.

Due to planning restrictions, there remains a huge demand for one-off housing sites, which in turn creates capital appreciation for second-hand rural sites, particularly anything with an existing building on it.

Holiday homes in the traditional hot spots continued to record robust growth, with price rises last year of as much as 40% for well-located second-hand properties.

These properties continue to be bought by Dubliners taking advantage of the new improved accessibility. Infrastructural improvements and the upgrade of Waterford airport have also helped to bolster house prices.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €220,000
Jan 2006: €250,000
Jan 2007: €267,500
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €194,500
Jan 2006: €210,000
Jan 2007: €225,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €270,000
Jan 2006: €310,000
Jan 2007: €332,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €240,000
Jan 2006: €280,000
Jan 2007: €300,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €262,500
Jan 2006: €300,000
Jan 2007: €310,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €225,750
Jan 2006: €280,000
Jan 2007: €299,600
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €210,000
Jan 2006: €300,000
Jan 2007: €330,000
New holiday homes:
Jan 2005: €257,000
Jan 2006: €300,000
Jan 2007: €330,000
Large country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €755,000
Jan 2006: €2m
Jan 2007: €2m
(Sources: O’Shea, O’Toole & Partners)

Co Westmeath

Average new home: €240,000
Second-hand: €250,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 8%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 8%

Market view: Agents reported another strong year of price growth in Co Westmeath, with all sectors seeing an average increase of 8%. Mullingar and its environs have benefited from the M4 and the €100m Blackhall development. House price differences between the town and Navan have boosted first-time buyer activity, with commuters moving across the border to Westmeath where starter homes are up to €100,000 cheaper.

New developments soaked up much of the demand from first-time buyers and investors in and around Athlone. Commercial expansion has resulted in an increase in demand for rental properties. Agents say three- and four-bedroom semis continued to perform well last year.

Large homes with land, while increasingly rare, can still provide good value
for money. The upper end of this market has performed strongly, and Athlone’s €150m town centre redevelopment will continue next year.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €212,000
Jan 2006: €224,000
Jan 2007: €227,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €217,000
Jan 2006: €235,000
Jan 2007: €265,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €234,000
Jan 2006: €260,000
Jan 2007: €265,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €247,000
Jan 2006: €270,000
Jan 2007: €275,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €260,000
Jan 2006: €280,000
Jan 2007: €285,000
Three-bed bungalow outside town:
Jan 2005: €225,000
Jan 2006: €244,000
Jan 2007: €250,000
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €70,000-€165,000 (depending on location)
Jan 2006: €190,000-€230,000 (depending on location)
Jan 2007: €200,000-€250,000 (depending on location)
Large country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €400,000-€1m-plus
Jan 2006: €450,000-€1.1m-plus
Jan 2007: n/a
(Source: Property Partners Finlay)

Co Wexford

Average new home: €235,000
Second-hand: €247,500
Increase on Jan 2005: 10%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 10%

Market view: The dominant factor pushing up house prices in Co Wexford last year was the beginning of the Arklow/Gorey bypass, which should place the town firmly within the commuter belt, and bring those living in the north of the county closer to the greater Dublin area. The bypass is expected to take up to 10,000 vehicles a day out of Gorey town centre when it is completed, and should cut as much as 15 minutes off the journey time to Dublin airport, currently a two-hour drive.

Other factors affecting prices include investment in hotels and the building of state-of-the-art venues such as the Theatre Royal.

Lower house prices, warmer weather and the gentler lifestyle has attracted the equity-rich “grey market” from the capital, who can swap large family homes for retirement boltholes.

A huge number of new houses are under construction in Wexford town, with 2,000 properties due for completion this year alone. The New Ross area is experiencing its own mini-boom.

The top end of the market remains steady, while solid trade continues at the lower end.

Business is brisk and proposed interest rate changes have had no effect on demand. As tax-driven investments come onto the market, agents say prices may dip somewhat, but the county is still a holiday-home hot spot.

Proximity to Waterford and Cork airports as well as the port of Rosslare help sustain levels of interest.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €207,000
Jan 2006: €224,000
Jan 2007: €249,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €212,000
Jan 2006: €232,500
Jan 2007: €277,500
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €239,000
Jan 2006: €258,000
Jan 2007: €277,500
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €245,000
Jan 2006: €265,000
Jan 2007: €287,500
Second-hand two-bed apartment:
Jan 2005: €195,000
Jan 2006: €210,000
Jan 2007: €222,500
New two-bed apartment:
Jan 2005: €195,000
Jan 2006: €220,000
Jan 2007: €230,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €292,000
Jan 2006: €315,000
Jan 2007: €330,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €225,000
Jan 2006: €240,000
Jan 2007: €262,500
Second-hand holiday cottages:
Jan 2005: €200,000
Jan 2006: €210,000
Jan 2007: €225,000
New holiday homes:
Jan 2005: €215,000
Jan 2006: €220,000
Jan 2007: €230,000
Large country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €700,000-€2m-plus
Jan 2006: €800,000-€2.1m-plus
Jan 2007: €900,000-€2.4m
(Sources: Sherry FitzGerald Haythornthwaite; Kinsella Estates)

Co Wicklow

Bray and north Wicklow
Average new home: €493,750
Second-hand: €478,750
Increase on Jan 2005: 6%-20%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 10%-15%

Market view: Bray and north Wicklow reflected the success of the Dublin market with agents reporting double-figure percentage increases, rising to as high as 40% for certain four-bed property types. Overall, north Wicklow experienced growth of 6%-20%.

A lot of new housing at the lower end of the market attracted first-time buyers. The investor market was also buoyant, with rental yields rising in the second half of the year. House prices in both the new and second-hand sector in Bray have benefited from increased commercial development. Charlesland, next door to Greystones, has satisfied some of the demand for new homes. Delgany continues to remain popular with buyers, while Wicklow town and its environs has also seen double-digit price rises.

Well-appointed large country homes are commanding huge money, notably Glenbrook in Enniskerry, which sold for €6.2m to Senator Shane Ross. Prices are predicted to rise again for country homes in the coming year.

A much-improved transport infrastructure as well as the Transport 21 proposals will continue to force property prices upwards in the north of the county.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €355,000
Jan 2006: €420,000
Jan 2007: €490,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €385,000
Jan 2006: €480,000
Jan 2007: €515,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €485,000
Jan 2006: €590,000
Jan 2007: €625,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €485,000
Jan 2006: €680,000
Jan 2007: €740,000
Second-hand two-bed apartment:
Jan 2005: €335,000
Jan 2006: €355,000
Jan 2007: €365,000
New two-bed apartment:
Jan 2005: €335,000
Jan 2006: €365,000
Jan 2007: €395,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €480,000
Jan 2006: €550,000
Jan 2007: €620,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €280,000
Jan 2006: €450,000
Jan 2007: €520,000
Large country homes:
Jan 2005: €750,000-€1.5m
Jan 2006: €800,000-€1.6m
Jan 2007: €2m-€3m
(Source: Lennox Estates)

South Wicklow
Average new home: €290,000
Second-hand: €335,000
Increase on Jan 2005: 10%
Projected increase to Jan 2007: 10%

Market view: Agents report a brisk market — and cite an easing of planning restrictions as the main reason. Planning for one-off housing remains rare, though, so small cluster schemes are taking up the slack in the south of the county as planners look more kindly on the shared use of services. When available, one-off housing sites are prohibitively expensive.

Location, location, location, that hackneyed mantra of estate agents, is the key to South Wicklow’s values. Small villages such as Tinahealy and Carnew are now only one hour from south Dublin — an attractive prospect for commuters with small children who want to improve the quality of their lives. These locations are also proving popular with thirtysomethings escaping the rat race.

The towns of Blessington and Baltinglass have effectively become suburbs of the capital and this is reflected in the difference between house prices in the north and in the south of the county, which can be as much as € 40,000 for modest family homes. Arklow town has also become increasingly active with price refugees from other parts of the county targeting its affordable new and second-hand housing stock.

Second-hand three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €240,000
Jan 2006: €253,000
Jan 2007: €275,000
New three-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €240,000
Jan 2006: €253,000
Jan 2007: €275,000
Second-hand four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €300,000
Jan 2006: €318,000
Jan 2007: €330,000
New four-bed in town:
Jan 2005: €310,000
Jan 2006: €330,000
Jan 2007: €350,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outskirts of town:
Jan 2005: €350,000-€400,000
Jan 2006: €375,000-€400,000
Jan 2007: €390,000-€410,000
Three-bed bungalow, half an acre, outside town:
Jan 2005: €300,000-€400,000-plus
Jan 2006: €350,000-€405,000
Jan 2007: €375,000-€425,000
New holiday homes:
Jan 2005: €350,000-€700,000 (new homes around Brittas Bay)
Jan 2006: €350,000-€700,000
Jan 2007: €370,000-€700,000
Large country homes with land:
Jan 2005: €400,000-€1m (depending on size, condition and amount of land)
Jan 2006: €600,000-€1.2m (depending on size, condition and land)
Jan 2007: €800,000-€1.4m
(Sources: Sherry FitzGerald Myles Doyle; Kinsella Estates; Clarke Auctioneers Ltd)

What you'll pay for a three-bed bungalow

Based on our findings, the average price of a second-hand home in the regions is now €251,000. The same house cost €220,000 last year, a jump of 13.5%.

The staple starter home of the rural market is the three-bed bungalow on the outskirts of town. This is what they cost:

Wicklow €550,000
Meath €405,000
Louth €370,000
Kildare €381,500
Cork €320,000
Waterford €300,000
Kerry €315,000
Monaghan €297,000
Sligo €297,000
Clare €270,000
Cavan €262,000
Laois €255,000
Donegal €247,000
Leitrim €210,000
Longford €190,000
Roscommon €183,000

Last year's highest-priced sales in Ireland

New one-bedroom apartments in various parts of Dublin 3 for €283,500

A new four-bedroom house in town in Co Clare for €230,000

In north Cork, a second-hand three-bedroom house for €255,000

Pay €115,500 for a second-hand holiday cottage in Co Roscommon

In a town in Co Donegal, a new three-bedroom house for €182,000; a new two-bedroom apartment for €137,000

A new three-bedroom town house in Co Galway costs on average €217,000

You can buy a three-bedroom bungalow on a half acre for €175,000 in Co Longford

A new holiday cottage in Leitrim for €100,000

A second-hand three-bed in Co Laois for €195,000

A former corporation three-bed semi in Dublin 24 for €250,000

In East Co Cork, €250,000 buys a new three-bed semi; €230,000 for a second-hand version

Stars and their builders

Bono the builder got the green light to update Lios Beag, the miniature castle next door to Temple Hill, his Georgian mansion on Vico Road in Killiney. Bandmate and serial renovator Adam Clayton continued his grand restoration of Danesmoate Demesne in Dublin’s Rathfarnham.

Colin Farrell received planning permission to add a 775-sq-ft extension to the run-down, end-of-terrace villa he bought on Tritonville Road in Sandymount, Dublin, two years ago for €715,000.

Rugby’s golden boy Brian O’Driscoll added to his €650,000 golf course lodge in Ballymoney, Co Wexford, by buying on Larchfield Road in sedate Goatstown. He’s currently revamping the suburban pile, adding a smart extension.