Property Spring 2022

OUR LEGAL & ADVISORY TEAM IN WEST CORK advise our clients on a range of areas including the purchase and sale of residential and commercial properties.

THE SERVICES WE PROVIDE INCLUDE:

PRIVATE CLIENTS

• Agriculture Law

• Employment Law

• Family Law

• Medical Negligence & Personal Injury

• Succession Planning

• Wills & Enduring Powers of Attorney

CORPORATE & SME CLIENTS

• Banking & Corporate Finance

• Commercial Agreements and Contracts

• Members and Creditors Voluntary Liquidations

• Mergers & Acquisitions

• Restructuring including Examinership & SCARP

Aoife Cahalane

David Swinburne

Melanie Evans

Sean O’Riordan

Shane McCarthy

Sinead McNamara

Welcome to Property West Cork

THIS spring/summer 2022 edition of e Southern Star’s Property West Cork magazine once again comes to you full of information and food for thought if you’re considering relocating to West Cork, looking to buy a second/holiday home or even those lucky enough to be living here already but may be looking to trade up.

Property West Cork will also appeal to anyone who simply enjoys looking at West Cork’s wonderful homes and properties, and having a little ‘dream home’ fantasy moment.

We will be promoting both the print and digital versions of Property West Cork to potential homebuyers in West Cork, the rest of Ireland and overseas.

For more news and properties for sale in West Cork see the Homes & Property section of e Southern Star every ursday, southernstar.ie/property and our social medial platforms.

Front page main image: Cois Farraige, Schull, for sale via James Lyons O’Keeffe. See page 10 for information. All images of this property by Michael McColgan, Mc2 Photography.

2 Woodlands, Clonakilty

AT A GLANCE ...

SUMMARY

Beautiful 4 Bed Detached Residence extending to c.1,700sqft completely redecorated and modernised into what is the ultimate family home. It is presented with a manicured lawn, ornate shrubbery and beautiful hardwood trees offering shelter and privacy.

LOCATION

10 mins walking distance of Clonakilty Town Centre.

SELLING POINTS

e ultimate family home. e finish and attention to detail in each room is awesome and the likes of which has not been seen on the market in Clonakilty for some time.

e accommodation is laid out with a warm and welcoming entrance hall with recessed coat closet, a large sitting room with a wood-burning stove in the corner, and the feature L-Shaped Dining/ Kitchen/Lounge Room which has light beaming in from dual aspects morning & evening and finally an understairs guest wc completes the ground floor.

ASKING PRICE €445,000

FIND OUT MORE ...

e house has a desirable East – West orIentation with the front of the house catering for off-street parking and overlooking the expansive green area surrounding this cul-de-sac.

Laheratanvally, Skibbereen

Contact Hodnett Forde Property Services

Emmet Square, Clonakilty, Co.Cork

Tel: 023 88 33367

www.hodnettforde.com

AT A GLANCE ...

SUMMARY

Choicely Situated Spacious Well Maintained 4 bedroomed detached Coastal Residence on C.4.5 Acres. is magnificent property offers the ideal opportunity for investment, as a quality family residence or holiday home.

LOCATION

Residence is situated in close proximity to Roaring Water Bay with extensive views of the bay.

SELLING POINTS

It is situated in close proximity to Roaring Water Bay with extensive views of the bay encompassing the islands, Kilcoe Castle and the surrounding unspoiled rural landscape. ere is an excellent Pier & Slipway giving access to Roaring Water Bay within 500 metres of the house. A mooring is available if required. e residence offers spacious well maintained living accommodation having the benefit of modern conveniences. e lands comprise of garden area in the immediate vicinity of the residence and pasture lands to the remainder which have extensive road frontage. Ground Floor: Living Room, Kitchen/Dining Room, Utility Room, 2 Bedrooms, Bathroom.

First Floor: Landing/Lounge, 2 Bedrooms, Bathroom.

Outside: Garage

ASKING PRICE €550,000

FIND OUT MORE ...

TAKE FIVE!

2 Woodside, Dunderrow

€385,000

THIS wonderful 4-bed terrace house is situated within 7km of Kinsale and within walking distance of Dunderrow national school.

It is finished to a modern, very high standard with a B2 BER rating.

e arrival of this property on the market presents a fanstastic opportunity for buyers who are priced out of Kinsale but want to live near the vibrant coastal town nonetheless. Proximity to the city and the airport is another plus. As the photographs show, this property enjoys wonderful natural light, a well appointedf garden and needs only its next occupants to make it complete.

Selling agent: DNG Galvin

Gortnadihy, Leap €275,000

THIS lakeside 4-bedroom residence sitting on an elevated manicured plot of c.0.4 acre is located mid-way between Leap and Skibbereen. e layout incorporates an entrance hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, utility/store room, 4 double bedrooms, bathroom and wc. Externally the property boasts a most sheltered southerly aspect, detached garage and a beautiful array of lawns, shrubberies and raised bedding. e adjoining Shepperton Lake offers a magnificent setting with locals enjoying its tranquil walks and natural beauty.

Services: Oil heating, private drainage, private well water e property is 6km from Glandore, 3km from Leap and 6km from Skibbereen.

Selling agent: Hodnett Forde

A selection of properties from €250k to €595k that are currently on the market in West Cork

Glen

GLEN VIEW is an exceptionally stylish and contemporary 4-bedroom detached split level residence, located less than 10 kilometres from both Bantry town and Drimoleague. e property enjoys magnificent views over the varied countryside and Bantry Bay in the distance.

e property comprises spacious accommodation of approximately 225 m. sq. / 2,422 sq. ft., laid out in well-designed rooms that take advantage of the excellent mountain, sea and forest views. e overall atmosphere of the house is one of peacefulness, emphasised by the wonderful light and space of the property.

e attention to design detail is exceptional, with double height vaulted ceilings, feature window architraves throughout and split-level floors.

e many other features of this fine property include a balcony area, modern kitchen units, polished porcelain tiles, glass inset staircase, pvc double glazed windows, oil-fired central heating, solar panels, wood burning stove and other top-quality finishes throughout.

e ground floor accommodation

e Heights, Bantry €250,000

JAMES Lyons O’Keeffe are delighted to present for sale no.3 e Heights, Dromleigh, Bantry. Situated within an established residential location adjacent to all local amenities within this popular coastal town. is property represents the ideal opportunity as a full-time residence or investment purchase.

Features: semi-detached 2-bedroom residence, located adjacent to Bantry hospital, with walled entrance and tarmacadam front parking area; rear garden; oil-fired central heating; mains services.

Layout: Entrance hall; Living room with open fire (2.80m x 4.0m); Kitchen/Dining (4.8m x 3.35m); Guest WC (wc, wash hand basin).1st floor: Landing; Family bathroom: (2.5m x 2.2m with bath, wc, wash hand basin). Bedroom 1: (3.2m x 3.85m, with ensuite including shower, wc, wash hand basin. Bedroom 2: (2.5m x 3.5m)

Selling agent: James Lyons O’Keeffe

includes an entrance porch, spacious and bright sitting room with a wood burning stove, kitchen/ dining room with double doors to the patio area and a spacious utility to the side. ere is also a guest bedroom/study and bathroom on the ground floor.

e first floor includes a hallway with double height vaulted ceilings that includes a feature chandelier and balcony area just-off to the front. e accommodation on the first floor comprises an impressive master suite, a second bedroom suite with en-suite and walk-inwardrobe, a third double bedroom, a family bathroom and plenty of storage space.

e grounds containing 1 acre approx. are laid out in lawns bordered by trees and shrubs with the addition of a pond adding to the countryside ambience of the property. ere is also a detached double height outbuilding.

Glen View is located within a hub of West Cork walking networks whilst also being less than 10 minutes’ drive from both Bantry town and Drimoleague, and Cork City is just less than 1 hour’s commute.

Selling agent: Sherry FitzGerald O’Neill

No.3

Beechbrook, Aughadown €595,000

THE house, which was built in 2007, measures over 2,000 sq ft. It is in wonderful condition and is finished to a very high standard. Features include a bespoke kitchen, solid hardwood floors, quarry slates, underfloor heating and solar panels. e property boasts an impressive B3 BER rating.

e land consists of approximately 8 acres of arable land laid out in paddocks and approximately 2 acres of unspoiled land which would be ideal as a wildlife habitat or for bee-keeping. ere is a purpose-built shed with 3 stables, a turn-out sand arena, a hay shed and a tack/feed room.

e owner of the property has been breeding horses for a number of years; indeed, a number of high-profile horses have been bred here including Croco Bay who won the 2019 Grand Annual Chase in Cheltenham and istle Do Nicely who has won 3 races and is currently in training with Jamie Snowden in the UK, their dam is still happily grazing here.

While it has a great sense of seclusion in being well off a quiet road in the heart of the countryside, the property is situated only 6 miles from the busy market town of Skibbereen, 4 miles from the village of Ballydehob and is just over an hour’s drive to Cork airport.

e grounds around the house are well landscaped with a mixture of mature trees, lawn and flowering plants. ere is also a most wonderful sun terrace to sit and enjoy the evening sun.

is is a most attractive property in a very peaceful location and would be suitable as a small stud farm or as a private residence. Selling agent: Charles McCarthy

• Long term residential letting and management.

• Advertising and bookings for holiday rentals.

• Advice for landlords, holiday property owners and tenants.

Bawnlahan, Tragumna Beach

Enjoying an enviable coastal position, set on c. 1 acre of superb gardens. Well appointed accommodation with many notable features.

AT A GLANCE ...

SUMMARY

Detached coastal residence overlooking Tragumna Bay.

3 Bed, 4 Bath, c. 2,500 sq ft

LOCATION

Tragumna, Skibbereen

SELLING POINTS

Views over Tragumna Bay, wonderful grounds, proximity to coastline

ASKING PRICE

€796,000

1 Harbour Drive, Baltimore

In a superb location adjacent to the village and pier area. Enjoying views over the harbour from the first floor.

AT A GLANCE ...

SUMMARY

Semi-detached residence with balcony and outside terrace.

4 Bed, 2 Bath, c. 1,100 sq ft

LOCATION

Baltimore Village

SELLING POINTS

Close to village centre, spacious rooms, balcony & paved terrace.

ASKING PRICE

€295,000

FIND OUT MORE

LIVE THE DREAM!

This part of Ireland is home to some incredible properties and luckily for prospective buyers, some of them are currently for sale. So, if you have ever dreamt of waking up to the sound of the sea or to the birds singing in the countryside, now could be your chance to get your very own West Cork dream home!

ABBEY Farmhouse is a period farmhouse residence that lies on 2.7 acres and comes with detached outbuildings. With south-west views over the Ilen Valley, the property is very private. e Farmhouse is 2,500 sq ft, laid out over two floors. In recent years the original house was re-roofed, re-plumbed and re-wired, but the original features were kept, including the vaulted ceilings. An extension was added to both the east and west side.

e ground floor comprises an entrance hallway and a drawing room with views over the front garden and lake, and double doors leading to the patio courtyard area. e kitchen-cum-dining room features a solid fuel Dover stove, and there is also a cosy sitting

room, TV room, study/bedroom with ensuite, garden room and a bedroom suite. ere is a guest WC and a utility/pantry with half doors leading to the side access of the property. e first-floor features two spacious bedrooms and a family bathroom which has a walk-in shower.

e outbuildings contain 1,788 sq ft of useable space divided into different sections.

e grounds feature a small lake, a bridge leading to an island with a Gazebo and a patio courtyard area, while the rest of the grounds are laid out in lawn, formal gardens, a vegetable garden and a greenhouse. Selling agent: Sherry

FitzGerald O’Neill

WITH views of Mount Gabriel on one side and the coastline in the distance over undulating countryside on the other, this property comprises a two-bedroom restored period farmhouse and a self-contained one-bedroom renovated detached guest cottage. e property is set on 5.6 acres and is situated 4km from Ballydehob and 4.5km from Schull. e main cottage features a double height ceiling in the main living room with a mezzanine gallery landing overhead. It has a feature stone wall, open-hearth fireplace and a spiral staircase. e kitchen features a panelled and beamed ceiling, country-style cream fitted units with a central island and timber work surfaces. From here there is access to the terrace and gardens which are bounded by natural ditches and indigenous trees. e downstairs bedroom has a vaulted timber panelled ceiling with beams and a French door giving access to the gardens. e upstairs bedroom features an airing cupboard and an ensuite shower room. e guest cottage boasts an entrance hall, kitchen/dining/living area, bathroom and a first-floor guest bedroom.

Selling agent:

Charles McCarthy Estate Agents & Auctioneers

Abbey Farmhouse, Skibbereen, €845K

Fortfield Cottage, Schull Guiding €525,000

HOW does a penthouse overlooking Kinsale Harbour sound?

Well, that is what you get at 1 Ardbrack Heights, a development that is located directly at the waterfront. is spacious two-bedroom penthouse lies within a gated, secure community with views of Kinsale town, the marina, the harbour and the forts. e penthouse includes an open plan kitchen-cum-living area, two bedrooms and a bathroom. Both the master bedroom and living area have windows that span the entire width of the room with south facing views of the Harbour. Both rooms have a sliding door that open up onto a balcony that runs the entire width of the apartment. New floors, a new kitchen and a new bathroom have all been recently refurbished. ere is an attic space which has the potential for further development to convert the apartment into a duplex, subject to planning. Secure parking is also included

Selling agent: Engel & Völkers

DREAM HOMES

COIS Farraige is a four-bed property that sits on the waterfront in the sheltered waters of Schull Harbour, just 2.5km from the village itself. It features a beach and a slipway which are a short stroll from the house, across a grass covered lawn. ere is an old stone outbuilding which features a chimney, evidence of the copper mining that took place in the area in the past.

ere are two ground floor bedrooms, an entrance hall, lounge, kitchen and bathroom. ere are two more bedrooms on the first floor, as well as a bathroom. ere is also room for expansion to the residence.

Selling agent: James Lyons O’Keeffe

1 Ardbrack Heights, Kinsale €595,000

DREAM HOMES

Reenacappul, Ahakista, Bantry €695,000

THIS exceptional coastal, three-bedroom, two-storey residence has been built to the highest of standards, overlooking Dunmanus Bay and the Mizen peninsula. It boasts a garage/workshop, as well as an artist studio/home office. It is set on 3.5 acres of gardens. e property was built in 2010 and features approximately 1916 sq ft of living space. e design is traditional Irish with stone cladding, natural slate and hardwood windows. ere is an entrance porch leading to a hallway. e kitchen/dining room includes bespoke units, a Rayburn cooker and granite worktops. e sitting room has south and west-

facing windows and features an antique fireplace. e living room has a natural stone fire surround, while the conservatory adds to the living space. Upstairs, the master bedroom has an ensuite and private dressing area. e second bedroom has exceptional sea views and is currently laid out as an upstairs living area. Outside, the gardens are laid out in lawns and feature trees and shrubs, a lake area, rock outcrops and a stream. ere is also a glasshouse attached to the detached garage/workshop building.

Selling agent:

Sherry FitzGerald O’Neill

Ballylinch, Baltimore €695,000

BALLYLINCH is a very deceiving property. e exterior is that of a traditional farmhouse, but the interior has been tastefully renovated. It sits on an elevated site with views overlooking Church Strand Bay, Baltimore village, the outer harbour, as well as Sherkin and Cape Clear Islands. e two-storey house features a large, light-filled kitchen with direct access to the west facing patio, and a living room cum lounge which features a wood burning stove and access to the south facing lawn through the entrance porch. ere is also a bathroom on the ground floor with a shower. e first floor has three bedrooms, a shower room and a large attic space. All of the living space and bedrooms have views of the bay.

e property sits on 0.9 acres of land which boasts mature trees, offering great privacy. Baltimore village is within a 15-minute walk.

Selling agent: Engel & Völkers, Kinsale

No.32 Copper Point, Airhill, Schull AT A GLANCE ...

ONLY5UNITS REMAINING

SUMMARY

A contemporary development of exceptional quality. 3 Bed Semi-Detached House 115 m² / 1238 ft², just a short stroll to the popular cosmopolitan village of Schull and its harbour.

LOCATION

Situated on a quiet elevated site at Airhill, Schull

SELLING POINTS

With views across the harbour and countryside all homes at Copper Point combine modern design and highquality finishes enhanced by landscaped green areas to deliver an impressive development.

Each property comes complete with an abundance of high-end fixtures and fittings throughout and centres around open plan living, stylish kitchens, modern bathrooms and a private balcony.

ASKING PRICE €365,000 THINKING

COMING SOON:

• Coastal property Schull with sea access

• Coastal property Goleen with sea access

• Rural property Ballydehob area

• c. 60 acre farm Durrus area

Coastal Farmhouse, outbuildings and c. 25 acres AT A GLANCE

SUMMARY

A 3 Bed Farm 93 m² / 1001 ft²

Overlooking Rossbrin Castle and the waters of Rossbrin Cove, delightful stone outbuildings, nestled below the remains of the copper mine’s processing buildings, all amidst some twenty five odd acres of West Cork farmland ..... truly exceptional small holding

LOCATION

Located 5kms from Ballydehob, 8kms from Schull.

SELLING POINTS

Traditional Irish farmhouse dating back to 1800’s, South facing out houses in fantastic condition- oozing potential!! Incredible views of Rossbrin harbour, Rossbrin Castle, horse island and Cape Clear.

Orchard, private gardens & paddock areas.

ASKING PRICE €750,000

10 ways to add real value to your home

BY PAULA BURNS

Whether you are selling your house or not, it’s always sound practice to at least maintain it, or better still try to add value to it over time. en if you do decide to take the plunge and sell it, you’re in the best possible position to get to get a premium sale price for it. Here are some top tips on how to add real value to your property:

1. ATTIC CONVERSION

If you have the attic space, converting the area into a liveable bedroom, will add both square footage and value to the sale price. Depending on the size of the space you could also squeeze in an en-suite bathroom giving your home extra interiors credentials.

While attic conversions can be expensive, the return is valuable once the job is done right. One way to cut on cost can be to opt for Velux rather than dormer windows. It is advised to carry out a structural survey before embarking on any work to ensure the final result meets all standards.

2. GARAGE OVERHAUL

ere are two potential uses of the garage that can add value to your property. e most impactful would be a garage conversion. is can be carried out on a budget but must be of liveable standard. Converting the garage space adds an extra room that can be styled as a playroom, den or extra bedroom. Alternatively, a major declutter of the garage will allow buyers to see its potential for conversion.

3. ENERGY EFFICIENCY

As we are more aware then ever of the effects of climate change, mixed with the recent energy bill hikes, we have become obsessed with having an energy efficient home. As a buyer, checking the BER (Building Energy Rating) is the first port of call. As a vendor ensuring a high rating will reap in monetary benefits. Small adjustments can have a positive impact on your BER rating. ese can include changing to energy efficient bulbs, insulating the attic, sealing older windows and having the boiler serviced. e better the BER, the better the sale price.

By making the best use of spaces like your attic or garage through carefully considered conversions, not only will you get the benefits while you live in the house, but if/when you decide to sell it, these improvements will add greatly to the sale value – often much more than the initial cost of the work.

Coolnagurrane, Skibbereen

AT A GLANCE ...

SUMMARY

Superbly presented 4 bed residence with 2 garages on c. 1 acre landscaped gardens. Featuring a quality interior, c. 1,000sq ft of garage/workshop, sun patios and manicured lawns.

LOCATION

Discreetly located c. 1 mile north east of Skibbereen town just off the main Cork road N71

SELLING POINTS

Superbly presented 4 bed residence with 2 garages on c. 1 acre landscaped gardens. Featuring a quality interior, c. 1,000sq ft of garage/workshop, sun patios and manicured lawns. Discreetly located c. 1 mile north east of Skibbereen town just off the main Cork road N71 Services: Oil fired central heating, mains water, private drainage, fibre broadband

ASKING PRICE

€550,000

4. GARDEN

We may not have all year round weather but the garden has become an integral part of our lives – another room in the house if you like. Interior design experts are all about letting the outside in, so giving the garden a spring clean can boost the sale price. As al fresco dining is very much in vogue, creating a decking area would be a draw for new buyers. If you’re into DIY this could be a handy project that will give you a few euro back in your pocket. Tidying up shrubs and a scattering of seasonal blooms in pots will create the illusion of an inviting natural setting.

5. KITCHEN REVAMP

In the 21st century the kitchen remains the heart of the home. Even if cooking isn’t a person’s forte having a kitchen that wows will capture their hearts. For the buyer, viewing a home with a fairly new kitchen refit means less expense for a few years to come, making the higher sale price worth the cost. A simple refit can be done on a budget. Spraying or painting cupboard doors will give an instant refresh or changing the doors while keeping the overall structure is an alternative. e same can be done with the counter top.

8. KERB APPEAL

As we all know, first impressions last and though we are told not to judge a book by its cover, humans can be fickle. is of course transfers to house buying. ese days our property search begins on the Internet and having an image of your home to stop people from scrolling on is a must. is eye-catching image should then be reflected in reality. A fresh coat of paint at the front of the house, along with window boxes or blooming flowerpots will paint a pretty picture. A newly painted front door in a daring shade will instantly catch a buyer’s eye.

6. BATHROOM REFRESH

In recent years the enviable bathroom has become an interiors must-have. Again in the same vein as the kitchen, buyers will be seduced by a modern bathroom refit even if the sale price is a little higher. If you have the space, adding a bath and separate shower will instantly add value – especially if it’s a roll-top bath. If this isn’t possible, installing a decent power shower is a must. Nobody wants a dribble.

9. PESKY PROBLEMS

Following a surveyor’s assessment the value of your property could change. In order to avoid this, get one step ahead by fixing structural or potentially bigger-scale problems, including any leaks, guttering problems, structural cracks to walls and chimneys. Damp proofing is also very important and will be a part of the assessment. ey will cost money but will ultimately save you in the long term.

PARKING SPACE 10.

7. PLANNING PERMISSION

If you have a large garden with room to extend yet don’t want the disturbance of a build, applying for planning permission could add value to your sale price. It would entail the cost of architect fees and the fee to apply for the planning permission. However, once again this takes away the administrative bother for potential buyers and allows them to see the full potential of the house and in turn gives you the opportunity to add value to the sale price.

In this day and age when nearly everyone has a car, the availability of private parking with a property is truly priceless. Not only does it give an added layer of security for you vehicle, but it’s the reassurance that you can always park near your front door, especially in Irish weather, that’s the real appeal. It’s also nice to have space for visitors to park, without bothering your neighbours. If you do have space on your property, why not consider allocating some more for a car and a little less for a lawn for example? Strike a balance, and when the time comes that you may want to sell, the words ‘ample private parking’ are sure to sweeten the sale price!

Charming Gate Lodge - a perfect Baltimore bolthole

AT A GLANCE ...

SUMMARY

Charming, tastefully renovated, mid19th century period original gate lodge residence, with partly walled, private courtyard and patio garden located within Baltimore village.

LOCATION

Glebe Lodge, Baltimore

SELLING POINTS

Tastefully restored, retaining many of its period features, with some enhancing features including timber and tile flooring in the main living areas, underfloor heating, newly installed kitchen units and a luxury bathroom.

ASKING PRICE

€395,000

FIND OUT MORE ...

Contact Sherry FitzGerald O’Neill 028 21404

www.sfoneill.ie Licence No. 004158

Elegant coastal village Townhouse with a stylish refurb

AT A GLANCE ...

SUMMARY

Distinctive and imposing period, coastal village property, built circa 1920, with elegant architectural details.

LOCATION

Mill Street Townhouse, Timoleague

SELLING POINTS

is fine property includes a private own door 3-bedroom residence offering spacious and stylish light-filled rooms and a Cafe Bar / Restaurant on the ground floor area with courtyard garden having the benefit of rear access.

ASKING PRICE

€495,000

FIND OUT MORE ...

Contact

BER No. 101688398

So, you’ve decided to sell ... what now?

FIRST THINGS FIRST – GET A VALUATION OF YOUR PROPERTY

Your first step is to find out how much your property is worth. Knowing the value of your property will help you to sort out your finances and plan your upcoming move.

BUILDING ENERGY RATING CERTIFICATE ( BER )

It is a legal requirement that all properties offered for sale has a current BER certificate. If you purchased the property within the last 10 years this document may be with the deeds but if not, you would need to commission one.

DE - PERSONALISE

Potential purchasers need to imagine themselves living in your house. One important aspect when getting your property ready for market is to show-

case as much counter surface space and floor space as possible. Put things you don’t really use on a daily basis in the attic or in storage. Large pieces of furniture should also go into storage; this will make rooms feel more spacious. Key areas to focus on are: the hallway – clear away coats and any additional clutter; the bathroom – remove all personal items; the kitchen – clear the counter surface of appliances, biscuit tins, pasta jars and remove tea towels and other clutter.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS COUNT

e initial impression that your home makes is long-lasting. Concentrate on first impressions, as a well-maintained exterior is an important part of showcasing your home. A tidy garden and freshly painted front door will give the buyer a lovely welcome. If you live in an apartment, do your best to improve the communal areas.

Selling your home can be stressful, and especially when you start making it available to potential buyers for viewings. Majella Galvin from DNG has some great advice on how to prepare for sale

Majella Galvin is a chartered estate agent and registered RICS valuer at DNG Galvin in Bandon.

MAINTENANCE AND MINOR REPAIRS

Is there anything that might put off buyers? Can it be easily fixed? Go through each room and jot down a list. Consider patching holes in the walls, loose fittings, and fixing doors that squeak or stick. Ensure all light bulbs are working. Remove weeds from gutters. Tidy the gardens.

CLEAN , CLEAN, CLEAN

If it is still essential that your property is clean and smelling fresh before every viewing. Getting professional cleaners in at the start of your sales campaign can really make the place sparkle and will be money well-spent.

A gleaming bathroom and kitchen are fundamental as buyers rate these as important rooms in any house. If you have pets make sure you air out the property prior to viewings. Use ‘plugins’, scented candles or fresh flowers for a clean, light scent.

LET THERE BE LIGHT

Open curtains and blinds for more light and while you’re at it, make sure windows are washed and curtains and

blinds are clean and hung properly.

In summer, natural light can create a wonderful atmosphere and give a feeling of freshness and cleanliness. In winter, make sure all light bulbs are working and have lights switched on for viewings during the day.

If you have a fireplace have the fire lit as it will create a homely ambience to your potential buyer.

PAPER WORK AND LEGALITIES

An essential step when selling your property is to liaise with your solicitor. Before a solicitor can prepare a contract for the sale of your property, he/she will need to request paperwork includ-

ing; title deeds, evidence of compliance with planning obligations, an up to date map of the property, evidence of registration of services e.g. septic tank, your exemption cert for the NPPR (if it is your principle residence) and confirmation you paid the NPPR if it is an investment property. Proof that your LPT is paid to date and for the coming year.

Now you are ready to launch your property to the market. You have done all the hard work and you are proud. Your property looks its best and will stand out in the marketplace. e sales process should run smoothly as you have all the fundamentals in place. Now its time to reap the rewards.

Am I ge ing the best deal on my mortgage?

BY JOHN LOWE

THESE are very uncertain times – savage in fact with all that is going on in Ukraine, God help that poor nation. Energy costs have literally gone through the roof and with a continuing scarcity of housing in Ireland, demand has caused the cost of renting and buying to rocket.

erefore, fixing your mortgage is nearly as important as ensuring you are getting the best deal for your existing mortgage. Security of fixed payments is essential to budgeting your household incomes. With the latest mortgage lender into the Irish market doing a roaring business while two lenders have declared their withdrawal within the next year ( Ulster Bank & KBC Bank ), it’s a good time to ask the question ‘am I getting the best deal on my mortgage?’

Avant Money (well known to the Irish public with their ubiquitous Avant credit card) are the latest mortgage lender to entice the borrower with a seven-year fixed rate option of 1.95% - the lowest in the Irish market matched shortly after by ICS Mortgages. But these rates are only applicable to those with loans less than 60% to the value of their homes.

Many borrowers will be reading this and wondering would they qualify for such a rate and more importantly is it worth their while applying? e hassle … going to a brokerage will ease the pain – the good ones have all the lending agencies so no bias. ey also have all the other ancillary needs – mortgage protection, building insurances, income protection etc, and hold your hand throughout then whole process.

e simple answer is that there are three areas you need to address before you even think of applying to any lender if you are thinking of switching your mortgage:

1. LOAN TO VALUE

Your mortgage needs to be 80% or less of the value of your home. In some cases, it may be prudent to reduce your mortgage to comply with the 80% loan to

value requirement in order to switch. Say you owe €420,000 on your home but it is only worth €500,000. In order to avail of the best four-year fixed mortgage interest rate on the market (2.25%) you would have to pay off €20,000 and switch just the €400,000 – 80% loan to value. It may just suit your pockets too.

2. INCOME

Can you still justify the mortgage you were approved originally? Covid payments and EWSS have affected many incomes in Ireland plus redundancies and liquidations have become more frequent in the last few months in particular if not the next few. Essentially the rule is 3.5 times your single or joint annual incomes.

So if you are both on € 45,000 per annum (permanent and past the probation period) and have no debts, you would be entitled to a loan of up to € 315,000 up to age 68 ( the maximum age most lenders now allow).

So if you are under the age of 33, you will qualify for the maximum term of 35 years. Certain professions will also qualify for greater multiples as their income paths may generate greater income in the years to come – up to 4.75 times their joint incomes if both parties are professional. Lenders have discretions (usually 15% to 20% of their annual loan books) but quickly use these discretions up in the first few months of each new year.

3. CREDIT HISTORY

If you miss a loan repayment it is recorded by the new government credit agency (www.Centralcreditregister.ie). Obtaining a report is free – simply write to them with your name, address and date of birth. It then takes three to four days to receive the report. at one missed payment stays there for five years and it is extremely difficult to persuade a lender to approve your loan if you have missed a payment. Bankruptcy stays on the record for life.

DON’T FORGET TO FACTOR IN SAVINGS AND PENSIONS

Savings has now also become a big part of the assessment process for lenders. You may be paying a low mortgage repayment and in switching to another lender, you may decide to upgrade, renovate or extend requiring additional funds.

e new greater repayment still needs to be validated and justified. You should already be saving the differential between your old and new repayment on a monthly basis so the new larger repayment is not a shock to your financial system! Proof will be needed.

You may also review your savings and investments at this time. Always good to have a Rainy day Fund (three to six months joint net annual income in a completely accessible account for those emergencies, sudden loss of income or that investment opportunity).

Pensions too should be reviewed at this time … with the pension time bomb ticking away - auto-enrolment will be introduced toward the end of next year – it is important you salt something away for retirement now rather than wait and hope the government will have the money to pay your state pension then!

Switching mortgages is certainly worth checking out as there are some really good rates available currently while many existing mortgagors (you) are paying higher than even the average rate in Ireland 2.82%. If your rate is over 3% you need to review.

• John Lowe, QFA, APA Debt Mgt MCC, PIP, Dip.Iod., Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is owner & managing director of Providence Finance Services Ltd trading as Money Doctors. He is author of Money Doctors 2022 Email jlowe@moneydoctors.ie for seminars or consultations.

Web www.moneydoctors.ie – Twitter (@the moneydoc), Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest & Instagram

Concerns grow as landlords lease potential long-term rental properties as short-term lets in Cork

SHORT - TERM rental properties are on the rise and far outnumbering suitable long-term options for permanent private rental market tenants.

Multiple cases have been discovered throughout the country, including Cork, where landlords are leasing out appropriate long-term rental properties as short-term stays for holidaymakers. In doing so, a majority can gain a far greater income.

is is despite regulations introduced in July 2019 that requires homeowners in Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs) to apply to their local authority for planning permission to change property use to short-term lettings, where these types of lettings exceed 90 days in the year.

All of Cork City, Ballincollig , Carrigaline, Fermoy, Midleton , Macroom, Cobh, Mallow, Bandon and Kinsale are designated Rent Pressure Zones. While not every property in the area is in breach of the legislation as there are many long-standing holiday homes/ villages registered with Fáilte Ireland in

Cork, multiple homes that are suitable for long-term tenants are being leased out for short-stay holidaymakers.

Research carried out by the national housing charity reshold on AirDNA, a data collection website for short-term rental properties, shows that in December 2021, there were 1,247 short-term listings in Cork, 782 of which are entire properties. However, on March 16th only 73 entire properties were available for long-term rent in the entire county, with just 36 costing €1,500 or less per month.

COUNTY - WIDE CHALLENGE

In one example, a landlord has multiple properties listed in both Cork City and County. One short-term property is a two-bed apartment along the coast, costing €302 for a two-night stay. Currently, the only two-bed apartment to rent on a long-term basis in the same area costs €1,650 per month.

A separate landlord advertises just under ten properties in Cork City as short term lets. One of these a central,

one-bed apartment, costs €250 for a minimum two-night stay. For a one-bed long-term rental apartment in the same vicinity, the cheapest available property costs €1,201 per month.

reshold’s Regional Services Manager for Cork, Edel Conlon stated:

‘ e Rent Pressure Zone regulations for change of property use are certainly more welcome than no regulations at all, but there needs to be a greater enforcement of them to be effective.

Currently, we can see that there is a troubling issue of appropriate housing being used for short-term letting, which is a large factor in tenants struggling to find alternative accommodation. Enforcing change of property use regulations in a better manner would certainly aid in combatting this problem and bringing appropriate long-term rental accommodation back to the market.’

SHORT - TERM PROPERTY REGULATION

A new short-term let registration system is set to be launched by Fáilte

Ireland early next year. is new system will mean that property owners must register the accommodation with Failte Ireland to let the home as a short-term holiday let. is forms part of the government’s Housing For All Plan, launched last September.

Edel Conlon added that: ‘ e Fáilte Ireland registration system is an additional welcome measure, and we look forward to and seeing the impact it has on property owners leasing out accommodation for short-term stays. We hope that this additional measure will aid in bringing back suitable housing to the long-term rental market.’

reshold hopes the Government will go one step further and place a responsibility on the letting platforms to require proof of registration before publishing the advertisement.

reshold’s helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9am- 9pm at 1800 454 454, with webchat at www.threshold.ie/ advice/help for any renter in need of advice or support.

YOUR HOME IS WITHIN YOUR REACH

BUYING a property is a stressful time. What to buy and where? How much to bid and when? When you've finally found what you're looking for and need a home loan, you want to deal with a lender you can trust.

Access Credit Union now offers home loans up to €200,000 to its members and is ready to help you fund your dream home.

A home loan from Access Credit Union is unique in so many ways.

Every credit union is owned by its members, the people who save with it and borrow from it. A home loan from a credit union is funded by other people's savings within your community.

All lending decisions are taken locally, not in some remote head office.

Credit unions excel in personal service that they pro-

vide. For the past seven years, they have been voted the best organisation for customer experience in the CXi Ireland report.

In 2021, credit unions were voted the most highly regarded financial services organisation in Ireland in the Reptrak® Ireland study.

It's important to note that Access Credit Unions home loans are designed for principal private residents only. ey do not provide mortgages for investment/ rental properties or holiday homes. e Credit Union is here to help its members purchase a home, not to make a property investment.

But it's also important to mention that as the costs of homes soar, the traditional bricks and mortar home is being replaced by new types of dwellings such as

prefabricated modular homes, log cabins and tiny homes.

And Access Credit Union may be able to help here too. If your dream home is something a little different, we are ready to discuss some options we have that might suit your needs.

Speaking about home loans, Elma Casey, CEO of Access Credit Union, said, ‘ e most important thing for the Credit Union is to help its members achieve their financial goals and for many people owning their own home is one of those goals. So if it's a three-bed semi or a new modular home, the Credit Union is here to help!’

So if you're buying or building your first home, trading up or down, or thinking about switching your mortgage, talk to your local, trusted Credit Union today.

Wide experience in all areas of legal work;

Specialising in two main areas:

• Property law (buying, selling, transferring, mortgaging and leasing of properties);

• Probate law (Wills and administration of Estates);

Delivering legal services on a personal basis and in a timely, clients.

O’Donovan Murphy & Partners LLP

We are committed to helping you achieve the best outcome from your sale and are here to guide you through every step of the process. Our experienced team are ready to get you ‘sales ready’.

Helpful Tips to Prepare for your Sale

• Arrange to take up your title documents from your Bank if you have a mortgage.

• Have your house energy rated and obtain a BER Certificate.

• Prepare your Local Property Tax Receipts.

• Apply for an Exemption or Discharge from the NPPR charge.

• Have an Engineer confirm that your property complies with Planning Permission.

• Make out a list of contents that will be included with the sale of your property.

• If your house has a septic tank, ensure that it has been registered, that it is serviced and, if required, has all necessary wayleaves.

Main O ce: The Quay, Bantry

Sub O ces: Bank Place, Castletownbere

Main Street, Schull

Flor Murphy Mary Jo Crowley Margaret Collins Barbara Daly Luke O’Donovan Siún Hurley Clíodhna Mulcahy