Ideal time to purchase property like Rathclare House and 18 acres

THIS is the ideal market for country house acquisitions.

Not only are land prices at a steady level, but the cost of remedial work on older properties is also at an all-time low. And foreign buyers are about to bestir themselves again, as country house estates show real value for the first time in over 10 years.

The sale of Rathclare House at Buttevant in north Cork should bring in viewing interest for the property which is on offer at €695,000 — and that includes 18 acres.