Buy in inner city and avoid daily commute

INNER city properties are popular among first-time buyers: they are convenient, cute and affordable.

The downside is that the location often attracts the investor and the ensuing bidding war usually ends with a steep learning curve for the starry-eyed first-timer.

What seems cheap to begin with becomes more expensive with the addition of stamp duty and the cost of repairs to what invariably is an old house. In the case of 14, Parkowen, which is located off Summerhill South on the south of Cork city, most of the repair work has been done and the price has only increased by €5,000 on the guide price of €240,000.

Number 14 is a two-storey, three-bedroomed house with parking and a rear yard. It is for sale via Conor Flynn, of Conor P Flynn and Associates. The house has PVC windows and doors, and gas heating, and is in good condition, says Mr Flynn. The sitting room, which has a pine and cast-iron fireplace, the kitchen, which has built-in units, and a pantry and shower room are all located on the ground floor.

The three bedrooms are upstairs and two of these are doubles. Number 14 also has an ISDN line, and, though more expensive than a semi in the suburbs, the central location means the new owner will not have to contend with traffic jams.