Spot-on location for faded gem

CROAGHTA PARK is a mature, hidden residential spot just off the Glasheen Road in Cork.

Handily placed near UCC, the Lough, Bon Secours hospital, Wilton Shopping Centre and within a walk of the city centre, it is a cul de sac estate on the cusp of change: its original elderly inhabitants are giving way to a new generation.

And the buyers are now all owner-occupiers.

"Eighteen months ago, investors would bite your hand off for this. Now, with the purpose-built student accommodation around UCC and CIT, there's a really noticeable change in demand and buyer profile," says auctioneer Michael McKenna, whose firm McKenna O'Donoghue Clarke guides Castletown, a three-bed detached house, at €350,000, and early viewing is keen despite the major spending needed to bring it up to today's standards. Shed the blinkers: it is a house that needs looking beyond its current condition to see what can be made of it.

Empty for seven years, it probably needs structural as well as decorative work, along with plumbing, heating and electrical attention.

Despite its price guide, it may even be seen as knock and re-build material.

Its current 1,100 sq ft layout takes in hall, living room and dining room each with fireplace and storage heater, small kitchen, three first floor bedrooms and bathroom.

Despite its faded attractions, Castletown will be pursued.