Derelict cottage has potential

HITTING the market at the present stamp duty limit for first-time buyers, a derelict cottage at Ballinhassig, Co Cork, has potential — believe it or not.

Some hard work could see it transformed despite its shabby present position. And it might be possible to just strip the place out, clean up and move in, but it’s a certainty that more money will be required to turn it into a modern home.

Which is why it should be avoided by first-timers unless they know what they’re doing, or have pockets deep enough to take on this old home. Cute cottages are money pits in disguise — so beware.