Value for money certain to tempt Rockrohan buyers

WHILE houses aimed at first-time buyers are the main movers in this current market, the upper echelon isn’t entirely dead – if there’s value, or rarity, then there’s potential buyers.

Last weekend’s heavily editorialised development Earls Well, in Cork’s Waterfall area, and with houses launched just over the €1 million mark and built by Fleming Construction, had an immediate surge of interest. Brochure and information requests came from relocating families from as far away as Dublin and Meath, say estate agents Cahalane Skuse, who block booked their Wednesday for appointment viewings from more local parties as well.

The reason, apart from top quality design, 3-5,000 sq ft of space and exemplary finishes, was value: they’d have been closer to €1.8 and €2m if the market hadn’t tanked. At €1.05 to €1.25m, there’s a lot on offer.

So, hoping to tap into the value for money mentality, but at an even higher buying threshold, is estate agent Michael McKenna, who relaunches Rockrohan Court this month with a dramatically slashed price.

It first went up for sale in May 2008, with over 3,000 sq ft of space, along with an outdoor heated swimming pool, and pristine gardens on its prime 2.25 acre Model Farm road setting.

The asking price is now down by over 30% (in a year) to €1.6m, and it is open to offers.

Rockrohan Court has six bedrooms with three en suites, and bedrooms in one wing, living and reception rooms in another of three linked blocks, with corridors opening to the sheltered back courtyard, pool and gardens.

Rockrohan Court is of its age, a 1970s architect design, with layout logic and flair.

Viewers have looked at options such as upgrades and even replacement, and offers were made around the €1.4m mark. It will now probably be bought for between the €1.4m and €1.6m level, and with its grounds is probably worth every penny of it....for those who still have a few bob.