Touch of America in Firmount

THIS is a tale of emigration and immigration. Back in 2005 the owners of this Firmount, Co Cork, ranch house returned from years spent in the States to build the American dream on the old sod.

They not only built along US lines, but they also carted over most of the furniture and bathroom fittings, like Jacuzzi baths, too.

The house they built has over 3,600 square feet of living space and while it’s modestly finished outside, inside there’s a certain panache to the layout and colour scheme. The main living room is 500 square feet, and the kitchen is a ballroom with walls of units and a large pantry/double fridge cabinet.

At the guide of €400,000, including furniture and fittings, Carrigmichael is very good value, says Sarah O’Keeffe of Fleming Auctioneer.

Close to Firmount School, and the local Co-op shop, the immediate area is very rural, but Tower and Blarney are a 10-minute drive.

Rooms include the kitchen/ diner of 32’ by 17’ with solid fuel stove, a family room of 27’ by 17’ with surround sound and a big, porcelain fireplace and a first floor lounge of 24’ by 11’.

There are four bedrooms in one ground floor wing, including a large master suite with separate bathroom and closet space and on the upper floor there’s another en suite room, a main bathroom, a gym/ playroom and storage area.

The house has three-quarters of an acre of ground, mostly under grass, and there’s the potential to create a good garden here or simply add a pony.

In terms of bang for buck this Carrigmichael, Firmount House offers a lot and is worth a look for trader-uppers — and remember, it’s a lock stock and barrel sale.