Starter Homes

DOUGLAS, CORK €165,000

Sq m: 55 (600 sq ft)

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 1

Broadband: Yes

Nothing to look at right now, but this Rosehill house is pure-gold potential in the right hands — a do-er upper cottage with services, on an acre, a mile from Douglas via Donnybrook hill.

Agent Stephen Clarke of REA O’Donoghue Clarke says the home with south-west aspect and rural setting near amenities needs full refurbishment, and an application of imagination.

Right now, it has two bedrooms, living room with fireplace, kitchen/dining room, bathroom and biocycle. It’s under early offers right now.

VERDICT: Surprisingly, its features include an alarm, but the chance to get stuck into a house project in such a location is rare and should get other bells ringing.

SILVERSPRINGS, CORK €130,000

Sq m: 85 (900 sq ft)

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 1

Broadband: Yes

Needing modernisation, but under offer, is No 22, Silverheights Avenue, off the north ring road in Cork City’s Silversprings.

The semi-detached dormer, with two upper-floor bedrooms, as well as two ground-level reception rooms, kitchen and third bedroom, is new to market with auctioneer, Matt Fallon, who says the location is popular, with off-street parking in the west-facing front garden/drive.

VERDICT: Even a decor update will make No 22 feel fresh and modern once more.