Irish prices lure buyers

London buyers may be calling for Irish homes. Tommy Barker hears life stories from those attending an Irish property fair in London

A COUPLE with a new-born baby daughter, a woman looking to return to Ireland with her two adult daughters after 60 years away, and an investor keen on a Galway apartment purchase — there were all ages, family stages and interests passing through last Saturday’s Sherry FitzGerald Irish Property Fair in London.

Around 200 London-based residents considered a house move to Ireland, in this Gathering year and lifestyle was one oft-quoted reason for considering relocating across the Irish Sea; that and the fact Irish property prices have plummeted 50-60%. Suddenly, buying a home in Ireland is now a very realistic prospect for many UK residents.