Starter homes: Turner’s Cross, Cork €99,000

Size: 75 sq m (800 sq ft)

The question bright young things are asking now is: “Would a mortgage cost as much as rent?”

If, taking into account a renovation job, the answer is no, then it makes sense to buy now when it’s acknowledged the market has flat-lined.

And there’s been huge interest from first-timers for this terraced house at 62, Upper Doyle Road, for Kevin O’Sullivan of O’Sullivan Estates, mostly from first time buyers.

“It was two days on the market and was under offer already, I’ve had 10 different groups through the place and I’m doing open viewings during the week,” he says.

A mere 10- minute walk to the city centre, and with similar rentals for €800 per month upwards, it’s small wonder there’s a bit of a push on now for buying.

Purchasing depends on a number of factors but the fact remains that if you’re in a good job, with a good assured income and are already renting, then looking at buying makes sense in a low market.

This house will need a complete overhaul, including full bathroom, and while that should be factored into the costs, it has a great location. It comes with a good-sized sitting room and galley kitchen, three bedrooms and WC and a back garden.

VERDICT: A doer-upper and the price reflects this.