Starter Homes: Blackpool, Cork €140,000

Showing its age a bit inside, but with huge charm and considerable space plus back yard with pit and parking, is the corner house and family home at 55 Watercourse Road/Bleasby St — just two doors away from the garda station, and thus as safe as houses.

Close to a quality-built apartment and retail scheme, old-world No 55 is three storeys tall, with lovely-shaped attic rooms, has up to five bedrooms, with scope for a first floor living room too, with attractive fireplace.

Agent Kate Kearney of DNG Condon seeks offers of €140,000, has No 55 under offer, and acknowledges that it needs updating and more spending.