Starter home: Blackrock, Cork €179,000

Trish Dromey says a duplex on Cork city’s Blackrock is finding suitable for interest from first-time buyers but it could also suit an investor portfolio.

Blackrock, Cork €179,000

79 sq m ( 850 sq ft)

Bedrooms:2

Bathroom:1

BER:C3

Best Feature: It’s Blackrock

Sold for €159,000 in 2010, No 45 Eden Grove, Blackrock is now back on the market with a guide of €179,000.

Selling agents Coldwell Banker Carlton Estates say the increased asking price for the 850 sq ft two-ed duplex shows how much the market has improved .

“It had 500 hits on-line in the first 20 hours and we are getting good viewings. There is huge interest from first-time buyers in properties under the €220,000 level, for which they can get 90% mortgages, “ says auctioneer Trevor O’Sullivan.

He believes the location, close to Mahon Point, CityGate and shops, churches and schools in Blackrock is a major plus. “This is a tastefully-decorated, well-kept, owner-occupied property and the majority of the contents are included in the sale,’’

The duplex has a timber floored sitting/dining room with double doors leading out on to a west facing balcony at the front. Off this room is a small kitchen with fitted units and appliances.

The property also has a bathroom and two carpeted bedrooms including one with a fitted wardrobe. Two leather sofas, a table and chairs, beds and wardrobes are among the items included in the sale. Fitted with gas heating, the duplex has a C3 energy rating.

Mr O’Sullivan says the duplex would be ideal for either a first time buyer or an investor.“This is a good location for rentals and we rented out a similar apartment in Eden for €1,000 a week recently.”

VERDICT: Well maintained, affordable and ready to move in to.