
138 The Vale, Portlaoise Rd, CarlowR93AOD9
€329,500
3 Bed~2 Bath~BER C1
What you'll like:
- Generous floor area: Extending to approximately 121 square meters, this semi-detached house offers unusually spacious accommodation over two well-designed floors that easily rival typical three-bed homes.
- Green area views: The property directly overlooks a large communal green space, enhancing your daily outlook and providing a pleasant, open environment right outside your window.
- Convenient off-street parking: The front drive features parallel off-street parking, giving you a dedicated and secure space to leave your vehicles directly outside the home.
- Secure private garden: A fully walled rear garden with a convenient side gate offers safety for children and pets while providing secure storage via an included garden shed.
- Coordinated interior decor: The entire home presents a polished aesthetic throughout, featuring high-quality flooring, fixtures, and fittings that mean you can move in without immediate redecoration.
- Bright airy kitchen: The spacious rear kitchen-diner features fitted beech units and a breakfast bar, creating a highly functional family hub flooded with natural daylight.
- Practical utility room: A separate ground-floor utility room keeps laundry machines out of the main kitchen and includes a convenient countertop and direct access to a downstairs toilet.
- Stunning sitting room: The large front sitting room is enhanced by a stylish herringbone laminate floor, decorative coving, and an entertainment wall with an integrated electric fire.
- Recently refitted ensuite: The master bedroom benefits from a stylishly updated ensuite bathroom complete with a modern shower cubicle, Mira pump shower, and drench head.
- Abundant master storage: The primary bedroom comes equipped with extensive built-in wardrobes and a dedicated dressing table arrangement, solving all your clothing and vanity storage needs.
- Partially floored attic: Access via a stira stairs leads to a partially floored attic cavity, offering valuable extra storage space for seasonal items and household goods.
- Robust block construction: Built with solid block construction, this property offers enduring structural integrity and better sound insulation than many timber-frame alternatives.
- Three bathroom convenience: Featuring three separate toilets including a downstairs WC, main family bathroom, and master ensuite, morning routines for busy households will run smoothly.
- Desirable western location: Situated in a small development off the Portlaoise Road on the western edge of town, offering quick access to main roads and local commuting routes.
- Excellent local amenities: Positioned close to local shops, schools, and town amenities, ensuring you spend less time driving and more time enjoying everyday conveniences.
- Weather protection porch: A practical weather porch with UPVC double doors shields the main composite entrance, helping to keep out winter drafts and reduce heat loss.
- Quality heating system: Equipped with gas-fired central heating and radiator cabinets throughout, the home ensures efficient temperature control and a polished interior finish.
- Family-friendly layout: The separation of formal living spaces from the large kitchen-diner creates an ideal layout for modern family life and entertaining guests.
- Comfortable bedroom sizes: The upper floor hosts three well-proportioned bedrooms, including two substantial doubles and a functional single room with clever stairwell storage.
- Natural light in bathrooms: Both the main family bathroom and the master ensuite feature exterior windows, ensuring excellent natural ventilation and daylight to prevent moisture buildup.
But keep in mind:
- C1 energy rating: The current C1 energy rating means your heating bills could be higher and you may want to invest in future upgrades to improve thermal efficiency.
- Moderate energy performance: With an energy performance indicator of 172.76 kWh/m2/yr, the home consumes more energy than modern A-rated builds, pointing to potential insulation gaps.
- Gas boiler efficiency: The wall-mounted gas burner in the kitchen appears older or traditional; buyers should have a certified heating engineer inspect its working condition and lifespan.
- Attic insulation levels: Because the attic is only partially floored, buyers should verify the depth and quality of the underlying insulation to ensure it meets current standards.
- Single bedroom sizing: Bedroom three is a compact single room, which might feel tight if used continuously as a permanent double or full-sized child bedroom.
- Parking space limits: Parallel off-street parking at the front may accommodate a limited number of vehicles compared to a wider driveway, so check if multi-car households will fit.
- Window glazing age: Buyers should check the age and seal integrity of all double-glazed windows and doors to ensure there is no draught penetration or condensation between panes.
- Boundary wall maintenance: A fully walled rear garden is convenient, but you should inspect the masonry condition and shared boundary responsibilities with adjoining properties during surveys.
- Garden shed condition: The included garden shed should be inspected for dampness, roof integrity, and timber rot to ensure it is suitable for storing valuable tools.
- Utility room ventilation: The utility room houses plumbing for heavy machines; verify that adequate mechanical or passive ventilation is installed to prevent excessive indoor humidity.
- Road proximity noise: Being located just off the Portlaoise Road (N80) means traffic sounds might occasionally reach the development, so test noise levels during peak commuting times.
- Ensuite shower pressure: While the ensuite features a Mira pump shower, buyers should test the water pressure and hot water recovery rate during a viewing to ensure optimal performance.
- Flooring transition wear: The mix of ceramic tiling, herringbone laminate, and standard laminate flooring should be checked for high-wear areas near thresholds and doorways.
- Stira stair safety: Ensure the pull-down stira stairs leading to the attic is securely anchored and safe for frequent use when transporting heavy storage boxes.
- Drainage and surface water: Inspect the exterior ground slopes around the property to confirm that surface rainwater drains properly away from the exterior block walls.
- Electrical system capacity: With modern entertainment walls and multiple appliances, have an electrician verify that the consumer unit and socket capacity meet modern household electrical demands.
- Attic ventilation check: When inspecting the partially floored attic, ensure roof timbers and under-roof membranes show no signs of condensation or inadequate roof ventilation.
- Plumbing fixture seals: Check around the corner bath in the main bathroom and the vanity sinks for any hidden silicone wear or past slow leaks behind the vanity units.
- Coving and decorative plaster: The decorative coving and cornice work throughout the house should be checked for hairline cracking caused by natural building settlement over the years.
- Management company fees: Buyers should verify through their solicitor if The Vale has an active residents association or management company with associated annual maintenance fees for green spaces.
Price positioning
?
- The asking price appears moderately positioned because the local housing market demonstrates strong demand for three bedroom semi-detached homes featuring modern extensions and upgraded energy efficiency ratings in established residential settings.
- Potential undervaluation signals stem from the generous 121 square metre floor area and extensive high quality interior finishes, which frequently command a higher price point within similar regional suburban developments.
- This valuation could be supported by the convenient proximity to major commuter routes and town amenities, though it might be undermined by broader macroeconomic fluctuations affecting buyer purchasing power and mortgage interest rates.
- Additional factors such as the enclosed rear garden, off street parking, and the C1 energy rating contribute positively to the overall appeal, balancing contemporary living standards against prevailing regional property values.
Build Analysis
What we know from similar construction types
- The property is a block-built semi-detached home extending to approximately 121 square meters over two floors, overlooking a large green area in a development on the western edge of Carlow town.
- Features include gas-fired central heating, a utility room, a recently refitted ensuite bathroom, a partially floored attic with stira stairs access, and parallel off-street parking.
- A buyer should verify the planning and building compliance of any internal modifications, such as the fitted entertainment wall or utility layout, and check the condition of the walled rear garden and shed.
- An engineer should inspect the roof space, attic flooring, and standard structural elements to confirm there are no dampness or insulation issues given the C1 energy rating.
Heating cost*
Estimated expense to heat this property every year
- Estimated annual heating cost is approximately 1,200 to 1,500 euro.
- This is based on the C1 BER rating, a floor area of 121 square metres, and the installed gas-fired central heating system. Actual costs will vary depending on individual energy usage and fuel price fluctuations.
Pollution Safe
9/10Environmental situation to investigate
- The property is located in a suburban residential development on the outskirts of Carlow town, appearing largely free from major heavy industrial pollution concerns.
- Buyers should verify local environmental reports for any historical industrial activity or waste management facilities in the wider Carlow region.
Flood Safe
8/10Water overflow reports to follow up
Recent Local Sales
Verified residential transactions published in the previous five years
Sales on the same street or estate
No verified results were found for this group in the previous five years.
Recent sales in the wider local area
No verified results were found for this group in the previous five years.
Source: Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA), Residential Property Price Register (PPR).
Matching uses address information published by the PPR rather than measured map distance. It may omit nearby properties on differently named streets.
Last Sale
A confidently matched previous PPR transaction for this property
No confidently matched previous sale was found in the Property Price Register.
Buyer fees*
Associated expenses guide
- Stamp duty: approximately 1% of the purchase price (approx. 3,295 euro for an asking price of 329,500 euro).
- Solicitor legal fees: approximately 1,500 to 2,500 euro plus outlay and VAT.
- Land registration fees: approximately 600 to 800 euro for property registration and deeds mapping.
- Property valuation fees: approximately 150 to 250 euro if required by a mortgage lender.
- Surveyor fees: approximately 500 to 1,000 euro depending on the level of detail in the structural survey.
- Annual home insurance: approximately 400 to 700 euro depending on the policy level and property coverage.
Forum Talk
What people are saying about this area
- Residents in the area frequently discuss the convenience of living on the western edge of Carlow town with easy access to the N80 and local amenities.
- Community forums often highlight local school options and shopping facilities within proximity to the Portlaoise Road developments.
- Discussions regarding traffic flow around peak commuting times on the N80 are common among local homeowners.
- Local groups often share updates on community events and estate maintenance for small developments in the Carlow town area.
LifeFit Assessment
How well this property may suit your lifestyle
Family
7 areas- Young Children8/10
The property features three well-proportioned bedrooms, a fully walled rear garden with a shed, and overlooks a large green area, making it ideal for families with young children.
- Teenagers7/10
Three bedrooms provide adequate private space for teenagers, and the proximity to town amenities adds convenience for older children.
- Multi-generational Living5/10
With 121m2 of living space across two floors and three bedrooms, it offers decent room, though lack of ground floor bedroom facilities limits true multi-generational potential.
- Single Buyers6/10
A spacious three-bedroom home provides plenty of room for single buyers looking for space to grow into or home-office options, though the pricing may be higher than a typical starter apartment.
- Couples8/10
Generous accommodation over two floors, a bright kitchen-diner, and a cozy sitting room make this an excellent choice for couples starting out or planning for the future.
- Empty Nesters6/10
The manageable size and enclosed garden offer low maintenance, though stairs between the two floors and three bedrooms might be slightly more than necessary for empty nesters.
- Retirees5/10
While the property has off-street parking and an enclosed garden, all bedrooms are located on the upper floor, which could pose accessibility challenges for retirees over time.
Work
3 areas- Remote Working8/10
With three bedrooms, one can easily be adapted as a dedicated home office, supporting remote working needs effectively.
- Hybrid Commuting7/10
Located on the Portlaoise Road (N80) with excellent immediate access to main roads, facilitating hybrid commuting options.
- Retired5/10
Suitable for retirement in terms of size and manageable garden, but the two-story layout with upstairs bedrooms may require future consideration.
Practical
8 areas- Ageing in Place5/10
The home features good ground-floor living spaces, but all three bedrooms and the main bathroom are upstairs, which may limit long-term ageing in place without modification.
- Low Maintenance7/10
Features a brick-built structure, double-glazed uPVC doors, and a compact walled rear garden requiring relatively low upkeep.
- Secure Gated Entry3/10
The property features a secure side gate and parallel off-street parking, but does not feature a secure gated community entrance.
- Minimalist Design6/10
Coordinated decor throughout with quality flooring and clean lines provides a contemporary foundation for minimalist styling.
- Flexible Floor Plans7/10
Extending to 121m2 with a large kitchen-diner, separate utility, and three bedrooms, offering flexible living arrangements for families or professionals.
- Heritage Home1/10
This is a modern, block-built semi-detached development home rather than a period or heritage property.
- Ecological Setup5/10
Includes gas-fired central heating and a C1 BER rating, with potential for further energy efficiency upgrades by the buyer.
- Outdoor areas7/10
Benefits from a fully walled private rear garden with a shed, parallel off-street parking to the front, and views overlooking a large green area.
Interests
9 areas- Gardening6/10
Features a fully walled rear garden with a garden shed, providing a manageable and secure space for basic gardening enthusiasts.
- Walking7/10
Good access to town amenities and a large green area directly opposite the property makes walking convenient.
- Gym6/10
Proximity to Carlow town ensures reasonable access to local fitness facilities and gyms.
- Cycling6/10
The location on the edge of town allows for straightforward cycling access to local amenities and surrounding roads.
- Golf5/10
Reasonable distance to local golf courses in the Carlow area, though transport is required.
- Fishing4/10
While the River Barrow runs through Carlow, fishing opportunities will require travel from this specific suburban location.
- Horse Riding3/10
Equestrian facilities are not immediately nearby, requiring travel to rural stables outside the town.
- Water Sports2/10
Limited local water sports infrastructure directly connected to this inland suburban location.
- Entertaining8/10
The layout includes a large front sitting room with an entertainment wall, a spacious kitchen-diner, and a fully walled rear garden well-suited for hosting guests.
Lifestyle
5 areas- Quiet Living7/10
Located in a small development overlooking a large green area on the edge of town, offering a relatively peaceful neighborhood setting.
- Rural Living4/10
Situated in a town development on the Portlaoise Road, meaning it leans much closer to suburban than rural living.
- Village Living6/10
Positioned on the edge of Carlow town with immediate access to local shops and amenities, providing a community feel akin to village living.
- Coastal Living1/10
The property is located inland in Carlow and offers no proximity to the coast.
- Urban Living7/10
Situated on the western edge of Carlow town with excellent access to town amenities, shops, and main roads.
Social
6 areas- Community Involvement6/10
A small development setting overlooking a green area encourages a friendly neighborhood community feel.
- Café Culture6/10
Proximity to Carlow town provides access to local cafes and social spots.
- Nightlife5/10
Town center nightlife options are accessible, though the suburban development itself is quiet.
- Health/Wellness groups6/10
Access to local pilates & stretching classes and wellness groups is readily available within Carlow town.
- Networking Opportunities5/10
Town location allows for participation in local business and community networking, though major tech or corporate hubs are limited.
- Tech-Hub Connectivity4/10
While broadband is generally available, Carlow is not a primary tech hub.
Listing information
- Agent
- Sherry FitzGerald McDermott Carlow
- Phone
- 059 914 0344
- Published on HouseDelve
- 11 September 2026
- Correction
- Report an issue
HD-CCDF0DHouseDelve · Republic of Ireland* Estimate — not advice. Actual costs and outcomes can vary materially. Obtain current quotations and professional advice before making financial or property decisions.